Co-op City Times 01/20/18

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© Copyright 2018 Co-op City Times

Co-op City’s Official Newspaper Serving The World’s Largest Cooperative Community. Vol. 53 No. 3

Saturday, January 20, 2018

Board Approves New Community Complaint Fine The Riverbay Board of Directors voted 7 to 4 at Wednesday night’s meeting to impose a new fine of $350 for a community complaint involving public urination. The resolution states that New York code rules authorize that fines may be imposed for unusual administrative costs by repeated negligence or willful acts of cooperators and can be charged as additional rent. “The Board hereby adopts a $350.00 administrative charge to be imposed for public urination on Co-op City’s grounds and/or inside Co-op City buildings, except in a designated restroom,” the resolution states. Resolution #17-76 was submitted by Board Director Junius Williams and seconded by Directors Jerome Rice and Kevin Lambright. Board members voting in favor of the resolution were Williams, Rice, Lambright, Sonia Feliciano, Leslie Peterson, Leah Richardson and Rod Saunders. Board members who voted against the resolution were Board President Linda Berk, and Directors Daryl Johnson, Francine Reva Jones and Andrea Leslie. Abstaining on the vote were Directors Bernard Cylich and Claudia Sampson. Directors Deborah Jenkins and Evelyn Turner were absent. The new fee will go into effect after approval by the Commissioner of the state Housing and Community Renewal department and 30 days notice to cooperators in the Co-op City Times. (see Board resolutions on page 18).

Co-op City’s Crime Rate Dropped Notably In The Last Decade

Recently released crime statistics from the Co-op City Department of Public Safety reveals that crime has stayed low and stable when comparing this year to the last few years. But a closer look at the numbers over the past quarter century reveals that, according to Public Safety, crime has significantly decreased in most major categories over the past decade and before. For instance, in 2017, there were 27 reported assaults within the confines of Co-op City, compared to 47 reported assaults in 2007. (Continued on page 2) BY BILL STUTTIG

Free Coat Giveaway

25¢

45th Precinct To Add Patrol Car To Co-op City During Evenings And Overnights Captain Carlos Ghonz, commanding officer of the 45th Precinct, announced earlier this week that Co-op City is receiving an additional sector or patrol car for the evening and overnight shifts to help stem a rash of robberies and car break-ins over the last few weeks. The captain made the announcement at a Community Board 10 District Service Cabinet meeting on Tuesday and confirmed it to the Co-op City Times the following day. BY BILL STUTTIG

The most troubling recent incidents over the last few weeks involved robberies, which mean the theft of personal belongings through threat or use of force. The captain said that the recent robberies have been occurring in the late afternoon to early evening and involve suspects believed to be teenagers forcibly removing iPhones from other teenagers after threatening them with physical force and/or at knifepoint. The captain said that in some cases the removal or theft of currency has also happened. Victims have ranged in age from teenagers to young adults. Captain Ghonz advised residents to try to not walk alone and if they do, stay away from secluded places and to, most of all, avoid distractions such as headphones or using your phone while walking to (Continued on page 4)

Altice Responds To Complaints About The Loss Of STARZ Channels

The Riverbay Fund sponsored a free coat giveaway yesterday in Dreiser Auditorium C, courtesy of New York Cares which donated approximately 600 coats for distribution to the community. For two hours, anyone who needed a coat was able to stop in and go through the selection, which ranged from babies, women’s and men’s coats, to help keep them warm. Riverbay’s director of Community Relations, Michelle Sajous, would like to thank Ray Fraticelli from CSO who spearheaded this effort and made sure the coats, as well as light weight jackets, were picked up and delivered to Co-op City. Photo by Leandra Alexander-Peters

Many Co-op City residents who subscribe to the premium packages of Altice USA (formerly Cablevision) have been growing increasingly frustrated by the loss of the STARZ premium movie channels from the programming provided by Altice. The removal of the STARZ programming is due to an ongoing contract dispute between STARZ and Altice. Altice’s Director of Communications, Lindsey Angioletti, explained earlier this week: “We are focused on providing the best content experience for our customers and continually evaluate which channels meet their needs and preferences relative to the cost of the programming imposed by content owners. Given that STARZ is available to all consumers directly through STARZ’ own over-the-top streaming service, we don’t believe it makes sense to charge all of our customers for STARZ programming, particularly when their viewership is declining, and the majority of our customers don’t watch STARZ. We have offered and remain open to a deal with STARZ to offer the content to customers who want it, but they refuse.”


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Robberies, which means theft through force or the threat of force, totaled 10 this past year, down from the 14 recorded in 2016 and up from the seven reported in 2015. But compared to a decade ago, the number of robberies have dropped significantly with 28 reported in 2007 and 40 reported in 2009. In 1991, the year when Public Safety first started keeping crime statistics, 225 robberies were reported within the community compared to the 10 reported this year. There were no homicides in Co-op City in 2017 compared to two such tragedies in 2016, both committed in a home by a close relation of the victim. Those two

Crime stats

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murders are the only two committed in Co-op City over the past four years. The crime of homicide has stayed consistently low throughout the community’s history, as two are the most homicides ever recorded since those statistics were ever kept here beginning in 1993. Two homicides were committed in each of five different years – 1997, 1999, 2000, 2007, and 2016. No homicides were reported in twelve different years – 2017, 2015, 2014, 2012 2009, 2008, 2006, 2004, 2002, 2001, 1998, and 1996. Grand larceny auto, the crime of auto theft, occurred (Continued on page 4)


Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Co-op City Times 2 n d

Front Pa ge

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Extended Hours Continue For Rent Bookkeeping Window

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

African-American Annual Film Festival The African American Association of Co-op City will present the 21st Annual Black History Month Film Festival on Saturday, February 3, starting at 12 p.m. The program will be held in room 31 of the Bartow Community Center and admission is free. Please save the date and plan on attending. The films to be shown will be announced as soon as they have been finalized.

JASA Bereavement Group On Mondays The JASA bereavement support group, facilitated by Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr., which meets in room 13 of the Dreiser Center, are held every Monday at 12:45 p.m. You may contact Dr. Smith at (917) 734-4058.

Need SCRIE/SNAP Assistance? (FREE) LiveOn NY will be in Co-op City on Friday, January 26, as well as on February 9 and 23rd for those who need SCRIE/SNAP (Food Stamps) Assistance. No appointments are necessary, but service is on a first come basis. Come to the JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475. You must make copies of your documents prior to coming to your appointment and bring them with you. Need further guidance, please contact JASA at (718) 320-2066.

Black History Month Celebration Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto announces that his Black History Month celebration will be held on Thursday, February 15 in the Dreiser Auditorium. Assemblyman Jeff Aubrey of Queens will serve as the guest speaker and three Co-op City residents will receive achievement awards. The evening’s festivities will include a buffet dinner, entertainment and dancing. In the coming weeks, there will be an announcement outlining the process to obtain a ticket to this free, limited event, as well as the time it will start.

The Riverbay Finance Department’s Bookkeeping window will continue to offer extended business hours as a convenience to shareholders who must leave early to travel to their jobs outside the community and are therefore unable to avail themselves during normal business hours. The Bookkeeping window, which is located in the Riverbay administrative reception area in the Bartow Community Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue, will continue to open at 8 a.m., instead of 9 a.m., on the two busiest days of the month for the Finance Department—the 10th of the month which is the last day for shareholders to pay their maintenance charges without the $50 late fee, and the last business day of the month when maintenance charges must be paid before legal action commences and a $200 legal fee is assessed. Riverbay’s Director of Finance Peter Merola notes that the extended Bookkeeping window service, which was implemented several years ago, comes at no additional cost to Riverbay Corporation’s shareholders because the Bookkeeping employees agreed to change their work schedule to accommodate the extended hours on the two busiest days of the months. Primarily, shareholders pay their BY ROZAAN BOONE

monthly carrying charges by placing their payments in one of the three drop boxes located in each community center, but some also pay at the bookkeeping window. In addition, shareholders can also pay their carrying charges online at www.riverbaycorp.com or by going directly to the PayLease website, www. paylease.com. As of December, 2017, 3,363 shareholders had signed up for online payment of their carrying charges.

“As of last month, 3,363 shareholders had signed up for online payment of their carrying charges.”

Prior to the extended hours being implemented, shareholders waited in the reception area for the window to open at 9 a.m., usually resulting in a crowded waiting room, sometimes with the line stretching out into the corridor. However, with the implementation of extended bookkeeping hours, many more shareholders, including seniors and those who are disabled, have been taking advantage of the extended hours. The next Bookkeeping window extended hours will be available later this month on Wednesday, January 31, when the window will open at 8 a.m. so those who will be unavailable during normal

The MetroCard Bus will visit all three Co-op City locations next month to give customers the chance to sign up for or refill their Reduced-Fare MetroCard, purchase or add money to an existing Metrocard, and purchase E-Z Pass On the Go tags. On Thursday, February 1 and again on Thursday, February 15, the MetroCard bus will be at the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Blvd. (in front of the Bingo Hall and the eyecare center), from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; at Dreiser Loop (Park on Debs Place) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and at Einstein Loop (Elgar Place) from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. MTA New York City Transit advises its customers that there are two kinds of traveling MetroCard Service Centers: the MetroCard Bus and the MetroCard Van. Both vehicles make regularly scheduled stops in all five boroughs each month. The MetroCard Bus, which stops in Co-op City, travels around the city, stopping at senior citizen centers, shopping centers and along major bus routes. Customers can handle all of their MetroCard needs, whether it is applying for or refilling a Reduced-Fare MetroCard, buying or refilling a regular MetroCard or asking MetroCardrelated questions. Senior citizens and people with disabilities may apply for the Reduced-Fare MetroCard on the Bus. They will need photo ID and seniors must show proof of age (at least 65 years old). The MetroCard Van, like the Bus, travels around the city with helpful on-board staff ready to sell Unlimited and Pay-Per-Ride MetroCards, add money to regular and Reduced-Fare MetroCards and answer questions. Reduced-Fare MetroCard applications are available. EZ Pass On The Go tags are also available for purchase on both the Bus and the Van. The MetroCard Bus and Van do not operate on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Customers may also want to explore the EasyPay Reduced-Fare payment option. EasyPay lets customers link to their credit or debit card to their Reduced-Fare MetroCard so it refills automatically. For more MetroCard information, please visit the MTA’s website at www.mta.info and click on Fares and Tolls.

MetroCard Bus To Visit Co-op City Next Month

business hours and who prefer to leave their payments in the Bookkeeping office can first stop in and make their payment. In February, extended hours for the Bookkeeping window will also be in effect on Monday, February 12 and again on Wednesday, February 28. The Bookkeeping window will also be open for extended hours on Monday, March 12 and again on the last business day of the month, Friday, March 30. In April, extended Bookkeeping window hours will be Tuesday, April 10 and again on Monday, April 30, and for the month of May, on Thursday, May 10 and again on Thursday, May 31. In addition to shareholders paying their carrying charges at the bookkeeping window, or dropping them in the boxes in each of the three community centers, carrying charges can also be dropped off at the New York Community Bank branch located inside of Stop & Shop in the Bay Plaza shopping mall. Riverbay does not accept cash; all payments must be made by personal check, bank check or money order. Shareholders should also write their account number and/or building and apartment numbers on any payment to Riverbay and return it along with the stub portion of their bill to ensure proper processing.

Congratulations On Retirement!

Richard Flores (left), a Riverbay porter with the Buildings & Grounds Department, retired recently after 35 years of service to the corporation and Co-op City community. Mr. Flores was presented with a plaque for his many years of service by Riverbay’s Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer who thanked Mr. Flores for his service and wished him well in his retirement. Photo by Brandon Ortiz

Shareholders who use the PayLease system to pay their monthly carrying charges are not charged any fee if they link the payment to their bank checking account online. If the payment is made with a check by phone there is a fee of $9.95. The phone fee was not mentioned in an article in the Co-op City Times edition of Jan. 6, 2018.

Clarification:


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

45th Pct.

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either text, talk or retrieve information. The most important method of preventing these types of crimes from occurring is to always be aware of your surroundings and not to advertise the fact that you are carrying an expensive phone. The other problem that has increased in recent weeks, according to the captain, is car break-ins, usually involving the theft of personal belongings from a vehicle parked on the street. The crime usually occurs during the desolate overnight hours. Captain Ghonz advised Co-op City residents to remove all valuables from the car before they lock and leave their vehicles to prevent damage to their vehicles that these crimes can cause. In many, if not most, of these cases, the value of the items stolen is far less than the cost of repairing the damage caused by a criminal looking to quickly gain access to your vehicle, usually by smashing a window. The captain said that both these recent crime patterns are occurring in the vicinity of Asch Loop and surroundings areas. Co-op City shareholder and Riverbay’s director of Special Projects Joe Boiko, also a Community Board 10 member and 45th Precinct Community Council member, attended the Board 10 District Service Cabinet meeting at which the captain spoke and Mr. Boiko said that according to the captain, the car break-in

trend is not exclusive to Co-op City as the parking areas of Bay Plaza are having the same problem. Chief Frank Apollo said some if not most of the reported car-break-ins are occurring off site including the vicinity around Peartree Avenue just north of Co-op City. The Chief said, “We have patrol strategies in place and are aware of what is going on around us.” He added that his department regularly educates the community about the best strategy for avoiding having your vehicle broken into, specifically, remove all valuables – even loose change – from the vehicle. Captain Ghonz said the new sector car may not be in Co-op City on all nights depending on what other emergencies are going on in the precinct area, but on most nights and overnights, he hopes to have the extra sector car in Co-op City. The captain also added that he would like Co-op City residents to be aware of their personal belongings – particularly purses and handbags – while shopping in Bay Plaza stores and at the Mall at Bay Plaza. He said that there has been an increase in complaints of larceny committed against shoppers in the huge shopping center, usually due to shoppers being distracted while leaving their handbags open, making it easy for a thief to quickly grab a wallet or other items and then disappear before the victim even realizes their items have been lifted.

Crime Stats

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five times here in 2017, an increase over just two reported the year before but a significant reduction from the 26 reported in 2009. More than 25 years ago, the crime was a much bigger problem here as 63 car thefts were reported in 1993 and 49 such crimes reported in 1994. Larceny from auto, the crime of stealing belongings from an auto, went down appreciably in 2017 over the previous year with 38 such crimes reported in 2017 comparted to 49 in 2016. Those numbers are down significantly from the 106 reported in 2003. Burglaries in homes increased over the previous year with five reported in 2017 compared to just two in 2016. But those numbers are significantly down from 10 years ago, when 22 burglaries from homes were reported in 2007. Chief Frank Apollo attributed the increase of home break-ins this year to a number of similar incidents that occurred earlier in the year in Section 2 and were stopped after Public Safety stepped up patrols in and around the building affected. Three burglaries from businesses within Co-op City were reported in 2017 compared to just two in 2016. Ten years ago, in 2007, nine commercial burglaries were reported. Troubling incidents of reports of shots being fired are also down significantly over 15 years ago and earlier. In 2017, the hearing of shots being fired were reported eight times to Public Safety, matching the same amount of instances in 2016. Those numbers from the last two years represent an all-time low for the community since the statistic was first kept. In 2003, there were 145 reports of shots fired and 118 such reports the following year, 2004. In a sign that Co-op City is not immune from a larger serious problem sweeping the nation, reports of narcotics use and sales increased to 667 in 2017, compared to 651 the previous year. In fact over the last ten years, those numbers have increased dramatically. In 2008, there were 107 narcotics complaints and two

years after that, the number increased more than three times to 323 such reports and the numbers have increased nearly every year since then to this year’s alltime high for the community. Chief Apollo said that the 667 reports of narcotic activities include all reports from residents of suspected drug use in the community and its buildings. The chief said that part of the rise in reports is due to the fact that the department has greatly increased their building inspections chasing a lot of drug activities out of stairwells and other public areas in the buildings back into the homes making the detection of marijuana use more prevalent by neighboring residents. Arrests for unlawful possession of marijuana increased to 24 in 2017 over 15 in 2016, a 60% increase. There were two arrests for criminal possession of controlled substances this past year as opposed to one in 2016. In addition to this, the Public Safety Detectives Unit, based on some of these reports, worked with NYPD to execute seven warrants in homes where drugs were suspected of being sold and kept. During one particular warrant execution on September 29th, large amounts of heroin and cocaine were found and confiscated and $61,000 in cash was found, vouchered and removed from the home. A female resident found in the home at the time of the raid was arrested for possession of the large stash of illegal drugs. Reports of disorderly conduct have decreased significantly over the past ten years. Seven hundred and thirty-two such cases were reported in 2017 compared to an all-time high for the community of 1,953 ten years ago in 2007. In all, Co-op City’s Public Safety officers and detectives affected 143 arrests last year, up slightly over the previous year, but down significantly from the 347 made in 1998 and the 317 made in 2003. According to the statistics provided, in total, Public Safety officers conducted 30,627 building inspections in 2017 and 1,870 garage inspections. Overall, the department responded to 84,861 calls for the entire year, the department reported.

Be On The Look-Out… Shareholders, you will soon be receiving the Annual Window Guard notice which was posted in your building lobby for informational purposes. The January mailing also includes the fire safety plan which has to be filled out following the directions included in the mailing, and returned to Riverbay management or phoned in, faxed or emailed as per directions included in your package. You will receive more information in the near future, however, for now, please familiarize yourself with the notice by reading the poster in your building lobby. Thank you for your cooperation.

Let us know… If you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, please give us a call at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375/6; email: cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com or fax (718) 320-2595.

History/50th Anniversary Committee Meeting

The History/50th Anniversary Committee’s next meeting will be on Tuesday, January 23rd, at 7:30 p.m. in room 26A in the Bartow Community Center. All members are urged to attend and participate. —Bernard Cylich, Chairperson

No Parking On M.S. 181 School Lot Violators will be towed at Owner’s Expense

For years, M.S. 181 allowed neighbors the overnight use of the school’s parking lot with the understanding that Monday through Friday, vehicles had to be moved before 6:30 a.m. Vehicles are not being moved as agreed. As a result, school staff is unable to find appropriate/legal parking in a timely manner which affects the students’ instructional day. Please be aware that as of Monday, January 22, 2018, the parking lot and loading dock area behind M.S. 181 Pablo Casals School, located at 800 Baychester Avenue, Bronx, NY are no longer available for public use. Cars parked on the school’s property will be towed at the owner’s expense. Please note that signs will be prominently posted and a gate will be installed with surveillance cameras. Any attempt to breach the gate will be reported to the NYPD. Thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter. —MS 181 Administration


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

IMCR Offers Free Mediation Services To Co-op City Residents The Institute for Mediation and Conflict Resolution (IMCR) offers its services free of charge to the residents of Co-op City every week day and also on Saturdays with day time and evening availability. IMCR established the first Community Dispute Resolution Center in New York City in 1975 to examine whether certain cases of a criminal nature could be more effectively handled and resolved by diverting them from the normal court litigation process to local panels of community volunteer mediators who include attorneys and professionals with experience in alternative dispute settings. “Even the best of neighbors may at times have disputes,” said Michael Munns, Senior Attorney, Riverbay Legal Department. “When you can’t resolve those problems yourself, IMCR offers free mediation service. In most cases, the IMCR mediator is able to guide the parties to a satisfactory solution, even though I should point out that the mediator has no authority to order any person to do anything that they do not want to do. Cooperators are, however, fortunate that IMCR Mediation Service is available free on-site every week for those who would like to utilize the service. It’s one of the best kept secrets of Co-op City.” IMCR facilitates resolution of minor criminal allegations and civil disputes which are typically referred by the police, the DA’s office, and other local agencies. Here at Riverbay, CSO personnel also refer cooperators to the center for resolution of neighbor-to-neighbor disputes, family peers and consumer disputes. IMCR also handles conflicts in several other areas, for instance, aggravated assault, aggravated harassment, animal complaint, assault, breach of contract, burglary, visitation, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, harassment, housing dispute, menacing, petit larceny, theft of services, and many others. In addition, the center offers sessions on truancy, falling behind in school, communicating with a substitute, distribution of household chores, running away, early sexual activity, inappropriate friends and curfew negotiations, as well as discussing parental fears. Titus Rich, Jr., Director of Mediation at IMCR, told the Co-op City Times: “Quite often when people have conflicts, they may not be comfortable talking to each other, but when they come to mediation, they will oftentimes open up and say things that if they did normally, they would probably end up in a fight about. In mediation when they are clear about their thoughts, they are able to express those thoughts and that gives the other party the opportunity to know what and how the other is thinking.” Rich explained there are no judges or lawyers at the mediation sessions, only the IMCR assigned mediator and the parties involved sitting down in a safe, neutral place which makes it a bit easier for them to open up and express their thoughts and feelings. This is especially important for children, he said, who, in the neutral setting of mediation, may feel comfortable enough to openly express to their parents, grandparents or any other person, what they do not feel they can say when they are home. Rich added that IMCR is currently involved with a lot of youth related disputes to help curb youth violence all across the Bronx. In addition to parties being referred to IMCR’s services, IMCR also reaches out to parties who may have been referred to the agency as possibly needing their conflict resolution services. According to Rich, IMCR has approximately 1,010 mediators on call on a consistent basis. They act as impartial “referees” during the mediation sessions, and all information and conversations are confidential. Resolution can result in no agreement, or verbal or written agreement, which both parties sign and agree to although the mediators cannot demand that an agreement is signed since this is a voluntary process. Whatever the outcome, IMCR reports the status of the session to Riverbay’s Legal Department although nothing discussed inside of the session is divulged. IMCR’s mission is to promote peaceful human relations by offering mediation and conflict resolution services and training in non-violent principles and skills which empower individuals to respond constructively to conflict. The coordinator assigned to Co-op City is Juan Garcia. He can be reached at (718) 585-1190 to arrange an appointment with a mediator. “We believe this is a very good tool that anybody can use to deal with everyday issues when conflict arises,” said Rich. “It is a way for people to resolve outstanding issues so they can go back to their normal lives.” BY ROZAAN BOONE

No Standing/Parking In Dumpster Pads Shareholders are reminded that there is no standing or parking in the dumpster pads. These areas are strictly for the use of Riverbay Corporation vehicles. All unauthorized vehicles will be towed at vehicle owners’ expense. Thank you for your cooperation.

Important Cooperators United Meeting January 23 At the next Cooperators United meeting to be held on Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. in room 31 of the Bartow Center, one of the growing, major issues of concern to the community – the large LED signs at the corner of Baychester and Bartow Avenue – will be discussed. Councilman Andy King or a representative, and members of Community Board #10 will be in attendance. Please make every effort to attend and express your concerns and opinions.

Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City Co-op City is private property and therefore prohibits distribution of unsolicited advertising material to shareholders’ homes and/or property, including cars parked in the development’s eight garages. If you witness anyone depositing or distributing advertising material on Co-op City’s property, please call Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Be prepared to give the location and description of the person(s) leaving the material. All unwanted, unsolicited advertising material should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground causing litter. Thank you for your cooperation.

Be respectful of your neighbors Please be aware that not all disabilities are visible, so be considerate and respectful of all members of the community.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN NOW ACCEPTING AETNA!!

Podiatrist — Foot Specialist

• Practicing in Co-op City since 1975 • Board Certified in Foot Surgery • ALL conditions of the foot treated • We

accept most health insurance plans

• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program • Evening and Saturday appointments

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

Building 8 • Ground Floor Section 1 • Co-op City • Bronx, NY 10475


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

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 or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. – •the– authenticity • – • – of•–the•authors. – • Anonymous – – • –Letters • – •cannot – •exceed – •–350•words. – • –Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Letters to the Editor Restore The Constitution

To the Editor: In response to a letter in last week's Co-op Times, the problems in our country are not due to one political party – Republican or Democrat. We need to restore the U.S. Constitution, which was written to protect our rights. Both political parties are attempting to reject limited government, which is what our political system is supposed to be. The powers that be are trying to obtain total control over our political and economic systems. The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is one powerful organization that wants to control our national destiny by attempting to submerge our nation in a one-world government. In a noteworthy speech, Hillary Clinton has bragged that she got her "marching orders" from the CFR.

Our economy is in serious trouble due to overspending by the federal government, coupled with many trillions of dollars in deficit spending. We need to drastically cut federal spending, and to begin paying off our national debt. To accomplish this, we need to trim the federal government back to its constitutionally limited functions. We simply can't afford more unconstitutional, deficit spending. Former President Obama moved us in the wrong direction by attempting to further socialize our nation. But the problem doesn't begin or end with Obama. It goes back much further than that. Nor has President Trump's election been a panacea for all our problems. Unfortunately, the left keeps trying to obfuscate many important issues by concentrating on Trump and his personality. —David Hammer

Expand New York State Voting Rights

Actions Are Louder Than Words To the Editor: I continually see the same people bad mouthing the president and providing no facts or solutions. A recent article said that the president favors the rich, but I know small businesses and middle class people now not being forced to buy health insurance they can’t afford and subjected to a $1,000 fine come tax time. I see less unemployment and a stronger stock market. I see a president going after welfare fraud. I don’t understand the thought of taking back our government... where did it go? Obama bailed out Wall Street as he did in saving the Iranian nuclear program with cash. The article fails to mention the demise of ISIS abroad now that our generals can control military actions without approval for every action they take from Washington. Now they say they figured out, of course, without evidence, that the new tax bill favors the rich before it happens. Sounds like the same old story, all talk, but no facts or solutions. Very easy to complain. We all have struggled and some more than others, but we must stop looking over our shoulders and do for ourselves. If your neighbor is rich, be happy and not jealous. If your president is rich and successful, who cares? In the least let’s thank all the politicians, Democrat & Republican & Independents, who have worked with our president to accomplish the past year’s better jobs report and stronger economy. I also think we should be thankful manufacturing is coming back due to changes big business will suffer when they manufacture abroad. Actions are louder than words and in the case of our president who I agree is not the smoothest of speech makers, but who cares? Actions are louder than words. —Nick Liberati

To the Editor: We’re #41! We’re #41! That’s a boast you never hear, except at New York State voting rights’ rallies. NYS ranks 41 in voter turnout. Yes, progressive NYS has the 9th worst voting record in the entire country. Only 56% of registered NYS voters cast their ballots on November 2016 and only 29% voted in the primary elections that year. Why is that? Restricted voting rights is the answer to that question, but what’s the answer to the low turnout problem? We need Early Voting. Thirty-seven other states already have it. It would make voting much easier for our seniors or our residents who have a long work-day. We need Automatic Voter Registration like they have in ten states and in D.C. Simplify the system by automatically enrolling new potential voters through the Motor Vehicle Department. Anyone can opt out if they wish. We need an easier Absentee Ballot system. Thirty other states already have a no-excuse-needed absentee ballot system. We need Flexibility to Change Parties. Forty-nine states have open primaries or allow changing party affiliation closer to Election Day. NY is dead last. The deadline to change parties is 6 months and 10 days before the election. Most people don’t even know who’s running that early in the process. The right to vote is fundamental to our democratic process. Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and State Senator Jamaal Bailey have supported many voter expansion issues in the past and will do so again in this session. They come visit us here in Co-op City all the time, let’s go visit them on January 23rd in Albany and thank them for their work on this vital issue. Visit LetNYVote.org. See you in Albany this Tuesday, January 23rd. —Mary Pearson

Board of Directors’ Meeting - January 17, 2018 First Reading - Resolution #18-02 SUBMITTED BY: Linda Berk and Andrea Leslie SECONDED BY: Sonia Feliciano BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, the Lobby Modernization Project will make the existing lobbies easier accessible and ADA compliant; 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, Riverbay solicited to General Contractors pertaining to the scope of work developed by the Architect of record (Architectural Preservation Studio (APS) for this project; and WHEREAS, Riverbay and APS, after performing its due diligence of both contractors who bid, recommends R. Acevedo Contracting, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder for contract #3114 (REBID), (Continued on page 18)

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 8 Building 8

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr. Expiration Date

Building 8 100 DeKruif Place

April 30, 2018

April 30, 2021

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

Bill Stuttig Associate Editor

Jim Roberts Business Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be 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. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp. Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corporation of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available. The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.

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


7

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Public Safety Report

CCPD Offers Tips On Calling 9-1-1 Or The Department Of Public Safety For Emergencies

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO The Co-op City Department of Public Safety urges all residents to make sure that all members of their household know when and how to call 9-1-1, (718) 671-3050 for Public Safety, or the proper number for other situations. Young children have been known to have made life saving calls to 9-1-1. It is also important to keep important, non-emergency numbers accessible, stored in or near your telephone. Calls to 91-1 for situations that are not emergencies can result in a delay for persons with life or death emergencies receiving the help they need. 9-1-1 was established in 1968 as a Universal Emergency Number. In most areas of the United States and Canada, 9-1-1 will put you in contact with the Police, Fire or Ambulance help that you require. When traveling, check local phone books to make certain 9-1-1 is the correct emergency number. In some areas of Canada, the number could be 9-9-9. Also check if the telephone you are calling from requires a prefix before dialing, for example, dialing the number 9 for an outside line from a hotel or office telephone. It may sound like a joke, but make sure you know the number to 9-1-1 for any location you may travel to. Calling 9-1-1 can be stressful and may seem overwhelming at first, but knowing what to expect can make the call go smoothly. Staying calm is most important. Know the location of the emergency and the number you are calling from. Provide the dispatcher with any pertinent information including descriptions or direction of flight of any criminals. For medical emergencies, be prepared with information regarding medications taken. Never hang up until directed to do so by the dispatcher. The dispatcher may pause to get the information out to the responding units. Also be prepared to take directions from the dispatcher; they may be able to provide you with life saving tips to use until help arrives. Visit the website www.firstaid.about.com for useful information about when and how to call 9-1-1. Very young children can be taught when and how to call 9-1-1. There are recorded instances of children as young as two years old effectively calling 91-1 and receiving life saving help. It is essential that children are aware of what type of emergency requires calling 9-1-1. Calling 9-1-1 because you cannot find your favorite toy is not appropriate. Visit the website www.kidshealth.org for activities for children to familiarize them with when and how to call 9-1-1. When in Co-op City also call the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 in addition to 9-1-1 for all emergencies. In Co-op City, call (718) 3203300 for the main Riverbay switchboard during regular business hours; every Riverbay Department can be accessed by this number. In New York City, call 3-1-1 for any non-emergency issues; all New York City agencies can be accessed from this number. From telephones outside the City of New York, 3-11 service can be accessed by dialing (212) 639-9675. It is important to save the use of emergency numbers for true emergencies. 3-1-1 and the www.nyc.gov website are available for matters that are important, but not emergencies. Although this year’s snow has not been as bad as the previous years’ the weather has taken its toll on the roadways. This year, a large amount of salt was applied to area roadways due to several snowstorms combined with low temperatures. Fortunately, Co-op City has had some of its most problematic streets

repaved over the past year. Additional good news is New York City is taking a proactive stance toward potholes. New York City residents can report potholes to 3-1-1 or send photographs to the website. The 3-1-1 website is www.nyc.gov. Be alert to potholes when operating a motor vehicle. Hitting a pothole can wreak havoc on the tires, rims and suspension of your vehicle. Remember if

you plan to consume alcoholic beverages be sure not to operate a motor vehicle, designate a driver who will not drink or call a taxi. Also be sure to buckle your seatbelt, obey speed limits and avoid distractions when driving. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at (Continued on page 26)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbay corp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note that emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see bottom of the employment listings for specific directions.

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES

There are no contract opportunities to list this week. Please check back again next week.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

(Continued on page 26)


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Director’s Viewpoint

King Day – A Day of Engagement

ference (SCLC). He helped organize the 1963 nonviolent protests in Birmingham, Alabama. King also Francine Reva Jones helped to organize the 1963 March on Washington. On October 14, 1964, King received the Nobel Assistant Secretary Peace Prize for combating racial inequality through nonviolent resistance. In 1965, he helped to organize the Selma to Montgomery marches, and the followMeeting with Lt. Governor Hochul Most Board directors were in attendance to meet ing year he and SCLC took the movement north to with the Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul who came to Chicago to work on segregated housing. In the final discuss Governor Andrew Cuomo’s State of the State years of his life, King expanded his focus to include Address with Co-op City residents. Before the meet- opposition to poverty and the Vietnam War, with a ing took place, the Board president, Management 1967 speech titled "Beyond Vietnam.” In 1968, King was planning a national occupation and attorneys took the opportunity to bring the following Co-op City issues to her attention for the gov- of Washington, D.C., to be called the Poor People's Campaign, when he was assassinated on April 4th in ernor to address: 1. To amend the Mitchell-Lama Rules to allow Memphis, Tennessee. He was only 39 year old. Also senior shareholders to downsize to smaller apart- in 1968, Congressman John Conyers submitted a bill to recognize Dr. King’s birthday as a national holiday. ments without paying additional equity; 2. To raise Co-op City’s financial threshold of It was 15 years later that Congressman Conyers’ bill HCR requiring approval of a contract from the pres- garnered enough votes to pass. Service is what Dr. King was all about, making ent amount of $100,000.00. Senator Jamaal Bailey interjected that this issue is already being discussed America live up to its promise of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” in the State Senate’s Housing Committee; Two extraordinary women were honored for King 3. To request that the Public Service Commission (PSC) changes the date for the stand-by requirement Day last Saturday at Queens College. They were Ms. for the Riverbay Power Plant. Riverbay needs ten Hazel Dukes, president of the NAACP New York days to perform maintenance in September in order State Conference, and Letitia James, NYC Public Advocate. Both received plaques for their many to provide heat on October 1st; 4. To request that the PSC extend to the commu- years of service and responded with appreciative nity at least 10 megawatts of power for use of solar acceptance speeches. Also at this King Day Program was “Sweet Honey panels to generate additional power for the commuin the Rock,” a performance ensemble that educates, nity; and 5. To restore the MTA bus service that Co-op City entertains and empowers its audience and community had prior to the cutbacks in 2010, as well as bus serv- through dynamic vehicles of acapella singing and American Sign Language interpretation for the deaf ice to Wall Street. Lt. Governor Hochul has promised to respond to and hearing impaired. Other events were meetings, rallies, marches, volunteers to serve food to the deprived, our requests. etc. I trust that your King Day was meaningful. A Day of Engagement U.S. President’s Comments Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King (1/15/29– It was shocking that #45 used such vulgar lan4/4/68) has left a legacy that everyone can respect. Dr. King was a Baptist minister and activist who dedi- guage as “Sh*tholes” when referring to poor councated his life to the Civil Rights Movement and bring- tries. Yes, the countries of Haiti, El Salvatore and ing about equality for poor people. He is best known countries in Africa need help, or, I should say “jusfor his nonviolent civil disobedience tactics based on tice.” Former U.S. President Obama made a noble his Christian beliefs. Among his many contributions, decision to reestablish relations with Cuba. It is very King led the 1955 Montgomery bus boycott and difficult for smaller countries to survive and prosper helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Con- when there is interference into their political and eco-

Retirees Of Dreiser Loop

Travel Events: (price includes Coach Bus; located at Dreiser Loop, in front of H&R Block) • March 13, 2018 (Tues.) “SANDS CASINO RESORT.” Price: $40. Payment Due Date: Mon., Feb. 5. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. • May 11th (Fri.) “HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE THEATRE,” NJ. Showtime: 11:00 a.m. Price: $75. Deposit: $40. Balance: $35, due Mon., April 19. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. • July 10-12th, (Tues.-Thurs.) “DOVER DOWNS HOTEL & CASINO.” Price: Double $400/Single $490. Deposit required, $100. Two payments each, $150. Double/$195. FINAL payment: May 21. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. Theatre Committee: (price includes van transportation, from Dreiser Loop opposite Rehab Center) • May 16th. (Wed.). Price: $75. SISTER ACT at Westchester Broadway Theatre. Deposit $35 ASAP. $40. Balance due by April 12. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718671-4949. Remember – Your deposit, along with your name and telephone number, is required to reserve your trip &/or theatre seat. A check or money order only payable to RETIREES OF DREISER LOOP will be accepted. Committee members will be available in the Dreiser clubroom 19 (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 3:00-5:00 p.m. Good And Welfare: We regret to inform you that we have lost one of our lifetime members, Eugene Hunter, who recently passed away, and Ms. Evelyn Mavins lost her beloved sister in Maryland. We send our deepest condolences to both families. Those of you still under the weather, know that you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. Our next JAZZ UP YOUR HEALTH WITH A SENIOR SPA DAY, will be Wednesday, January 31, (correction - not Jan. 17). Call Claudette D, 718-379-4784 or Hattie L, 718-671-8449 if interested in joining us on our upcoming SENIOR SPA DAY. “Keep the smile, Leave the tear, Hold the laugh, Leave the pain, Think of joy, Forget the fear, Be joyous, coz It’s a new month! Happy new month!” Author unknown —Claudette Davis

nomic policies. This has destabilized the governments of some small countries and relegates them to abject poverty. For example, Haiti was a colony of France. Haiti fought for and won its independence. Thereafter, in 1825, in exchange for French recognition of Haiti as a sovereign republic, France demanded from Haiti what today is equivalent of $21 billion. It took until 1947 for Haiti to finally pay off all the associated interest of the debt. In my opinion, this was exploitation and greed. It was wrong for Haiti to have been a colony of France in the first place. Sometimes smaller countries are at the mercy of larger, stronger countries, which have no respect for humanity. Why is #45 willing to accept Norway, but not Haiti, El Salvatore and nations of Africa? Does his position amount to “racism?” Constitution Day The NAACP Co-op City Branch has designated January 28th as Constitution Day. The invited elected officials are NYC Councilman Andy King and NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey. All are welcome to attend at 3:00 p.m. in the Einstein Community Center. Black Film Festival Save the date and plan to attend the 21st Annual Black History Month Film Festival of the AfricanAmerican Association on Saturday, February 3rd beginning at 12 p.m. in the Bartow Community Center, room 31. Admission is free. Condolences My sympathies are extended to Linda Berk and her family on the passing of her aunt, Louise Floyd, 4/28/23-1/5/18. Also, to the family of Erica Garner (5/29/9012/30/17). She was the daughter of Eric Garner who was killed in 2014 from a chokehold by an NYPD officer on Staten Island. Erica died from a heart attack. She was only 27 years old. Following her father’s death, she became an activist with the National Action Network and Black Lives Matter. She leaves two young children and will be missed. Contact Make a commitment to attend your building association meetings. Should you wish to share your thoughts, you may write to me at: Riverbay Board of Directors, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or email: fjones@riverbayboard.com.


9

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Home for the Holidays! Isham Jaysura (r) visiting from San Diego, Ca. with dad Norman Jaysura (l). Isham, a Co-op City offspring, now makes his home in California following an honorable discharge from the USMC. "We are all so proud of him," said grandmother Lauretta Jaysura.

Building 21 Association

Big Happenings at Building 21 See the rest of this article for all the information!!! If you are not part of the solution, then you cannot complain. Solutions come only by making change. Thanks to all who attended our Annual Egg Nog & Apple Cider Toast to the New Year!!! We awarded prizes during the “gametimeâ€? part of the agenda. Our grand prize winner of the Guess the Christmas Theme was none other than Kevin Lambright who correctly guessed “Reindeerâ€? as the 2017 decorating theme. We snacked on cookies, sipped on Hot Apple Cider, Sparkling Apple Cider and Egg Nog while gathered in our Circle of Life and Grateful Thanksgiving. Ms. Adel Murray, the Elder of the group, said a prayer for the building and the Co-op City community. We then went around the circle and each attendee offered to share what they are thankful for. After that, we clinked our plastic cups in a toast to 2018 with a wish for all good things to come. We look forward to seeing you at the next scheduled events. Kevin Lambright with his prize Thursday, January 25 – Altice/Optimum Cable Starting at 7 p.m. in the Gathering Room, Optimum representatives will inform us of new incentives for our community and answer your questions regarding Altice as our new cable provider. All shareholders are welcomed. Friday, January 26th – The Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City Meeting If you reside in (i.e., Building 20 - Asch Loop, Building 21 - Bellamy Loop, Building 22 - CO-OP City Boulevard, Buildings 23, 24, 25 - Benchley Place, The Adler Place Townhouses and The Broun Place Townhouses, you are a member of the partnership and you presence is welcomed and needed to make our upcoming events a success. Meeting starts promptly at 7 p.m. in “The Gathering Roomâ€? in the rear of Building 21B (120 Bellamy Loop). The 21 Association Rewards Point Program is in full swing‌ The rewards are for all 21 Association members, BUT NOT 21 ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS. Note: A member is a shareholder who has paid their annual $5 dues to the building association. Any shareholder of CO-OP City is eligible to be a paid member of the Building 21 Association. Floor Captains are an ABSOLUTE NECESSITY IN EVERY BUILDING 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 We are dedicated to the self-development and empowerment of every shareholder in CO-OP City. We are passionate about our community. Don’t you share this positive energy and passion? Come join us at Building 21 anytime. See you around the neighborhood! —Michelle Marbury

MY CAT’S FIRST BATH

I came up to my pussy cat He looked so bright and gay He looked at me with afterthought And tried to run away

I carried him into the bathroom The tub was filled to the brim He took one look at what was next Things started to look quite dim I started to put him in the tub The water was just right But now I was starting to realize He wasn't going in without a fight

He hit the water with a plop He hissed and snarled and leaped right out He barely missed me with claws and teeth I could hardly speak or try to shout

Now he's back to cleaning himself As he always did in the past I'm one hundred percent absolutely positive This bath was his first and his last. —Marvin Warm

(Note: This poem was written from a real experience.)

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


10

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Director’s Viewpoint

Be Careful – Don't Become A Victim

Daryl Johnson

Generally, it's a nice gesture to hold the door open or to let someone that you don't know into a store, a bank, or another type of business. But, that act of kindness can be very dangerous in this community. Don't Let Them In There have been a few recent break-ins on Casals Place and in other areas of this community. In some cases, money and other items were stolen. Therefore, our cooperators were warned to lock their door when they leave their apartment. Trespassers have been caught and arrested for hanging out in our stairwells. And, in many cases, they were allegedly smoking marijuana. Thereafter, cooperators – including small children – near those stairwells may have inhaled those dangerous fumes. And, just recently, there was a report that someone went onto a floor and relieved themselves into a compactor room. So, Maintenance had to be called to clean up that room. Horrible! Bottom line: A stranger with horrible intent can rob, rape, seriously injure, or kill someone in our buildings. So, please be careful before you let someone into your building. Also, please think about using the rear door if you see someone hanging out and you don't want to let them into your building. Frozen Pipes Frozen pipes have recently burst in several buildings. Thereafter, some of our elevators were flooded out. And, unfortunately, lots of our residents were affected by these problems. So, I hope that we can use these problems as lessons before we get our new elevators. Noise Complaints One of the biggest complaints that cooperators are making is about noise. Here are some of the complaints: "The people above me are banging all day. They slam their door every time they leave their Greetings! My wish for all in 2018 is more love, kindness, compassion and service to others. To grow as a community in oneness, of like mind, of like word, of encouragement and of like purpose and effort. Positive expression in thought, word and deed. On Tuesday, January 9th, Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul spoke at Dreiser Auditorium. The Lt. Governor discussed some New York State-planned initiatives, including, but not limited to, expanded use of absentee ballots, higher-education student-loan debt relief, expansion of child care, after school programs and extended school day/year programs that will make our youth more competitive on the world stage, protection and support for affordable housing, etc. The information was well presented and well received. I was encouraged to see the event was well attended. January 11th was our Building 9 Association Executive Board bi-annual election. The results for the 2018-2020 term of office are posted on the lobby bulletin boards. Thank you to all 28 shareholders who came out in support of our Building 9 Association Executive Board election meeting. Thank you to all who extended their warm congratulatory sentiments and well wishes to the 2018-2020 Executive Board members. As ever, we are a 'working' board. It will be our pleasure to continue to 'serve' the Building 9 Association of shareholders. The Executive Board will meet to develop our agenda going forward. We will continue the format we instituted two years ago of hosting monthly social events and having monthly guest speakers address the membership. This practice has improved the quality of our meet-

apartment." So, please, let's be mindful and try to keep the noise down. Thank you. Be Careful With These Smart Devices You may have read of cases in the newspapers wherein criminals have broken into some apartments. But, as you'll read, malicious criminals are doing far more damage by using so-called smart devices to go into people's homes, spy on them, and steal their most private information. Lots of people have smart televisions. However, some of these same people will probably never know if their smart television was ever hacked. Therefore, while they may have been relaxing in their living room or bedroom, some hackers could have been in control of the audio, video, and other portions of their television. So, what does that mean? In several demonstrations, experts have shown that hackers can easily gain access to the camera and microphone on some televisions to see and listen to people in their own home. So, hackers can spy on your most personal moments without your knowledge. Therefore, some people have placed a piece of tape over the camera on their television. Additionally, they changed the settings on their television so that certain features will not be accessible. Then, some people were so outraged by these spying schemes that they disconnected their television from the internet. Hackers have also targeted baby monitors. In one outrageously horrible case, a father heard a man's voice in his young daughter's room. So, the father went into his daughter's room and discovered that an incredibly evil hacker was using a wireless baby monitor to talk to his young daughter. But, this young girl was born deaf. So, she wasn't able to hear what was going on. Nevertheless, the father disconnected that baby monitor. There are many good things that you can do with a smartphone. For starters, you can talk, text, and send emails. Then, there are a lot of apps that can allow you to learn different languages, read books, get travel directions, shop, and do lots of things. But, some people have chosen to use smartphones for a variety of other reasons. For instance, a preg-

Building 9 Association

2018-2020 Building 9 Executive Board

ings and social interactions. Our regular meeting attendance has increased tri-fold in two years. Let's keep it going. January 27th is designated International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2018. Please take a moment to reflect on one of history's darkest examples of man's inhumanity to man. In light of our current political climate, we may all do well to heed the signs, warnings and lessons of the Holocaust. Our January 2018 social event is scheduled for January 27th at 7 p.m. Please join us. Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for February 2018. Let's keep the positive energy flowing. "When the debate is over, slander becomes the tool of the loser." –Socrates —Linda Collins

nant lady apparently thought that something was going on with her boyfriend. So, take a guess what she did? That's right, she allegedly installed an app on his phone and found out that he was allegedly messing around with two women. Then, she ended the relationship. Then, there was a case wherein a husband had begged his wife to take him back after she had allegedly caught him cheating. So, she took him back and secretly installed an app on his phone. Then, within a short period of time, guess what this wealthy guy started doing? That's right, she found out that he was cheating again. So, she filed for a divorce. Now, fortunately, both of these cases did not involve anyone from Co-op City. But, some people have taken this spying thing to horrible levels by breaking into people's cellphones to steal their personal and banking information. One guy had $2,500 stolen from his bank account. According to a report, the hacker allegedly gained access to the banking information on his phone, changed his password, and then was able to transfer money to another account. A lady received an email from her phone company that stated that her password had been changed. Then, using her account information, the thieves transferred the lady's phone number to a new phone that they controlled. Thereafter, the thieves set up a new credit card account to steal money. Close This is our home. So, we have to be careful to not let people that we do not know into our buildings. Also, we have to be careful and do some research before we buy certain products and bring them into our home. 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 at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a 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.

Parkchester Chorus, Spring

Parkchester Chorus’ rehearsals for the Spring 2018 season begin Monday, January 22. If you enjoy singing and the camaraderie of a chorus, Parkchester Chorus is for you. Currently, there are openings for all voice parts. Membership is open to all comers. Members are of all ages and backgrounds and members come from all over the Bronx, as well as Westchester. Rehearsals are held weekly on Mondays from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at First Lutheran Church of Throggs Neck, 3075 Baisley Avenue, Bronx 10461. Once a month, Sunday afternoon rehearsals are also held at First Lutheran Church. Semester fees are $40 per person, $60 per couple and a $10 per person music fee. The theme for the spring concert is “Musical Pot-Luck.” The spring 2018 program will include a montage of well-known songs sung by chorus members selected by director, Miles Fellenberg, along with assistant director, Chris Aquino. Parkchester Chorus, the oldest ecumenical chorus in the Bronx, has a long history of musical diversity. The chorus’ well received winter program was composed of holiday music celebrating the birth of Christ, in Latin, German and English. A contest is ongoing to rename Parkchester Chorus. If your suggestion wins, two free tickets will be awarded for the spring 2018 concert. You can send your suggestion by email through our website or post to the chorus’ Facebook page. Parkchester Chorus’ website address is http://www.parkchesterchorus.org/. For membership information, please write: ParkchesterChorus.Members@gmail.com. For further information and semester fees, call 1-718-320-2790 and leave a message.


Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

11


12

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Flexing Our Political Muscle

Kathy Hochul with a resolution for those wanting to downsize without additional equity payment. Like many directors, I would like to see the return of our original bus service routes prior to the 2010 cut backs. While I was dismayed at the recent veto of the bill by the governor that would have enabled a third The recent visit by the Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul transfer, the request to return the bus routes is equally was an opportunity to pose questions and suggest possi- as important to the entire community. The ability to get ble solutions regarding agencies that directly affect our from one section to another without paying an addicorporation and its shareholders. Several questions tional fare is an economic quality of life issue. It were presented, however, I will discuss two in particular. impacts shareholders’ ability to get to work, to medical Mitchell-Lama housing was designed to accommoappointments, of youth getting to and from school and date the housing needs of moderate income families all of us attending a variety of citywide events without and supervised by the New York State agency, HCR paying several fares. (Homes and Community Renewal). The MTA is govIf we are to be successful in restoring services, the erned by a 17-member Board. Members are nomitime is now. I have not given up the focus or the fight nated by the Governor. Riverbay Board directors were for resolution of these issues and neither should you. offered the opportunity to submit questions to the Though no promise or answer was given, the scenario Riverbay Board president. We have all been conwas presented in an articulate manner and the lieucerned about the removal of our original bus line tenant governor assured a response would be forthroutes and asked that this be addressed. My second coming. With an impending election, our requests question involved the transfer process. In my opinion, were timely. Earn the vote. we would benefit by providing a way for those in The Excelsior Scholarship – was one of the items under-occupied units to transfer (downsize) without presented by the lieutenant governor from the govenor’s the burden of additional equity. This would free up units and provide affordable housing for large families State of the State Address. With the passage of the FY 2018 State Budget, New York is now home to the and generate additional equity when the unit is sold. A little background: I came across a letter regarding nation's first accessible college program. Under this a meeting held January 26, 2012. The letter from the groundbreaking program, more than 940,000 middleformer HCR Assistant Commissioner McCurnin stated, class families and individuals making up to $125,000 “Transferring cooperators will be required to pay the per year will qualify to attend college tuition-free at all current equity for any unit into which they desire to CUNY and SUNY two- and four-year colleges in New transfer.” In a December 2016 viewpoint I wrote, “In York State. The new program began in the fall of 2017 the coming year I would like to see us grapple with and will be phased in over three years. In order to apply, resolving the issue of transferring and the payment of students must: - Be residents of New York State equity.” We have shareholders who have lived here for - Attend a SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year many years in large apartments who are in under-occudegree program pied units, but can’t move to smaller apartments - Take 30 credits per calendar year (including Janubecause of the hardship and burden the equity would impose. I don’t know if my question about transferring ary and summer sessions) was shared, but I was pleased to hear our executive - Plan to live and work in New York following general manager pose the question to Lt. Governor graduation for the length of time they participate in the

Director’s Viewpoint

Leslie Peterson

Donizetti Building Four Association

At our general meeting held on January 11, President Yvonne Burrus passed the role of building president over to me. I presented myself to the cooperatives in attendance and asked for their continued support in our goal to work collectively toward uniting our building and improving the status of our building and surrounding areas, as well as our community. We talked about current issues, inquiries, complaints and recommendations for future discussions. We had our 2018 Kick-off celebration Saturday, January 13th welcoming me as the new building association president and Dawn Mitchell as the new vice president. We gave a gift and special recognition, with our blessings, to the outgoing president. The menu consisted of ropa vieja, collard greens, macaroni & cheese, macaroni & tuna, mixed green salad, and a variety of cold drinks including our treasurer Diane Windley’s famous fruit punch. Our desserts included banana pudding, carrot cake and eggnog pound cake. The theme for the night was the 70’s Disco to which we danced, as well as Salsa selections. Our next general meeting is scheduled for February 15, in our meeting room in rear of Building 4B at 7:30 p.m. All cooperatives are encouraged to come down and assist planning possible fundraising events for 2018. Congratulations to those celebrating a birthday or other special occasion in January. Please check on the elderly and shut-ins during this winter cold weather. When possible, spend a little time with them. Let’s keep our building clean and report loiterers in our lobbies and stairwells. SAFETY FIRST!! “Remember, this is our home; “IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.” —Steven Vega (DW)

Building 32 Association

Our first meeting of 2018 is scheduled for January 24, at 7:30 p.m. in our association room in Building 32B, first floor rear. Our special guest is Ms. Linda Berk, president of the Riverbay Board of Directors. This is a meeting you should not miss as so many happenings are taking place. Do not hear it secondhand, but from someone who knows. New cooperators are especially welcome. You do not have to be a member of the building association to attend our meetings. Everyone is welcome. We will be collecting dues at this meeting. Dues is $5 per family for the year. Your dues goes for myriad items, such as refreshments for our meetings, Section 5 Fun Day, Halloween bags for the children in our building, etc. —Lorna Smith

scholarship program. In New York State, every child will have the opportunity that education provides. Kudos to our employees who braved the frigid temperatures and recent storm to make it safe for the community. At times, looking out of the window I could not see the buildings on either side of mine. Pictures sent to social media pages documented the impact in various locations throughout Co-op City. Kudos also to the power plant for swiftly addressing the water and heat issue recently experienced. On another note: To prevent a fine, You Need To Know that if you are moving sizable (or numerous) boxes and barrels to family and charitable organizations and the transport of these items will result in usage of the elevator, a permit should be requested from the Riverbay Sales Department. If you are donating or giving away furniture or other large items and the elevator will be used, you need to request a permit. Permits are not just for families moving in or out, but also for items you may be moving in or out. HCR/Mitchell-Lama Regulations suggests Board members should interest themselves in resident relations as these afford opportunities for learning about (grievances) concerns, as well as explaining the Board’s position on matters of interest. When things are not addressed, it gives the impression that a community doesn’t care. If it isn’t a major infraction, we just say nothing. That infraction over time can become a greater issue. We should look at many community situations in this manner, but also take action. Enforcement of rules we have in place, especially those that affect the quality of life will resonate and signal that we do care. Contact your Cooperator Service Office or Public Safety Department. Attend building and community meetings. This is our home. Our future depends on you! “You must never be fearful about what you do when it's right.” –Rosa Parks Share your thoughts. I can be reached by mail at: Leslie Peterson, Riverbay Board Director, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, and Tel. @ 718-3201370, or email at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com.

Building 10 Association

Greetings, everyone. Last Saturday's New Year's celebration was spectacular and ranks as the best party event this association has ever held. Our party room was nicely decorated and the assortment and array of food, desserts and beverages was so impressive that folks were awed and didn't know where to begin. Most of those who regularly sup- Party time with friends & neighbors. port our building association functions were in attendance. Also there were some we see once in a while. We were ecstatic to have a few of our new neighbors join us to experience their first building association "fun time" event. BIG thanks to board vice president and hostess Lisa for taking the lead on this. Effusive thanks to all who donated a dish, dessert or beverage (homemade or store bought) and sincere thanks to everyone (too many to name but you know who you are) who rolled up their sleeves and pitched in to make this another successful event. Job well done!!! Our next General Membership Meeting will take place on Tuesday, January 30th at 7 p.m. in the Bldg. 10 Assn. room (rear lobby of Bldg. 10B). The agenda will include a review of 2017 association activities/events and a discussion relative to plans for 2018. We were unable to secure a guest speaker for this meeting, but look forward to having one at a following meeting. We encourage you to attend this first meeting of the new year to help shape plans for activities and events of interest to you and your family. Building 10 Association Mission Statement – The overall goal of the Building 10 Association is to continually seek improvements in the quality of life for Building 10 cooperators and their families. The mission of the Building 10 Association Board is to be advocates for the Riverbay Corporation and for Building 10 cooperators and families. We will seek opportunities to source information that will be useful to its members and plan for activities that will enhance the life and well-being of all. Have a great week. —Carol Campbell


Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association

Greetings! Our next general membership meeting is Monday, January 22, 7 p.m., activity room. Come on down, make your reservations for our trip, join the conversation and a hearty welcome to our new neighbors. Suggested topics, Connor Street PO, USPS Lock Boxes in our lobbies and any other suggested topics. Reserve your seat at Sight And Sound to see “Jesus.” Our trip is scheduled for Saturday, May 12, leaving at 7 a.m., from Building 12. Adults $165 per person, each child under the age of 11, $140. Adult’s first deposit of $55 due January 30th, second deposit of $55 due February 28th, final payment of $55 due March 30th. Child’s first deposit of $40 due January 30th, second deposit of $40 due February 28th, final payment of $40 due March 30th. Please make checks payable to Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association, 120 Casals Pl., 26L, Bronx, NY 10475. Contact Sonja, 718-379-7841 or Sonia at 718-3798305 or Donald, 917-848-0122. At our last meeting, we handed out gifts to our floor captains. If you did not receive your gift, call Donald, 917-848-0122. Reminder to please dispose of large bulk items by taking them to the basement and not the compactor rooms. “Straight Outta Co-op City” shirt purchases can be made by contacting president of Building 11, Deborah Henry, 718-379-6312. Sizes are children (small-xl $10.00), adults (small-xl $12.00), adults (2x-3x $15.00). Please be extra careful when you are out and about. Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who has suffered a loss or is sick and shut-in. If you see something, say something. To contact CCPD (Public Safety), call 718-671-3050. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718-379-7841. —Sonja Maxwell

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Building 21 Association Holiday Toast

Building 13 Association

Due to the recent storm, our visit by Assemblyman Benedetto was postponed. We hope to have him attend our next meeting on Thursday, February 1. There are many new shareholders who have joined our Building 13 family and community at-large. Stay informed by attending the building association meetings. Nomination for offices shall take place at the regular membership meeting in February. The Election of Officers shall be at the regular membership meeting in March. A plurality vote shall be required to elect. No absentee ballots are permissible. Eligibility and process for voting will be as follows: 1. Must be a shareholder and a current paid member of the association 2. There will be one vote per household unit by the individual who was a shareholder and a member of the Building 13 Association during the current voting year (4/1-3/31). 3. Members must show photo identification with signature to sign in and receive a ballot. Installation of Officers shall at the regular membership meeting in March. The newly elected officer’s term shall commence of the election year following installations and shall be for a term of two years. There is nothing as disturbing as seeing unsightly mess left by shareholders or their guests. Remember, you are responsible for insisting family and friends respect your home. As we strive to uphold our quality of life, please remember it begins at home. Dispose of garbage properly, do not leave items in the elevator, if you spill something, mop it up or pick it up. Hungry for some lobster, shrimp, chicken, ribs, and all types of deliciousness? Then join us Saturday, July 14, for our 2nd All-You-Can-Eat bonanza LOBSTERFEAST at the NORDIC LODGE, and 4-hour casino stay at Foxwoods with outlet shopping at Tangers. The cost is $165 per person (includes taxes and gratuities). Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. Contacts: Sherrie Hernandez at 914-837-5970, Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370 (daddpeterson@aol.com). Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or email us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com. Again, thanks for making our team work. —Leslie Peterson

Please Refrain From Littering in the Garages. There are Several Trash Cans on Every Level For Your Convenience. Keep Co-op City Clean! Thank you!

The Building 21 Association recently held its Annual Egg Nog & Apple Cider Toast to the New Year. Attendees enjoyed prizes during “game-time” and snacked on cookies while sipping on hot apple cider, sparkling apple cider and egg nog. The elder of the group, Ms. Adel Murray, said a prayer for the building and the Co-op City community, followed by everyone sharing what they are most thankful for.


14

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018


15

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Happy New Year to everyone in Building 6. We hope 2018 will be a great year for you and the Building 6 Association, too. I want to thank Andy Soto, our lobby attendant, for making the Christmas holiday special for the people in Building 6. Andy printed out 400 photos he took with kids and adults with Santa Claus and family photos with the Christmas tree and personal photos near the Christmas tree, too. He posted all the photo in the lobby and Shirts & Pants then gave them out to all the people. Awesome job, Andy Soto. I am glad everyone loved seeing and when 10 pcs. or more. taking photos with Santa Claus in our building (limited time offer) lobby again this year during Christmas. Thank you, Reg. Price $4.25 each Marvin Lowery, for helping me make our building Christmas party a hugh success this year and helpafter 20 lbs. minimum ing me with all the Christmas lights, too. Same Day Service We hope to have our first building meeting soon if you order before 11 a.m. too. Our vice president Joan Murrell had knee surgery and is starting to get her strength back. We wish her all the best and a quick recovery too. We accept credit card Before we have our first meeting, we have to buy payments. a 5-pound ABC fire extinguisher for our Building 6 Association room to abide by Riverbay’s safety rules. We also need to buy weather stripping for our building association front door to keep the heat in R&S Express Laundry Center the room. The door is rusted and has cracks. We 2077 Southern Blvd, Bronx NY, 10460 need a new door, but Riverbay has told me that they XpressLaundryNY.com will not give us a new door until spring or summer. 212.470.7689 • 718.220.1005 We need to get all that done before our first meeting. We will start to collect building dues for 2018 in February in the lobby, too. Building dues will be $10 dollars per apartment. The hope to have movie night in our building association room that other building are building dues will help us upgrade our building association room like getting the doing, too. People in the building have been asking for them. Let’s all make Building 6 an enjoyable place to live. We all have to do it fire extinguisher and weather strips, etc. and building holiday parties and new holiday decorations and ink to make flyers for the building postings. Trying to together. —Jeffrey Schwartz make our building and our building association room in great shape. We also

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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner

The Meeting Before The Meeting

Many have shared how disappointed they were that they, “cooperators,” were not able to have a Q & A with NY Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul on January 9, 2018. The Board and Management met with the lieutenant governor prior to the public meeting at Dreiser to ensure that specific management issues impacting the corporation were addressed. Many urgent issues not new to experienced Board members/Management needed to be revisited and presented on cooperators’ behalf before the presentation. In Summary: Allowing seniors to transfer to smaller apartments without having to pay the current equity. No law is etched in stone and as such a waiver of the current law would reportedly benefit at least 40 to 50 seniors. What is your opinion about this request? The Public Service Commission changed the rule that requires Co-op City’s 26 miles of piping and its cooling towers to provide heat by October 1, and stand-by capacity through September 30. We pay Con Edison approximately $2 million for staying connected in order to provide power to Co-op City in case of a problem with our Power Plant. The approximately $800,000.00 helps but is not enough. Riverbay’s general counsel has been relentless in getting a waiver for Co-op City. Board members addressed concerns about the loss of bus lines cut in Co-op City and provided a petition signed by more than 8,000 Co-op City residents demanding restoration of services to pre-2010 levels. We can only wait and see if the elected officials on the state level will follow-up with these specific Co-op City issues. You may want to call or write Senator Jamaal T. Bailey and let him know that you are a constituent and want to know what he will be

doing about our concerns: Albany Office address is 707 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247; 518-455-2061. Thanks To Riverbay Fund Special thanks to the newest Riverbay Fund Board members Jerome Rice and Leah Richardson for observing the need that this director observed in 2016 to upgrade a strong “Conflict of Interest” policy for Co-op City’s not-for-profit corporation. In essence, the proposed policy will ensure that directors or officers of the organization must avoid personal conflict of interest. Hopefully, the Board can take the Riverbay Fund to the same level experienced in 2006 when Gloria Wise Community Center existed. Arguably, the Fund has no plans to pay an executive director a salary of approximately $250,000 yearly. Programs are still needed for the community. Money is “out there” and maybe we can put policies and procedures in place to obtain contracts both government and private for much needed community services. Remember in 2003, Congressman Crowley presented a ceremonial check (federal grant) to Gloria Wise Senior Services for $100,000.00. Some history we need to repeat. Remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Thanks to all who celebrated Dr. King’s birthday in your own way. On February 16, 1960 Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at White Rock Baptist Church where he addressed and encouraged us (students at North Carolina College – now NCCU) to become involved in nonviolent sit-ins to protest segregation. We were encouraged to commit to nonviolent civil disobedience. Those of us who made the commitment were willing to give our lives. Dr. King said, “Let us not fear going to jail.” “If the officials threaten to arrest us for standing up for our rights, we must answer by saying we are willing and prepared to fill up the jails of the South.” When the state built Highway 147 through downtown Durham displacing the original church building and many other homes and

Ghanaian Association

A Very Happy, Prosperous and a Joyful 2018! The executive committee and all the members of the Ghanaian Association of Co-op City wish you and your families a very happy, prosperous, and a joyful 2018! Whatever is Beautiful! Whatever is Meaningful! Whatever brings you Happiness! May it be yours this year and throughout the coming years! Thank you for 2017: The Executive Committee wishes to express our hearty appreciation for all your support, encouragement, and dedication to the association and for making 2017 another successful year in the association’s young history. We will continue to rely on your support and dedication in 2018. Please share your ideas, suggestions and concerns. Provide feedback on 2017 activities and bring ideas and suggestions of programs & activities you would want the association to focus on in 2018. January General Meeting: The next general meeting will be on Saturday, January 27th, at the Einstein Community Center, room 38, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Free Annual Registration: The annual registration for this year is currently ongoing. Please make sure to fill your registration form. Even if you were not as active as you wanted to be last year, this is a new year. All things are born new! Call 347-773-3499 if you have any question. About Us: The Ghanaian Association of Co-op City (GACC) is a notfor-profit organization with the purpose of promoting the general welfare of the Ghanaian community in Co-op City. The objectives of the association include providing educational programs to members, building a capacity for greater involvement in the activities of the community, and providing a platform to address issues of common concern to members and the Co-op City community. Dues: Members are reminded to pay your dues. You can now pay using credit card. Pay the entire year dues now and get a discount. T-Shirts: If you don’t have the association t-shirt yet, please get yours for only $15! You may get additional t-shirts for family and friends. Please Join Us: We need your support. Please join us. We invite you to come to our next general meeting. Call 347-773-3499. UNITY IS STRENGTH! JOIN US TODAY! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! Co-op Ghanama OR http:/www.facebook .com/gacc2013.—Seth Osei-Fosu

businesses in the Hayti community, the congregation moved the church two miles away on Fayetteville Street where it stands today continuing to thrive. I Should Have Listened A heartwarming call was received from a graduate student at North Carolina Central University who I had encouraged to learn to speak Spanish. Dr. King talked about not being judged by the color of one’s skin. I have been encouraging African-American students in particular to become bi-lingual. I have shared that in today’s society, even in the South, speaking Spanish is a plus. After the ending of school segregation in 1954 based on skin color, now it’s a second language, namely Spanish, that is a big thing from North to South. Today in NYC, one can earn more money for being bi-lingual. So parents and grandparents, advise your young person that they must be a strategic student and accept the language requirement changes in America. Today’s workplace is calling for a new kind of employee, namely a bi-or tri-lingual one. Other desired attributes include effective use of technology and the ability to work in a diverse setting. In North Carolina, the governor has an Advisory Council on Hispanic/Latino Affairs. In closing, a disappointment is that our public schools are not teaching Spanish on the elementary level. In our community, there is only one private school preparing our youngest minds to be tri-lingual. A letter is kept on file by this director to show and document that the lack of speaking a second language, namely Spanish, resulted in being denied employment in the Bronx. The phrase that is used is “we prefer” someone who is bi-lingual. With this generation, many times we have to show and tell. It is my opinion that Dr. King would want us to be part of the change (language) and continue to fight the good fight for voting and economic rights, etc. Yours, in Truth and Service. I may be reached at: Evelyn M. Turner, LCSW – 917-324-1033 – eturner@riverbayboard.com.

Building 27 Association

Greetings, neighbors. The General Meeting – Our first meeting of the year will be Thursday, January 25, at 7 p.m. so keep your eyes on the fliers that will be posted. We look forward to everyone becoming involved in their building association in the New Year 2018. There is much to be done. Solutions, comments, ideas to improve our building services and community. Join the association and be a part of contributing to our building and community. Reminder – Were you aware because I missed it. There are School Zone Speed Cameras in Co-op City. I am sure it has been posted in the news, however, there is a speed camera located in the Baychester Avenue and Aldrich area. Now, I believe we should request a camera light speed sign to be posted such as there. Two or more of these signs are posted on Pelham Pkway to alert one to be cautious and watch your speed while driving. Holiday Party – Our annual holiday party to greet our neighbors in the New Year was on Saturday, January 6, at 7 p.m. It was marvelous, cooperators from A, B and C buildings always represent. Listen, the catered food was scrumptious. We have our own cake baker, Margie; DJ by computer, Ms. Linda, oh, also our own line dance instructor. Building 27 got it going on, thanks to our talented neighbors. It was a pleasure to see some faces we haven’t seen in a while as we are grateful that Bldg. 27 cooperators do support the association. Last, but not least, a hearty thank you to all who helped with setting up, serving, cleaning up, etc. I will not call any names because some names might be missed. We had such cooperation. Thank you, Bldg. 27. We offer our deepest sympathy to Ardel Frank and the family in the loss of her husband of Bldg. 27A. Remember others who are in bereavement. Contact Lydia Rondon at (718) 5833030 to share news of any sickness or if a neighbor has deceased. Please continue to pray for our Board members to make the best decisions for our homes and community. Pray for peace among the nations’ leaders. —H. Overman

Shareholders, not tenants! Become involved in your building association!


Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

American Legion Post 1871

The Bronx County Oratorical Contest was held on Friday, December 29, 2017 here in Co-op City. The winner of the contest is an Eleventh Grader, Charles Varenne of Salesian High School of New Rochelle, although he lives in the Bronx. His speech centered on the 26th amendment – the progression of Voting Rights in America. Charles, after qualifying at the Bronx contest, represented the Bronx at the city-wide contest that was held on Monday, January 8th and also qualified. He will be moving on to represent New York City in the next stage of the contest. The American Legion of Co-op City will be bringing Charles as the guest speaker to their January meeting on 20th where he will give a mock presentation of his speech. During his visit to the American Legion Post 1871, Charles, in the presence of his parents and siblings, will be awarded with the Certificate of Excellence which will also be supported by certificates from Councilman King, Assemblyman Benedetto and Senator Jamaal Bailey. This year’s Memorial Day raffle booklets will be ready for pick up at the post as from Monday, January 22nd. So, we implore every Legionnaire to pay attention to your mail or you will get a call for pick up once they are ready for distribution. Needless to remind you that our only source of making money is the Memorial Day celebration. Thus, we will be giving out the raffle booklets to solicit for funds as we come to the next general meeting. Let us continue to compile the names of our friends and loved ones who we will approach, even from today. The weather presently is harsh and I hope that all of us are dressing warm. I hope that this New Year further strengthens the bond of mutual cohesiveness amongst us. Thus, if you, as a veteran, or member of the military, or family member needs immediate help, please reach out to one or more of the following agencies that operate 24/7 and answer you confidentially: Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255 - Press 1); NYC Department of Veterans’ Services (212-416-5250 or 311); NYS Division of Veterans’Affairs (1-888-838-7697 or email DVAInfo@veterans.ny.gov); NY Serves (1-844-347-92440); Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (1-855-917-2743 or email transition@iava.org); NYU Langone Military Family Clinic (1-855-6984677); City Bar Veterans Assistance Project (1-877-564-3383) for pro bono legal assistance; NY Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG)—212-946-0343 amongst several others. Please, don’t be quiet. If you see something, say something. I just want to encourage everyone to keep dressing warm and listen to the dictates of the Mother Nature. I am attending the mid-winter conference this weekend in Albany and I hope to bring back all the experiences and new lessons learned in this conference. Let us remember that the Post is planning a bus tour to DC as part of our memorial week celebration in May. Details of this planning will be made known to everyone as soon as possible. —Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown O’toba

Broun Townhouse Association

From Broun Place Townhouse Association: How did you recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day? On Sunday, we attended the Queens College recognition day. Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, NY State President of the N.Y. State NAACP, (etc.) and Ms. Letitia James, N.Y. Public Advocate, accepted respective awards for their achievements. Both of them gave exciting, motivating speeches. You are encouraged to work and vote for better government in the United States. Our first 2018 meeting is on Wednesday, January 24th. Join us at a home meeting from 7 p.m. A flyer will be distributed. Manager of CSO, Ms. Vanessa Aldea, will be one of our guests. Light refreshment will be available. What is going on with our Givan Avenue United States Post Office? We were expecting an important package, medical supplies. The website said, “Delivered;” it wasn’t! Saturday, following up, we went to the post office. There it was! Thank you to Congressman Eliot Engel’s office, especially his longtime aide, Mr. Richard Fedderman, for trying to get answers for our original problems; they will hear about this new one too. We need accountability and apologies from the U.S.P.S. This post office needs to be managed better. Townhouse cooperators are poorly serviced. Speaking of mail, who received, from the Bronx Boro Office the letter, addressed to “owner?” It says, “Failed to file a valid registration statement…, subject to civil penalties.” We are contacting “Rent Bookkeeping” and hoping they will get involved with fixing this problem. The Broun Place Executive Committee came out for Lieutenant Governor Hochul. Vivian Burrus, Lillian Richardson and myself were present for this articulate breakdown of the missions of the Governor and his budget. Personally, wish the turnout had been greater. Kudos to Riverbay for co-sponsoring an event to help students apply for financial aid and to help working through the bureaucracy. Also, kudos for the coat drive held yesterday in Dreiser Community Center. The Grounds Department people did a wonderful snow removal job that we hope continues through the winter. We could conquer our way around Broun Place very well. A list of requests for repaving and other repairs was submitted and considered at the Ad Hoc Committee of the Planning Board. A section of Broun Place is included. Our board secretary asked that a “STOP” sign at the corner of Bellamy and Broun be considered. Other issues included: requesting crosswalk signal times extended, problems with 3-1-1, and new signage on Bartow, and Baychester neighbors, get your garbage into the proper bins. Throwing the bag over the back fence doesn’t make it. If you are reported disposing of your garbage incorrectly, you may receive a “Community Complaint.” If you see a bottle or newspaper, pick it up and dispose of it properly. House garbage must be delivered to the compactor site. We need patio lights on, especially facing the cul de sac. Please replace them or call Maintenance or Cooperator Services to do it. —Eva Lazaar

Black Forum

17

Defensive Driving Course Next course: February 10, 8:50 a.m. – 3 p.m., Dreiser Center, room 1. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to four points from your driver’s license. Please make checks of $35, payable to ‘Black Forum of CO-OP City,’ and mail to 177 Dreiser Loop, room 20, Bronx, NY 10475 at least 1½ weeks before class. Walkins are welcomed, but only a $35 cash payment will be accepted the day of the class – no checks. Call by noon Friday to register and assure seating. Please bring your current driver’s license and a pen. (718) 320-8035. Nordic Lodge & Foxwoods Casino Trip Join us Saturday, August 18, for an amazing dining experience at the award-winning Nordic Lodge in Charlestown, Rhode Island. Enjoy 2-hours of an All-You-Can-Eat seafood plus buffet with lobster, prime rib, specialty desserts and more! The excitement continues at Foxwoods Casino. $165 includes dining, shopping & round-trip coach transportation. Three payments of $55 due 1/26, 2/16 and 3/16. Please make checks payable to ‘Black Forum of CO-OP City,’ and mail to 177 Dreiser Loop, room 20, Bronx, NY 10475. NO REFUNDS. Pick-up and drop-off at Dreiser, Asch Loop and Section 5. Please call 917-209-5334 or 718-320-0033 if you have questions. Emergency Food Program (10475 residents only) Please bring a current photo ID to register. ONLY accepted IDs are driver’s and nondriver’s licenses, and the ID NYC card. Bring four clean shopping bags and cart (if available). You’ll be issued a card that must be shown on every visit to pick up food. Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food on Thursdays at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Buildings 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m., also on Thursdays. Section 5 townhouses can visit either church. Other buildings and townhouses must pick-up at Dreiser, room 20. Dreiser food distribution hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m., room 20. Pilot Program: Dreiser hours extended Tuesdays, 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Added Dreiser hours on the following Saturdays: February 10, March 10, April 14, May 12 and June 9. All hours are subject to change based on demand. New and currently registered guests are welcomed to participate in extended hours. Attention: All participants are required in January 2018 to show a current photo with address ID card for re-certification. This confirms residence in 10475. Guests who lost their pantry card can reapply to the program in January 2018. Re-certification is 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. of your assigned week: Section 1 & 2 (Bldgs. 1-8 & 9-14, respectively), last day January 30; Section 3 (Bldgs. 15-20), week of Jan. 15; Section 4 (Bldgs. 21-25), week of Jan. 22. Contact: Reach out to us if you have questions, (718) 320-8035, or coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. —Tony Illis

CO-OP CITY FOOT CARE CENTER SECTION 5 • BUILDING 29C

4240 HUTCHINSON RIVER PARKWAY EAST

(718) 671-2233 DR. LOUIS JACOBS, DIRECTOR ALL FOOT CONDITIONS TREATED

The in-office surgical correction of BUNIONS • HAMMERTOES • INGROWN TOENAILS PAINFUL CORNS and CALLOUSES

The treatment of traumatic foot injuries, heel spurs, bursitis and arthritis of the joints of the feet, toenail and skin infections, as well as other conditions.

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Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.


18

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

see attached 1/2/18 memos from the Project Manager and the Architect of record. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: That the Board approves awarding contract #3114 (REBID) to R. Acevedo Contracting, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder for the total amount of ($2,630,238 plus 10% contingency $263,023.80) $2,893,261.80 as recommended 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.

Resolution #18-02

(Continued from page 6)

First Reading - Resolution #18-03 SUBMITTED BY: Jerome Rice SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson and Francine Reva Jones BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department sent out seven (7) requests for proposals for Bid 3186, Local Law 11 Scaffolding - 25 Buildings (Section 1-4); and WHEREAS, six (6) proposals were received and reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, The Project Manager found that of the six qualifying contractors Xinos Construction was the lowest. They have been vetted, provided all relevant information and are in good standing; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends that this contract be awarded to Xinos Construction as the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendation and Spreadsheet attached); and NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract # 3186 with Xinos Construction for one (1) year at a total cost of $360,400.00 based on unit pricing be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 as amended by Board of Directors 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.

Second Reading - Resolution #17-76 SECOND READING RESOLUTION #: 17-76 SUBMITTED BY: Junius Williams SECONDED BY: Jerome Rice, Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, the New York Codes Rules and Regulations Section 1727-4.11(e) states that charges may be imposed for unusual administrative costs caused by repeated negligence or willful acts of cooperators and charged as additional rent, with the prior approval of the Commissioner of Housing and Community Renewal; and WHEREAS, at Co-op City such administrative fees are assessed to cooperators through the issuance of community complaints; and WHEREAS, the Riverbay Corporation Board of Directors feels a $350.00 administrative fee should be imposed for public urination on Co-op City grounds and/or inside Co-op City buildings, except in a designated restroom. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board hereby adopts a $350.00 administrative charge to be imposed for public urination on Co-op City’s grounds and/or inside Co-op City buildings, except in a designated restroom; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the administrative fee contained in this resolution, will go into effect after approval by the Commission of Housing and Community Renewal of the State of New York and thirty (30) day notice to cooperators in the Co-op City Times. YES: Feliciano, Lambright, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Saunders, Williams NO: Berk, Johnson, Jones, Leslie ABSTAIN: Cylich, Sampson ABSENT: Jenkins, Turner PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #17-88 SUBMITTED BY: Leah Richardson SECONDED BY: Linda Berk BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, Co-op City’s eight parking garages provide 10,888 parking spaces for the community’s 15,372 apartments; and WHEREAS, A common refrain is, “Not enough parking;” and WHEREAS, presently some shareholders have reserved parking spaces which they have not used for two years; and WHEREAS, The Board believes it would make parking easier for shareholders by terminating the parking agreements of those shareholders who have not used their reserved parking space for a minimum of two continuous years; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That effective February 1, 2018 Riverbay should begin monitoring whether shareholders with reserving parking spaces are actually using such spaces and terminating Garage License Agreements of these shareholders who have not used their reserved parking space for two continuous years . YES: Cylich, Feliciano, Jones, Sampson NO: Berk, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Saunders, Williams ABSENT: Jenkins, Turner DEFEATED

Second Reading - Resolution #17-79 SUBMITTED BY: Bernie Cylich SECONDED BY: Linda Berk, Leah Richardson BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department sent out eighteen (18) requests for proposals for Bid 3199, Environmental Health and Safety Consultant; and WHEREAS, four (4) proposals were received and reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, The Project Manager found that Genesis Environmental was the lowest bid on a majority of the line items and that they have the necessary experience and licenses to successfully perform the work in Co-op City. WHEREAS, the Project Manager, recommends that this contract be awarded to Genesis Environmental as the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendation and Spreadsheet attached); and NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract # 3199 with Genesis Environmental for three (3) years at a total cost of $1,800,000.00 based on unit pricing be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 as 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, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Sampson, Saunders, Williams ABSENT: Jenkins, Turner PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #17-80 SUBMITTED BY: Sonia Felicano SECONDED BY: Linda Berk, Rod Saunders BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, Contracts Administration sent out twenty requests for proposal pertaining to Bid 3188, Audit and Tax Services; and WHEREAS, Contracts Department received six proposals; and WHEREAS, The proposals were sent to the Finance Department for review; and WHEREAS, Riverbay requires a firm who is familiar with the HCR, HUD, Pensions, 401K Plans, and Federal tax regulations in order to conduct the annual Audit of Riverbay Corporation, provide tax consulting for preparation of Riverbay Corporation Federal Tax Return, perform the annual audit of the Management Pension and Security Pension Plans, annual audit of Riverbay Fund Inc., the annual audit of the 401K Plan, and generate the HUD financial statements and file them in HUD’s REAC system by July 31st; and WHEREAS, Riverbay Finance Department has determined that PKF O’Connor Davies LLP is the lowest responsible bidder; NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract #3188 with PKF O’Connor Davies LLP be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution 85-16 and amended by Resolution 95-44, and 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, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Richardson, Rice, Sampson, Saunders, Williams ABSTAIN: Peterson ABSENT: Jenkins, Turner PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #17-83 SUBMITTED BY: Evelyn Turner SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS, MEETING DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Restoration Department uses Henry 660 Floor Adhesive for installation of Wood & VCT floors; and WHEREAS, Procurement sent out thirteen (13) request for proposals for bid 3222, Purchase of Henry 660 Floor Adhesive; and WHEREAS, five bids were received and evaluated and Home Depot proposed the lowest cost of $87.00 per 4 gallon pail; and WHEREAS, Riverbay will order approximately 4,793 pails over a two year period with the capability to order more or less according to the needs of the Flooring Department; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends the contract be awarded to Home Depot as the lowest responsible bidder (recommendation and spreadsheet attached). NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that Riverbay enter into a 2 year Contract #3222 with The Home Depot for a cost of $417,000.00 plus tax be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution 85-16 and as 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, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Sampson, Saunders, Williams ABSENT: Jenkins, Turner PASSED (See page 26 for more Resolutions)


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

African-American Association Of Co-op City

Velocity Track Club New York

VTC (Velocity Track Club) continues 2018 the same way we closed out 2017! We competed Friday, January 12th to Sunday, January 14th at Week #4 of the Colgate Women’s Games and on Sunday, January 13th, at the YMCA Youth Series Meet #1 in Brooklyn, New York! At Week #4 of the Colgate Women’s Games, we had six girls earn points/ medals. In the Elementary “A” division, Brianna Burrell won the 55-meters and 200-meters dash. This is the first athlete that we coach who won both of her two events for all four weeks at the Colgate Women’s Games. Also, Hannah Deflorimonte took 5th in 55-meters & 7th in the 200-meters. Shyenne Blake took 5th in 200-meters and 7th in the 55-meters. In the Elementary “B” division, Jada Clarke won the high jump and took 2nd in the 55-meters hurdles. Dakota Hickman tied for 3rd place in the high jump & 11th in the 200 meters dash. In the Middle School division, Hannah Gadpaille took 2nd in the 55-meters dash. All six girls have a great opportunity to win educational grants ranging from $250 to $1000. At the YMCA Youth Series Meet #1 at the Lovely facility in Brooklyn, NY medals were giving to the top five individuals and top three relays in all divisions. The following events were contested: long jump, high jump, 4x200 relay, 1500 meters, 3000 meters, 200 meters, 800 meters and the 4x400 meter relays. We were able to muscle out 11 medals. The following athletes earned (Bottom photo) VTC athletes sporting New Balmedals: 8 & under Boys division: ance Games qualifying shirts and (top) Justice Wellington won the 200 & Boys1500 meters winners. 800 meters dash. In the 9 & 10 Boys division: Pierce Parker won the 800 & 1500 meters dash. In the 11 & 12 age division, Tiarra Jackson took 2nd in the high jump and 3rd in the 3000-meter run. Adonijah Washington took 4th in the 3000 meters run. Jadah Benthan took 2nd in the 200 meters and 4th in the 800-meters. In the 13 & 14 age division, Hannah Gadpaille won the 200 meters dash. In the 15 – 18 ages girl’s division, Kiana Davis took 3rd in the long jump. Congratulation to all athletes who competed. You all are winners! Our next meets will be on Saturday, January 20th, Ocean Breeze Youth Invitational and on Sunday, January 21st, Southern CT Youth Invitations! Velocity Track Club New York is a 501(c)3 not-for profit. One hundred percent of your donation will go towards helping our children. Support our youth so they can continue to do great things! For additional information, you can go to our website, Velocitytrack.org, or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins, at 914-441—Winston Dinkins 6196 or email watclt@aol.com.

The African American Film Festival is coming to Co-op City Saturday, February 3rd. As every year, it promises to be entertaining and informative. There will be a few surprises this year so be sure to attend. We are running a special for acting classes. You must register for a minimum of four classes in order to obtain the discount (children ages 7-15). Classes are available for ages 16 and over as well. Classes begin today, Saturday, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Contact Meca Talent at the number below. Our next general meeting will be Tuesday, February 13th in room #15 at the Dreiser Center. All are welcome to attend at 7 p.m. There will be other announcements and important information available. Culture, economics, health and education will be our focus in 2018. The association sponsors the following ongoing programs and encourages your participation. Acting Classes – Children’s and Adult classes are available. Contact: Meca Talent for more information at 646-373-4122. Belly Dance Classes – Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. For more information, call Xonia, 646-301-9438. Children’s Programs – For information about the after school program, call 718-379-5555. Evening Line Dance Classes – Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2. Also, first and third Tuesdays in Einstein, Section #5. Call Cynthia, 917-903-7073. Institute of Youth/Adult Study Group – Meets every second and fourth Monday, Dreiser Center, room #15 at 7 p.m. Contact Haru Maat, harumaat@msn.com. Music, Rhythm & Dance – Most Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 15; most Saturdays, 10 a.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Keith, 917-561-6211. Yoga & Pilates Mat Classes – Classes on Tuesday, 7:15 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 2. Lose weight, tone and strengthen your muscles with exercises that reduce stress through breathing techniques. For more information, call 718-671-8364. Yoga And Zumba – Classes on Saturday start at 9:30 in Dreiser Center, room #2. General Membership Meeting – The next meeting will be Tuesday, February 13th. If you are unable to attend the meeting, please read our weekly column for updates. Also, if you wish to join or update your membership, please send a check or money order (DO NOT MAIL CASH) of $15 for a single membership or $25 for families to: African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Donations are welcomed. Like us on Facebook: CoopcityAfricanameri—Kevin Lambright canassoc/email us at: aaaccpower@gmail.com.

Co-op City Working Families Party

Are You Marching Today? Today is the first anniversary of the Women’s March on Washington. It’s not too late to get down to Columbus Circle for a rally that runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Are you Rallying in Albany Tuesday? Let NY Vote is organizing an Albany trip for this Tuesday, January 23rd to lobby for Voting Rights, primarily Early Voting. Let’s send a Co-op City caravan in support of this fundamental right. The Co-op City Working Families Mission As a political party, Working Families works to elect the most progressive candidates possible who will stand in the way of all regressive legislation. As a civic action group, Co-op City Indivisible (a virtual entity in the process of applying to become a Co-op City Certified Community Organization) promotes progressive causes. As Co-op City WF/Indivisible members we do both. We embrace progressive values by modeling inclusion, respect, and fairness in all of our actions; we work to make Co-op City a stronger community; and we insist our representatives serve as our voice in Co-op City, in the Bronx, in Albany, and in Washington, D.C. Next Meeting: February 20th The next meeting of the WFP is scheduled for Tuesday, February 20th at 7:30 p.m. in room 35, Einstein Community Center, Section Five. WF meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month, through June. All progressives are welcome. For more information, please email mpjazz@optonline.net. —Kelly Canzoneri

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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

National Council of Negro Women

Black History Month – Save the date, Saturday, February 24, when we will have our 17th Annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. This free event will take place in Dreiser Center, Auditorium B, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Light refreshments will be served! 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 917-399-2643. Women’s Celebration Program – Save the date, Saturday, April 21. This will be an afternoon free event in room 4, Dreiser Center. The theme is “Love Yourself.” This will be a literary afternoon of poetry, book excerpts, play monologues and recitations that will all encompass self-care, self-esteem and the strength of Black women. If you are interested in taking part, please call 917-825-5686. Spirit Cruise Pre-Mothers’ Day Celebration – Back by popular demand, we will once again celebrate Mothers’ Day on a Gospel Luncheon Cruise on Saturday, May 12, for a delightful 2-hour cruise with a lunch buffet, DJ and dancing, skyline views on New York Harbor and great gospel music as well. Mother will be delighted! No last minute desperate arrangements for you! For just $80 per person, your preparations are complete. For more information, contact (718) 379-3788 or (347) 602-5600 or (917) 670-4012. Checks are payable to NCNW Co-op City Section and can be mailed to PO Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. No refunds, please. Bethune Height Recognition Program – Plans are underway for our 44th Annual Bethune Height Recognition Program that will take place on Saturday, May 19, at Russo’s On the Bay, 162-45 Cross Bay Boulevard, Howard Beach, NY. This is a celebration in which all NCNW sections in New York State come together to support and live the legacy of NCNW’s founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Dorothy I. Height, Chair/President Emerita, by contributing to the work for which they dedicated their lives. The luncheon will be from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. and will cost $100. The theme for this year’s BHRP is “National Council of Negro Women, Strong through Multi-Generational Commitment.” Social Media – Remember you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcity Bethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: www.ncnwco.opcity @gmail.com. —Joyce Howard

Open Door Ministries

Purpose in Your Heart Two close boyhood friends grow your holy mountain? 2 The one up and go their separate ways. One whose walk is blameless, who does becomes a humble monk; the other, a what is righteous, who speaks the rich and powerful minister to the king. truth from their heart; 3 whose tongue Years later they meet. As they catch utters no slander, who does no wrong up, the minister (in his fine robes) to a neighbor, and casts no slur on takes pity on the thin, shabbily others; 4 who despises a vile person dressed monk. Seeking to help, he but honors those who fear the Lord; says: “You know, if you could learn to who keeps an oath even when it hurts, cater to the King you wouldn’t have and does not change their mind; 5 to live on rice and beans,” to which who lends money to the poor without the monk replies, “If you could learn interest; who does not accept a bribe to live on rice and beans, you against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken. wouldn’t have to cater to the King.” Genesis 28:20 Then Jacob made a Though we do not hear much of it in this age of spineless religion, there vow, saying, “If God will be with me is, nevertheless, much in the Bible and will watch over me on this jourabout the place of moral determina- ney I am taking and will give me food tion in the service of the Lord. —A.W. to eat and clothes to wear 21 so that I Tozer return safely to my father’s household, Daniel 1:8 But Daniel purposed in then the Lord will be my God. Luke 9:51 As the time approached his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s del- for him to be taken up to heaven, icacies, nor with the wine which he Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. drank. 1 Corinthians 2:2 for I made the Psalm 15:1 Lord, who may dwell decision to know nothing, to forego in your sacred tent? Who may live on philosophical or theological discus-

sions regarding inconsequential things and opinions while among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified (and the meaning of His redemptive, substitutionary death and His resurrection). 1 We must decide to do God’s will 2 Honoring God can be costly 3 There is sacrifice and privilege involved in serving God 4 Not everyone understands and agrees with your service to God 5 We must determine if serving the Lord is worth the cost 6 Some things that are legitimate for others must be a loss for us 7 We should not be easily swayed with what the world offers Sunday Services are at 11 a.m. in Bartow Community Center, room 28. Open Door Ministries’ Therapeutic Mentoring Program offers free counseling. Contact Pastor Luis by text 917-334-4407 or email opendoorministries.net. Blessings in Christ. —Pastor Luis Ramos

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome. Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. On Wednesdays, there is a very short midday service starting promptly at noon. Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m. The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the 2nd Sunday of each month. We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 21, when we will celebrate The Third Sunday after the Epiphany. Our supply priest, Father Simeon Johnson, will be the preacher and celebrant. Members are reminded to complete and submit their Pledge Cards for 2018. These are now due in preparation of the budget for our Annual Meeting. Upcoming Events and More Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration took place on Monday, January 15 at the St. James’ Church (Fordham), 2500 Jerome Avenue in the Bronx. The Right Reverend Andrew M.L. Dietsche, Bishop of New York, presided at the service and The Right Reverend

Mary D. Glasspool, Assistant Bishop, gave a powerful and moving sermon celebrating the life and hopes of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It was indeed a beautiful service and St. Joseph’s Church was well represented. Bishop’s Visit: The Right Reverend Allen K. Shin will be visiting our church on Sunday, February 4. It is important that we all come out in support of our church to hear the message and updates from the bishop. In view of the Bishop’s visit, the next ECW Meeting will be held on February 11. The church’s Annual Meeting will be held after service on Sunday, January 28. Please make every effort to attend. Fundraising: 1) Members who have not yet collected their raffle tickets, please do so after the service. 2) Save the Date for St. Joseph’s Day Luncheon at Eastwood Manor in the Bronx on Saturday, May 26. Flyers are available and we are depending on our members to distribute them and spread the word. Ticket information appears on the bottom of the flyers. Outreach Program: Collection of non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms is ongoing. Please remember to donate. For additional information on all of the above, you should call the church at 718-320-0844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org. “Put your trust in him always, O people, pour out your hearts before him, for God is our refuge” –Psalm 62:9 —Merville Chambers

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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018 On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone, (718) 862-9172. Regular Church Schedule Sunday School – 9:00 a.m. Worship Service – 11:00 a.m. Communion Service – Every first and third Sundays Noon Day Prayer – Hour of Power – Wednesday at 12:00 noon Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. The Following Program Is At The Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) Neighborhood Bible Study — Thursday at 10:00 a.m.

Community Protestant Church Sunday School Is Now In Session Every Sunday At 9:00 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. 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: (718) 862-9172.

All Night Prayer Service At Community Protestant - All Are Welcome! Friday, January 26, 9:00 p.m., the Diaconate Ministry of Community Protestant Church invites you to come and celebrate the Goodness of God at our AllNight-Prayer Service. Come out and have one of the most spiritual experiences of your life as you fellowship with friends, family members and neighbors. This is a special worship experience in which everyone participates in praying, singing, scripture reading, inspirational reading, praise music and testimony. You may sign up on Sunday after service or by calling the church office (718) 862-9172. We look forward to the fellowship! The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing. —Evan G. Mitchell

The Circle of Christ Church family extends a warm welcome to you and your family, and invites you to come and worship with us at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level (located in the Dreiser Community Center). La familia de la Iglesia Circulo de Cristo les extiende una cálida invitación a usted y su familia para que vengan a alabar a Dios junto con nosotros. Nos encontramos en el 147 de Dreiser Loop, al nivel del patio (localizado en el centro Comunal de Dreiser). We are a multicultural church that embraces God’s love for all. Family unity is very important to us. We have a wonderful Children’s Ministry focused on learning God’s word. Our Youth Ministry is very active and dynamic. The youth are involved in music, retreats, concerts, debates, conferences, drama, counseling among many other activities. Somos una Iglesia multicultural que recibe y da del

Circle of Christ Church

creyeron. English services – Wednesday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Prayer & Bible Study. Friday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Youth Night Sunday, 11:00 a.m., Worship and the Word Children Church, 5 years old to 12 years old Little lamb nursery. Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m., Prayer and the Word Thursday, 5:00 p.m., Boys and Girls Club Horario de Servicios en Español Domingo, 9:00 a 10:30 a.m., Alabanzas y Predicación Jueves, 12:00 p.m., Oración y Estudio Bíblico Special Events Boys and Girls Club, every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. Boys and Girls Club is free. —Pastor Sam Colon

amor the Dios para todos. La unidad de la familia es muy importante para nosotros. Tenemos un ministerio para los jóvenes que es muy dinámico. Los jóvenes disfrutan de música, retiros, conciertos, debates, conferencias, dramas, consejería y mucho mas. We also have a food pantry for those in need in our community.Our phone number is 347-945-1992. In case there is no one in the office, please feel free to leave a message, we will call you back. Suplimos comida a aquellos en nuestra comunidad que lo necesitan. Nuestro teléfono es 347-9451992 de no haber nadie en la oficina sientancen libres de dejar un mensaje, le devolveremos su llamada. Thought for the week Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” —John 20:29 Reflexion para la semana Jesus les dijo, Bienaventurado los que no vieron y

Newsong Church

Reset the way you think! If you want your 2018 to be different, it’s time to change the way you think! Our thoughts have power. Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right!” The truth is, our thought life will determine the success of our life. We’re bombarded daily with negative thoughts about ourselves, about our life, and even about God. The truth is, God has a plan for us to walk in this year, but we cannot move forward with backward thinking. It’s time to trust that God’s plan for your life is better than your plan for your life. It’s time to see yourself through the lens of scripture and replace those negative thoughts that keep you locked up in the past, with positive thoughts that will move you into your destiny! The Apostle Paul says it like this… 8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. —Philippians 4:8 (NLT) What does that look like for a follower of Jesus? When we start to think thoughts like “my life is worthless” or “I’m always going to be alone,” we need to realize that’s not what God says about us, and fix our thoughts on the truth! “I’m not worthless, I’m valuable, so valuable in fact that God sent His Son Jesus to rescue me from death. Jesus bought me with His own blood!... “I’m not alone. My God has promised to never leave me or forsake me.” You may be saying that seems easy enough, but you don’t know my circumstances. You’re right I don’t, but I’m not sure they’re as bad as Paul’s circumstances when he wrote this. He was in prison for following Jesus, and sadly he would never leave. If anyone had a reason to be negative towards God, it would be Paul. Instead of concentrating on his cir-

cumstances he chose to fix his eyes on and trust in God’s perfect plan, knowing that for the child of God, the end of life here on earth is the beginning of our life with Him! If you’re a follower of Jesus, then the Holy Spirit of God lives inside of you! Fix your thoughts on God’s Word, stand on His amazing promises for your life, and take captive every thought that doesn’t align itself with what God says about you! It’s time to hit the reset button, and move forward in 2018! We invite you to join us this Sunday as we continue our teaching series “Return to Me.” This Sunday’s Schedule New Location: 135 Einstein Loop (room 45) Service Times: 10 a.m. & 12 p.m. Kidsong available at both services Deaf Interpretation available at 12 p.m. For more information about Newsong Church, our beliefs, or our ministries, please go to our website www.newsongchurchnyc.org. —Pastor Mike Tolone

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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

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Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Room 7 unless otherwise noted Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Word Games 9:30-11 a.m. 10:30 a.m. Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Orange juice Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Stay Well Exercise 10-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Beef meatballs in Color Your Stress Away 11 a.m., Rm. 4 Line Dancing 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Weight Management 10:00 a.m. Arroz con Pollo Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 tomato sauce Around The Lunch Table 11:30 a.m. Diabetes Support Group 1:00 p.m. – Last Arthritis Exercises 11 a.m.-noon Chicken breast & Spaghetti Word Search 11 a.m. -12 p.m. Monday of the month rice California blend vegBingo 1-2 p.m. Bereavement Counseling 1 p.m., Rm. 13 Bingo 1-3 p.m., Rm. 35 Baby spinach etables, Whole wheat Gentle Yoga 1:15-2:00 p.m., Rm. 2 Card Games 2-4 p.m. Diabetes Support Group, 2nd Mon bread, Applesauce Basic Cell Phone & iPad 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m. day - 1:00 p.m. Intermediate Yoga 2-3 p.m. Alt: Tuna salad Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Apple juice Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Chicken Francaise Walking Club: 10:30 a.m. Dominoes 10 a.m. Alert & Alive 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Brown rice BBQ Pork Chops Bingo: 12:30-2:00 p.m. (New) Computer Class – Rm. 13 Green beans & Braised collard Beginner 11:00 a.m. - noon Caregiver Support Group: 1:00 p.m., Matinee Movie 10 a.m., Rm. 45 tomatoes greens Cultural Dance 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Aud. B 1st and 3rd Tues. Whole wheat bread Sweet baked yams Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Karaoke by Steven 1-2 p.m., Rm. 45 Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Fresh fruit Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Dominoes: 2:30 p.m. Afternoon Movie 1 p.m. Alt: Egg salad Computer Class – Rm. 13; Beginner 10Blood Pressure: Every 1st and 3rd Walk Group 9:30 a.m., Rm. 40 Orange Pineapple 11 a.m.; Intermediate – 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Wednesday 9-10 a.m. Juice Only 6 seats available. Games 9:30-11 a.m. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Shepherd’s pie w/beef Hawaiian chicken Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 9:30-10:30 a.m. Line Dancing 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. & turkey legs Spelling Bee 10 a.m. Sewing 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Bingo 1-2 p.m. Tossed salad Baked potatoes Tai Chi 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. w/dressing Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Italian blend Mind Teasers 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Dominoes 2:30 p.m. Whole wheat bread Computer Lab vegetables African Brazilian Dance 1 p.m., Rm. 2 Smartphone Class Bartow Main office Fruit cocktail Art Class 1-3 p.m. Beginner – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Zumba 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Alt: Salmon salad Yoga 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 2 Intermediate 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Library 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dominos 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Orange juice Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Word Games 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Breaded sole of fish Baked Tilapia Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Grandparent Connection 1st Thurs., 9:30-10:30 a.m. Rm. 35 10:30am fillet, Yellow rice w/vegetables Spanish Class 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Blood Pressure 10-11:30 a.m. 1st & 3rd, Rm. 8 Bartow Main Office Arthritis Exercise 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Steamed kale Rice pilaf Line Dancing 10-11 a.m., Aud. A Chat Session 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole wheat bread Spelling Bee 11 a.m. Baby carrots Bingo 1-2 p.m. Piano Sing Along 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Fresh fruit w/parsley Word Search 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Drama Club 1:30-4:00 p.m. Alt: Baked turkey Karaoke by Steven 1 p.m., Rm. 45 Dominos 2:30 p.m. Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Men’s Line Dancing 9-10 a.m. Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Apple juice Art 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Word Games 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Spanish style beef Bingo 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Roasted chicken Women’s Line Dancing 10-11:30 a.m. 9:30-10, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. stew Card Games 2-4 p.m. Meditative Moments 11 a.m.–12 p.m., Garlic & rosemary Chat Session 10 a.m. Pokeno 2-4 p.m., Rm. 35 White rice Rm. 8 Piano Sing-along 11 a.m.-12 p.m. roasted potatoes Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Fri. 10- Pokeno 3rd Fri., 1-2:30 p.m. green Steamed Bingo 1-2 p.m. 11:30 a.m., Rm. 45 Challah bread Bingo 1-3 p.m. beans Card Games 2-4 p.m. (New) Free Oil Painting Classes Rm. Card Games, Dominoes 2-4 p.m. Alt: Gefilte Fish Dominoes 2:30 p.m. 38, 10:00 -11:30 a.m.

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Fri., Jan. 26

Thu., Jan. 25

Wed., Jan. 24

Tues., Jan. 23

Mon., Jan. 22

Kosher

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066

(Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. – 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! All trips must be paid in advance – JASA will not accept checks under $5. (FREE) LiveOn NY-SCRIE/SNAP (Food Stamps) Assistance – Fri., Jan. 26th & Feb. 9th, 23rd; 9 a.m. – 2 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 Notary change for 2018 in Dreiser Loop – Jeannette Graves will be available every Thursday at 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 13 for the months of January, February & March, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. NEW Computer Class at Dreiser – Every Tuesday, there will be a computer course for beginners, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 13. To sign-up for the class, please call the Dreiser office, 718-320-1345 (only 6 seats are available). Ridgehill – Wed., Jan. 24th, $7. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. St. Mary’s Pool – Fri., Jan. 26th, Mon., Jan. 29th, Fri., Feb. 9th; $3. Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m.12 p.m. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m. There is a $25 yearly fee to use the

Non-Kosher

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

facility, which can be paid at the pool by check or money order. NEW – Exercise class S.A.I.L. (Stay Active and Independent For Life), starts Wed., Jan. 24th, 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 2. This class will be held every Wed. and Fri. for 12 weeks. New Every Tuesday – Health and Wellness Support Group starts Tues., Feb. 6th. Einstein Center, rm. 49, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Every Wed., Bartow Center, rm. 31, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., starts Wed., Feb. 7th. Game Day – Saturday, Feb. 24th, Einstein Center, rm. 49. Dominoes, Cards, Bingo. Lunch: NonKosher Menu – baked chicken, macaroni and cheese, sautéed string beans. Kosher Menu by request only. $2. Guest $5. Call Einstein Center, 718-671-5161. Aldi – Thurs., Jan. 25th; $2. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Mohegan Sun – Sat., March 24th, $40. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8 a.m.; Dreiser Loop, 8:15 a.m. & Einstein Loop, 8:30 a.m. Arrive: 11 a.m. Depart: 5 p.m. Bonus package is $15 bet & $10 for food. Refreshments will be served on the bus. Final payment due no later than Fri., March 10th. Empire Casino – Tues., Jan. 30th, $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Wal-Mart – Thurs., Feb. 1st, $15. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m. Stew Leonard’s – Fri., Feb. 2nd, $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Fairway – Mon., Feb. 5th, $3. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Empire Casino – Tues., Feb. 6th, $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Central Avenue – Christmas Tree Store, Trader Joe’s & Amazing Savings, Thurs., Feb. 8th, $13. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. “Jesus” at the Sight & Sound Theater – Thurs., April 26th, $130. Refreshments will be provided. Deluxe Motor Coach transportation. Enjoy a delicious family-style luncheon at the Good & Plenty Restaurant from 1–2 p.m. Show starts at 3 p.m. Depart from destination at 5:30 p.m. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser Loop, 9 a.m. & Einstein Loop, 9:15 a.m. Fifty seats available. Final payment due no later than Fri., March 24th.

Please remember to curb your dog!


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Scheduling Activities Calendar

Goose Island Seniors

Valentine Party — February 7th at 1:30 p.m., with Stephen, in our club room #39. Members only $3 donation. Bring your spouse, bring your lover, bring your BFF, no dogs or cats allowed. It’s a cover dish party, so if you want to cook something feel free. The food you brought to the swearing-in was great, thank you so much. Bingo — Wednesday, January 24th, 1:30 p.m., with Stephen in our club room #39. Members only. (One time non-member guest visit is allowed). Admission, $5 for 3 cards, 12 games and jackpot. Extra cards are 25¢ each. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Sunday Bingo is on January 28th this month. All are welcome. Bring your daubers. Movie Time — Tuesday, January 23rd at 1 p.m. Feature movie: “Temple Grandin,” a brilliant young Autistic woman. Two hrs. Members only. ($1 is collected for refreshments and snacks). No Game Day. Resorts Casino — Thursday, February 15th, in Atlantic City, N.J. Price is $35. Rebate $20 for play, $5 toward food. Time change: 8:30 a.m. at our three usual bus stops. Passengers will stay inside your center hallway to keep warm until called to board bus. If bus company cancels, a full refund to another casino trip will be given. There are still seats left. See Ann or Stephen. Office hours at end of article. Game Days — Tuesdays and Thursdays, our club room is set up for Dominoes, Spades, UNO, Kalooki and Mahjong from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

($1 is collected for refreshments). Cell phone Instruction — Cell phone and computer questions and answers are available to our members every Wednesday at 4 p.m. after Bingo. Sister Act — Friday, June 15, at the Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford, NY. Come and enjoy a delicious lunch and a terrific show. Price $79. See Ann or Stephen. To all members: Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to all members who celebrate their day in the month of January: Edythe Rosenberg, Linda Drax-Werner and Toby Landau. Our Lounge — Come sit and relax, read. a book from our large library, play Dominoes, Mahjong or Cards every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. ($1 is collected for refreshments and snacks). Play Bingo every Wednesday and last Sunday of each month for only $15 per year. Also, come with us on wonderful trips. Membership dues are for indoor club room activities only, except Sunday Bingo. Note: Call Ann, or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors 718-379-9613 or visit Ann, Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39. Visit or call Stephen in room 39, every Mon. & Fri. from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., Tue. & Thurs., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Wed., 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. or 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Call Stephen at 347-847-1941. Good health to all. —Stephen Roberts Sr.

FYI: AARP is thrilled that Gov. Cuomo is holding true to his commitment to making New York the first “age-friendly” state in the nation. Agency goals will be aligned with that of the AARP-World Health Organization’s Age-Friendly Network—of which New York last year committed to become the first state. Heartfelt condolences to Evelyn Mavins on the loss of her sister in Maryland. Get-well wishes to Agatha Edwards and Gladys S. Williams. Good & Welfare: Please contact our Good & 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. 2018 Tour Activities April 10, 2018-April 11, 2018: Sight & Sound Theatre & Sands Casino – Motorcoach trip to Sands Casino with casino bonus and shopping; next day (after breakfast) to Sight & Sound spectacular production of “Jesus” to experience the greatest rescue story of all time (reserved seating); dinner & breakfast coupons. $309/person - Double; $395 – Single; $295/person Triple; $50/per person Deposit + optional Travel Protection; $34/per person due A.S.A.P.; Final payment due February 23. Contact Judith, 718-3793370. May 14-19, 2018: Windsor, Ontario (Canada) – C A N C E L L E D. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370. July 21, 2018: Nordic Lodge & Foxwoods Casino – All-You-Can-Eat lobster buffet; 4-hour stay at Foxwoods Casino; deluxe Motorcoach transportation. $170. $50 deposit due A.S.A.P.; balance due JUNE 1. Contact 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 O (Dreiser Community Center) is opened Monday or Thursday, noon – 3 p.m. for checks to be dropped off (in an envelope w/Group/Trip Leader name). They may be mailed to the Group/Trip Leader. —Delores Debnam

AARP Chapter #4997

Co-op City Toastmasters Club

At CCTM, individuals can work on acquiring new leadership and communication skills while honing various aspect of their presentation repertoire. Your skills and confidence are developed and improved that are highly valued in the workplace. And did you know that Co-op City Toastmasters Club offers an avenue for recognition? Our members gain recognition through individualized club projects and speech competitions at home and around the world. Toastmasters is in over 100 countries globally. Each year, two competitions are held beginning at the club level, advancing to the area level, to the division level, the district level and finally the International Level where the World Champion of Public Speaking (WCPS) is crowned. Imagine you on the grand stage as a contestant and winner. It can happen if you prepare. We are embarking on the first contest season in 2018. Come to a meeting and get involved and learn how Coop City toastmasters can help you grow and be recognized. There’s more. This year, we will be working with members of The Quill, a writing group here in our community. If you like to practice your writing skills, then come and meet members of The Quill. Both programs are self-paced and easy to follow. CCTM meets the first and third Thursday of each month. Meetings in February are scheduled for Feb. 1st and Feb. 15th. Mark your calendar now so that you don’t miss these fun and life changing meetings. You may call 718-344-6719 or go to www.toastmasters46.org for more information. —Marietta C. Phoenix


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Traditional Synagogue

General Information: The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of Building 27B. Phone # 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message. The synagogue has Services Saturday morning starting at 9 a.m. Try your best to come to services during the Winter months. After services, we always have a nice kiddush. Our services are open to all Jewish men and women in Co-op City. The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue. Rabbi Kronengold will be conducting Services every Saturday. Start Off 2018 On The Right Foot The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Section 5 and other parts of Co-op City who don’t come to service. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah. Our synagogue has a casual atmosphere, no suits are required. Come on down for about two hours, this will be a mitzvah, you’ll feel better. Give us a chance to proof ourselves. Sabbaths ends on Saturday, January 20, at 5:44 p.m. Candle lighting for Friday, January 26, at 4:48 p.m. January 31 is Tu B’Hevat which is Jewish Arbor Day. Save The Date: Thursday, March 1, we will celebrate the Purim Holiday. The rabbi will read the Book of Esther (The Megilla) at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Purim party, 50/50 raffle and mini Bingo. More details to follow. For a reservation, call the Synagogue at 718-379-6920. Good & 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 a donation to the synagogue. Sending birthday wishes to Ira Herschaft, Saul Weber, Edith Rosenberg, Joan Brown and Toby Landau. Fun and Games: After services and kiddush, some men and women play Rummy Cube game. Your support of the Traditional Synagogue, and Men’s Club is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health, and a happy holiday season. —Gary Schwartz

Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue Try your luck with the Men’s Club

Our first trip of the year is Sunday, March 18, to the Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. The cost of the trip is $35 per person. You will receive $25 slot play. Shop at the outlets, enjoy the sights, food and have a good time. ALL MEN and WOMEN over 21 years old can attend our trips and functions. You need a Resorts Casino card or a government ID, passport, non or driver’s license to receive the bonus. On the bus, we provide a drink, snacks, play Bingo, 50/50 raffle and show a recent movie. We keep you entertained; the trip goes fast to Atlantic City. The bus stops by all three shopping centers going and returning. This trip, we will be leaving Einstein Loop at 8:00 a.m. by the supermarket; Asch Loop, 8:15 a.m. by the library, and Dreiser Loop by 8:25 a.m. For a reservation, call Gary at 718-671-8424 or Bruce 718-320-2234. Please make out check, money order or cash to Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place, Lobby, Building 27B, Bronx, New York 10475. Hope to see you on the trip. Your support of the Men’s Club is greatly appreciated. Wishing everyone peace and good health. —Gary Schwartz

Evangelical Church of Co-op City – UMC Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds

Come & Visit Us – We welcome you to God’s House – Your House – One Family in Christ. We are a congregation with spirit-filled worship, offering a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and bilingual congregation and all are welcome. Services are at the church at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across the street from Building 30. Parking is available. Our phone number is (718) 320-3795, and leave a message if there is no answer. Sunday Services – Come and receive a blessing The first Sunday of the month is a bilingual service with communion at 10 a.m. Each Sunday, the English Service is at 10 a.m. and the Spanish Service is at 12:30 p.m. Children: Sunday School time will be at 10:30 a.m. Bring your children, they will have a great time while learning God’s word. Sunday morning Bible Study for adults at 8:45 a.m. Prayer Night (English) & Prayer/Bible Study Afternoon (Spanish) The Lord said, “Whenever two or more are gathered in my name, I am in the midst of them.” –Matthew 18:20. Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday mornings at noon to 1 p.m. Come and bring your prayer needs so we can pray together. Remember that prayer brings many blessings which God has promised to all his children who have a personal relationship with Him. Friday Family Night: starts at 7:30 p.m. Come and enjoy the different groups for parents, young adults, teens and children. Learn the Bible and also other activities. It’s a fun time for all. “Jesus” in Lancaster Pa.: Sorry the trip is all sold out. But keep your eyes on the paper for future trips. God Bless. —Barbara Penn

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to attend worship service at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx N.Y. 10475, 718-324-0334. Sundays: Sunday School for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Midday Worship. Service starts at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday: Prayer and fasting service every Wednesday morning at 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Bible Study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m. Effective Fervent Prayers change things. Come and experience the power of Biblical prayer. God’s power is released through His Word. Come and study the word of God; it can change your life. Friday: Youth service will start at 7:30 p.m. Focus: God has an eternal desire for fellowship with humans and has ordained fellowship among believers. After God created Adam and Eve, the first human community, making fellowship possible. He demonstrated His interest in entering that community by visiting their home, the Garden of Eden. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, “Where art thou?” –Genesis 3:8-9 This event revealed God’s desire to fellowship with people under normal circumstances. God visited the Garden of Eden regularly to be with Adam and Eve, however, one day when God went on his routine visit to be with them, they heard His voice and hid themselves from his presence. God called and said, “Where art thou?” He responded by saying I heard thy voice in the garden, and was afraid because I was naked, and hid myself. Although it is impossible to hide from God, Adam and Eve attempted to do so not realizing that His eyes are watching us every day. However, in spite of their sin, God did not abandon Adam and Eve after they disobeyed Him and ate from the tree that He told them not to touch. Instead, He made coats of skins and conversed them and discussed the consequences of their sin, and announced an arrangement that would result in the possibility of full reconciliation between people and God. And I will put enmity between thee and the women, and between thy seed and her seed, it shall bruise thy head, and thou shall bruise his heel. To have sweet fellowship with God, we must walk in the light. 1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. The Intensity of God’s desire to fellowship with people is demonstrated by his willingness to give His only begotten Son to make reconciliation possible between humans and Himself. Hebrews 10:25 says: We should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. —Rev. R. Sibblies


Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

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 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 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. And, be sure to extend your worship with us today and every Saturday, 4 – 5 p.m. on Principle Centered Living Radio, redeemradiofm.com. Also, learn more about our Pastor and the principles of our church, while enjoying a laugh or two on Facebook (Principle Centered Living with Rev. Sheldon Williams). Please “Like” the page and share the posts. Only those who “LIKE” the page will qualify for upcoming contests and rewards. Join us for a midweek spiritual pick-up at our midweek worship service held on Wednesdays at noon. Bible Study classes are held on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Bible Class will also be held on Wednesday, January 31 at 5:00 p.m. Prayer service is held on Fridays at noon. Prayer Service is also held on Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us from the comfort of their home for an hour of prayer. Making use of available technology, Friday evening prayer service is held using a conference call line. On Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m., you can call 563-999-2090; when asked for the PIN, enter 660065 and you will be connected. On Sunday, January 28, we will have the Installation of Officers during our 11 a.m. service. Rev Larry Washington, pastor of Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church, will be the guest speaker. We invite all to attend. Reply Actions 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 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 over 45 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian love. All are welcome. Order of Services Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Adult and Youth Sunday School: 9:45 – 10:45 a.m. Mid-day Bible Study: Tuesdays, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Youth Ministry: Fridays, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Upcoming Events • It is cold outside!!!!! Come and warm up at the Church of New Vision’s Family Game Night on Friday, January 19, from 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. You will certainly have a night of fun as we have fellowship with each other. Some games will be provided, however, feel free to bring your own favorite board games. Light snacks will be provided. For further Information, contact Sis. Loretta Scott at 718-671-2623 or Sis. Dominique Hodge at 475-225-1878. • Cruise with us in 2018, July 20th to July 27th on the Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Sea. Going to Port Canaveral, Fl., Cococay, Bahamas, and Nassau, Bahamas. Interior $1,025 - Ocean View $1,175 - Balcony $1,320. NOTE: $500 for all staterooms is due January 21. Entire balance is due by April 1, 2018 (price Includes taxes, fees and transportation to/from cruise ship in NJ). Gratuities not included, can be charged to your stateroom upon checkin. No refunds after January 21, 2018. For additional information, please contact Sadie James at 718-652-8943 or Hermena Smith at 917-974-9282 • Sunday, January 28th the Youth Ministry is sponsoring a Breakfast Sale, 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., donation $10. • My Body, God’s Temple Women’s Conference: Saturday, February 10, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. You are invited to join us for a day of sisterhood, fellowship and workshops to include Alzheimer and nutrition awareness, a low impact exercise session along with a nutritious lunch. We encourage ALL women of all ages and physical shape to join us. Please wear comfortable active wear for a blessed and fun event you don’t want to miss. Donation $20. For tickets and further information, kindly contact Sis. L. Scott at 718-671-2623. Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: (718) 671-8746 or (203) 374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 75303, Bronx, NY 10475. Visit our Facebook page: Church of the New Vision concerning upcoming events and trips, or call the church. —Sis. Carol Haque

Church of the New Vision

If you have news to share with your neighbors, please let us know at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375/6; email: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or fax (718) 320-2595.

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Co-op City Seventh-day Adventist Church Last week, we looked at the name of ‘Jesus’ in the books of the New Testament used over 973 times. We mentioned that the name “Jesus” is derived from Jehoshua (pronounced yeh-ho-shoo’-ah) and that it contains the promise that Jehovah-saved. However, we call up our Lord and Savior we should pray often. The self-existent eternal God gave us His name to call upon so that we may be continually blessed as we speak and meditate on Him. Consider His name, The Lord — (the) self-Existent or eternal; Jehovah. A name of honor, authority, character. Cast it in your mind, charge it to all your accounts, commit your life upon it, consider His name as the reason for life, convey His name to all who encounter you. Be determined to let no other name stand above His name in your confidence. Because He is our Shepherd as in the Psalms, we shall not want for those things that help to sustain life. When we are not sure what we need and what is our want, he is our Wisdom in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. When the cares of life are just simply too much, and we feel we can’t carry on He is our Burden bearer in Amos. Best of all He is our Savior in Obadiah. Also called deliverer, redeemer and rescuer. He is the Jesus, Savior, who pilot me, Over life’s tempestuous sea; Unknown waves before me roll, Hiding rock and treacherous shoal. Chart and compass come from Thee; Jesus, Savior, pilot me. When I lose sight of my way and seem to think I can do it on my own He is the Watchman in Habakkuk that is ever praying for a revival in my soul. And in Zephaniah He is mighty to save. In Mark He is a Miracle worker, the one of whom Matthew said, “Thou art the Christ, Son of the Living God.” The Hope I have is in His soon return as told to me by 1st and 2nd Thessalonians. Jude lets me know just how big his coming will be. He will be with 10,000 saints. And if I needed a bit more assurance to know just whom I have believed because: I know not why God’s wondrous grace to me He hath made known, nor why, unworthy, Christ in love Redeemed me for His own. But I know Whom I have believed, And am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I’ve committed Unto Him against that day. Conclusion: With us (is) God; Emmanuel Services and Community Outreach Wednesdays — Midafternoon Prayer Service, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday — Food Pantry every 1st and 3rd, 4:30 – 6 p.m. Wednesday — Prayer meeting, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Saturday — Sabbath School, 9:15 a.m. Saturday — Divine Worship, 11:00 a.m. Saturday — Adventist Youth Program, 2:30 p.m. Saturday—Bible Study, 4:30 p.m. The Co-op City Seventh-day Adventist Church is located at 1010 Baychester Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; http://coopcity22.adventistchurchconnect.org/ —Cheryl C. Silvera

In the name of Jesus – His promises Part 2


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Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

Resolutions

(Continued from page 18)

Opportunities

(Continued from page 7)

Second Reading #18-01 SUBMITTED BY: Leah Richardson SECONDED BY: Leslie Peterson BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: January 17, 2018

WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Commercial General Liability Insurance Policy and the three Excess (Umbrella) Liability Policies all expire 1/31/18; and WHEREAS, the expiring General Liability Policy ($1 Million per occurrence/$2 Million aggregate) was with Scottsdale Insurance Company for a premium of $637,630 and the Excess (Umbrella) Liability policies totaling $50 Million per occurrence/$50 Million aggregate was a layered program among the following three insurances carriers: 1) Allied World Assurance Company (Primary $10 Million coverage – $255,025 premium) 2) Liberty Insurance Underwriters Inc. ($15 Million excess of $10 Million coverage – $55,500 premium) 3) Navigators Insurance Company ($25 Million excess of $25 Million coverage – $38,250 premium) The total combined expiring General Liability and Excess (Umbrella) Liabilities premium was $986,405. WHEREAS, the Director of Risk Management, through York International, Riverbay’s General Liability & Excess (Umbrella) Liability insurance broker, recommends placing the Commercial General Liability and Umbrella Insurance Policies with the same carriers noted above with one exception – Zurich Insurance Company replacing Allied World Assurance Company for the Primary $10 Million Excess (Umbrella) Liability layer – for a total combined premium of $1,061,341, a 7.60% increase, for the policy period 1/31/18 to 1/31/19. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Commercial General Liability Insurance Policy ($1 Million per occurrence/$2 Million aggregate) with Scottsdale Insurance Company for an annual renewal premium of $701,610 and the Excess (Umbrella) Liability policies totaling $50 Million per occurrence / $50 Million aggregate remain a layered program with the following insurance carriers: 1) Zurich Insurance Company (Primary $10 Million coverage – $265,731 premium) 2) Liberty Insurance Underwriters Inc. ($15 Million excess of $10 Million coverage – $55,500 premium) 3) Navigators Insurance Company ($25 Million excess of $25 Million coverage – $38,500 premium) BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately. YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Sampson, Saunders, Williams ABSENT: Jenkins, Turner PASSED

Public Safety

(Continued from page 7)

www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained. Co-op City is a diverse community with people of all ages, abilities and characteristics. All persons should remember to respect each other and embrace their differences. Don’t forget to say “hello” to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street. Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. As Stevie Wonder said at the Grammys, “We need to make every single thing accessible to every single person with a disability.”

Elevator Shutdown Building # 27A - Car # 2

We have encountered an unforeseen mechanical breakdown to elevator # 2 which requires that the car be removed from service. The elevator hoist cable has to be removed and replaced. However, in order for this repair to be done, we must first obtain a permit from the NYC Department of Buildings. We therefore anticipate that the elevator will be out of service for the next two weeks. If there are any changes, we will update you. Please know that every effort will be made to restore your elevator service as soon as possible. We apologize for any inconveniences caused, and thank you for your patience and understanding. —Riverbay Management

Painter/Plasterer — Restoration Dept.


27

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

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THIS DAY IN HISTORY January 20, 2009 Barack Obama Is Inaugurated

On a freezing day in Washington, D.C., Barack Hussein Obama is sworn in as the 44th U.S. president. The son of a black father from Kenya and a white mother from Kansas, Obama had become the first African American to win election to the nation’s highest office the previous November. As the junior U.S. senator from Illinois, he won a tight Democratic primary battle over Senator Hillary Clinton of New York before triumphing over Arizona Senator John McCain, the Republican candidate, in the general election. Against a backdrop of the nation’s devastating economic collapse during the start of the Great Recession, Obama’s message of hope and optimism—as embodied by his campaign slogan, “Yes We Can”—struck an inspirational chord with a nation seeking change. As Inauguration Day dawned, crowds of people thronged the National Mall, stretching from the Capitol Building to beyond the Washington Monument. According to an official estimate made later by the District of Columbia, some 1.8 million people witnessed Obama’s inauguration, surpassing the previous record of 1.2 million, set by the inaugural crowd of Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965. The ceremonies ran behind schedule, and it wasn’t until just before noon that Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. administered the presidential oath of office to the president-elect. While being sworn in, Obama placed his hand on a Bible held by his wife, Michelle—the same Bible used by President Abraham Lincoln at his first inaugural. Obama opened his inaugural address, which lasted 20 minutes, by recognizing the challenges facing the nation at the outset of his administration—the worsening economic crisis, ongoing war against radical extremism and terrorism, costly health care, failing schools and a general loss of confidence in America’s promise. In the face of these obstacles, he offered a message of cautious yet confident optimism. “The challenges we face are real,” Obama declared. “They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America, they will be met.” Obama referred only briefly to the historic nature of his presidency in his speech, saying near the end that part of America’s greatness was the fact that “a man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.” Instead, he emphasized the theme of civic responsibility that another youthful Democratic president—John F. Kennedy—used to such great effect nearly 50 years earlier, calling on the American people to embrace the challenges they faced in such a difficult period: “What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility, a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize grandly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task. That is the price and promise of citizenship.” After the inauguration, Obama attended the traditional inaugural luncheon in Statuary Hall, the original chamber of the House of Representatives. He and Michelle then traveled down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House as part of the 15,000-person inaugural parade, and would attend 10 official inaugural balls that evening. History.com Sources: “Obama is Sworn In as the 44th President,” NewYork Times, January 20, 2009. • President Barack Obama’s Inaugural Address, Obama White House Archives. • “How Many Attended Obama’s Second Inauguration?” CBS News, January 21, 2013. • “Obama’s First Inaugural: A Look Back at the 2009 Celebration in Photos,” The Atlantic, January 18, 2013.


28

Co-op City Times / January 20, 2018

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