Co-op City Times 1/18/20

Vol. 55 No. 3

Saturday, January 18, 2020

President touts accomplishments & continued shareholder engagement community Linda Berk

President’s Message

$1.25

500 Baychester: No more turbines, signs likely to go too, Riverbay counsel says Three weeks after a wind turbine — that never should have been there in the first place — collapsed onto Bartow Avenue and flung its blades to points north and south, a lawyer for the owner of 500 Baychester Ave. told Riverbay General Counsel Jeff Buss there are no plans to replace the turbine or pursue anything like it on the property.

Further, the city is looking to revoke all the permits for monopole structures on the property, which means the LED signs once believed to be permanent fixtures on the lot may also be dismantled.

This, according to Mr. Buss, who reported to Co-op City shareholders at the Riverbay Board of Directors’ open meeting Jan. 15.

“The city … recently issued a letter indicating they were opening a proceeding to revoke all permits, there are 10 different permits that were granted to that property owner,” Mr. Buss said, “including permits for the signs that are up there.”

The 60-foot, tri-sided LED billboard at 500 Baychester was partially destroyed by the collapsing wind turbine Dec. 30, 2019. One of the sign’s three panels crashed to the ground in the 500 Baychester parking lot that day, another was removed by the owner pursuant to a stop-work order the city’s Buildings department issued to ensure the property was safe following the

BY JASON CHIREVAS

President

(Following is the president’s address delivered at the January 15, 2020 open meeting of the Riverbay Board of Directors in room 31, Bartow Center.)

Good evening, fellow Board directors, Management, staff and, most importantly, shareholders! Tonight, I welcome you all to this important meeting and applaud those shareholders who were able to be here this evening. To all, I wish you a wonderful 2020!

Tonight, shareholders were given two documents for your information. One is a survey being conducted by the Riverbay Fund that should take only a few minutes to complete and return to Riverbay representatives. We ask that you review the brief survey and answer to the best of your knowledge. The Riverbay Fund president, Director Claudia Sampson, has set a path this year to review the Riverbay Fund’s activities to determine if we are meeting the needs and desires of the shareholders. While we may not meet every need and every wish, we agree that it is best to know what shareholders are thinking as we make our decisions. For that matter, we will keep notes of the issues raised by those who speak tonight in the gallery session for follow-up and appropriate action.

The other document you have received is a list of projects we have completed, begun or are planning to do in the near future. As shareholders, it is important that you are kept abreast of what the Board and Management have been working to accomplish. When I joined the Riverbay Board of Directors in 2014, the (Continued on page 2)

Legislative Committee hosts NYPD Transit Police

(Continued on page 13)

MTA drops plans for limited service on BxM7 Assemblyman Michael Benedetto reported to the Co-op City Times on Thursday, Jan. 16, that he was contacted by the MTA and informed that they have dropped all planned changes for the BxM7 Express bus that was going to result in limited service on the route.

Assemblyman Benedetto said: “Today, the MTA came down to their decision that they’re not going to change anything with the express buses. Once the MTA made that decision, they decided to give me a call knowing of my concerns from my discussions with them in the past and alerted me to it. I was happy to report the happy news.”

In November 2019, release of the MTA’s final proposed bus redesign plan for the Bronx showed a reduction in service for the BxM7. The express bus from Co-op City to Manhattan would have ended as early as 3 p.m. on weekdays and included limited weekend rides.

Additionally, Assemblyman Benedetto said that the Q50 bus will go all the way to LaGuardia Airport, as part of the Queen Bus Redesign plan – “A change that could be beneficial to the Co-op City community,” he pointed out.

According to the Queen’s redesign plan, the new proposed route QT50 (Queens Temporary, not to be confused with the current Q routes), will depart from Pelham Bay (6 Train line) and end at LaGuardia Airport. The MTA plans on reducing redundant bus lines throughout the Queens borough.

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Riverbay administrative offices will be closed Monday, January 20, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Please have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

(See Co-op City Times deadline notice on page 8.)

The Riverbay Board’s Legislative Committee, chaired by Second Vice President Rod Saunders, and the office of Assemblyman Mike Benedetto, co-sponsored an open meeting last Thursday, Jan. 16, 2020 in room 31 of the Bartow Center. Commanding officers of NYPD Transit joined the meeting to hear concerns about their interactions with Co-op City commuters regarding fare evasion.

Mr. Saunders said, “This is a working community as well as an aging community; we’re not looking to be fare beaters, we just want to make (Continued on page 4)

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Board approves fire, public bathroom, Local Law 11 improvements in open session There are two aspects of the open sessions the Riverbay Board of Directors sometimes conducts that should be of interest to shareholders.

One is the gallery session, for which shareholders can sign-up before the meeting to address the Board on, essentially, whatever topic he or she feels needs addressing.

The other thing shareholders are invited to see in an open session is the Board members in action, discussing, debating and accepting — or rejecting — resolutions before them. In essence, doing what a board does.

People seem much more interested in the gallery sessions.

(Continued on page 3) With only one or two of the few hundred gathered

BY JASON CHIREVAS

2

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

President’s Report

(Continued from page 1)

nature of the Board changed, and the new Board directors made promises of change. One of our guiding principles was to provide transparency in every way we could.

We started with a new management company, the hiring of an Internal Auditor, who we had been without for almost eight years. We agreed we needed to work hard to turn this corporation into a 21st century- functioning corporation. I must admit that to turn this corporation around is an awesome task and many of us were probably so excited to get it done we didn’t stop to think of all that it would take. First, we knew we needed a Board that was focused and in agreement with where we needed to go. We also needed a management company we could trust to get the job done. That was not easy, as I reflect on the arduous task of the management search team, there were no management companies out there that had the experience of managing a development the size and complexity of Co-op City. With the installation of the Douglas Elliman contract and new management team, the Board and Management began a long road of hard work and a cooperative spirit.

Fast forward almost six years, I am excited to report that this Board and this management team has made incredible progress. The task is not complete; there is definitely more to accomplish, but when you put to paper the projects completed, begun or planned over the past several years, you get a bird’s eye view of the progress made at Co-op City. I believe it is important for you as shareholders to know the status of your property. I believe it is important for you, the shareholder, to receive your annual report, including our financial statements, which you have. I believe the more informed you are, the more involved you will become, and, community engagement has also been a major goal of the Board.

More than just Brick and Mortar On January 29, 2020, the Board will meet with a one-item agenda, to discuss and decide on strategic goals for the corporation moving forward. One of the overriding perspectives necessary as we do that is to understand Co-op City is no average cooperative development, we are more than brick and mortar. We are not two or three buildings in the middle of a developed community. The name alone implies the comprehensive and complex nature of the oversight and management of this property, Co-op City. This development was an experiment fifty years ago and it was touted as the city within a city. The goals and dreams around Co-op City at that time were big and ambitious. Some goals were met, and others got lost in

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN NOW ACCEPTING GHI!!

NOW ACCEPTING AETNA!!

time and budget constraints of the seventies.

One of the unique qualities of this community has been our advocacy to protect our community. The most recent issues and challenges facing us woke up this sleeping giant! We came together as a community to fight off the LED billboards, the animal shelter and the MTA Bus Redesign. We worked collectively to make sure the city and state agencies recognized us as a viable community with rights and voices. And we were mostly successful! We are not just brick and mortar, we are a community!

When we, the Board, look at how to provide the services of a standard co-op and the needs of our community, an isolated housing development, we must take a wholistic approach. We must look at the needs of the community, a city within a city. We have done that so far and continue to look at how we can ensure Co-op City meets the needs of our shareholders as we move through an information age, through a world quite different from that of 1968. One of the problems in 2014 was that Co-op City was a dinosaur, antiquated, not meeting the modern day needs of its shareholders and disengaged from the political issues impacting our community. The outdated policies, procedures, equipment, organization and communication made for a very inefficient development. Inefficient means wasted money and wasted time! So, it is exciting to look at the list of accomplishments Management and the Board have achieved in the past six years.

It gives us an incredible foundation to build on to ensure that the Board and Management, responsible for the largest cooperative development in this country, serve our community now and for the future.

I ask that you read the document distributed tonight. Ask questions where you are not clear. Continue to read your paper, the Co-op City Times, and follow what we are doing to improve Co-op City. If we ask for your opinion, please share it with us. That is the only way we can be inclusive.

We have many projects to complete and many to start, but, all in all, we continue to have much work to do. Tonight, we share with you the progress we have made and the projects we believe will improve the quality of our homes and our lives. This continues to be an exciting time for Co-op City and I, personally, am honored to have had the opportunity to be a part of the growth and improvements.

I know I speak for all Board directors and the management team acknowledging the pride we share with you in the state of affairs at Co-op City. We’ve come a long way and we have more to go!

Thank you for your time and attention this evening, it means a lot to all of us who represent you.

I now turn the floor over to our General Counsel who will update you on the monopole at 500 Baychester Avenue. (See related article on page 1.)

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

COMBING

Find out what’s going on in Co-op City here...

Blood Drive Today

Riverbay Corporation and New York Blood Center are hosting a blood drive today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Bartow Center, room 31. Donate and receive an AMC movie voucher, and be entered to win a trip to Cancun, Mexico. You must be at least 16 (with NYBC parental consent form) and 110 lbs. to donate; over 75 must have a doctor’s note. Be sure to eat and drink water before donating and bring donor card or valid ID with you. Visit nybc.org for more info.

NAMI Meeting

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) invites you to take advantage of a support group offered to the community. The next meeting is on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in room 35 of the Einstein Community Center. NAMI is a grassroots organization that provides support, education and advocacy for families and people of all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds who live with mental illness. The support group gives individuals an opportunity to talk freely about their challenges without the fear of judgment and offer practical information for coping with stress.

The facilitator for NAMI’s sessions in Co-op City is shareholder Marie Smith. For more information about NAMI-NYC Metro Support Group and their classes, email Helpline@naminyc.org or call their helpline at 212-684-3264.

Call for Talent

The National Council of Negro Women and the Riverbay Fund are looking for talented youth for their annual Black History celebration, Saturday, Feb. 29, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Interested youth who are spoken word artists, dancers, singers or musicians are encouraged to call 917-826-5644 or email ncnwcoopcitysocial@ gmail.com for more information.

Co-op City Times 2 n d Board Meeting

Front Page

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(Continued from page 1)

for the gallery session of the Board’s Jan. 15 open meeting still in attendance, the directors set about to deal with some second-read resolutions, meaning it was time to vote.

In the first vote, the Board approved the purchase and installation of a fire alarm system for the Einstein Community Center in Section 5. Of the three bids received, the one recommended to the Board was that of Plainview, New Yorkbased Safe Tech USA, which previously installed the fire alarm system in the Bartow Community Center. Board Director Daryl Johnson questioned some of the personnel thresholds necessary for the size and degree to which the community center is typically populated once fire systems are installed.

Riverbay Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer called on Safety Director Tony Barzelatto, who said the fireguards Mr. Johnson said would be necessary were not after the fire alarm system was installed in the Bartow Center.

Director Johnson’s other concern — about whether the price of the contract was guaranteed even if the parameters of the project were changed by demands from the New York City Fire Department — was assuaged when the Safe Tech USA rep present said that would be the case.

The Board voted 9 to 3 with 2 abstentions and 1 director absent to approve the $596,400 contract.

The second resolution involved continuing exterior building and balcony work pursuant to Local Law 11, which is already underway on the 10 buildings of Section 5. With that work progressing slowly, Mr. Klehammer told the Board that Management would like to see another contractor on the job in Sections 1 through 4, specifically Buildings 9 to 14, in this case. With that in mind, the project engineer and manager recommended Astoria-based EXO Industries Corporation, one of three companies that made proposals, at a cost of $11 million plus a 15% contingency of $1.7 million for the first six buildings in Sections 1 through 4.

Local Law 11 was passed in 1998 with the goal of making New York City streets safer by making sure exterior stone and concrete façade work, as well as balconies and handrails, on city buildings is in good repair and not deteriorating to the point of falling off or crumbling.

The Board voted 12 to 2 with one director absent to approve the contract.

Last, the Board took on the issue of the four public bathrooms in the Bartow Community Center at a cost of $533,100 plus a 10% contingency of $53,310. Of the five qualified proposals Riverbay received, Mr. Klehammer told the Board the recommended vendor was the lowest bidder, XYLO Corporation, which is based in the Bronx.

The work on the bathrooms, Mr. Klehammer said, involves making them accessible to all shareholders as well as replacing all the fixtures — toilets, sinks, urinals — with automatic ones.

The Board approved the contract by a vote of 11 to 3 with 1 director absent.

One of the “no” votes for all three contracts was First Vice President Bernard Cylich, who asked the reps from Safe Tech and EXO if they were using union labor. They were not, nor was XYLO. For Director Cylich, that was unacceptable.

“My issue is simple, this work is sophisticated,” Mr. Cylich said. “You need people with experience, and the best people who can do that are union people, who take a three-to-fiveyear apprenticeship.”

In other matters, the Board agreed before the gallery session to wait until near the Jan. 30 deadline to see if risk management staff can get a better price than the one currently in hand to renew Riverbay’s general liability and umbrella insurance.

Before adjourning for the evening, the Board approved the formation of this year’s Election Committee.

Bipartisan anti-robocall legislation becomes law

BY BRANDON ORTIZ President Donald Trump signed a bill last month that will combat the billions of spam robocalls Americans collectively receive every year.

The bill, referred to as the TRACED Act — for Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence — was sponsored by U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, a New Jersey Democrat, and Sen. John Thune, Republican of South Dakota.

It obligates phone companies to offer free call-blocking technology as well as require the companies to verify the number calling is a real person.

“This bill requires the Department of Justice and the FCC to assemble an interagency working group to study and report to Congress on the enforcement of the prohibition of certain robocalls,” congressional officials said. “Specifically, the working group will look into how to better enforce against robocalls by examining issues like the types of laws, policies or constraints that could be inhibiting enforcement.”

Essentially, in addition to giving customers the ability to see if a call is a potential spam risk before answering, the legislation will also require the DOJ and the FCC to work together in furthering along consumer protection against robocalls and scammers.

“This historic legislation will provide American consumers with even greater protection against annoying, unsolicited robocalls,” a spokesman for White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham said of the TRACED Act. “American families deserve control over their communications, and this legislation will update our laws and regulations to stiffen penalties, increase transparency, and enhance government collaboration to stop unwanted solicitation.”

The bipartisan legislation will allow the FCC to levy penalties of up to $10,000 per call on those who infringe the new telemarketing restrictions. Further, the time allotted for pursuing action against telemarketer violators has been extended to up to four years after the call is placed.

Under the new legislation, the FCC will also have to focus on combatting one-ring scams. One-ring scams are typically

calls that originate overseas in which the caller will ring briefly in an attempt to have the victim call back, however these return calls subsequently cause hefty charges for the consumer.

According to an article published this month on the AARP’s website, “The agency [the FCC] warns that onering calls may appear to originate from this country with the first three numbers resembling U.S. area codes and cautions that 232 calls actually go to Sierra Leone and the 809 calls actually go to the Dominican Republic.”

U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, whose district includes Co-op City, has been involved in this effort for years. He has worked to introduce legislation that combats “swatting,” a tactic used to mislead law enforcement through falsifying caller ID information. He is an original cosponsor of the Stopping Bad Robocalls Act, the Repeated Objectionable Bothering of Consumers on Phones — or ROBOCOP — Act and the Regulatory Oversight Barring Obnoxious Calls (ROBO), and Texts Act. Additionally, Engel is a top member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which is responsible for legislative oversight regarding telecommunications and consumer protection amongst other responsibilities.

“In these hyper-partisan times, there is one thing everyone seems to agree on: Robocalls are a terrible nuisance. The TRACED Act is designed to combat unwanted robocalls that pester Americans every day and expose the most vulnerable among us to schemes, scams and deception,” Engel said after the House of Representatives passed the legislation in early December.

The Robocall Index, a tool created by telecommunication service company Youmail, estimated that, in November of 2019 alone, five billion robocalls were placed, which is roughly 167.3 million per day with an average person receiving around 15 calls per day.

“The index works by extrapolating the data collected from the many tens of millions of calls made each month to Youmail users,” according to Robocall Index officials.

The index found the New York City area had the fifth-highest estimated robocalls received with over 151 million.

4

Legislative

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

sure we’re treated properly and respectively.”

Although the agenda focused on Transit Police officers assigned to the community to prevent fare beating and their handling of Co-op City bus riders, during the meeting, guests as well as members of the committee, learned that Transit police are mainly deployed to subways – not buses.

According to Transit Police Captain Gregory Mackie, Transit police has nothing to do with MTA. “We deploy to our locations – we’re two separate agencies,” he said, adding, “Transit officers predominantly cover subway stations over buses; bus monitoring is usually covered by MTA officers or their Eagle teams who primarily do bus enforcement.”

The Eagle team is a group of MTA security personnel, who are not officers, although some are retired law enforcement. They cannot make arrests, but patrol bus routes with the ability to issue summonses to riders who avoid paying their bus fare.

According to the NYPD website, Transit Bureau and its officers are “responsible for the safety and security of the 5.6 million passengers who use the New York City subways each day.”

Moreover, Transit Police also has NCO officers for District 12 who cover Sector C, the 6 Train line in the Bronx. Those officers “spend their entire tours riding on the same subway lines and visiting the same stations in their assigned sectors. Their job is to resolve ongoing crime and quality-of-life issues, and to build relationships with commuters and MTA employees.”

Even though the Transit officers were unable to answer any questions regarding MTA officers and their Eagle team who patrol the buses in the Co-op City area, they were still open to listening to cooperators as they voiced their concerns.

During the meeting, multiple residents complained about the treatment they receive during MTA’s new mission to combat fare evasion. In 2019, the MTA revealed that fare evasion costs the transit authority $250 million and is relying upon law enforcement to combat the issue.

Shareholders expressed concerns to the committee and Transit officers regarding their experiences on both the train and buses. One shareholder suggested that all branches involved in monitoring both buses and trains should work more collaboratively. In contrast, several others complained about riders young and old practicing fare evasion and crowding the coaches from the back.

One resident even suggested the notion of entrapment with the number of ticket machines that are not working throughout the Bronx, ultimately leaving the rider vulnerable to the $100 fine.

The MTA website states: “Individuals are not permitted to enter the New York City Transit subway system or buses without payment of the fare. This includes instances when your MetroCard is not functioning properly.”

Further, another resident expressed feeling threat-

(Continued from page 1)

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Obituary ~ Arthur Crichlow Sr.

ened by the number of personnel who, It is with great sadness family members announce the passing of at times, are stationed by the Bx12Arthur Crichlow Sr. on Christmas day.

SBS stop on Bartow Avenue, in front Arthur was a resident of Building 11A since of the old bingo hall. She said: “When March 1970. He loved the Co-op City commuI went to get on the 12 bus, there were nity. He served as a firefighter in Co-op City, nine officers; it didn’t feel like a plan Engine 66/Ladder 61, and City Island, and retired to address fare evasion. It felt like a as a captain with the New York City Fire Departmilitary-like force – I felt intimidated.” ment.

Arthur DeCosta Crichlow Sr. was born Aug. She suggested that two to three 2, 1940, to parents Gwendolyn Miller and Norundercover cops on the bus, as in the ton Crichlow Sr. He was the second child of this past, is sufficient, now that policing union. Arthur was raised in Brooklyn, where he has become aggressive. attended school until the age of 12, then his famOn Monday, Jan. 13, New York ily moved to St. Albans, New York, and he conAttorney General Letitia James Arthur Crichlow Sr. tinued his elementary education at P.S. 36. announced that she’s investigating After graduating from P.S. 36, Arthur attended Andrew Jackson whether the New York City Police Department practices “racial biases” High School, where he excelled in track and field, and was considered to have the athletic abilities of an Olympic track star. He received against riders of color while polica full athletic scholarship to St. John University in Queens and grading fare evasion. uated with a Bachelor of Science in education.

She said via Twitter, “I’m launchArthur joined the NYPD and served as an officer for a short period ing an investigation into the NYPD of time, when he decided to transfer to the fire department of New to determine if officers have illegally York. During his 30 years of service, he moved from the rank of fire targeted communities of color on fighter to lieutenant and retired as a captain in 1993. Arthur loved servNYC subways through enforcement ing with the fire department and did not hesitate to let everyone know. of fare evasion laws...”

Before he started his service with the fire department, he married The announcement comes on the Marsha Wilkinson in 1964. From this union, there were three chilheels of recent videos that went viral dren: Arthur Jr., Craig and Tara. Arthur and Marsha raised their chilshowing people of color targeted on dren in a closely knit community in Co-op City, where he resided for subways for fare evasion – leading to 50 years. subway protests throughout the city Arthur will always be remembered for his love of music, expensive cars and making friends whereever he went. He made his transiin late 2019. Ms. James is requesting tion Dec. 25, 2019, Christmas morning. He leaves to mourn his wife the police department to release data and partner of 55 years, Marsha; sons Arthur Jr. and Craig; daughter from 2017 to the present.

When asked about Ms. James’ Tara; two daughters-in-laws and one son-in-law; nine grandchildren, Arthur III, Aaron, Devin, Jade, Jordan, Cai, Amira, Zuri and Marcus investigation and issues relating to Jr.; one great-grandson, Avery; his brother Norton Jr. and sister Anita. the Bronx, Capt. Mackie – who has only been at his current post for eight days as of Thursday night’s meeting must supply it to you; if they don’t, it’s a disciplinary – said, “Deployment of the number of Transit officers matter,” noted Insp. Galvin. is partially based on crime but also based on service Capt. Mackie said: “I tell all my officers to treat area, districts, and several other factors.” everyone they encounter with respect. If a person gets Transit Inspector Mathew Galvin mentioned that stopped, they should be calm, be polite, respectful, and he hadn’t heard any complaints within the Bronx of answer the questions to the best of their ability.” The racial bias regarding fare evasion. He said: “We address captain added if it’s a respectful encounter, police offithe complaints from the community from all mem- cers will issue a summons, and return date to answer bers of the public. We analyze our crime statistics, and to that summons in court. we provide appropriate deployment in those areas According to Captain Mackie, there are plans of where those trouble spots are.”

Transit officers collaborating with the 45th Precinct Director Saunders emphasized the importance of at specific locations to address fare evasion on buses. shareholders knowing the correct protocol to file a At the end of the meeting, Director Saunders complaint and to be clear on what information is acknowledged that another meeting is needed to resolve required to file such a claim effectively. the issues cooperators are having with the MTA, specifAs per the officers, residents can file a complaint ically on the buses. He said: “We do need to come back. with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) As the meeting progressed, we began to find out that if they feel officers mistreated them during their inter- MTA not only has Tri-Boro Bridge and Tunnel offiaction. A claim can be submitted in any Transit dis- cers coming here, but there’s also an MTA Eagle team. trict or precinct. Although a badge number isn’t nec- When we can get all the stakeholders together, we’ll essarily needed to file a complaint, shareholders have reconvene.” He thanked the Transit officers for attendthe right to ask for the officer’s information. “They ing and shareholders for coming out in the cold.

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Committee meeting notice

The Riverbay Board’s Construction/Power Plant/Restoration Committee, chaired by First Vice President Bernard Cylich, will meet Thursday, Jan. 23, 7 p.m. in the Board room, #26A, in Bartow Center. All committee members are urged to attend.

TD Bank embraces Co-op City Girl Scouts

The new TD Bank located at 500 Baychester Avenue in Co-op City presented the Girl Scouts of Co-op City with a donation during its grand opening celebration on Saturday, Jan. 11. The bank’s branch manager, Theresa Ann Whittick, said TD Bank is excited to support the future leaders and entrepreneurs of Co-op City.

Photo submitted by the Girl Scouts of Co-op City

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor – can•verify the• authors. or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

– •the– authenticity • – • – of•– – • Anonymous – – • –L•etters – •cannot – •exceed – •–350•words.

– • –Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Letters to the Editor

‘Cute’ response from DOB on turbine

Thanks for help for Puerto Rico

To the editor:

Department of Buildings Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Kunitz has a cute explanation as to what the department did in approving the wind turbine that clearly did not meet city code and zoning requirements: “The application to construct the wind turbine was approved as compliant with all code and zoning requirements.”

Ms. Kunitz does not say the turbine was compliant, which it clearly wasn’t. She just says somebody, no name given, in the DOB swore it was compliant.

But whoever approved it, be it one or more people, in my opinion, should be named and fired by the mayor. Either they are incredibly reckless or they didn’t care who might be hurt.

—Sally Nussbaum

To the editor:

After news of the first earthquake last week in Puerto Rico, I reached out to two friends who have been working on the island since Hurricane Maria and they asked for help for the people affected. As in the past, I reached out to the Spanish-American Club and they didn't hesitate to help!

Thanks so much, Ms. Cruz, and the entire club, for being a beacon of light in our community. Thank you, Leslie Peterson, for putting me in touch. The island's people will continue to need us all; please keep them in prayer.

—Pastor Deborah D. Jenkins

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

Jason Chirevas Managing Editor

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez

Board of Directors’ Meeting - January 15, 2020

Production Manager

John Crow New Media Producer

First Reading - Resolution #19-66

SUBMITTED BY: Francine Reva Jones SECONDED BY: Bishop Rosario BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING DATED: January 15, 2020

WHEREAS, on May 24, 2017, the Board voted in favor of Resolution #17-33 to approve the President signing a Memorandum of Donation between Riverbay Corporation and the City of New York, dated May 25, 2017 authorizing negotiations for the donation of a 2.28 acre parcel of Riverbay land to be developed by the City of New York as a Public Waterfront Park; and WHEREAS, upon further review and consideration, the Board believes that the Riverbay Corporation can develop the 2.28 acre parcel of Riverbay land as a Waterfront Park; and

First Reading - Resolution #20-02

SUBMITTED BY: Linda Berk SECONDED BY: Claudia Sampson & Jerome Rice BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING DATED: JANUARY 15, 2020

WHEREAS, On August 28, 2019 the Board approved Resolution 19-39 which directed Management to provide a report on the phased development and maintenance of a roughly four acre Waterfront Park for Co-op City residents along the Hutchinson River in the area between the Little League Fields and the Construction Trailers.

WHEREAS, On December 17, 2019 the Board heard a presentation from Imbiano-Quigley Landscape Architects, PC which included drawings with options that may be included in such a Waterfront Park, including, but not limited to, a waterfront overlook, strolling paths, paddle boat access, picnic grove, an adventure play & discovery area, fishing and a boardwalk; and Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

WHEREAS, Emergency Resolution #17-33 shall be rescinded and instead the Riverbay Corporation shall continue to maintain ownership of the 2.28 acre parcel of land for further use and development by the Riverbay Corporation.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Emergency Resolution #17-33 is fully rescinded and that the Riverbay Corporation shall maintain ownership of the 2.28 acre parcel of land for further development by Riverbay Corporation; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President and Management shall notify the City of New York of this decision and take all other necessary actions to carry out this Resolution.

WHEREAS, The Board now directs Management to further proceed on developing a Waterfront Park by providing plans that include, but are not limited to, development time, estimated budget costs and community participation for a proposed roughly four acre Waterfront Park for use

by Co-op City residents.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That Management is directed to provide plans that include, but are not limited to, development times, estimated budget costs and community participation for a proposed roughly four acre Waterfront Park for use by Co-op City residents, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That Management shall provide the requested plans to the Board within sixty (60) days of the effective date of this Resolution which shall also include a survey of the shareholders in the February invoices.

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.

See page 12 for more Resolutions.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 28 A, B & C Building 28 A, B & C

Building 28 A, B & C 100, 120 & 140 Einstein Loop

Current Lease Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2020

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2023

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

7

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Public Safety Report

CCPD offers internet safety for kids, teens and young adults

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO If part of your holiday shopping included a laptop or desktop computer, or a handheld device or cellphone capable of accessing the internet, this article is required reading. Kids as young as 2 years old are fluent in the use of an iPad for different tasks and learning opportunities. This holiday season brought us a new generation of Apple watches, iPhone 11 and new smartphones that are smarter than ever. These devices offer much more technology for a similar price range as older devices, making them even more widely owned.

Regardless of how you feel about technology, it is here to stay and becoming more sophisticated every year. All of this technology presents a world of opportunity as well as some new risks. Just compare the size, features and capabilities of today’s internet-capable cellphones to those of just a few years ago. By being aware of these risks and taking steps to protect your child, the internet can open up a world of possibilities.

Facebook and MySpace have lost popularity among the teenage crowd. They have been replaced by Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, Snapchat, Pinterest and TikTok. All of these sites offer teens aged 13 and over the opportunity to communicate with friends and family. Teens and young adults can exchange photographs, videos and messages via these websites. Unfortunately, these and other social networking sites have become a popular tool among sex offenders looking for young victims.

By simply joining a social networking site, often with false information, sexual predators have access to the profiles of numerous potential victims.

During the teenage and preteen years, it is not uncommon for young adults to experience curiosity regarding their sexuality. It is normal for adolescents to have a desire to communicate with others in the same age group regarding these matters.

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

In a survey conducted by The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy and CosmoGirl.com, it was revealed a large number of teens are using technology to send or post nude or semi-nude pictures to others. The survey revealed one in five teen girls, 22%, 11% aged 13 to 16, have electronically sent or posted online nude or semi-nude images of themselves. These images initially meant to be private have often been widely disseminated. Many teens admit they have sent these images to persons they only know online.

It is very important parents speak to their kids about what they are doing while online as well as in real life. Make sure your kids fully understand messages or pictures they send over the internet or their cellphones are not truly private or anonymous. Let your children know the consequences and embarrassment of having these images end up in the wrong hands. A good rule of thumb: Do not text any pictures you would not want your principal to see. This can always actually happen. Possession or transmission of certain types of images can be against the law, up to a felony in some cases.

Parents should always know who their kids are communicating with in real life, on the phone and online. Restrict hours of usage for cellphones, computers and other electronic devices. Monitor your child’s activity on social networking websites. Consider having the account stopped if your (Continued on page 26)

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 the end of the employment listings for specific directions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at (718) 671-3050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety.

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

Public Safety Blotter Jan. 5 to Jan. 11, 2020

Jan. 5, 2020 120 Debs Place CCPD responded to a call for a suspicious individual. One man was arrested for trespassing.

100 Benchley Place One man was assaulted within his apartment. The assailant fled the apartment and is still wanted.

Jan. 8, 2020 Corner of Bartow and Asch Loop One teen was assaulted by a group of teens while she awaited the bus.

Jan. 11, 2020 100 Co-op City Blvd.

One man was arrested when he piggybacked into the building. He was charged with trespassing and possession of marijuana.

(More Opportunities on page 26)

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson Secretary

On Monday, Jan. 6, our state Sen. Jamaal Bailey and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie hosted a super informative presentation at Community Board 12, by a grant-gifting organization called Citizens Committee for New York City. The group is new to me, but since it’s been around since the Beame mayoralty (1975) it may not be new to you. Remember President George H’s “thousand points of light?” This organization seems to be NYC’s precursor of that sentiment.

Three Co-op City volunteer groups — Equality School PTA, Co-op City Chess Club, and Building 9 Association were recipients of the organization’s largess in 2018 (again in 2019 for the chess club) and your community group could be next. The aim is to strengthen the bonds between individuals by working together to improve their community. No tax exempt status is necessary. But you’ve got to hurry!

There’s a 1/20/20 application deadline, aka, two days from now. Of course there’s always next year, but the application is fairly simple and can be submitted online.

On their neighborhood grant page, you’ll find a short video with rules as to what is or isn’t eligible for funding and a sample application. I’m going to try to raise some interest in a Co-op City Community Theater [C’mon…it’ll be fun.] and maybe apply for some funds for youth stipends and costume and set materials and what not – or not. Unfortunately, audio equipment is ineligible for funding. Google citizensnyc.org for details and to see if your organization or

Opportunities

by text, one via Co-op City Times. As far as I know, association is a match. we have no cable choice, not here and pretty much All Aboard not anywhere evidenced by the endless of cries of Have you ever gone to the Botanic Garden Holiday Train Show? I went once about ten years ago and “monopoly!” I found in miles of posted comments I found it to be less than “meh.” Oh, but not this year. online. Dish and Direct TV methods obviously can’t work here and Verizon would demand the same guarThe Conservatory is having work done so the Train anteed customer numbers Altice (Cablevision’s new Show was put into a tent instead and it was SPECTACULAR! In its temporary digs it had room to move, owner/new name) has. But we have an advantage.

Use our in-house Main Antennae for network stations and move it did — track upon track running through replicas of buildings from all the boroughs and beyond. and learn how to stream. It’s not that hard. Anyone’s grandkids can show you how.

It runs till January 26 and is free to members. Do Co-operation and Transparency yourself a big favor. Go! In the “my two cents on their two cents” departAin’t No Crew Like a Co-op City Crew ment regarding my fellow directors’ writings…

Are we great in an emergency or what? Last week’s One director wrote about the continued need for – not so much leaking as gushing – pipe had ice cold co-operation in a thriving community. It brought to water coming from Section 5’s hot water faucets at midnight. By dawn, piping hot water was restored. mind something I saw in a crossword puzzle clue.

Edward O. Wilson, referring to ants, wrote, “Karl Thank you!

Marx was right, socialism works, it is just that he had I Cover the Water Front the wrong species.”

The wording of the first reading of the Co-op City Ants, bees, either way, I agree we need more coBoulevard water front park development issue should operation. A helluva lot more co-operation, but no be in today’s edition. We’ve already read letters from queen (or king) ruler, please! two residents and I agree with them both. To keep the Another director writes about communities being river from lapping at our doorways – maybe not this kept in the dark regarding land use decisions. The decade, but soon enough – the buffer of the least-paved overwhelming positive vote on last year’s election’s version of the park is the prudent (and cheapest) way to go. I will vote accordingly: A pathway, a nice fence, amendments to the City Charter should soon help more than a tad in that department. Proposal #5 dealt some benches, some trees, all done in-house, at both the scouted location and in Section 5, too? Fine by me. with ULURP (Uniform Land Use Review Procedure) How about we hold a “referendum by Carrying Charge” and with people having more time to learn of, know about, and digest proposed changes to their neighfor this decision? There must be some way we could borhoods than they now have. Information! Transmail our choices in with our return envelopes to see parency! Progress! Yes. what the actual majority of residents think.

You can reach me by voice or text at 718-219-2211 Choices or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

I saw two cable choice complaints last week, one

Building 35 Association

“SAFE RIVERBAY”

Co-op City Times Deadline Notice For Sat., Jan. 25th Issue

CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against influenza and its potentially serious complications.

• Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations.

• Flu vaccination has also been shown to significantly reduce a child’s risk of dying from influenza.

• Also, there is data to suggest that even if someone gets sick after vaccination, their illness may be milder.

• Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every year before flu activity begins in their community.

• Vaccination of high risk persons is especially important to decrease their risk of severe flu illness.

• People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older.

• Infants younger than 6 months are at high risk of serious flu illness but are too young to be vaccinated. Studies have shown that flu vaccination of the mother during pregnancy can protect the baby after birth from flu infection for several months. Additionally, people who live with or care for infants should be vaccinated.

Take everyday preventive action to stop the spread of germs: • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a feverreducing medicine.)

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like flu.

—Riverbay Safety Department

The next meeting of the Building 35 Association will be Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. Our speaker will be Warren Mitchell, Riverbay assistant general manager. All cooperators are welcome to come to meeting to hear Mr. Mitchell and ask questions.

We also are collecting dues for this year.

Our Youth Committee has been meeting at 3 p.m. on Sundays. All interested should check flyers in lobby.

Building 35 is proud of the work of our Youth Committee headed by Ms. Evelyn Turner. They have put together an awesome resource room. If you are looking for paid internships, summer jobs, job fairs, mental health resources, scholarship where middle class students do not pay tuition at ten elite schools,

and much more, we have information posted. Youth in attendance can now share phone numbers with their peers to call 24/7 for mental health issues when feeling depressed, isolated and being bullied.

Many thanks to some of our Youth Committee volunteers, one a forensic social worker, a MTA employee and a Kaplan scholar for assisting with this new Building 35 initiative for our youth and young adults. A special thanks also to our youth who are educating us about what’s happening in their world as they navigate the New York City public school system.

Why not come to the next Youth Committee meeting held on Sundays at 3 p.m. in the Building 35 Association room. We invite others to share resources with us.

—Bill Gordon

The Riverbay administrative offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, 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 25th issue of the Co-op City Times must be submitted before 9 a.m. on Tuesday, January 21.

This editorial deadline will be strictly enforced. Material received after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 21 will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, Jan. 25th issue of the Co-op City Times.

Material may be emailed to cctimes@riverbay corp.com; faxed to (718) 320-2595 or slipped under the office door at 2049 Bartow Avenue, rm. 21.

We appreciate your cooperation, and wish our readers a memorable and safe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Flu Season Is Here

9

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Building 13 Association

Building 12 Association

Have a great long weekend and remember, “We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Our next building meeting will be Thursday, Jan. 23, from 7: p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

We have special guests attending so save the date. Check the bulletin board for additional information.

You are cordially invited to join us on May 30 as we visit the Amish Country, and experience an authentic Pennsylvania Dutch-family-style meal at the home of Henry and Linda Stoltzfus, tax and gratuities included. The trip will include visiting the woodworking shop and time at a farmers market. The cost of the trip is $95 payable in two installments. The first payment of $50 is due Feb. 28, and the second payment of $45 is due by April 15. The bus will depart from 100 Casals Place at 8 a.m. and leave from Pennsylvania at 6 p.m. Check can be made payable to Building 13 Association. For additional information, contact Doris Sanchez at 646-372-7954 or the numbers listed below.

Reminder During the elevator renovation period, you can pick up your Co-op City Times from the lobby. Thank you for your cooperation and patience.

Our laundry room has new washers, dryers and carts. New signs will guide you and provide information on adding funds and reporting inoperable machines.

Make sure to visit the CSO office to pick up your new card and welcome packet.

Please refrain from smoking in the stairwells. Failure to adhere may result in a community complaint.

If you are moving furniture or large boxes or expecting a furniture delivery, please contact the CSO office to obtain a permit so our new elevators can be padded.

Payments for events can be sent to: 100 Casals Place 32K, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

Contacts: President Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370 or daddpeterson@aol.com, or Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801. Our website is bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com.

Thanks for making our team work.

—Leslie Peterson

The building association thanks Veranda and Clarice for taking down the holiday decorations.

Don’t forget crochet is still on Thursday in the association room from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

For those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries or new additions, congratulations.

Those who suffered a loss, our condolences.

Those who are under the weather, get well soon.

—Linda Werner

If you SEE something, SAY SOMETHING!!!

718-671-3050 • Co-op City Public Safety

Please Drive Slowly and Cautiously in all Co-op City’s Parking Facilities!

Wishing all of you a happy, healthy and safe New Year. A hearty welcome to our new neighbors. Come on down and join us at our next building meeting Monday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m., activity room. We want to hear from you.

Reminder, if you have not already done so, hand in your 2019 building dues envelopes and thank you for your support.

New washing machines are being installed in our building. New cards are being issued to use the machines. Please follow the contact instructions if you run into problems.

Special thank you to Sonia, Donald and all volunteers who did a beautiful job of decorating our lobby for the holidays. Our holiday party was a good time had by all.

Our heartfelt sympathy to all who suffered a lost. Get well wishes to our sick and shut-in. If you see something, say something. Call 911 and/or CCPD, 718671-3050.

On Monday, Jan. 20, we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Let’s take a few minutes to remind us how we got here. Year 2020 is going to be a challenging one.

We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718-379-7841.

—Sonja Maxwell

Building 30 A and B Association

10

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Lights Out – For Now

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson It seems like NYC along with some of our local politicians are going to short-circuit the possibility of that developer from putting up those bright lights and those towers again at 500 Baychester Avenue.

It’s Over?

Sometimes, some people will do things that simply cannot be explained. Then, when you look back, you might come to the conclusion that they simply wanted attention. That’s it. In other words, can you think of a reason why anyone would ever spend millions of dollars on erecting tremendous towers with extremely bright lights and a windmill near a residential community like Co-op City?

What about the expensive lawyers, the court fees, the plans and designs, the expensive professional fees, and the investment of time? On the other hand, what about the community opposition? Look, they only had two stores at that location. And, those stores were paying for their own electricity. So, was there a need for all that upheaval that occurred at that site?

In my opinion, no. Regardless, that developer, Baychester Retail LLC, received a lot of negative attention for that site. However, it seems like that was the goal for this developer. But, as you can see, negative intentions can sometimes cause some plans to backfire. For instance, how was it that some winds on a rainy day could easily blow out the blades from that wind turbine?

Next, how was it that those flying blades along with portions of that wind turbine could take out that gigantic billboard? Coincidence? Maybe. However, a suggestion of coincidence might be a stretch when you consider that everything crashed horrifically to the ground when students were on a holiday break.

And, this holiday break is one of the main reasons that pushes this horror show away from the concept of coincidence. Furthermore, no one was reportedly killed or injured as those massive objects mysteriously hit into each other and then violently crashed to the ground.

Currently, our politicians are taking steps to change the zoning regulations for that area. Also, the NYC Department of Buildings issued a letter, dated January 9, 2020, revoking the “approvals, permits, and

signoffs for that property. So, barring any court action, it’s doubtful that this developer will be able to reconstruct those items again on that property.

Man Shot in Bay Plaza Here’s another strange but true story that occurred here recently. Last week, the Co-op City Times reported that a “52-year-old man was shot in the leg during an attempted carjacking outside Jennifer Furniture in the Bay Plaza Shopping Center at about 9 p.m. [on] January 7. … Police are looking for two suspects” However, another news source interviewed the victim. The victim then said that one of the men shot him in the thigh. But, thankfully, the bullet reportedly hit some gift cards that were in his pocket. So, amazingly, the doctors were shocked when the bullet did not “lodge into his thigh.” The thieves managed to leave with only the victim’s car keys.

NYS Bail Reform Plan The new bail reform system has been featured in several recent stories on the news. So, I want to encourage everyone to do some research on this topic.

New Laundry Rooms Previously, some buildings had several laundry machines that were out of order. Then, those machines were reported to management. Management, then, swapped out those machines. And, now, there might be some damaged machines in your building. So, I would like to encourage everyone to write down the numbers to those machines. Then, please go online to: www.cscsw.com and type those machine numbers into the appropriate service area.

Also, I want to encourage everyone to please watch your children when you bring them to the laundry room. Should your children be going behind the washers and playing in that area? Never! That area is extremely dangerous. Plus, you will have a problem trying to remove your clothes from a washer if a child pulls out the electrical cord. Then, can you imagine what could happen to that laundry room if they remove some of the hoses to those washing machines? They could flood out the entire room.

So, I hope that parents will understand the need to watch their children while they’re in laundry room, in the basement,

What’s It All About?

Is man G-d’s most intelligent creation? Most of G-d’s living creations from the smallest insidious insect to the various forms of mammals are endowed with their own type of intelligence. Have you ever wondered why dogs and some other animals with so-called lower “intelligence” can understand a lot of the words we speak, yet we, of “higher intelligence,” cannot understand theirs. Consider that man has to pursue higher means of education to enhance his intellect while his brethren animals and most species are born with their own in-depth intelligence, alias, “common sense.” We should also consider that no creation of G-d is insignificant, each has its purpose.

G-d’s intent is not incidental. We should be aware of the presence of his glory in every single thing on earth. If you look deep into the eyes of any animal, you can almost feel his grace. Imagine each being is like a figure in a chess game, each one has his role to play and is responsible to make certain moves; without one the outcome of the game is subjective.

As much as we try to comprehend the wonders of the world, our ignorance prevails as our knowledge remains in its pubescent state. We behold the prey of our inhabitance as they feast upon the weaker sect, from man down to the lowest form of life. We behold the evolution of life. It is written that G-d made man in his own image, and so he did. The blight of man was employed to benefit and enjoy with him all that was created. Man was blessed with the abilities to enhance and move forward so that all of G-d’s wonders would flourish and survive through all eternity.

“The capacity for learning and reasoning has no discriminate factor between man and other living being, the only difference is what capacity the faculty of understanding is, this is what is relevant.”

—Frank Mayes

and throughout our community. Also, I want to encourage cooperators to call Public Safety at 718-671-3050 if they observe some dangerous situations here.

Census Jobs According to the U.S Census website, the “Census results are used to determine your representation in Congress, and they help inform how billions of dollars are distributed for hospitals, schools, roads, and more.” So, that’s why they’re looking to “hire up to 500,000 temporary, part-time census takers for the 2020 Census.” Therefore, I want to encourage everyone that’s looking for work to consider this opportunity to make some extra cash. And, in the meantime, you can still look for other work.

Honda Accord Thieves Thieves are still going crazy over stealing the wheels and other parts from Honda Accord vehicles.

Additionally, some people are posting photos of these cars on blocks. One guy, that doesn’t live in Co-op City, had all four wheels stolen from his Honda Accord.

Then, he went out and bought a brand new alarm system for his car. Then, take a guess what happened.

That’s right, a thief rolled up at 5 a.m. within the same week and stole all four new wheels.

Close Please help your neighbors by calling Public Safety at 718-671-3050 if you see anyone dismantling a vehicle in our garages.

Thank you.

Questions or comments? Please send a letter to Daryl H. Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475/ 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.

Management Update Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

11

As we begin 2020, a recap of some of the achieveproperly trained to provide quality services to cooperManagement Report ments we realized in 2019 and a look ahead to some of ators. our upcoming goals is in order. You may recall when All 35 laundry rooms are being upgraded with new, Douglas Elliman Property Management took over Co-op energy efficient washers and dryers, laundry rooms were City management in 2016, we inherited a number of painted, new countertops installed and new laundry carts legacy projects as well as some required due to the HUD refinancing of Co-op provided. We heard your concerns about the standard City’s mortgage with Wells Fargo bank. Additionally, in 2017, Management prodark glass the washer doors are manufactured with, however, we opted to begin the upgrades last year to proposed a 5-year capital improvement plan after in-depth, top to bottom assessment vide better service to cooperators instead of a prolonged of the development – a first for Co-op City. These improvements are geared toward wait for machines to be manufactured with the transrepairing Co-op City’s 50-year old infrastructure and upgrading our business procedures and operations to take advantage of available technology to perform work parent glass. The contractor has been swapping out the glass as they become availin the most cost efficient manner, thereby maintaining affordability of Co-op City able. for current and future shareholders.

We also reduced vehicle maintenance and staffing expenses by entering into a I’d first like to point out our accomplishments in the three years Douglas Elli- fleet management contract with Enterprise. We have implemented an in-house man has been at Co-op City have, by and large, been a collaborative effort. We program to replace damaged and cracked sidewalks annually, and outsourced work cohesively and diligently with the Riverbay Board of Directors, state Divi- restoration of vacant apartments to improve turn-over of completed units. We reassion of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), federal Department of Housing signed and reorganized some departments’ tasks for efficiency, for example, repair and Urban Development (HUD) and Wells Fargo to secure necessary approvals of outdoor benches has been switched from Maintenance to the Grounds departto move forward on projects; we rely on our hard working staff, skilled person- ment. In addition, maintenance and repair of domestic water pumps has been reasnel and contractors hired through Riverbay’s competitive bidding program which signed to the Power Plant from Maintenance. The Commercial Leasing departis overseen by HCR. We are also thankful to shareholders for their insight and ment has been reorganized to now negotiate more leases in-house, achieve marinput, their patience and cooperation as we perform work that will, in some instances, ket rents, introduce CAM charges and thereby reduce the need for outside broker be completed over several years. You have told us in no uncertain terms when you commissions. Commercial Leasing now also oversees all storage unit rentals. A are dissatisfied; we are listening and working on improvements. central customer call center has been incorporated into our operations to improve Among the legacy projects we have completed to date are upgrades to the response time for work orders. To further improve response and decrease wait Dreiser and Bartow malls; emergency façade work in Building 10, 20 & 26; refur- time for cooperators, we reassigned residential utility personnel to jobs originatbishment of the Bellamy Loop basketball court and repair of the Cooper Town- ing from calls to the Riverbay call center.

NAES has been retained as operator of the Power Plant which allowed for elimhouse high temperature hot water leak. Boiler #2 installation at the Power Plant is also being addressed. We expect commissioning and start-up during the first ination of two senior management positions and increased reliability of the plant. quarter of this year.

We’ve also entered into a new energy management contract that saves over half a million dollars annually in consultant fees. A water treatment system has been In addition to the legacy items, we identified several projects in our five-year installed at the Power Plant which results in savings since we have eliminated the capital improvement plan, some of which have been completed and others are ongoing. Among the capital projects completed in 2019 are new lobby entrances need to rent temporary trailers as well as other related expenses. In addition, we in 20 Chevron buildings; removal of the steel and concrete beams from the garage negotiated a new 10-year, long-term service agreement for the Power Plant’s gas rooftops, followed by deck repairs and installation of lighting so the roofs could turbine generators, one of which was overhauled/replaced at no cost to Riverbay be reopened for parking; installation of an updated garage access control system under the service contract. If Riverbay had to pay for this replacement, it would that eliminates the necessity of our employees handling cash payments; installa- have cost as much as $10M. Because of improved efficiencies at the Power Plant, tion of a new alarm system in Bartow Mall where the Riverbay administrative we have been able to increase our commitment for Con Ed’s summer energy prooffices are housed; replacement of domestic water mains in Buildings 3, 4, 10, 16, grams which will result in increased revenue for the corporation.

21, 26 , 28 and 31; repair and waterproofing of the porticos in Buildings 6, 18, 23 Procedures at the central warehouse have been improved for better control of inventory. and 25; replacement of the corroded stairs and doors in residential buildings and There are also projects in motion to ensure safety of residents and employees. commercial centers, and replacement of the entrance doors at garage stairways The Safety department is continuing to work with the Red Cross to complete instalwith clear glass panel doors to improve safety.

As we go forward into the new year, some of the work begun last year is con- lation of new smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every apartment, a projtinuing and we are embarking on other capital projects as we continue to address ect that saves Riverbay approximately $1M, thanks to the Red Cross. Mold assessCo-op City’s aging infrastructure and perform other necessary work to ensure effi- ment/mold remediation efforts as well as asbestos abatement project management will continue. Safety training is a year-round endeavor for employees and has ciency of our operations and service delivery. resulted in a safer work environment which, in turn, has significantly lowered our Elevator modernization involves replacement of all 160 elevators in residential buildings and upgrades to the 16 elevators in the garages. So far, all of the Workers Compensation expenses.

We are upgrading the corporation’s IT infrastructure, per the recommendations garage elevators are complete as well as 40 of the residential elevators. This project is scheduled for completion in 2022. of a 2014 consultant report, to ensure reliability, security and ability to recover Local Law 11 work is in progress in Section 5 and will be completed in the first quickly in case of a disaster. In addition, Yardi, our property management softquarter of 2021. This year, Local Law 11 work will begin in Sections 1-4, with ware, is being upgraded to facilitate migration to a paperless work environment completion scheduled for 2023. Significantly, we avoided having to spend over and better distribution of Maintenance and Restoration staff for service calls.

We continue to maintain over 5,000 applicants on our residential sales waiting $1M to erect pedestrian bridging in Sections 1-4 by doing “knockoffs” which list which allowed for the equity increase of $1,000/room for new cooperators and allowed for “safe with repair” filing.

Lobby entrance modernization for Triple Core and Tower buildings will begin lessened the financial burden on current residents during the last budgeting cycle. this year and completed next year. Renovation work on the Dreiser auditorium is Last year, HCR approved an apartment downsizing program for Co-op City – a also in progress with completion anticipated by July of this year. We are also updat- first in the Mitchell-Lama program for cooperatives. This program allows cooping and sprucing up the community centers. This includes restoration of the pub- erators to downsize their larger units. HCR also approved our request for higher lic bathrooms in the centers and commercial spaces, starting with Bartow Center contract approval limits which will reduce the number of contracts requiring their this year. Fire alarm systems will be installed in Einstein and approval, saving time and thereby moving capital projects along.

We have also been working with our labor attorneys Dreiser malls. Einstein Center will also receive a new AC to negotiate new collective bargaining agreements with Locals system which will replace the old unit that is not functional.

32BJ, DC9, 153 and 282 to eliminate outdated provisions, This project will be completed in time for the summer. Other achieve better management rights provisions including the ongoing projects include replacement of electrical transability to reduce headcount as a result of technology and outformers in residential buildings, engineering review for replacesourcing. ment and upgrade of concrete at Einstein mall which will be bid this year. In addition, we are conducting engineering Although this is just a snapshot of ongoing and upcoming reviews for replacement of all domestic water pumps, replaceprojects, we hope it gives an inside view of the scope and allencompassing nature of our endeavors. While we are addressment/improvement of the convector system, and also of the ing maintenance and curb appeal of the development, we also facades of all townhouse clusters, after which, we will presremain focused on internal processes and procedures to make ent a restoration plan to the Board. sure the business end of our operation remains cost effective Apart from capital projects, we have implemented interand efficient, and that cooperators are being served in a pronal programs, policies and procedures to ensure we are functioning in a more cost effective manner and employees are fessional manner. To this end, our work continues.

Cary Smith III

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Resolutions

(Continued from page 6)

First Reading - Resolution #20-03

SUBMITTED BY: Sonia Feliciano SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: January 15, 2020

WHEREAS, on 2/20/19 the Board awarded Contract #3308, via resolution #19-03, to Landlord Guard, Inc. for the Applicant Screening; and WHEREAS, this change order is being submitted as a result of the New York State law passed on 4/12/19 provided for the $30 increase in fees charged for criminal records searches by NY Office of Court Administration (OCA); and WHEREAS, as a result of the new law, our vendor, Landlord Guard, Inc., has increased its price for running criminal records search by $30 as follows which will be paid by the incoming shareholders: 1. Investigation of a Commercial Applicant a. Year 1 $370 to $400/ $172 for additional principle b. Year 2 $370 to $400/ $172 for additional principle 2. Criminal (NYS, Multistate Sex Offender a. Year 1 $110 to $152.42 tax included b. Year 2 $110 to $152.42 tax included (See attached memo and documentation); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order One for the price increase for contract #3308 with Landlord Guard, Inc. be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

Second Reading - Resolution #19-63

SUBMITTED BY: Linda Berk SECONDED BY: Francine Reva Jones BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: January 15, 2020

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited companies for BID 3360 REBID, Furnishing and Installation of the Fire Alarm System for CC3; and WHEREAS, three (3) bids was submitted and reviewed by the Project Manager and Engineer; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager and Engineer both recommend that the Board approve Safe Tech USA as the lowest qualified bidder (recommendations letters attached); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713”.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that Contract # 3360 REBID with Safe Tech USA in the amount of $596,400.00 for the Furnishing and Installation of the Fire Alarm System for CC3 is approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #9544; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Berk, Feliciano, Johnson, Pearson, Rice, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders NO: Cylich, Lambright, Leslie ABSTAIN: Jones, Marbury ABSENT FOR VOTE: Jenkins PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #19-64

SUBMITTED BY: Claudia Sampson SECONDED BY: Francine Reva Jones BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: January 15, 2020

WHEREAS, Riverbay sent out requests for proposals to fifteen qualified companies to perform Local 11 façade and balcony restoration work on Buildings 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14; and WHEREAS, Riverbay received three (3) proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Engineer and the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Engineer and Project Manager reviewed the bids and recommends EXO Industries Corporation as the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendations attached); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #3444 with EXO Industries Corporation for a contract total of $11,046,335.00 plus a 15% contingency ($1,656,950.25) be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #9544 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Berk, Feliciano, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Rice, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders NO: Cylich, Leslie ABSENT FOR VOTE: Jenkins PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #19-65 SUBMITTED BY: Andrea Leslie SECONDED BY: Sonia Feliciano, Michelle Marbury BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: January 15, 2020

WHEREAS, Riverbay sent out requests for proposals to eleven qualified companies to provide the renovations of four (4) Public Bathrooms in the Bartow Community Center; and WHEREAS, Riverbay received five (5) qualified proposals that were reviewed by the Project Architect and Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Architect and Project Manager reviewed the bids and recommend XYLO Corp, as the lowest responsible bidder (recommendations attached); and WHEREAS, the cost of the project will not exceed $533,100.00. We are also requesting a 10% contingency for any unforeseen issues for this project ($53,310); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #3407 with XYLO Corp for a not to exceed total of $533,100.00 plus 10% contingency ($53,310.00) be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Berk, Feliciano, Jones, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Rice, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders NO: Cylich, Johnson, Leslie ABSENT FOR VOTE: Jenkins PASSED

Proper Mattress Disposal The City of New York requires residents to fully cover all mattresses or box springs in a sealed plastic bag for garbage disposal and collection. This rule was intended to prevent the spread of bed bug activity.

Please note that mattresses that are infested by bed bugs must first be exterminated prior to bagging for disposal. You may contact your respective CSO for an appointment with the exterminator. This is a free service provided by Riverbay Corporation.

Under the rule, failure to place a mattress or box spring in a proper bag will result in a $100 fine imposed by the city. In addition, Co-op City residents who violate this rule may be subject to a Community Complaint with related fines and legal fees.

The City of New York and Riverbay do not provide mattress or box spring bags or covers. Plastic bags to cover mattresses and box springs are available at department stores, home improvement centers and large moving companies. They can also be purchased online.

The covered mattress or box spring must then be brought to the basement Ash Cart room where they will be picked up for proper trash collection.

Thank you for your attention and cooperation in this matter.

—CSO

Building 32 Association

Happy New Year, fellow cooperators! I hope the New Year has started off on the right foot and your resolutions are still intact.

I’m proud to announce the first general meeting of the year will take place Jan. 21 at 7:30 p.m. It would be great to see you there in attendance. Scheduled to appear are guest speakers Aaron Carnegie and Jamaal Bowman. They will give insights on what Co-op City should be focusing on this year. Also, they’ll speak to cooperators’ concerns in the wider community. The MTA, garage attendants, updates on the Ring security system and general safety are some topics we hope to discuss. So have your questions ready.

As usual, we will have our 50-50 raffle and a raffle for a new First Alert fire extinguisher. You can’t win if you’re not there to participate.

We hope to see you there!

—Ezekiel Springer Jr.

“Just Mercy”

BY FRANCINE REVA JONES

Building 27 Association

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Hello, neighbors, we hope all enjoyed the holidays; we were blessed with reasonable weather and no snow.

We wish all a year filled with the best of health and the wisdom to meet our goals and accomplishments.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day The holiday is celebrated this month on Monday, Jan. 20. Martin King Jr. was a civil rights activist in the 1950s and 1960s. He led nonviolent protests to fight for the rights of all people, wherein America and the world could become a society where race would not impact a person civil rights.

General meeting The association’s first meeting of the New Year will be this month, Thursday, Jan. 30, at 7 p.m. We will have a guest speaker, fliers will be posted. Let’s start our year with continued purpose, new ideals and goals and to involve our youth of our building as well. The purpose is also for men as well, what you want to see and make it happen for your building and community.

Being involved and solutions are what makes the difference. We must go beyond complaints and accomplish our goals.

Having seen many previews of “Just Mercy” advertised and knowing ratings for new movies are important on the first weekend, I grabbed my coat and hat and walked to the local movie theater to see it. My soul was shaken by some of the scenes, such as the arrest of an innocent man returning home from work.

From the stories I’ve read and movies I’ve seen, I knew “Just Mercy” was similar to others. Set in the rural south in the 1980s, the rights of poor black people were overwhelmingly disrespected. It reminded me of the play, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” only “Just Mercy” featured a young, inexperienced black attorney.

“Just Mercy” is based on the true-life experience of a black man, Walter McMillan, played by Jamie Foxx, accused of murdering a white woman with whom he had an affair. This sort of thing would not be tolerated in the 1980s by white racists, and small town, small minded white policemen, who conspired and framed this innocent black man. Another white prisoner was persuaded to cooperate with these corrupt cops.

As the years passed, black folks became more educated. And along came Bryan Stevenson, played by Michael B. Jordan, a young, Harvard-educated lawyer who saw many of the injustices perpetrated on black folks while growing up Alabama. He reached out to help. Stevenson attempted to exonerate a black prisoner accused of murder, but also suffering from mental illness. He was unsuccessful.

McMillan was doubtful he would ever come off death row, but Stevenson was persistent in his efforts to try. For me, this brought back memories of the Central Park Five and how five innocent boys were railroaded to prison for more than 10 years. Hope for the possibility of freedom was restored when young Stevenson repeatedly visited him and organized his family and community to support him with visits and court appearances. It was not easy for this young, inexperienced attorney, but he wanted to make good on his promise not to give up.

The same reality is happening today; unethical police departments and corrupt police officers are on the streets of our cities across the country and are being paid with our tax dollars. Fortunately, there are civil and human rights leaders, like those who led the fight to bring to justice the cops that assaulted, brutalized, and sexually abused Abner Louima, a Haitian man. The officers involved in that case were convicted of these crimes. Unfortunately, after it appeared Americans were making progress in becoming more tolerant of the differences in human beings, President Donald Trump came along to reverse 50 years of progress.

Currently, some prisoners, predominantly black, are being freed after having served 20 or more years behind bars. Some were probably the victims of capital punishment. Fortunately, the discovery of DNA testing has contributed to the release of many prisoners. Also, the diligent and persistent work by people who care has made a major impact to free innocent folks, such as organizations like the Innocence Project. They are believers in justice for all.

At the end of the movie, emotions ran high among the theater goers when the judge rendered the final verdict. I recommend you see it yourself. Thanks to producers Michael B. Jordan and Asher Goldstein and director Destin Daniel Cretton for making it worth going out to see a movie.

500 Baychester

13

Something on your mind? Give us a shout out at bldgassoc27@gmail.com.

The Building 27 Association The association is comprised of you, our neighbors.

When a household pays only $5 annual dues, this allows you to become a proud member of the association. This collection date will be coming soon. Stay tuned.

Illness or deceased If you live within the community and become aware of some who live in Building 27 who have become sick or sent to rehab, nursing home or deceased, please call 718-583-3040. We have neighbors no one has seen in a while and, sometimes, there is no information available to us. So this would be helpful.

Happy birthday to all celebrating this month. The best of health to all. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718583-3040 to share news of an illness, or the passing of a neighbor.

Pray for peace within our nation, that we will be granted a leader who will respect the people and the laws of this wonderful nation, now more than ever.

Be kind, be thoughtful, be genuine, but most of all be thankful. –Pinterest.

—H. Overman

(Continued from page 1)

collapse. It hasn’t operated since Dec. 30.

As for the turbine, it should not have been permitted on the property, as it was in violation of the setback section of the 2011 city guidelines governing the placement of such wind turbines. At a total of 240 feet, the turbine should not have been placed on a property with less than 100 feet to the nearest property line. It was, which was not allowable under the 2011 guidelines.

14

Building 9 Association

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

ditions, the day-to-day uncertainty for Greetings, Building 9 family. children and families, etc. Please conOn Monday, Jan. 6, when I heard sider volunteering there if you are a about the early morning earthquake in qualified mental health professional.

Puerto Rico, I knew Building 9 had to At the time of this writing, our biimplement our own humanitarian effort annual Building 9 Association Execufor disaster relief by collecting funds for tive Board election meeting is schedthe victims of the earthquake devastauled for Thursday, Jan. 16, at 7 p.m. tion. Building 9 has a large population If you require exterminator services, of shareholders who are from or have of family and friends on the island Linda Collins, left, and Wanda please do not hesitate to contact the Puerto Rico. We thank every member Randall fundraising for Puerto CSO to make an appointment. If you and neighbor donor for their generos- Rico. suspect you require bedbug treatment, ity of spirit and funds. Somos unidos! please request an inspection.

We thank all our dedicated lobby collection volunOur friend and neighbor Michele Chester has reloteers: Linda Collins, Wanda Randall, Wanda Rodriguez, cated outside Co-op City. We will miss her helpful Shirley McCann, Gabriella Concepcion, Rosemary and gentle spirit.

Bailey, Jackie Lattie, Shirley Johnson, Dinora Tirado, As per the garage department, call boxes will be Linda Holley, Janice Rosario, Evelyn Mavins, Mar- installed in all garages for use in case of emergency. garita Mendez and Janet Yarrell. My special thanks to Please ensure your key fob works at the front and Gabriella Concepcion for her creativity and artistry in the rear entrances. If not, contact CSO for recalibracreating our flyer and to Wanda Randall for making tion or replacement.

Building 9 is scheduled for laundry room renovathe banners for our lobbies. The Puerto Rico earthquake victim relief fund notices were simple yet pow- tions beginning Monday, Jan. 27. The renovations take erful. At the time of this writing, we expect to partner approximately one week. The laundry room is expected with the Spanish-American Club of Co-op City in its to reopen on Monday, Feb. 3. The washers, dryers, disaster relief fundraising initiatives to maximize the folding tables and laundry carts will be replaced and impact of our donations. Partnering with others to share the laundry room will be painted. The CSO will have the best methods and outcomes ensures our donations extended office hours for shareholders to obtain the get to those who need it most, for the things they need new laundry cards. Your old card will no longer work.

The new laundry cards will be building-specific. the most, like solar panels, generators, etc.

If you would like to have your dull, dingy bathtub At the time of this writing, we are still collecting.

We will publish the total amount collected and donated resurfaced at a reasonable price, contact the Riverbay Restorations Department and request the Riverbay in next week’s article.

Also, Puerto Rico is in need of mental health pro- Corporation’s discount rate, approximately $200.

We are stronger together! fessionals due to the overwhelming and ongoing earthquake devastation, the unsafe living and working con—Linda Collins

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators. Welcome all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next general membership meeting.

Post-holiday celebration Today, Saturday, Jan. 18, the Building 10 Association will be having its annual post-holiday celebration. Good food, drink, music and fun will be the order of business for the evening. Please see the flyer in the lobby for more information.

General membership meeting Our next meeting will be held Wednesday, Jan. 29, at 7 p.m., doors open at 6:45 p.m., in the Building 10 Association room, rear lobby of Building 10B. We will have a guest speaker. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. Light refreshments will be served.

Wind Creek Casino and shopping outlet On Saturday, March 28, we will be going to the Wind Creek Casino and shopping outlet, formerly the Sands Casino, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Tickets are $45 with a $30 bonus. Reserve your seat now. For more information, call 718-320-4059 or 646-220-0802.

Facebook The Building 10 Association is on Facebook. The page is “Building 10 ABC Association.” Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10.

Email address The Building 10 Association has a new email address: Building10Assoc@gmail.com. Please use the email to contact the building association with your concerns and suggestions.

We would like to wish all January babies, a very happy birthday.

To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery.

To all who have lost a loved one recently, we give our deepest condolences.

Have a great week.

—Jewel Crawford-Duncan

15

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

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16

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

I would like to start off with wishing a very happy and healthy New Year to all our cooperators.

I want to thank everyone who worked on the collection for the building workers and to let everyone know that it went well. Our holiday party was a success, we had a nice group come down and everyone enjoyed the company and food. We hope to see more of our cooperators next year. I also want to thank all those that decorated the A and B sections for the holidays. The C section was not decorated due to an unfortunate accident by the person who was going to decorate and it was too late to find someone else. I would like to apologize to everyone in the C section but I promise next year will be beautiful.

Tentatively, our next building meeting will be Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. Notices will be up in the lobbies and basement when the date is finalized. I look forward to seeing you there. Please bring your thoughts and ideas plus any questions regarding our building, our community and/or your personal issues. I will try to help if I can. You can always speak with me privately after the meeting. Refreshments will be served after the meeting.

We wish to send our good wishes to all who are going through illness and hope for a speedy recovery. We send our condolences to all those who have lost a loved one recently. May your grief be swift and may your happy memories last forever.

Congratulations to all who are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries within the month and for any other happy occasion they are celebrating.

—Patty Cipollaro

Building 26 Association

Building 18 Association

Hi, neighbors.

We hope all of you had a blessed and happy holiday season. Now we are back for a better than ever year. Happy New Year!

Our first general meeting is scheduled for Tuesday Jan. 21, at 7 p.m. in the association room. Our guest speaker is Anthony Barzelatto from the Riverbay Safety Department with a very important presentation. Please make all efforts to attend and bring your neighbor. Light refreshments will be served.

We are looking into 2020 building activities. Your input is very important to us, so please let us hear from you.

Thanks to Loraine Turner, Helen Atkins, Carlene Fowler, Brenda Robinson, Deloris Cornelius, Alfred Lynch, Janet Frasier, Gloria Watson, Deborah Hughes and Phyllis Revenel for sitting in the lobby to collect donations and thank you all for your generous gifts for the porters and lobby attendant. They expressed their appreciation and how you helped to make their holiday better.

To the sick and homebound, we pray your health be restored to your normal limits ASAP. A special prayer for our neighbor, Carlene Fowler, she will heal very soon after breaking her arm from a fall on New Year’s Eve. To bereaved families, we offer our sincere sympathies.

Please stay alert: If you see, smell or hear something, call 911; call Public Safety at 718-671-3050 and report. You may save someone’s life.

—Gertie Brown

Building 25 Association

Martin Luther King Jr. was born on Jan. 15. Since he is celebrated the third Monday in January each year, the holiday does not always fall on his birthday so we call it Martin Luther King Jr. Day. A few things not commonly known about the late great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are that he was born Michael King Jr., however, King’s father, a pastor at Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Church, became so inspired by Protestant Reformation leader Martin Luther during a trip to Germany in 1934 he legally changed his own name as well as that of his 5-year-old son to Martin Luther.

King was a gifted 15 year old when he entered Morehouse College, alma mater of his father and maternal grandfather, in 1944, skipping grades 9 through 12.

Six years after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., tragedy struck the King family again. On June 30, 1974, King’s mother, Alberta Williams King, was also slain by an assassin’s bullet as she played the organ at Sunday service inside Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Our building association meets every third Tuesday of the month, generally from September through June. Our next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 7:30 p.m., please keep an eye out for postings outside your elevators. If you cannot make it to meetings due to scheduling or other obstacles, please log onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com and address your concerns or comments to any or all members of Building 25 Association.

Friendly reminder, our building annual dues are $5 per family. We would like to thank the residents who have paid their annual dues. Dues are collected at our monthly meetings by Carol Eilets, treasurer, or Celeste Stukes, assistant treasurer.

I will close with the following: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy.” Martin Luther King Jr. —Wanda Bailey

Building 22 A&B Association

Our next association meeting is Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. on the “B” side on the first floor. All are welcome.

We will be taking collection for the membership dues, $5 per apartment. Times and dates will be posted on the bulletin boards.

March 14 is our trip to Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino, formerly known as the Sands. The cost is $40 per person. Rebate is $30. To purchase tickets, please contact Joan June, 718-671-7079, or Katrina Minus-Shepard, 718-671-4953. Bus departs at 8 a.m. from Asch Loop next to library.

If you haven’t gotten your key fob, please contact CSO 2, room 22, in the Bartow Center, Monday through Saturday, or check the Co-op City Times.

Happy birthday to all celebrating in January. Prayers to all who lost loved ones.

Get well greetings to all the sick and shut-ins.

If you see something, say something.

—Betty Leak

Building 21 Association

The first 21 Association gathering of 2020 will be Thursday, Jan. 23. Please mark your calendars accordingly. If you have any questions regarding The 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information. Email: 21association@gmail.com, call 347-504-1821, or you can attend the monthly meetings, which are held every fourth Thursday in the gathering room in the rear of the Bsection, 120 Bellamy Loop, at 7 p.m.

What do you want... ...Fellow cooperators, shareholders and Building 21’ers? That is the question.

What do you want and what are you willing to do to have what you want? Your building association is the place where your ideas are the basis of why we gather.

Help your community to flourish, thrive and prosper. You are welcomed to come to us at Building 21 as well. We are located in the gathering room, in the rear of the B-section, and all are always welcome. Now, ask yourself, what you are doing for your community to help make it better? Attend your building association. Meet us at one of our next gatherings.

Be a floor captain Thanks to the cooperators of Building 21 who have stepped up to the plate and volunteered to be floor captain for their floor. You know who you are, and we truly appreciate you.

All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows: 1. Contact numbers for your floor only. List all emergency contact numbers and distribute to each neighbor 2. Co-op City Times: Place them at each apartment door, delivered on Saturdays.

3. Elevator notices: Read them and talk to your neighbors about them 4. Promote meetings, clubs and gatherings 5. Encourage your neighbors to: Vote, vote, vote in the Riverbay election Make calls to the Riverbay offices Security, 718-671-3050; CSO offices, 718-320-3300 FYI, all funds collected are installed in the 21 Association’s bank account.

Funds collected for the association are used expressly for 21 Association gatherings. Holiday gift collections — i.e., porters, lobby attendants, etc. — are the responsibility of each floor individually and should be handled by the floor captains.

Come and join us Bring a friend. Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals a force for good.

See you around the neighborhood!

—Michelle Marbury

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Cooperators United of Co-op City

Happy New Year. Our next general membership meeting is Tuesday, Jan. 28, 7 p.m., Bartow, room 31. I can be reached at 718-379-7841 or MLSAH@aol.com...

—Sonja Maxwell

Working Families of Co-op City

Next meeting: this Tuesday Come to our next meeting this Tuesday, Jan. 21, the usual third Tuesday of the month, in Einstein, room 35, at 7 p.m.

We are progressives. We must fight back against the corruption that keeps puppets in power at all levels. Money, with hidden agendas attached, grows that corruption. Changing the political financing system on all levels of government is job one. Ridding the influence of big money will make for candidates more beholden to the voter than to big business interests.

When the Cuomo-appointed Public Campaign Financing Commission was formed, its job was to boost democracy in New York State by multiplying the support of small donors. Matching-dollar-donations soon took a back seat to a different purpose of the commission — to weaken the competition. The resulting commission changes now make it harder for new candidates to get on the ballot and nearly impossible for smaller parties to stay on the ballot without jumping through extremely demanding petitioning hoops.

In this new session, our Assembly members can still tweak the commission results that attack the grass roots of democracy. Our job is to urge them to do what’s right. Help us launch a renewed postcard/phone campaign to undo the damage caused by the commission.

Boosting democracy also includes petitioning for the candidates of your choice.

The presidential petition period has begun. Petitions for seven of the leading presidential candidates can be picked-up at the Bronx Dems headquarters at 1534 Boone Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10460, Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Though the Working Families Party has made its presidential endorsement, our Co–op City group has not. We plan to have an ample supply of all of the available petitions on hand to accommodate our meeting attendees’ preferences. The petitions must be filled and returned before the end of January, so there is no time to dally. The NYS presidential primary will be held in April. Early voting runs from April 18 to April 26, with primary election day on Tuesday, April 28. Poll sites still TBD. We are not yet in the process of organizing a forum showcasing the many federal and state candidates for U.S. Congress, NYS Senate, and NYS Assembly running in the June primary. If/when we decide to do so, we will write about it in these pages as soon as possible. If any other organization is planning one, we do hope it won’t be kept secret. Shouldn’t educating Co-op City voters be a joint effort of all of Co-op City’s political organizations? Perhaps in 2020 that will be so.

In essence, the mission of Working Families Co-op City is to promote tolerance and end second-class citizenship. Stand with this group. Come to the Co-op City Working Families meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 21, in Einstein, room 35, at 7 p.m. to discuss strategy and tactics.

Info? Email mpjazz@optonline.net and/or text 718-219-2211.

—Mary Pearson

MTA Real-Time Service Updates

The most up-to-date information on MTA service status is always available at www.mta.info. For immediate notice of service changes, sign up for email or text alerts at www.mymtaalerts.com. For weekend subway service changes, visit web.mta.info/weekender.

African-American Association

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The African American Association’s first gathering of 2020 will be Tuesday, Jan. 21. The change of date, i.e., usually every third Monday, is due in celebration of Martin Luther King Day. Join us in room 15 of the Dreiser Center at 7 p.m.

Please mark your calendars. We look forward to seeing you. Bring a friend and new member prospect. Membership is only $15/year for a single membership and only $25/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call us at 929-430-3255, The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

African American History Month African American History Month aka, Black History Month, is fast approaching. The AAA will host its annual black film festival on Saturday, Feb. 1, beginning at noon in the Bartow Center, room 31. There will be tributes to Toni Morrison, Isaiah Cummings, John Conyers and John Witherspoon.

The African-American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: Belly dance classes Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, room 2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. Call Xonia, 646-301-9438.

Evening line dance classes with Cynthia Dixon Dance to Soul, Latin and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room 2; also first and third Tuesdays in Einstein Center, Section 5, 6 p.m. Fees are minimal. Call Cynthia, 917-903-7073.

Salsa class Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop, room 1. Call Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga and Zumba classes with Meena Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. in Dreiser Center, room 2. Contact Meena at 917-8631507.

Healing drum circle will resume in the spring. Please continue to follow this article for updates.

—Michelle Marbury

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Thank you to the powers that be for taking action on trying to solve the brown water issue in Broun Place. We hope this delicate and necessary repair holds.

In the past, we have warned neighbors about telephone and money scams.

Last week, there was a sharp increase in calls. First get on the do-not-call list.

Scammers are trying to trick you into giving them your personal information and money. Don’t be fooled! For example, scammers pretend they’re from Social Security. The number you see on the caller ID may even look like an official government number but it is not. The caller may say there is a problem with your Social Security number or account. They may tell you to fix the problem or to avoid arrest you must pay a fine or fee using retail gift cards, pre-paid debit cards, wire transfers or cash. These calls are not from the Social Security Administration.

Social Security will not: Threaten you, tell you that your Social Security number has been or might be suspended, ask you for credit or debit card numbers over the phone, require a specific means of debt repayment, like a pre-paid debit card, a retail gift card, or cash.

Social Security will: Sometimes call you or mail a letter to confirm you filed for a claim or to discuss other ongoing business you have with them, they will use email addresses to provide information, and if you receive a call from someone alleging to be from Social Security, please hang up right away and report the scam at oig.ssa.gov/to, Social Security’s law enforcement team at the Office of the Inspector General. Another important tip, always write out the entire year, 2020, and do not abbreviate it by simply writing 20.

Right now, the winter flu has hit Broun Place Townhouse Association and we are just trying to get well. It is not too late for the shot.

Thank you again to those who renewed their association dues. These are necessary for acknowledging neighbors in times of hardship and illness and/or community matters.

It is time to take down the holiday decorations and bring out the live trees following Co-op City instructions so they can be removed and made into mulch.

The association will post a meeting for February 2020.

Keep informed on Co-op City by reading this newspaper. The story and photos from around Co-op City are detailed and complete but leave us with questions answered by investigative reporting.

There has been no permanent action to enable smooth entry to I-95 North or traffic across Bartow Avenue. We suggest going up Co-op City Boulevard. Avoid Bartow Avenue and avoid exiting through Section 5. Exit from Connor Street, use that service road or left up Boston Road and left on Eastchester and across or I-95 service road to cross up to Eastchester. At least you keep moving that way. The double parking in Section 5 and all the buses make it a terrible mess and worse on weekends. In the future something better must be done.

New charges for garage infractions are posted in Garage 6 in the foyer to the front exit, around from the elevator. We sincerely hope these will be enforced.

Remember, keep dancing and we guarantee happy days ahead.

—Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

National Council of Negro Women

Black History Month Save the date, Saturday, Feb. 29, when we will have our 19th annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. This free event will take place in Bartow Center, room 31, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The theme of this year’s celebration is “We Count: Our Lives, Our History, Our Voice, Our Vote.” We are calling all talent! Youth groups and young adults interested in volunteering to showcase their talent in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc. please call the NCNW Youth Committee at 917-8265644 or email ncnwcoopcitysocial@gmail.com.

Book club In mid-March we will have our first book club meeting, so start reading now! Our first book for 2020 will be “The Color of Water: A Black Man’s Tribute to His White Mother,” by James McBride. The book is available in paperback; a delightful read, truly a paean to mothers everywhere.

Women represent!

Save the date: Saturday, April 18. We are combining Women’s History Month with National Poetry Month. Our theme this year is, “She Shaped Me: A Male Reflection on a Woman’s Way.” We are especially encouraging young men to participate this year with poetry/prose about their mothers. Men or women who would like to participate in this program, please contact Camille Worrell at 917-825-5686 or worrellswords@aol.com.

Human Trafficking Awareness Month Human trafficking occurs whenever a person engages in sexual and/or labor services for the benefit of someone else due to force, fraud or coercion, or whenever a young person under the age of 18 is involved in a commercial sex act. Youth who are especially vulnerable to trafficking include runaway or homeless youth; children involved in the foster care system and/or juvenile justice system; children with a history of abuse or substance abuse; children with disabilities; LGBTQ youth. Many young people have been approached at the high schools in our neighborhood. For help, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 888-373-788 or text 233733 or polarisproject.org/get-assistance/national-humantrafficking-hotline or the NYPD Special Victims/Human Trafficking Hotline, 646-610-7272. We thank our president, Lori Melton, for bringing us this information to share with our community.

Social media Remember you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcity Bethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email, ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

—Joyce Howard

Spanish-American Association

Please join us on the second Thursday of every month at 8 p.m. Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for Feb. 13 in room 16 of the Dreiser Community Center. Everyone is welcome!

January’s ‘Social Saturday’ will take place on the 25th at 7 p.m.

Upcoming events‘ Recordar Es Vivir,’ hosted by the Cultural Committee, is planned for Saturday, Feb. 8, beginning at 7 p.m., in room 4 of the Dreiser Center. Live music will be provided by the very popular Juan Ortega.

Donations for the pot luck will be greatly appreciated.

Members will enjoy free admission; Nonmembers will be asked for $10 at the door. If you have not renewed your membership by Jan. 31, you will be considered a non-member for admission. See the flyers page on our website for the full details.

The Visitation Committee is planning to visit Bay Park on Feb. 16.

February’s ‘Social Saturday’ will take place on the 29th at 7 p.m.

Nomination of club officers and elections are coming in March. Nominations will take place on March 12. Election Night will take place March 26. Members, please plan to attend both meetings.

The installation of officers’ dinner and dance is scheduled for Friday, April 24, at Maestro’s. Tickets for members are $60; non-members are $80.

Applications for the Tony Mondesire Scholarship for the next school year are now available. The forms will be available in room 16 of the Dreiser Center at any of our monthly meetings, either the second Thursday of every month or at the board of directors meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and residents of the Bronx.

Students must carry a minimum of 12 credits per semester at an accredited institution for at least one year. Applications must be returned by May 14, either by mail, or to a member of the scholarship board of trustees.

Membership renewals for this year are due by Jan. 31. A penalty fee of $48 for the year, $4 a month, will be assessed after that date.

Additional information for all of our upcoming club events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website, spanamcccc. synthasite.com. You may also email the club at SpanAmCCCC@gmail.com or find us on Facebook, search for ‘spanamcccc.”

—Carmen Rodriguez

Black Forum

Emergency food pantry Guests currently registered with the program and who pick up food packages at the 920 Baychester Ave. location are required to recertify at the pantry starting in January 2020. A valid ID NYC card or a non- or driver’s license must be shown to remain in the emergency food program. Please bring the required ID the first time you pick up food this year.

Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Ave. is now the only distribution location for Section 5 Black Forum Food Pantry recipients. Guests who normally picked up food packages from New Vision Church should now go to United Methodist Church.

Guests visiting the Palmer Avenue location must also recertify to continue in the program. A valid ID NYC card or a non- or driver’s license must be shown.

Defensive driving: Room change for February Next class: Saturday, Feb. 8, 2020, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Bartow Community Center, room 28. Cost: $35/person.

Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to four points from your driver’s license. Checks and money orders can be made payable to Black Forum of Co-op City and mailed to 920 Baychester Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least one and a half weeks before class. Please include your name and phone number.

Walk-ins are welcomed but only a $35 cash payment — exact change, please — will be accepted the day of the class, no checks. Please bring your current driver’s license and a pen. Call any time before 1 p.m. the day before class to register for seating priority.

Kindly leave a brief message with your name and telephone number at 718-320-8035. The class location is subject to change, so please check back for updates and arrive early to class. Students arriving after 9 a.m. may be denied entry into the class. Please arrive15 to 20 minutes early. Future class dates: March 14, April 11, May 9 and June 20; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sight & Sound – ‘Queen Esther:’ Second payment due Jan. 24, 2020 Join us for Sight & Sound Theatre's live epic biblical stage event of Queen Esther on Tuesday,April 21. Dining is at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, ranked No. 1 on TripAdvisor’s Quick Bites in East Earl, Pennsylvania list. Menu includes an all-you-can-eat full buffet including mouth-watering fried chicken, carved beef, baked fish, grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, homemade bread, salad bar, hot desserts and more! Shady Maple also has a gift shop and a 130,000-square-foot farm market with an on-site smokehouse and locally grown produce. Meal, show and transportation: $170. No refunds. Guests can pay all at once or in three installments: Nov. 15, 2019, $60; Jan. 24, 2020, $55; Feb. 21, 2020, $55. The first payment reserves your seats. Please call 917-209-5334 or 718-320-0033. The proceeds go to purchasing food and supplies for the Black Forum food pantry, which feeds members of the Co-op City community.

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

—D. Illis

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Rivers Run Community Garden

Welcome to our sixth planting season at Rivers Run Community Garden. It is so exciting to plan for the upcoming year, as there are so many thrilling moments and opportunities to learn. Our next meeting is Feb. 20. Please be there, since our goal is to talk about policy, procedures, early clean up and repair.

Please tell your friends and family about this amazing place, where we not only grow fruits and vegetables, but we grow knowledge and friendships.

Rivers Run Community Garden is a movement toward improved mental and physical health. We provide all types of workshops, including nutrition, meditation, edible and medicinal wilds identification, planting, building and crafting. We are the outdoor classroom for the local schools and daycares as well as residents and neighbors. We are a place of beauty and peace.

Visit. Stay. Experience us.

Event dates; all are welcome Feb. 20 – Dreiser Community Center, room 13 March 19 – Dreiser Community Center, room 13 Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds.

Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome.

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

—Gail Sharbaan

Section 4 Partnership

The next meeting of the Section 4 Partnership will be Friday, Feb. 21. All are welcome. Join us in the gathering room at 120 Bellamy Loop, Building 21B, at 7 p.m. sharp. Please help us continue this positive effort and reap the benefits of a united community.

You are already an important member of this team.

You are a shareholder. You don’t have to live in Section 4. The Section 4 Partnership is making an important impact on the community of Co-op City each time we show up for events like Pioneer Day, the MTA rallies, July 3 fireworks, Hoops and Beats, the ice cream social, the grand opening of the Section 4 basketball courts and other notable events, meetings and gatherings.

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.

About the Section 4 Partnership The Section 4 Partnership is comprised of every building in Co-op City that make up the sectional geographic which is referred to as Co-op City’s Section 4 — i.e., Building 20, Asch Loop; Building 21, Bellamy Loop; Building 22, Co-op City Boulevard; Buildings 23, 24 and 25, Benchley Place, the Adler Place Townhouses, the Asch Loop Townhouses and the Broun Place Townhouses. Join us. Remember; you are already an important member of this team.

Come and get involved. Let’s show up! Let’s get it done!

Email: section4partnership@gmail.com. Phone: 347-915-4939 —Michelle Marbury

Please remember to curb your dog!

19

Co-op City Little League gets ready for 2020 baseball season

Co-op City Little League will begin its 51st year serving the Co-op City community. Registration is now open for all divisions of play for boys and girls from 4 years old to 16 years old. You can register at the Co-op City Little League office, 177 Dreiser Loop, room 17, on every Saturday in January from 10 a.m. to 1 ppm.

CCLL free baseball clinics will begin at the end of January at Truman High School, located at 750 Baychester Ave., use main entrance. The clinics are your opportunity to get your child excited about the upcoming baseball season while practicing the fundamentals of baseball. The schedules for the free baseball clinics are as follows: Sundays Jan. 25, Feb. 2 and Feb.

9: T-Ball, ages 4 to 6, and farms, ages 6 to 7, will meet these days from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Minors, ages 9 to 10, will meet these days from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Sunday, Feb. 23 and March 1: Majors, ages 11 to 12, will meet these days 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Juniors/Seniors, ages 13 to 16, will meet these days 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Visit our Facebook page for a listing of prices for each division. You can register your child for any division at any of the upcoming clinics. Should you be unable to attend registration on Saturdays or cannot attend the clinics, please contact president Joe Roman, 914-262-9697, to set up an appointment.

—Joe Roman

Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could cause you to receive a community complaint and fine.

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Why is Martin Luther King Jr. Day important? He worked to advance civil rights. The words, leadership, time and energy King devoted to civil rights helped end segregation in the United States and worked to eliminate unfair practices throughout the nation that negatively affect the black community.

Travel events Price includes coach bus located on Dreiser Loop, front of H&R Block May 12, Tuesday, “I Left My Dignity in My Other Purse,” Hunterdon Hills Playhouse. Showtime: 11:30 a.m. Price: $85. Deposit ASAP to hold seat: $40.

Balance due: $45, no later than April 6. Contacts: Serita Grayson, 347-564-5722, and Barbara Williams, 718-320-0500.

Theatre committee Price includes van transport from Dreiser Loop front of rehab center Feb. 13, Thursday, “Five Guys Named Moe,” Westchester Broadway Theatre.

Showtime: 11 a.m. Price: $80. Deposit to hold seat: $40. Balance due: $40 no later than Mon. Jan. 6. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671-4949.

We accept checks/money orders payable to Retirees of Dreiser Loop, along with your name and telephone number. Committee members will be available in the Dreiser club room 19, 718-379-0377, on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Good & Welfare Best wishes to Carlene Fowler, who is at home recuperating, for a speedy recovery. To our members and friends still under the weather, know you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements.

Keep in mind, our next Jazz Up Your Health With a Senior Spa Day will be in 2020, date to be determined. If interested in joining us, Call Claudette D., 718379-4784, or Hattie L., 718-671-8449.

Attention! The Retirees need experienced, part-time, freelance drivers with a CDL license with passenger endorsement and at least 3 years’ experience and a clean driving record. A stipend can be expected for each trip. This position requires transporting members and friends safely to and from special events within the Bronx as well as to outer boroughs. Please call C. Davis at 718-379-4784 and leave your name, telephone number and a brief message.

—Claudette Davis

Online payment of monthly carrying charge

Shareholders can now pay their carrying charges online by logging onto the Riverbay website at www.riverbaycorp.com, and clicking on the “PayLease” icon on the home page, or by signing in directly at the PayLease website at www.paylease.com.

Go green, go paperless!

Register today.

Goose Island Seniors

No bingo this Monday, Jan. 20, in honor of Martin Luther King’s birthday.

Wind Creek FKA Sands Thursday, Feb. 6. Price: $40. Bonus: $30 play. Time: 8 a.m. from Einstein Loop, 8:10 a.m. from Asch Loop, and 8:20 a.m. from Dreiser Loop. Money due by Jan. 24. Few seats available.

Valentine’s Day get-together Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020, at 1 p.m. Members only. Cover dish. Donate food, salad, dessert or beverage, or $5 donation. Members may bring a friend or two.

Sight & Sound ‘Queen Esther’ Thursday, April 23, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Price: $145, includes free buffet at Golden Corral, then the play “Queen Esther.” Seats: Center stage balcony one to four steps down. Buses leaving from our three usual bus stops: Einstein at 8 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:10 a.m., and Dreiser at 8:20 a.m. All money is due by Wednesday, April 8. Make checks payable to Goose Island Seniors, visit us or mail to 135 Einstein Loop, room 39, Bronx N.Y. 10475. First to pay in full will be first to select theatre balcony seats.

Cruise to Bahamas July 27 to Aug. 5, on Carnival Cruise Line’s “Sunrise” ship. Leaves New York and stops at Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos, Nassau, Bahamas and Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Price: Inside Cabin, $1095.64 per person; Ocean View, $1255.64 per person; Balcony, $1555.64 per person. Reservation: $400. Final payment, April 15. For more information, please call 718-379-9613.

Bingo Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Time: 1:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Members only, in our club room 39. Admission, $5 for three cards, 12 games and Jackpot.

25¢ each extra card, three extra cards maximum. Sunday Bingo will be Jan. 26.

Karaoke Tuesdays and Thursdays from l p.m. to 3 p.m. with Stephen in room 45. All are welcome. Come and listen or come and sing. Free concert.

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, Saul Weber, Linda Dorax-Werner, Sarah Arteaga, Zulma Medina and Toby Landau.

Sick and Shut-in: Ann Schlanger, Mary Smith and Adelle Lawrence.

Note The dues for the Senior Citizen’s Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. is $20 from January to December.

Call Ann or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613. If there is no answer, please leave a message. Feel free to visit us at the Section 5 Community Center, 135 Einstein Loop, room 39, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Office hours: Monday to Friday, l0 a.m. to noon. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, noon to 8 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Stephen cell, 347-847-1941.

Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts Sr.

Family Owned and Operated

• Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

• Casket Showroom on premises

• Cremations

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

All areas are handicapped accessible

Personalized & Professional Care • 53 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665 www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.

NOW WEBCASTING TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABROAD

Serving all cultures & faiths

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship with us in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome.

Weekly schedule Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every fifth Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. We look forward to welcoming you to church tomorrow, Sunday, Jan. 19, at 9 a.m. when we will celebrate the Second Sunday after the Epiphany. The Rt. Rev. Andrew ML Dietsche, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of New York, will be visiting our church and he will be the preacher and celebrant.

2. Please join us on Wednesdays for an uplifting midday service starting promptly at noon.

3. On Thursdays, Father Johnson will be available for telephone calls and visitations, interactive discussions on various topics in the bible 11 a.m. to noon, followed by a short noon-day service.

4. Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m., and we are always looking for new members.

Group activities The Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the first Sunday in each month. All women in the church are invited to attend and participate in planning the activities of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the second Sunday of each month.

Upcoming events • Sunday, Jan. 26: Annual general meeting immediately following the service.

• Saturday, Feb. 22: Cake sale at the church starting at noon, until everything is sold out.

• Saturday, May 23: St. Joseph’s Day Luncheon at the Eastwood Manor in the Bronx, noon to 5 p.m. Adults: $100; children 12 and under, $50. Flyers are out and we are depending on our members to distribute them and spread the word.

Tickets are available from Merville, 718-320-2089; Renee, 718-379-6511; Yvonne, 718-671-8815; Eileen, 718-379-8624 or Arethea, 718-379-0028.

Please be sure to purchase your tickets early.

General information To those celebrating birthdays during the month of January, we wish you all a happy birthday and best wishes for many more.

To the sick and shut-in, we have you in our prayers and wish you a speedy recovery.

New pledge cards for the year 2020 are now available. Please collect yours, pray on your ability to pledge, then complete and return them to the church as soon as possible. Bear in mind that a workable budget depends largely on your commitment.

Outreach program Our church supports the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. This program is in desperate need of food. At St. Joseph’s, we collect nonperishable food items on an ongoing basis. Please remember to donate. A special thank you to all our friends and neighbors who have been responding to this request.

For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718320-0844. You may also visit our website, stjosephsepcbronx.org, for more information relating to St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church, Co-op City, Bronx, New York.

Great things are they that you have done, O Lord my God! how great your wonders and your plans for us!* there is none who can be compared with you.” –Psalm 40: 5 —Merville Chambers

Iglesia Cristiano Marcos 16:15

John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

Pastor Fernando Figueroa makes an invitation to the Hispanic community to congregate at the Christian Church Mark 16:15. If you are looking for a community church to worship our Lord Jesus Christ; if you are lonely, hurt, depressed and need liberation or freedom, our doors are open to bring Him who is willing and able to heal you. Jesus Christ is the answer. He loves you so much that he left his throne of glory to save you. The purpose of us being here is to help those in need, those who seek an answer. Jesus came to liberate us.

John 10: 9 says “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.”

Our church is located at 135 Einstein Loop community center, room 33.

Services offered Tuesdays - Prayer night: 8 p.m. Fridays - Bible study: 8 p.m.

Sundays - Bible class: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Service at noon.

Every second Saturday of the month we offer prayer and fasting service: 10 a.m. to noon. Communion is the first Sunday of the month God bless you and remember, Jesus loves you En Español Juan 14: 3 Y si voy y preparo un lugar para ti, volvere y te levare a estar conmigo para que tu tambien estes donde yo estoy.

El Pastor Fernando Figueroa hace una invitación a la comunidad hispana a congregarse en la Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15. Si usted esta buscando una iglesia de comunión para adorar a nuestro Senor Jesucristo; Si estas solitario, herido, deprimido y necesitas liberación o libertad, nuestras puertas estan abiertas para traerte a Jesus, quien esta dispuesto y es capaz de curarte. Jesus Cristo es la respuesta. El te ama tanto que deja su trono de gloria para salvarte. El propósito de nosotros estar aqui es para ayudar a los necesitados, aquellos que buscan una respuesta. Jesus vino a liberarnos.

Juan 10: 9 dice “Yo soy la puerta. Si alguien entra por mi, el seril salvo, entrar y salir y encontrar pastas.”

Nuestra iglesia se encuentra en el centre comunitario de 135 Einstein Loop, Salon 33.

Servicios ofrecidos: Martes - Servicio de Oración: 8:00 p.m. Viernes - Estudio Biblico: 8 p.m.

Domingos - Estudio Dominica: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Servicio de Adoración: 12 p.m. Cada 2nd Sabado del mes ofrecemos servicio de Ayuno y Oración: 10 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. La Santa Cena es el primero Domingo del mes Que Dias le bendiga y recuerda que Jesus te ama —Pastor Fernando Figueroa

Hammering after 6 p.m., vacuuming after 9 p.m., music or TVs played very loudly at any hour, doors slamming constantly at all hours... these are just a few examples of what can disturb the peace of fellow cooperators. Noise complaints may lead to a fine.

Please, let’s work together to make Co-op City a —CSO Department peaceful community.

AARP Chapter #4997

The following is a partial statement from AARP N.Y. State Director Beth Frankel in response to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s 2020 State of the State message: “AARP applauds Gov. Cuomo for tackling critical problems impacting older New Yorkers: the skyrocketing cost of prescription drugs, growing fraud perpetrated through robocalls, lack of universal access to safe and affordable banking services, the dangers of predatory and abusive debt collectors, and lack of transparency in healthcare costs. We pledge to work with the governor and the Legislature to enact the meaningful reforms he has proposed. The governor’s three-part proposal to crack down on high drug costs would broaden New Yorkers’ access to affordable drugs and take aim at drug prices.”

Get-well wishes to Carlene Fowler.

Heartfelt condolences to the family of Wini Saltus, a longtime member of this chapter, serving as chairperson of the trip committee for many years. Heartfelt condolences also to Helen Mitchell on the loss of her second son, Louis Mitchell.

Please contact Good and Welfare Coordinator Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home.

2020 tour plans March 23 to 25, Del Lago Resort & Casino in Finger Lakes, N.Y. Three days, two nights; two hot breakfasts, two dinners; visit Ventosa Vineyards, a local winery, admission to the Corning Museum of Glass; visit the Muranda Cheese Co.; $60 free play, $100 deposit due A.S.A.P. $399/person, double occupancy; add $165

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for single; final payment due Feb. 28. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718-379-7962 April 8, “Queen Esther” at the Sight &Sound Theater with lunch at Good & Plenty; shopping at Tangers Outlet; includes motor coach transportation; $170/person; $50 non-refundable deposit due at sign-up; contact Hannah, 718-379-7962, or Judith, 718-379-3370.

May 1 to 3, 2020: Passport, Washington, DC; three days, two nights; visiting the various embassies that open their doors to the public; sample the different cultures; taste the foods from around the world; $495/person, double; $634/single; $480/person, triple. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718-379-7962.

July 16 to 19: Ocean City, Maryland; four days, three nights; guided tour of Assateague Island; evening entertainment at the Red Rooster Restaurant; sightseeing boat ride; shopping at Tanger Outlet; gambling at Ocean Downs Casino; $789/person, double; $1,064/single; $50 non-refundable deposit due when signing up. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718-379-7962.

Attention: When signing up for the above trips, please give your name, phone number and a deposit. Checks/money orders made payable to AARP Chapter 4997 with the name of the trip in the memo section of your check/money order. Room 0, Dreiser Community Center, is open Monday or Thursday, noon to 3 p.m. for checks to be dropped off in an envelope w/group/trip leader name. They may also be mailed to the group/trip leader.

—Delores Debnam

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

MENU

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Word Games 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Health & Wellness Support Walking Club 10:30 a.m.

Group 10-11 a.m.

Caregiver Support Group 1:30 p.m.

1st & 3rd Tues., JASA main office Karaoke by Steven 1p.m., rm. 45 Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Blood Pressure Every 1st & 3rd Wed., 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Games 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m. -11 am Line Dancing 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Card Games 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Dominos 2:30 p.m.

NORC Computer Class Bartow main office, 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Smartphone Class: Beginner – 12:30 p.m.

– 1:30 p.m.; Inter. 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.; Bartow main office

Library 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Word Games 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Fri., Jan. 24

Tues., Jan. 21

JASA Closed in Observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Wed., Jan. 22

JASA Closed in Observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Thu., Jan. 23

Mon., Jan. 20

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Dominos 10 a.m., rm. 45 Spelling Bee 10 a.m.

Body in motion w/Ola 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m.

Zumba 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., rm. 4

Kosher

Non-Kosher

JASA Closed in Observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

JASA closed in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

JASA closed in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Alert & Alive 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Cultural Dance 10:30-11:30 a.m., rm. 2 Computer Class 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Mind Teasers 12-1p.m., rm. 4 Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud A Matinee Tuesday 1 p.m.

Social Worker Royvi 1-4 p.m.

Juice Beef Bolognese (pasta w/meat sauce) Caesar salad Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Veggie burger

Chicken w/black bean sauce White rice Steamed kale

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Sewing 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Tai Chi 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., rm. 10 Art Class 1-3 p.m.

Yoga 2 p.m. - 3 p.m., rm. 2

Juice Baked turkey breast Mashed sweet potatoes Sautéed string beans Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: baked breaded fish

Beef stew Baked red potato Broccoli w/toasted garlic

Juice Poached salmon Wild rice Prince Edward blend vegetables Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: chicken wraps

Hawaiian chicken legs Yellow rice Sautéed string beans

Juice, Apricot glazed chicken, Sweet noodle kugel, California blend vegetables, Whole wheat bread, Fresh fruit Alt: Gefilte fish

Baked whiting fish fillets Pasta Okra w/tomatoes

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Blood Pressure 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

1st & 3rd, rm. 8 Line Dancing 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., Aud. A Piano Sing Along 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Drama Club 1:30 - 4 p.m Dominos 10 a.m., rm. 45 Men’s Line Dancing 9 -10 a.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-noon 10 a.m., rm. 45 Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Word Games 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Art Bingo 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

9:30-10; 11 a.m. - noon Women’s Line Dancing 10-11:30 a.m. Pokeno 2-4 p.m., rm. 35 Meditative Moments 11 a.m. - noon, rm. 8 Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Fri., 10 Chat Session 10 a.m.

Pokeno 3rd Fri., 1- 2:30 p.m.

11:30 a.m., rm. 45 Piano Sing-along 11 a.m.-noon Bingo rm. 7, 1 -3 p.m.

Free Oil Painting Classes rm. 38, Yoga w/Peggy 11 a.m. - noon, rm. 2 Card Games 2-4 p.m.

10 – 11:30 a.m.

Dominos 10 a.m., rm. 45 Grandparent Connection Meeting 1st Thurs., rm. 40, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise 11 a.m., rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m.

Word Search 11 a.m. - noon Karaoke by Steven 1 p.m., rm. 45

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 (Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Payments for trips can be made at all three centers. Trip registration policy: there will be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation– JASA will not accept checks under $5. All trips must be paid in advance. Drivers will no longer accept money for trips on the bus!

FREE LiveOn NY - SCRIE/SNAP (food stamps) Assistance – Fri., Jan. 24; Feb. 7 & 21; 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. No appointments! Walk-ins! First come! First served!

Please make copies of your documents before coming to the office.

Free Paint & Sip – Thurs., Jan. 23 & 30; JASA main office, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Space is limited, only 12 participants. Join us for this painting class, have fun while you paint on canvas. No experience necessary. Juice will be served. To register, call 718-3202066.

St. Mary’s Pool – $3, Mon., Jan. 27; Fri., Feb. 7 & 21. Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m. to noon. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 9 a.m.

IKEA/Christmas Tree Store/Bed Bath and Beyond – Thurs., Jan. 23; $15. Pick-ups: Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m.

Shoprite New Rochelle – Mon., Jan. 27; $4. Bartow – 9:30; Einstein – 9:45; Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Common Food Pantry will return on Tues., Jan. 28, Bartow Senior Center, room 31, 9 a.m.

Walmart – Thurs., Jan. 30; $15. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.;

Fee for lunch is $2.00; $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk *Menu subject to change without notice.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

Upcoming Events/Trips

Einstein, 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 9 a.m.

Empire Casino – Tues., Feb. 4; $5. Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser, 9:30 a.m.

Chronic Pain Management – 6-week sessions.

Learn how to manage chronic conditions. Tues., Feb. 4, 11, 18; Mar. 3, 10, 17, 31. 2049 Bartow Ave. Sr. Ctr., room 31. Participants will receive free lunch after each session. Attend all sessions and receive a special giveaway. Contact Julissa Reynoso to register, 718-320-2056 or 646-946-1252.

Aldi/Home Depot – Wed., Feb. 5; $3. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 10 a.m.

FREE Black History Month Art Exhibit – Wed., Feb. 5, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.,177 Dreiser Loop Sr. Ctr., room 7. Light refreshments served.

Central Ave – Thurs., Feb. 6-13. Christmas Tree store, Trader Joe’s and Amazing Savings. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 9 a.m. Shoprite next door to Amazing Savings.

Shoprite New Rochelle – Thurs., Feb. 6; $4. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Target/Throggsneck Mall – Mon., Feb. 10; $3. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Change of Date – IKEA/Christmas Tree Store/ Bed Bath and Beyond: Old date: Tues., Feb. 11.

New date: Tues., Feb. 18; $15. Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser, 9:30 a.m.

Walmart – Thurs., Feb. 13; $15. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 9 a.m.

Fairway/BJ’s – Fri., Feb. 14; $4. Bartow, 9:30

a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Co-op City NORC & Einstein Senior Center Presents “Soul Train” a Black History Month celebration featuring Ola & the Olettes – Wed., Feb. 19; $5. Einstein Sr. Ctr., rm. 45; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Menu: baked chicken, BBQ ribs, potato salad, corn on the cob, garden salad & rolls. Tickets sold at all three senior centers. Tickets will not be sold at the door!

Free Black History Month Art Exhibit – Fri., Feb. 21; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., room 38, 135 Einstein Loop Senior Center. Light refreshments served.

In honor of Black History Month, the movie “Loving” will be shown at the Dreiser Loop Senior Center, room 7, Fri., Feb. 21, 1 p.m. Call 718-3201345 to register. Light refreshments served.

FREE West Side Story – Wed., Mar. 4; 2 p.m. matinee. Pick-ups: Bartow, 11:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 11:45 a.m.; Einstein, noon. Depart: 5 p.m. 45 seats available.

FREE Ligreci’s Staaten Restaurant – Forest Avenue, Staten Island. Thurs., Mar. 12. See the show St. Patrick’s Fest. Lunch included with choice of corned beef & cabbage, chicken, salmon w/dill sauce, all served w/salad, dessert & coffee. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Dreiser Loop, 8:45 a.m.; Einstein Loop, 9 a.m. Depart destination: 3:45 p.m.

NEW Starting Feb. 2020; Weight Management Support Group will move from 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 49 to 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 4. The class is held on the 2nd Wed. of the month.

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Community Protestant Church

On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, N.Y. 10469; telephone, 718862-9172.

Regular Church Schedule: Sunday school, 9 a.m.

Worship service, 11 a.m.

Communion service every first and third Sundays Noon day prayer – Hour of Power – Wednesday at noon Prayer meeting and Bible study, Wednesday at 7 p.m.

The following program is at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North: Neighborhood Bible study, Thursday at 10 a.m.

Sunday school is now in session every week at 9 a.m.

Sunday school is really a part of our history, and because someone cared and was concerned

enough, many of us benefitted and know its value. In Sunday school, in a nurturing Christian education environment, an opportunity is provided for children to learn about the Bible, to grow in grace, to show love and respect for one another and to live more abundant lives. Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. (John 10:10) We encourage you to bring your child, children or grandchildren to Sunday School and we look forward to seeing you.

Worship service begins at 11 a.m. Everyone is invited to come and be a part of this special moment set aside each Sunday morning to be in the presence of God. We will be delighted to blend our spirits with yours as we bend both body and soul before our heavenly father. We encourage you to spend time with God, and if it be His will, with us at Community Protestant.

Other scheduled events On Wednesdays at noon, you are cordially invited to noon day prayer at CPC, an hour of power, prayer, praise and testimony.

Refreshments will be served. RSVP: 718862-9172.

Sunday, Feb. 9, at 3:30 p.m. Annual observance of Official Boards Day. All “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but are welcome. mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting The doors of Community Protestant down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself Church are open to all to worship and against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought fellowship with Christian believers of the into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience invited to come in, join in and receive is fulfilled”….2 Corinthians 10:4-6 your blessing.

Spiritual food for thought —Evan G. Mitchell This is a time when you can begin again by renewing yourself in divine order and eternal purpose. Make your way through the maze of life’s complexities to find the simplicity of life in Christ. It will take an undivided heart and single focus, but you can do it. It is a matter of priorities.

Senior Pastor and Presiding Elder Boyce Landrum, Pastor Carol Landrum and the Greater Love family invite you, friends and family to worship with us on Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. Children and adult Sunday school/Bible study is from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., after which a light continental breakfast is available to all. Greater Love Refuge Ministries is a multi-generational, teaching, preaching faith and Bible way church with an old-school flavor and a new-school feel. Come in and experience the abundant love poured out to our family, friends and guests. We are conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd., Building 2A on the ground level, Bronx, N.Y. 10475; main entrance.

Food pantry and intercessory prayer... ...will reopen Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10 a.m. to noon. We welcome donations of nonperishables and toiletries, cleaning supplies, etc. There is a great need in our community.

The next Seasoned Saints Ministry fellowship is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 29, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This month’s special guest speakers are Reverend Florine Watson from Friendly Baptist Church in the Bronx and Sergeant Milton Gregory from our own Co-op City Public Safety Department.

Both of our invited guests will present on the topic of elderly scams; the latest developments and how to protect yourself and assets. Lunch will be served; kindly RSVP by calling the church at 347-920-5607.

The purpose for the Seasoned Saints ministry is to meet the needs of men and women who are growing older in God’s family, ages 55 and over. It is designed to reach the psychological, social, spiritual, emotional and financial needs that are seen and unforeseen.

God’s plan is for us to utilize the collective strengths, seasonings, testimonies and experiences of our Seasoned Saints to guide our walk through life’s journey.

Save the date All are invited to join us for our second annual convocation, conference and luncheon Saturday, Feb. 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in room 38 of the Einstein Loop Community Center. The cost is $35 per adult and $15 for children under 12. RSVP by calling the church at 347-920-5607. Leave a message and we will return your call.

—Pastor Carol Landrum

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

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 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. for worship service. Sunday school for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study and pray with us.

The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774.

Visit us on the web at coopcitybaptistchurch.org.

You are invited to join us for a midweek spiritual pick-up at our worship service held Wednesdays at noon. Bible study is held Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Prayer service is held Fridays at noon.

Prayer service is also held Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us from the comfort of their home for an hour of prayer using a conference call line. On Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m., you can call 563-999-2090 and, when asked for the PIN, enter 660065 and you will be connected. Prayer service is not held on the first Friday of the month.

The scholarship ministry is going to Mount Rushmore, the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota on July 17. This trip includes motor coach transportation, 10 nights lodging, 18 meals, visits to the spectacular Badlands National Park and to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and much more. Partial payments are now being accepted. At the present time, all seats have been sold but a wait list is being formed. For additional information or to be placed on the wait list, please call 718-379-0541, 718-671-1271, 718-671-1918 or 917-612-1245.

Wishes for a blessed, healthy and happy 2020!

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

Scheduling Activities Calendar

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

General information: The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place, ground floor of Building 27B. It is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone: 718-3796920. 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’s finances.

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, Jan. 18,

at 5:48 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, Jan. 24, is 4:43 p.m.

Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates, in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 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 all members who will celebrate their birthday in January, including Saul Weber. For those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in January, please send me your name and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games After services and kiddush, some men and women play Rummikub.

Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated.

Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

—Bruce Gitelson

Open Door Ministries “God answers Prayer” Full sermon on the Open Door Ministries YouTube Channel

Matthew 6:5 “When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others.

Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

When you come to knowing God, the initiative lies on His side. If He does not show Himself, nothing you can do will enable you to find Him. And, in fact, He shows much more of Himself to some people than to others — not because He has favorites, but because it is impossible for Him to show Himself to a man whose whole mind and character are in the wrong condition. Just as sunlight, though it has no favorites, cannot be reflected in a dusty mirror as clearly as in a clean one.

“You can put this another way by saying that, while in other sciences the instruments you use are things external to yourself — things like microscopes and telescopes — the instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man’s self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred — like the Moon seen through a dirty telescope. That is why horrible nations have horrible religions; they have been looking at God through a dirty lens.”

–C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity 1 Chronicles 4:9 Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, I gave birth to him in pain. (Jabez sounds like the Hebrew for pain) 10 Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain. And God granted his request.

Jabez was respected, honored, known, distinguished more than his brothers.

He caused his mother pain, sorrow, grief, distress at birth so she named him, “Oh the pain.”

Jabez remembered God and prayed to Him a specific prayer.

Jabez prayed to God; “Bless me” – grant me divine favor; remember me.

Jabez prayed to God; “Enlarge my territory” – give me physical, material prosperity.

Jabez prayed to God; “Let Your Presence be with me” – God’s hand sustains, holds, carries.

Jabez prayed to God; “Keep me from harm” – protect me, save me, be my guardian.

Jabez prayed to God; “Let not my name determine my fate” – change the curse placed upon me at birth.

Sunday services are at 11 a.m. in Bartow Community Center, room 28.

Contact Open Door Ministries by text, 917-334-4407, or email, opendoorministries.net.

—Pastor Luis Ramos

No Co-op City Times?

Call 347-439-5632 on Saturday from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Newsong Church

Have you been thinking about getting closer to God this year, but you’re really not sure about this whole “church” thing? Listen, I get it, attending a church for the first time can be a little intimidating, so allow me to give you a tour of our Sunday worship experience.

As you walk through the Einstein community center, you will meet some of the happiest people on the planet! Our greeters exist to help and serve you. It’s not only their job to make you feel at home, it’s their pleasure. If you have children 6th grade and younger, they will show you where Kidsong is located, and our amazing children’s ministry team will assist you from there. I promise your child will not only learn about Jesus, they will have so much fun they will want to come back the following week!

As you walk into our sanctuary, you will notice Newsong Church is multigenerational and multi-cultural! Our usher team will then help find a seat for you and your family and answer any questions you may have. Get ready because everything starts on time at 11 a.m.

At 11 a.m., the music starts, and our worship leader will begin to lead the whole congregation in songs centered on Jesus and bringing glory to God! Don’t worry that you won’t know the words, because we have two giant screens that display the words for you!

After about three songs, one of our pastors will then lead us in a prayer and

announce important upcoming events.

It’s at this point they will ask you if you’re a first-time guest.

I suggest you raise your hand, because you get a really nice thank-you gift for stopping by.

Now it’s time for the word of God. At Newsong, we believe the Bible is the greatest book ever written, containing the greatest story ever told! We believe God’s word is powerful, we’re learning to trust in it, and live our lives by it! During the pastor’s sermon, Bible verses and main points will be displayed on the screens so you can take notes.

You can also download our app for free and have everything at your fingertips!

When the sermon has ended, we enter into a time of reflection, asking the Holy Spirit to help us live out what we’ve just learned. When reflection time is over, our pastor will lead us through a final prayer, and then dismisses us.

Now it’s time to go over to our connection area, where you can claim your gift as well as get more info about what’s going on during the week! You will also get a chance to meet a pastor who can help answer any other questions you may have. It’s our prayer that you leave feeling like you just had an encounter with God! So there you are!

I hope this tour puts your mind at ease, and we’ll see you tomorrow at 135 Einstein Loop!

—Pastor Mike Tolone

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Church of the New Vision

Pastors Kenneth Hodge and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us. Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s people. Serving the community for more than 45 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian love. All are welcome.

Order of Services Sunday worship service, 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Adult and youth Sunday school: 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Mid-day Bible study: Canceled until further notice Wednesday night prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Youth ministry, Fridays 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

All are welcome to join us for a Prayer Brunch on Saturday, Jan. 25, at 11 a.m. here at Church of the New Vision; doors open at 10:30 a.m. Donatio:n $10. Tickets are available. Please contact the church office for ticket purchase or to R.S.V.P. Join us on our pre-Mother’s Day trip to the Sight & Sound Theater,Thursday, May 7, to see the play “Queen Esther.” Motor coach transportation and lunch at the Shady Maple Restaurant is included. Adults rate, $170 adults/youth 12 and under, $125. Payments in full will guarantee an assigned seat. For additional information, contact B. Brown at 718-671-3748, or T. Gavin at 917-587-5057. Taxes and meal gratuities included.

All are invited to join us travelling to Niagara Falls, Canada, July 21 to 24.

Four days/three nights, Tuesday to Friday. Accommodations per person: Quad, $565/triple, $585/double, $645/single, $825 Includes: Round trip motor coach transportation, three full breakfasts and three full dinners, two professional guided tours, Chocolate Factory visit, Hornblower Cruise at the Falls, all taxes and meal gratuities included, and much, much more. For additional information, contact Brenda Brown at 718-671-3748 or Terry Gavin at 917-587-5057. There is a $50 deposit non-refundable deposit due now and a payment plan available.

Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

Office: 718-671-8746 or 203-374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Visit our Facebook page, Church of the New Vision, concerning upcoming events and trips, email us at info.churchnewvisionbx@gmail.com or call the church office.

—Sis. Carol Haque

Faith in God Church and Bible Institute

Evangelist Vernon Little greets everyone in the name of Jesus, that name which is above every name. We want you to know that you are welcome in this house of the Lord. It is His house by ownership, it is our house by stewardship and it can be your house by membership. So come on in and join with us. May God bless you in this house!

The Holy Spirit provides what we need to follow Jesus in obedience. In the big and little things, the Spirit motivates us to confidently by faith do what will honor God and reveal our love for Him and others.

Let’s look at scripture to support this. John 14:15-21 says: 15 “If you love me, keep my commands.

16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

18 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

19 Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.

20 On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.

21 Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”

Invitation Sweet Hour of Prayer is today at 3 p.m. Sunday school is tomorrow at 10 a.m.

Our Sunday morning worship service is at 11 a.m. We have clothing items available donated to the church. If interested in picking some up, stop by the church in the 11 o’clock hour on Sunday. Every third Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion.

Vernon Little’s new EP is titled “Double Minded.” It’s a fusion of gospel, R&B, and rap. He also has videos on YouTube. His music encourages, inspires and informs.

We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone is 347-276-4925.

Jesus loves you, and so do we! Happy New Year.

—Vernon Little

DID YOU KNOW... There is a Lost and Found located in the Bartow Community Center Public Safety office. Please check there if you have recently lost keys, glasses, or other items.

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Co-op City Pentecostal Taberna- whom He created and redeemed. It was cle invites everyone to worship service for this purpose Jesus Christ died on the at 100 Co-op City Blvd, Building 22A, cross.

When God created mankind, He Tel. 718-324-0334 or 718-320-4218.

Sunday school for all age groups begins enjoyed close connection with Adam at 10:30 a.m. Sunday worship service and Eve. He enjoyed daily fellowship starts at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday morning with them, for when He arrived after prayer and fasting service will be held their sin they were not surprised by his at 11 a.m. Bible study and prayer meeting presence, just ashamed for their nakedwill also be held Wednesday evening ness. It was evidently common for them 7:30 p.m. Friday evening youth service to enjoy time with him daily. What a precious thing it must have been to have starts at 7:30 p.m. ongoing, regular, intimate fellowship Focus God created mankind with the free- with Him! It still is.

Some people are more decisive than dom of choice. His will is that we choose others and seem not to have a problem Him with a heart of love. making up their minds regarding natural Joshua 24: 14-16 14 Now therefore fear the Lord, and choices both big and small. Other serve him in sincerity and in truth: and choose between their options, whether put away the gods which your fathers the decision is as significant as which served on the other side of the flood, and job offer to take or as mundane as in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. “paper or plastic.”

15 And if it seemed evil unto you to Choices have consequences. We have serve the Lord, choose you this day observed this pattern throughout our lives. whom ye will serve; whether the gods In matters great and small, this principle which your fathers served that was on holds true, and it is no less true, regarding the other side of the flood, or the gods one’s spiritual standing before God. Life and death hang in the balance of of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell; but as for me and my house, we will the choice to repent and to obey the gospel. Our decision either to live for serve the Lord.

16 And the people answered and said, God or reject his appeal leads us ultiGod forbid that we should forsake the mately either to Heaven or to Hell. It is Lord, to serve other gods. this knowledge and understanding that God desires a relationship should cause us to approach every deciwith mankind sion about our spiritual life soberly and One of the wonderful revelations of in the fear of God. Deuteronomy 30:19 scripture is that God longs for a relation- I call heaven and earth to record this day ship with mankind. He does not need us, against you, I have set before you life but he desires us, He loves us. He wants and death, therefore choose life.

—Rev. R. Sibblies communion and intimacy with those

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020

Public Safety

child will not share their password with you. Encourage your child to be safety savvy and honest with you if they have any problems.

Parents need to be aware of these dangers and discuss the dangers and how to avoid them with their children. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children may be reached at 1-800-873-5678; missingkids.com has set up the website netsmartz.org with information for kids and parents alike. Cartoon characters navigate even the youngest kids through internet dangers. It is never too early to start discussing the risks and results of stranger danger in various formats with your children.

It is important to monitor your child’s use of the internet at all times. Be sure your child is aware of the dangers of social networking sites and explain the need for parental involvement in setting up restrictions for access. View the safety tips on the website itself and report inappropriate behavior directly to the website. Restrict your child’s access on social networking sites to people your child knows personally. Parents can block questionable individuals from contacting their children by viewing their child’s profile. Children should be discouraged from posting personal information and contacting people that they meet online without parental approval.

Children and adults need to be careful not to send any information out that can be found to be offensive or taken out of context. Inappropriate communication can result in disciplinary action at school or criminal charges such as harassment, aggravated harassment or stalking.

Monitor your children’s internet activity. Placing the computer your child uses in a family room will make it easier to monitor their online activity. Be aware if your child suddenly shuts the computer off or reduces the screen when you enter the room. Set your telephone up to block restricted numbers. Monitor the numbers called by your child’s cellphone. Be alert to any unexpected packages that could be gifts sent by a potential sexual predator.

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

In New York State, the expanded “Move Over” law has been in effect since Jan. 1, 2012. This law makes it a violation to fail to move over a lane when approaching a service vehicle such as a tow truck or a stopped emergency vehicle with or without its warning lights on. This violation carries a fine of up to $150 and up to two points on your license. The purpose of this law is to protect emergency responders and other service vehicles. Please do your part and move over to help save lives.

I would like to extend a very special thank you to everyone who donated toys to our toy drive. This drive has been very successful every year thanks to the generosity of Co-op City residents. Toys were distributed to two area shelters where no child left without receiving a toy. Thank you again for helping this worthwhile cause.

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

Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State. Be sure to move over for any emergency or service vehicles on the side of the road with their lights flashing.

The holiday season is a good time to think about those with disabilities, especially those disabilities which are not visible. The holidays can be a difficult time for persons suffering from physical or mental illness. Those who suffer from depression or those who have had a difficult year may feel like life is perfect for everyone else. The end of the holiday season is as an excellent opportunity to reach out to friends, family and neighbors who may need someone to speak to. If you feel as though you need someone to speak to, there is always someone willing to help; 775-784-8090 or 1-800-273-8255 are crisis support hotlines that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You can even text “ANSWER” to 839863 if texting is how you prefer to communicate. Just speaking to someone can help you put problems into perspective and obtain assistance you may need.

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

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained.

The entire Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to wish you a happy, healthy and safe New Year 2020.

(Continued from page 7)

If You See Something, Say Something!

Working Together To Keep Co-op City Safe!

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

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

• Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked.

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

• Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD.

Emergency: 718-651-3050 or 9-1-1 • Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc

Opportunities

(Continued from page 7)

RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

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

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

27

Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020 APPLIANCE REPAIR

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COMPUTER CONSULTANT, SALES & REPAIR Repair – Upgrade – Data Recovery – Virus Removal – Laptop Overheats – Cracked Screen – Broken Power Jack – Transfer your cassette tape music to CDs. Call James 646-281-4475, 718-324-4332.

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2/22

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Please see page 7 for opportunities within Riverbay Corporation.

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REUPHOLSTERING 718.881.7691

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Co-op City Times / January 18, 2020