Co-op City Times 01/21/2023

Vol.

Community Retirement Celebration for Riverbay

GM Noel Ellison

Friday, Jan. 27, 12 – 3 p.m.

ment celebration will be held on Friday, Jan. 27, 2023 at to attend and wish Mr. Ellison well.

Dear Fellow Shareholders,

Last Friday, January 13, we had the graduation ceremony for 24 Co-op City Public

Dreiser Auditorium sworn in as NY City/NY cial as it allowed family members and friends to attend since the pandemic. We were able to

cer to learn the many facets of policing in our community.

hood. Establishing relationships with the community not only enhances their ability

of conditions in certain areas, but it also allows relationship.

Many shareholders are concerned about the

(Continued on page 2)

CCPD Graduates 24 New Officers

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Co-op City’s 2023 class of the Department of Public Safety held graduation exercises on Friday, Jan. 13, in the Dreiser Auditorium at 10 a.m. They were joined by family and friends to celebrate their accomplishments. ceremony Lieutenant Shelda Williams of sion. CCPD Chaplain, E. Owens, opened the morning’s exercises

gathered at a local restaurant to celebrate Mr. Ellison’s ers. (See Jan. 14, 2023 Co-op City Times for coverage.) ment and presented him with a Citation. ing into Co-op City means that the fruits of your labor

Vehicle Advertising Cannabis Products Removed from Co-op City Streets

BY ROZAAN BOONE

ers and Board members community of the situation wherein, initially,

Shareholder Ruth Sharma initially brought (Continued on page 3)

(Continued on page 4)

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Holds Townhall today in Dreiser

Congresswoman Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez is holding a Townhall meeting in Co-op City today, Saturday, Jan. 21, 3-4 p.m. in Dreiser Auditorium C to hear from constituents. Doors will open at 2 p.m. To register, scan the QR code. To

on Twitter, Facebook or YouTube. Spanish, ASL transla-

Townhall Meeting with Schools

Chancellor David Banks

Corporation will host NYC Schools Chancellor day, Jan. 26, 6-7 p.m. in Room 31 of the Bartow more information, email com

Sonia Feliciano

President’s Report

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson presents a Citation to Noel Ellison at a retirement celebration held on Thursday, Jan. 12.

Photo by Rozaan Boone

Twenty-four new recruits graduated last Friday and are now patroling the development alongside veteran members of the Co-op City Public Safety Department as their training continues.

Photo by P.M. Campbell

Co-op City Times

COMBING

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

Free Covid-19 Vaccine Clinic

Church of the New Vision is partnering with “Amen Ministries, Inc. Blueprint for Wellness,” to host a Covid-19 Vaccine Clinic on Saturday, Jan. 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 115 Einstein Loop North, Bronx, NY. In addition to cines for ages 12 and above, boostpatient education and much more will be available.

Appointments are not required, walk-in’s welcome. Registration is required at registration.empass. com/registration, or scan the QR code here.

For more information, contact Church of New Vision at (718) 671-671-2623, or info@churchnewvisionbx.org.

Baychester Library closed for renovations

Baychester Library is currently closed for renovations. “Holds” can be picked up at the Eastchester Library, 1385 E. Gun Hill Rd., Bronx, N.Y. The library is expected to reopen in February. To locate other NYPL branches, visit: nypl.org/locations.

Test & Treat Mobile Van in Co-op City

NYC Test & Treat Corps’ Mobile Test to Treat unit is available daily on a rotating schedule at the three shopping centers, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. as follows next week:

Mon., Tues.: 135 Einstein Loop Wed./Thurs.: 2049 Bartow Ave. Fri./Sat./Sun.: 177 Dreiser Loop. Locations are approximate depending on parking availability.

The mobile van offers PCR, Rapid, Flu and RSV testing.

Anyone who tests positive at the van can speak with an onsite clinician, and, if eligible, receive free Paxlovid anti-viral medication.

Appointments not required. Bring ID and insurance card, if available. Insurance is not necessary; service is open to everyone.

Vehicle ––– (Continued from page 1)

the situation to the attention of Riverbay Board directors several months ago. Her interaction with the state OCM

parked in front of HSBC bank on Bartow Avenue and Asch Loop advertising cannabis products. She said she immediately emailed Board members to advise them of the vehicle’s presence in the community and to urge action to get the vehicle removed. However, within a few weeks, Ms. Sharma said the trailer left on its own.

“These products that they are peddling, we don’t know what that is,” said Ms. Sharma. “We are concerned because they are evidently marketing these types of products to young people whose minds are still developing and they don’t need to alter their consciousness with something we don’t even know what it is… That’s what my concern is. It’s really for these young folks.”

In mid-September, Ms. Sharma reported a second vehicle parked at Bartow and Ely Avenues. In this instance, the vehicle had commercial advertising using a character from The Simpsons. Ms. Sharma contacted OCM and began corresponding with an investigator.

“Eventually, I noticed that the vehicle was painted in a different color and they moved it to the opposite side of the street on Bartow Avenue between Ely and Grace Avenues,” said Ms. Sharma. “That vehicle is still there and they are still in operation.”

Ms. Sharma noted that subsequent to that, in early December, she saw a third vehicle, labeled with the name of a business registered in Clermont, Florida, parked in front of Sangria Café in Co-op City. “I took photographs of it and I

our Board members to let them know we have to do something about this, we can’t wait because we may see a proliferation of vehicles in our community which is what we do not want,” she said.

During this time, Ms. Sharma said she did quite a bit of

information to Director Saunders who informed Assemblyman Michael Benedetto of the situation and requested his help.

Assemblyman Benedetto contacted Capt. Johnny A. Orellana of the 45th Precinct and informed him of the community’s concerns about the vehicle(s) and products being advertised and possibly sold in Co-op City’s residential community.

“He [Capt. Orellana] told me he was aware of it and monitoring the situation,” said Assemblyman Benedetto. “At that particular point in time in the police department, there may have been some uncertainty on how they would proceed with these vans and shops in communities selling cannabis products. Since then, they have been trying to crack down on these entities and they have been watching the van in Co-op City.”

Assemblyman Benedetto said that he learned from the NYPD that persons operating the vehicle produced a valid license to sell hemp products, not marijuana.

Hemp and marijuana are the same plant species of different varieties. Generally, industrial hemp, used to produce a variety of industrial and consumer products, contains less than .3% of delta-9 tetra-hydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes the user to feel “high.” Marijuana, on the other hand, typically contains 3-15% of THC. These products are regulated and can cause adverse health effects if not manufactured according to established standards and/or used properly.

“I am told they had a valid New York State license but it allows them only to sell hemp products. The police will continue to monitor these conditions,” said Assemblyman Benedetto. “They are aware of the situation, they are trying to make sure everything is being done legally.”

Appearing on CBS-2 News New York on Jan. 4, 2023, NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell addressed the topic of illegal dispensaries of marijuana across the city. She said: “We took a number of – we call them weed trucks – off the streets in the city; we just take those because it’s unlicensed vending; we just take them off the street. We are addressing the stores as well … which is a problem. …We recognize that we have to have the law catch up to what we’re doing so we’re able to enforce the sale of marijuana.”

Matt Cruz, District Manager of Community Board 10, pointed out that cannabis products can only be sold from a

physical address.

“There is no dispensing or sale of cannabis products unless the vendor has a license from OCM and such sale is from a physical building,” said Mr. Cruz. “Currently, there are only two such locations, both of which are in Manhattan. There are no licenses being issued for mobile sale of cannabis at this time. These products are not safe if not bought from a properly licensed vendor. I encourage community residents to report any such activity immediately to NYPD.”

District Manager Cruz further explained that a Notice to where the vendor intends to conduct business.

“Community Board 10 has the opportunity to review and so the matter will come to the community board before a license is issued,” said Mr. Cruz. “I can report that so far no one has applied to us for an application for siting of a cannaone about a public hearing and review.”

Mr. Cruz said that at some point, there will have to be a closer look at more zoning regulations regarding manufacturing and sale of cannabis in local communities, but in the meantime, he credits OCM for their outreach and education efforts and local authorities for working together to address what is a developing situation since recreational marijuana use was legalized in New York in 2021.

Last Thursday, Jan. 12, OCM informed Director Saunders that the vehicle towed from in front of Sangria the previous night was issued a cease and desist by OCM’s enforcement unit and products were seized. The vehicle was towed by NYPD for violating a parking regulation.

That vehicle, according to Councilman Riley, is one of three trucks being operated by the same vendor in the coun-

tigating pop-up storefronts selling marijuana throughout the city. The councilman and his staff have been working closely with the task force to address the illegal trucks in the 12th Council District, and while it may seem like it is taking an extraordinary amount of time to get the trucks removed, the councilman noted that there are many logistical technicalities being sorted out as the city and state work on enforcement, especially with more and more trucks showing up in communities throughout the city.

“With roll out of any new legislation, there is a process,” said Councilman Riley. “These vans have been slipping under the radar so now that they are becoming more prevalent, the conversation now is how do we address.”

Last April, Councilmember Riley submitted a bill to ness Services on the city level to monitor implementation of New York State’s cannabis regulations, and assist with social and economic equity goals, among other initiatives. Intro. 0285-2022 has the support of 21 other Council members. The bill is laid over in the Council’s Committee on Economic Development.

ing up research and preparation for new legislation to regulate cannabis-selling vehicles focused primarily on zoning to ensure safe sale in communities.

“This new legislation will regulate where these trucks can actually park, where they can provide service; how close to a residential community, school, if allowed; as well as hours of operation,” said Councilmember Riley. “It will, in essence, mimic the city’s liquor regulations, so there will be rules about who they can sell to, ID requirement, hours of operation, and so forth. Right now, there is no law that says it is illegal for them to operate so once it is put into legislation, it will be easier to hold these operators accountable as opposed to the current state which is to enforce violations of city ordinances.”

Ms. Sharma said: “The community needs to know that we don’t have to tolerate this in our community. Just because we see this in other parts of the city and we see the proliferation of it, we don’t have to accept that. We have a template now of how to deal with it, we have to complain about them, we have to get our political leadership involved and get the Board involved to see some immediate changes.”

CCPD Grads ––– (Continued

from page 1)

13th as a “day of promise,” which includes “the promise of home… of peace,service to shareholders. “We are fortunate,” she said,Safety, which is to “provide the highest level of professional service.”ates to integrate into the lives of residents. Noting that work for them, and you’re here to keep them safe in to the residents.”nisced on his time shared in the classroom with theindividual, Mr. Ellison added: “As you know, I’m praised the graduates’ dynamic as a team, and congratulated them on their enMr. Ellison concluded: “…Stay safe, make me proud. I’m sorry that this is the in action.”

citation, which the recruits did indeed learn during their training, Lt. Williams explained that in this instance, she is referring to courtesy, professionalism and new recruits had undertaken during the course of their 16-week training, in---

he also gave us a weapon. A weapon of knowledge of understanding, that we -

spect [for] this position and especially for this commu-

--

ates that “[w]e expect so much of you as individualspractice our motto [of] pride, professionalism, and ser-

ery day is “that God keeps you safe as you patrol our community.”

Steven Grosvenor who is the department’s Staff

Photos by P.M. Campbell

Riverbay Coat Drive Mayor Releases 2024 Preliminary Budget

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2024 last week.

The $102.7 billion budget plan generally focused on continuing economic recovery and controlling budget included four main points of emphasis: in-ing NYC’s commitment to transitioning to greener technology.

Mayor Adams detailed the priorities of the Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2024 in a statement included with the press release.istration continues to make investments in our corement. “By asking agencies to self-fund new needs Preliminary Budget continues our strong track re-

Investing in more affordable housing options for New York City was a key point of emphasis in the for 2024 builds off two strategic housing plans the Mayor unveiled in 2022: the “Housing Our NeighNeighbors: A Blueprint for Housing and Homeoptions in the city and address homelessness. The

Another important aspect of the budget plan detailed the Mayor’s goals to make New York Citypect of this priority will involve the NYC Depart-plementing “a citywide building code for alteration as described in the Preliminary Budget plan.

Climate-related initiatives from the Preliminarying the Neighborhood Rat Reduction Initiative into Harlem and accelerating projects necessary to meeting carbon reduction targets established in Local Law 97. listed projects included in the city’s overall Tencategories: 1. 2. 3.4. Making city streets safer for both pedestrians 5. Sustaining a clean water supply. million investment to bolster security measures at all Department of Education schools on top of the funding.

The preliminary budget outlined the city’s cur$1.7 billion in revenue in FY23 and $738 million spend an estimated $1 billion in FY23 to meet its who began arriving last spring. -

lion to support states sheltering asylum seekers with only a fraction of that intended for New York. reach $3 billion while maintaining $8.3 billion in -

liminary Budget including City Comptroller Bradams and NYC City Council Finance Chair Justin Brannan.

the Fiscal Year 2024 budget offers an opportunity to invest wisely in a shared and thriving future for New Yorkers. That’s why the Mayor and the Governor brought together a set of civic leaders who than making investments upstream as that plan en-

City Comptroller Lander said in a statement released last Thursday. “To confront both the economic un-

City needs a budget that provides both a strong cushion to weather future blows and one that sets us up reviewing the preliminary budget proposal in full and sharing detailed analysis with the Administra-

NYC City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and NYC City Council Finance Chair Justin Brannan offered similar opposition to the budget plan in a joint statement released last Thursday.

“As our city continues to recover from the panmaintain essential services to keep all New Yorkers -

of our concerns with the Mayor’s November Plan remain with the Fiscal Year 2024 Preliminary -

ams and Finance Chair Brannan said in the joint statement.

“Our vision for an equitable New York includes commitments to -

critical health and social safety net services that make New York -

all New Yorkers. This Council is deeply committed to protecting the essential services that help us achieve that -

ams and Brannan went on to say in their joint statement.

Mayor Adam’s Preliminary Budget plan in the city budget pro-inary Budget will go through a review process by the NYC City

completed by the yearly July 1st deadline.

-

Job Well Done, Janitorial Dept.

Thank you to the Janitorial Department for the noticeable improvement in the condition to the common areas in Building 30B. The elevator -

lobby area needs more attention; shareholders are not picking up after themselves. I do not know if or closer supervision – it is working. Please keep it up!

—Elliot Spencer

On Friday, January 13, the Riverbay Community Relations department, headed by Michelle Sajous, held a Coat Drive in the Dreiser Auditorium. Starting at 10 a.m., volunteers gave out coats for men, women and children provided by New York Cares.

Photos by P.M. Campbell

The Co-op City Times be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times in that week’s edition. Views and opinions

Letters to the Editor

– •

History of Co-op City

• –the history of Co-op City. I would also like to remind everyone that there are sevNew Yorker magaVillage Voice and most recently pubmer resident and professor of History at Oberlin College. side on the veranda of the Baychester Library with three to dedicate years on their preparation to speak on the hisida. It was extensively covered by the Co-op City Times Co-op City Times document the early evolution of our Co-op City Times from a great insert was written and included with the newspaper. Our newspaper is the weekly mission of the staff to prothe grounds were accomplished – one is the remnant padpermanent display in Bartow Community Center down the long hallway.

are not free! The costs of those utilities are factored into our monthly carrying charge. We Our community is affordable but that affordability is altrol – utility consumption is something we can control colactual costs.

Imagine how much savings we can obtain if every shareholder would turn off the lights when not in use. This simon the faucet and let the water run while you are having a are many of us who know shareholders who do this all the time and we all pay in the end. Our community pays the price those shareholders and family members residing in your are not free. When ber where every shareholder and resident can make an acare not free

Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times

The deadline for submission of editorial content to the Co-op City Times is by 3 p.m. Articles reinclusion in the Co-op City Times Submission may be sent to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com; faxed to (718) 320-2595 or hand delivered to Rm. 21 in the Bartow Center. Thank you for your cooperation.

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

LETTERS TO

We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

Co-op City Times

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which ity and residency of the writer can be Thank you for your cooperation.

expressed in letters are solely the writer’s and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Public Safety Department Urges Drivers Not To TEXT And DRIVE

Public Safety Report

A few years ago, New York State passed a law making it illegal to Text and Drive. Previously, a driver could only be pulled over for another traffic infraction and given a summons for texting and driving in combination with another infraction. Now, texting and driving alone is cause for being pulled over and issued a summons. Looking at a text, sending a text or otherwise looking at a cellular device are all summonsable offenses.

Texting and driving is a leading cause of fatal automobile collisions. Young people are at an even higher risk due to lack of driving experience. Please make all drivers in your household aware of this new law.

During the winter break, it may be likely that drivers might be taking more trips and transporting children or other passengers

Public Safety Blotter

January 8 – January 14, 2023

January 09 –

4240 Hutchison River Pkwy.

CCPD responded to a call of a fire in the basement compactor room. FDNY was present on scene and extinguished the small fire. A forced entry to the door of the compactor room was conducted with Maintenance on scene for clean-up and repairs.

120 Casals Place

A non-resident reported leaving various tools in the basement compactor room for three days and upon his return, he noticed that the tools were removed by an unknown individual without his permission.

2089 Bartow Ave., Garage 5

A Riverbay employee reported an unknown individual roping off the exit doors of the 1st, 5th and 6th floors with caution tape and removing a porter’s cart and supplies. Personal items and food were also discovered in the cart. Electrical wiring was also pulled out and frayed from the wall outlet. CCPD is investigating.

100 Elgar Place

CCPD responded to a call of a smoke condition. FDNY conducted a forced entry to a cooperator’s apartment who fell asleep and left food burning on the stove. The violator was issued a Community Complaint for Abuse of Premise.

January 10 –

100 Dreiser Loop

A shareholder was issued a Community Complaint for refusing inspection of apartment.

2067 Bartow Ave.

A pedestrian shareholder was struck by an automobile which remained on the scene. CCPD-ESU was first to respond and stabilized the victim’s spine with a cervical collar until arrival of EMS and NYPD. The aided was transported to Jacobi Hospital.

120 Dreiser Loop

CCPD responded to a call of a gas odor from the laundry room. Upon arrival, FDNY observed a gas leak from dryers 1 and 2 and shut off the gas lines to the dryers. Maintenance Supervisor and ConEd were present on scene.

January 12 –

900 Co-op City Blvd.

A cooperator reported an unknown individual denting his apartment door with an unknown object. The doorbell glass was also shattered which was from a previous incident by an unknown individual.

120 Asch Loop

A non-resident reported a confirmed delivered package by FedEx was removed from in front of her friend’s house by three juveniles without authority or permission. The incident was recorded on the friend’s Ring camera.

99 Dreiser Loop

A cooperator reported observing a vehicle hitting another parked vehicle that was parked in a reserved space causing damage and leaving the scene. The owner of the parked vehicle was notified and the owner of the vehicle who fled the scene was identified.

120 Darrow Pl.

CCPD responded to the above location for a firearm found by the Grounds department lying on the floor at the rear of 5B. There was no ballistic evidence in the area. The pistol was taken to the 45th Pct. to be vouchered.

January 13 – corner of Erskine Place & Boller Avenue

CCPD responded to a call of a vehicle with missing tires and rims. Upon arrival, CCPD observed the vehicle that was off property with four rims and tires missing. The non-resident owner of the vehicle was not able to be contacted and a report was prepared.

120 Co-op City Blvd.

A cooperator reported an unknown individual removing a package from in front of his apartment door without his permission. The incident was captured on his Ring camera.

120 Benchley Place

CCPD responded to a report of shots fired around the vicinity of Benchley Place. A witness observed a male running from the scene and fleeing in a white vehicle. A canvas was conducted of the area along with the Broun Place Townhouses with negative results.

BLOTTER BONUS: If you smell something … say something. We recently had some incidents regarding smoke and gas conditions in apartments. We understand accidents happen but we were fortunate that alert shareholders called when they realized trouble was afoot. As the saying goes…we won by a nose.

in their vehicles. It is very important that all drivers are aware of the rules and regulations regarding the appropriate restraint system for passengers of all ages. Using the proper car seat greatly increases children’s safety when they ride in a vehicle. Every person riding in a vehicle should be appropriately buckled up every time you drive your vehicle.

Never put a rear facing infant seat in the front seat of an auto that has a passenger side airbag. The airbag can propel the car seat into the seat back with enough force to seriously injure or kill the child. Never hold a child on your lap while driving or while seated in the front seat. The force of the airbag throwing the child against you could be fatal. You should never take a child out of a car seat if they are fussing.

A car seat in the rear seat is always the way to go; never reward “not sitting in a car seat” or “sitting in the front seat” as an enticement to have children behave better.

Children need to be buckled up in the rear seat of the vehicle properly restrained. Children aged 8 or over, weighing 100 pounds or more or taller than 4 feet, 9 inches may use a seat belt. Children between 4 and 8, 40 to 100 pounds should use a booster seat. Children 1 to 4 years of age should be in a child safety seat with a five-point harness. Children younger than 1 should be placed in a rear facing infant seat in the back seat of the auto. Never use a car seat that has been in an accident; it may have sustained damage that is not visible.

Car seat installation can seem difficult at first. It is very important that you carefully read the owner’s manual for both the car seat and for your auto. The LATCH system is an attempt to simplify car seat installation and make it universal from one car to another. The acronym LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. It includes Lower Anchorage points and top tether straps to fasten car seats. All vehicles manufactured after 2003 must have at least two LATCH points in the rear seat. Seat belts can still be used to install car seats. This is an option for a third seat or if installation in the center seat is desired. Information regarding the LATCH system and the installation of car seats may be found at the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration at 1 (888) DASH2DOT or on their website at www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ Certified child passenger safety technicians are available at various locations to check for the proper installation of car seats. To find out about car seat check locations, call 1 (866) SEAT CHECK, or at their website at www.seatcheck.org.

Every person riding in an automobile is now obligated by law to wear a seatbelt. Seatbelts save lives. Airbags are not a substitute for seatbelts and are designed to be used in connection with seatbelts. An airbag comes out of the steering wheel or dashboard at a speed of 250 miles per hour. Without a seatbelt, the force of an airbag can cause serious injuries to the front seat passenger and driver. Wearing a seatbelt in a vehicle equipped with airbags will minimize injuries in otherwise life-threatening collision.

Seatbelts will prevent the wearer from being thrown from the automobile in

Director’s Viewpoint – Bernard Cylich, Secretary

Governor Hochul Faces Major Housing Crisis

On January 1, 2023, Kathy Hochul was sworn in for a full, four-year term as our governor. In a featured New YorkTimes editorial on January 9, “Are New Yorkers’ Democratic Leaders Listening to Voters?” the newspaper expressed uncertainty whether the governor and other Democratic state leaders would offer proposals to meet the challenges before them, including rising crimes, inflation, and housing.

The editorial points out that while “unemployment in the state remains higher than the national rate [President Biden announced last week that the national unemployment rate fell to 3.5 percent] and it remains especially high in New York City, at 6.2 percent…. Among black residents . . . was more than 10 percent.”

Income among working people, especially among people of color, is lower than national averages.

Yet, the editorial continues, “Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in New York City this January is $4,890 – 20 percent higher than this time last year.” (In the Bronx, as noted in a Director’s viewpoint in Co-op City Times, 1/7/23, “the median rental for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,900,” not including the cost of gas and electricity).

The New York Times editorial concludes: “Little wonder, then, that 67,000 [more than reside in our community] slept in city shelters this week, more than 20,000 of them children.”

Those numbers do not reflect another reality of the homeless: the tens of thousands sleeping on the city streets, parks, or in tents on, for example, Bartow and Edison Avenue, or doubling- and tripling-up with families and friends.

What solutions are being proposed by our political leaders?

The governor has said she plans to “build 800,000 units of housing in the state over the next decade,” the New YorkTimes editorial observed. However, she is considering dusting off “the state’s previous program 421a, mostly created for high-income people even as it costs taxpayers $1.77 billion per year; Albany allowed it to expire last year without replacing it.” In my opinion, this is a subsidy for the wealthy.

421a Is No Solution

We see evidence of 421a programs in the South Bronx along the Bruckner Boulevard corridor. Monthly rentals go from $5,000, while condos sell for at least a few million. Developers receive 25 to 30 years real-estate tax forgiveness but must set aside 20 percent of the units for low-income families –for families whose income is between $60,000 and $100,000 annually. The annual median income in

that community is $22,000, and thus are locked-out of those “affordable” units.

The $1.77 billion that 421a costs taxpayers could surely have been used to build public housing for the very families locked out of high rental apartments.

Why Co-op City Remains the Best Deal in Town

How do our co-op’s carrying charges compare with citywide rentals cost?

Six months after adopting a two-year budget on April 5, 2021, the Board, under leadership of President Sonia Feliciano, facing a $14 million shortfall precipitated by unanticipated inflationary hikes, including an $18 million additional natural gas billed by “price gouging” [President Biden] fossil fuel industry, had little choice but to appeal to HCR, our oversight State agency, to approve an emergency 7.5 percent carrying charge increase. As of this January, monthly carrying charges for a one-bedroom, 3.5room apartment, increased to $900. That includes, unlike almost all rentals, cost of gas and electricity, which translates to $1,100 less than median rentals in the Bronx.

However, over a period of 6 years – 2016 through 2022 – under the leadership of Riverbay Board President Cleve Taylor, Linda Berk, and myself, and Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer, the total carrying charge increases, compounded, have been 9.75 percent – less than half the 23 percent Consumer Price Index (CPI) increases during the same period.

In spite of these modest carrying charge increases, the operating budget in 2017-18/2019-20 generated a surplus of $45 million, and, similarly, the operating budget in 2019-20/2020-21 generated a surplus of $39 million. These surpluses, added to savings from other sources, helped keep down increases when we needed to fund $157 million in capital projects, including labor and materials.

So, what explains why we continue to be the best deal in town in maintaining our carrying charges even with the just implemented 7.5% increase below CPI?

Co-op City is a Mitchell-Lama cooperative, has been free of developers and greedy landlords whose driving interest is squeezing

Building 25 Association

This weekend, Chinese nations celebrate their Lunar New Year. We wish all our Asian neighbors lots of luck and happiness in the year ahead. Each year, the Lunar calendar is represented by one of 12 zodiac animals: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. This year, they celebrate the year of the rabbit, which means in year 2023 people can expect prosperity, hope and calm. Although Lunar New Year is not a federal holiday in the United States, it is observed in California.

Wishing all neighbors born in January a happy birthday; and for those of you who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon.

Our next building association meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 17, at 7:30 p.m. Look out for detailed information notices posted near elevators as we get closer to the meeting date. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by logging onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know.

In honor of Lunar New Year, we will close with a message from a great Chinese poet Tao Te Ching: “Make it a point not to imitate others or be like others, just be true to you. It takes plenty of courage not to compare or compete with others (especially being female, we frequently compare our attributes to those of other women). Reading this quote often will hopefully inspire you to just be beautiful you.”

––Wanda Bailey

profits from tenants. Furthermore, we have been led and managed by cost-conscience leadership and manager who have maintained high quality of services.

Jamaal Bowman, our former Congressman, was in the process of drafting a national housing program based on Mitchell-Lama.

What we need more than ever in our city and state is a new M-L program. Riverbay has been cost-free to the state and city. We had paid off in full our initial loan from the state’s Housing Finance Agency. However, with the exception of shelter rent tax abatement, billed in lieu of real estate taxes, and two million dollar grants, Riverbay has not received a dime of subsidy, even after a 13-month rent strike in the mid-seventies, from either federal, state or city.

Co-op City Retired Municipal Workers Feel Betrayed

Co-op City is the largest Natural Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) and Co-op City is, I would hazard to guess, the home of largest number of retired municipal workers. Over decades, municipal workers have approved numerous collective bargaining agreements with the City of New York foregoing wage increases in return for medical provisions in the agreement, including the city funding 20% of medical bills that Medicare does not cover.

Today the City Council is considering amending Administrative Code 12-126 and enrolling retirees into a private health care insurance company, Medicare Advantage.

Many of our municipal workers feel they are being betrayed and have been demonstrating, lobbying City Hall to scrap that amendment which, once adopted, may lead to major financial burdens and undermine their health.

Hopefully, wiser minds will prevail in City Hall.

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

How many informative facts do you know about Glaucoma? Are you ready to take on the challenge? Grab a pencil and paper and answer the questions below. Remember, it’s ok if you don’t get everything correct; this quiz aims to test your knowledge and help you better understand Glaucoma and the symptoms associated with the disease.

True or False :(1) Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness among individuals 60 and older. (2) Glaucoma can be cured. (3) Individuals with Diabetes are at high risk of Glaucoma. (4) Glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight.” (5) Severe throbbing eye pain is a sign of Glaucoma.

Answers: 1. True 2. False 3. True 4. True 5. True

Glaucoma is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight” because it slowly damages the eyes and can cause irreparable harm before vision loss. The

eye diseases that can cause vision loss and blindness by damaging a nerve in the back of the eye called the

Section 4 Partnership

Our next gathering will take place on Friday, February 24, at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom Building Associations and Committees

We must all (in every section and every building) show up for our Building Associations and committees. We may be on Zoom or Webex or other modes of video conferencing, but that is no excuse not to show up. It is even more of a reason to attend because you do not even have to leave your home. You cannot beat that commute. We all owe it to our shared community. Please think about this and make a silent pledge to get involved this year.

Anytime Gift Idea! 50th Anniversary T-Shirts!

collector’s items. These shirts make a great gift any time of the year. If you do not have one, make sure you get one, or two! Many buildings are celebrating 50 years of existence making up the largest cooperative in the country. The shirts are beautiful and on sale now with the Section 4 Partnership logo on the back. You will be proud to wear it. If you would like one or two, contact us by emailing: section4partnership@gmail.com or phone: 347-915-4939.

S4P Mission Statement:

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

“All of us divided by each one of us equals a force for good.”

––Michelle Marbury

optic nerve. Usually, glaucoma affects side vision

deteriorates, blind spots develop in your vision. For reasons that doctors don’t fully understand, this nerve damage is usually related to increased pressure in the eye. Symptoms may include severe throbbing eye pain, eye redness, headaches (on the same side as the affected eye), and blurry or foggy vision.

While anyone can develop glaucoma, those who are overweight, people with diabetes, people with high blood pressure, seniors, Hispanics/Latinos, and African Americans over 40 are more likely to get glaucoma. There’s no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment can often stop the damage and protect your vision. Glaucoma is treated by lowering intraocular pressure. Treatment options include prescription eye drops, oral medicines, laser treatment, surgery, or a combination of approaches. The only way to determine if you have glaucoma is to get a

comprehensive dilated eye exam.

Take steps to protect your eyes by maintaining a healthy body weight. Maintaining a healthy body weight lowers your risk of developing diabetes or high blood pressure, decreasing your likelihood of developing classic glaucoma or glaucoma-like retinopathy. Stick to a balanced diet and try to exercise regularly. Monitor and control your blood pressure. Keep a log of your pressures and see your doctor if your pressure spikes or if you have chronically elevated pressures. Regular exercise and low-sodium and low-calorie diets can help you control your blood pressure, minimize the risk of developing hypertension-related glaucoma, and schedule an annual, thorough eye exam every year. Make sure you see your optometrist or ophthalmologist annually for an eye exam and that

––Diane Cooper

Director’s Viewpoint – Daryl Johnson

Latest Community Issues

Periodically, our board will receive a report about our entire community. Thereafter, I will inform our cooperators about some things that are going on here.

Let’s Get it Together

We recently received a management report for November 2022. So, let’s review some of the cited issues in this report. On November 19, 2022, the Co-op City Times published some good advice on page one from the head of our Public Safety force, Chief Riley. The chief stated: “We take this opportunity to also advise shareholders that vehicle related crime in New York City and our community continues to be a concern.”

Then, he offered some good advice about vehicle safety: “Do not leave packages or personal items in plain view inside your car.” Now, unfortunately, some folks will leave their packages and bags inside of their unlocked vehicle when they go to a gas station and other places. However, a trip to some gas stations might turn into a nightmare.

But, before we go further, we must review some insane activities that are going on at some gas stations in Las Vegas. For instance, some thieves have placed huge tanks inside of some of their trucks. Then, they’re pulling up to a pump at some gas stations. Next, they’re drilling into that gas pump and truck.

Now, some folks might think that it takes a few However, they’re wrong. You see, the thieves are calmly staying at that same pump—for hours. And, unfortunately, the clerks inside of these stations are so busy selling other products that they don’t even know that a tremendous amount of gasoline is being stolen right in front of them. Then, the thief drives away.

So, it’s over, right? What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Right? No!!! Take a guess what those thieves are doing with all of that gasoline. Well, they’re driving to California. California? Yes! Then, they’re selling all of that gasoline to their own clients.

Some thieves, in many places, are also hanging out inside of their vehicles at some gas stations. And, they know that someone will eventually drive next to them to get gasoline—with their face to the rear of their vehicle. And, that’s when a thief will simply

go to that vehicle and steal a bag or a purse from that front seat. Next, they’ll go back into their own vehicle and drive off.

So, please don’t let anyone know about the things that you have inside of your vehicle. Also, please lock your vehicle and pay attention to everything when you go to a gas station. Robberies? Please make sure that you understand that some thieves are rolling up with guns at some gas stations and at some ATM outlets.

Now, let’s move on to some other issues. We had 904 employees and 60 job vacancies in November 2022. Therefore, we had 12 vacant positions in management and administration, 43 vacant union jobs, and 5 temporary positions. Personally, I want to encourage everyone to check out our jobs because the

Now, at times, some parents will seek some advice about their grown family members. So, let’s get real and address this point. To start, do you know jobs? Yes, it’s true. So, do you still have an adult family member sleeping on your couch or in their former bedroom?

Can they work? Or, are they watching television all day long? If your answers are yes, then you need to crack down and make them get a job. Yes, they might complain. Big deal! They can’t do some janitorial work, maintenance work, or work on our grounds? What about some other type of profes-

tion with them about getting their life together and moving on. Counseling? If needed, get them some counseling.

Now, let’s move on to some public safety issues. Here are the major problems and the number of calls that were received: Animals – 23; Disorderly Conduct – 20; Dispute – 41; Harassment – 25; Loitering – 112; Noise –204; and Objects From Building – 10.

Do you think that your neighbors will call our Public Safety department when they hear your uncontrollable dog barking and

Building 22 A&B Association

Martin Luther King marched so we couldhave freedom, respect and to love our fellow man. Let us honor his legacy. Work on our Association Room hopefully will not take long. An announceread the Co-op City Times for information on all community events. As cooperators, we must follow the rules to keep the building clean.

Laundry Room Etiquette: I continue to pick up fabric softener sheets. helps clothes dry faster.

Compactor Room: Please follow the instructions for recycling. Wash out all bottles and cans and put them in the plastic bag. Raw garbage goes down the chute, while large boxes go the basement. Small boxes should be folded down and placed on the wooden ledge with the newspapers.

Happy birthday to all. Please check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. Thank you.

––Betty Leak

Lost Ring

Graduation Ring; City College of New York; 1966. The stone has three Greek letters on it: Beta Sigma Rho. Lost in or around Food Universe in the Bartow Mall a couple of weeks ago. If found, please contact: Stewart Berman at (347) 880-2235.

going crazy inside and outside of your apartment? community complaint to you. Look, some cooperators cannot control or even handle their own dog. So, is it possible that some dogs might need some professional assistance? Yes!!! Therefore, please get those dogs the help that they need.

Also, as you can see, some cooperators are still having negative confrontations with their own loved ones and other people. Thereafter, calls are being made to our police force to address these matters. So, do you think that it’s time to make some serious decisions about yourself and some people? Therefore, please think about these matters before you get yourself into more trouble.

Let’s move on to the other calls. For instance, please teach your family that a community complaint will be issued if they hang out in the stairwells or if they go onto the roof. Also, I want to encourage our cooperators to consider reducing the amount of noise that’s being made in their apartment. Lastly, please teach your family to never throw anything out of a window.

Close

Please, let’s work together and make some improvements here.

Thank you. Contact Information

Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@riverbayboard.com.

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

Building 18 Association National Council of Negro Women

Book Club – Today, January 21, at 3:00 p.m., our Book Club will be meeting to discuss the January selection, “Balance: Positioning Yourself to Do All Things Well” by Touré Roberts. Because we will also be making “vision boards” for 2023, participants are asked to bring old magazines for pictures and quotations, and $5 for other equipment that we will supply. We will be meeting in Room 14 of Dreiser Community Center and remember, you do not have to be a member of NCNW to meet with our Book Club. All you have to do is love books! Please call 347-913-

Women Represent! – Our annual celebration of women and poetry will take place on Saturday, April 1. Poets and those who love poetry and writing will be welcome to take part in our program. We are also hoping that members of our Youth Section will also be eager to take part. It is also a pleasure to announce that the chairman of this committee, Camille Worrell, has published a book entitled, “Get Up & Glow With Me” that is now available from Amazon! We applaud the published author in our Section.

Youth Section – On January 14, our Youth Section held their first meeting of the year! What better way than a Vision Board Party (pictured at right)! NCNW Co-op City Section strives to empower the next generation of

young women ages 9-18 to lead and advocate for women of African descent and their families. If interested in membership, please email ncnwcoopcityyouth@gmail.com.

NCNW National – You were all invited to our GoodHealthWINs webinar on January 12. The topic was “Don’t Let the Flu Get the Better of You.” This Town Hall meeting was hosted by our Health Equity Committee. The keynote speaker was Dr. Keith Ferdinand, Professor of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine. The meeting covered topics of those most at risk, how effective -

can cause swelling of the brain and heart, but medicines help stop

rate remains high and people are putting their lives at risk when not getting vaccinated. Non-Hispanic Black people are at the highestization per CDC data. The rate ofple of color. Most people recover quickly but some develop complications that may be life threatening. Some complications can lead to pneumonia, COPD exacerbation, myocarditis, stroke, sepsis, or sinus infection. Continue to wear your mask, wash your hands, and sanitize. Check with your doctor, pharmacist or Department

Hi, neighbors.

Our General Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room, located in the rear of Building 18. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Our guest speaker is Chief Riley of Co-op City Public Safety Department. This meeting is very important so please attend and voice your concerns. There will be a 50/50 drawing and refreshments served.

Please complete your window guard form ASAP. You have four different ways to respond: by phone, by fax, by mail or online. The deadline for return is February 15, 2023. Please read the New York City Apartment Building Emergency Preparedness

To all with that special day this month, happy birthday and may it be all you want it to be. To the bereaved families, we offer you our deepest sympathies; and to the sick and homebound, we pray that your health is restored to its norm as quick as possible. Please stay alert! Report anything that seems suspicious to the Public Safety department. Call 718320-3300 and press 1.

there. Protect yourselves.

––Gertie Brown

of Health for vaccinations. Peak season is between December and February. Get the facts, stay educated and boost the truth!

Social Media –our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com: on Facebook: NCNWCoopcityBethune; Twitter: @ NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

––Joyce Howard

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors We hope all is well and the New Year 2023 will be better and healthy for us all. We are hearing there is a new Covid-19 subvariant on the horizon; we are still not out of the woods yet. Keep the masks on around gatherings.

The celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day was Monday, January 16. We all are remembering this historic time via programs, television and events.

Cooperators have received from Riverbay the window guards form and safety notice and the deadline is February 15, 2023 to comply. If you do not have children living with you but they visit quite often, dren’s safety.

Congratulations to Mr. Noel Ellison, Riverbay Corporation General Manager, who will retire on January 31, 2023. We know it will be a celebration until that day. We wish him well; we retirees can relate to the feeling of relief and blessings.

Congratulations to Evelyn Brown, the secretary of our Building 27 association. She retired December of 2022; we wish her the best of health and enjoyment. She served the association well and we are happy to have her free and ready to continue on with the association.

Building 27 Association –General meeting to be held on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room, rear of Building C lobby. We are wearing our masks to stay safe as the virus is still around. New cooperators, please come and meet your neighbors; you are welcome to become involved.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month.

We continue to offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the families who lost loved ones. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card. She is excellent in sharing goodwill. Also, notify her of

any illness, or a neighbor who has become deceased or transferred to a nursing home.

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

––H. Overman

Evelyn Brown

Eric Adams

Ashwin Vasan, MD, PhD Mayor Commissioner

Townhall With NYC Schools

Last week, there was a graduation ceremony for the newlylations to our CCPD graduates

The Department of Education Chancellor David Banks will be here in Co-op City for a Town Hall

NAACP Co-op City Branch, in collaboration with the NYC Department of Education and Riverbay Corporation, will host the Townhall Meeting – Meet NYC DOE Chancellor David Banks on Thursday, January 26; Time: 6-7 p.m., Barnaacpc-

Amazon Packages: At a recent meeting, we were advised that discussions are being held for Amazon package lockers that will be installed near buildings project will prevent packages being left in the lob-

Youth Center: It has always puzzled me why a development this large did not have a center for I thought the community centers were for that purpose, but as time went on, I noticed the youth being blocked for one reason or the other from utiliz-inal shareholders, I often heard they took their chilmany of the locations in the immediate vicinity did

Many opportunities have passed us by where we could have received grants and funding to help us

Chancellor, Jan.

a variety of interests and we need to nurture theirbarking upon will result in this project coming to

Update – Public Employee Retirees Medicare:

Upon initially hearing about this situation, I realized there are many Public Service Retirees here in Co-op City. It was important that we stay aware and up-to-date on what is happenThe City Council -

men DeLaRosa, was treated to a marathon hearing from public service retirees who showed up in massive numbers to testify against the proposed controversial bill that would affect the medical services of

was reported there were 250 in the chamber and andecides to vote on the bill, we are told it would beganization will provide additional information re-

provide its retired workers with cost-free coveragejunction against the administration, barring it from

For additional details, check the website at The NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees or look for them on Facebook.

To view the hearing or for additional details, check the website at The NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees or look for them on Face-

26, in Bartow Center

book Council member and tell them to protect hard-working New Yorkers who gave their careers to public

As a community, we must continue to challenge that, going forward, will cut back our operating expenses and lead us down the path of affordabil-

made, where we can be more proactive in our collection process and take a deep look into whether we are getting the best productivity for the funds we are spending?

Scholarship: Don’t miss the chance for yourline for high school seniors to apply for an Albert -

cepted in a full-time, matriculated, degree-granting believe that education is the gateway to a producof belonging — and motivation — for your child to

“When you have decided what you believe, what you feel must be done, have the courage to standalone and be counted.”

–Eleanor Roosevelt

I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbay-

Director’s Viewpoint – Leslie Peterson

Building 21 Association

The next Building 21 Association general session gathering will be: Thursday, January 26, via Zoom. Start time: 7 p.m. (Note: Fourth Thursday of each month.)

If you – List all “emergency” contact numbers and distribute to each neighbor

2. Co-op City Times – Place them at each apartment door (delivered to the all lobbies on Saturdays)

– 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 718-320-3300

6. That’s all! That’s it!

, you have three ways of gaining information. Email: 21association@gmail.com. Call: 347–504–1821. Attend the monthly general meetings via Zoom video conference. Everyone from all buildings plan to come and join us at Building 21. Bring a friend.

––Michelle Marbury

Building 19 Association

treating you well.

I want to thank those who helped to take down the holiday decorations in the lobby on Saturday, January 7.

I also want to thank my fellow cooperators for attending our monthly committee meeting on Friday, January 13. For those who missed the meeting, the committee discussed topics to help make the Association a better organization for the cooperators of Building 19. Ideas discussed included fun activities to do outside of committee and general meetings (e.g., hosting a bus trip or organizing a walking group). Throughout the upcoming months, the Association will work on making your suggestions become reality.

The Association has two events coming up this month and next month. First, the Association will be holding its next general meeting on Friday, January 27, at 7:30 p.m. in the Association Room (located behind our building). Second, the Association will be collecting its annual dues in the lobby starting Saturday, February 4, from noon-6 p.m. More collection dates during February will be posted in the lobby, so please be on the look out for the information. The annual fee is $10. Please keep in mind that the cost is per household, not per person.

I look forward to seeing you at next Friday’s general meeting. As always, be safe.

––Leon Tulton

Co-op City Toastmasters

We are back and very glad to be back to help with your public and professional speaking skills. CCTM (Co-op City Toastmasters) welcomes one and all to come out to our monthly meetings and you decide if we are what you are looking for. We have a hybrid international meeting, so you never know who you will be sitting/viewing alongside. It might be a sheik from Dubai, or a local writer from Brooklyn, or one of our very own members as they have all rea Toastmaster.

In our meetings, we learn from each other and conversely teach each other in a jovial atmosphere. Many have crossed our portals and went on to become

needed community program alive and well for those who follow. Communication is not an option – try interviewing for a job. “Toastmasters is Where Leaders are made.”

You have tried the others, now try us. You are worth it.

When: Thursday, Feb. 2, at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 14, at 7:00 p.m. – Bronx Advanced Speech Contest

Thursday, Feb. 16, at 7:30 p.m. – CCTM Speech Contest

Where: Co-op City Bartow Community Center, lower level, Rm. 28 under Baychester Library (unless otherwise noted).

Zoom ID: 4787030148, Access Code: yuja1g

We look forward to seeing you at a February meeting soon. All events are sure to be fun and educationally motivating. We use the Pathways Program under Toastmasters International for a very nominal fee. For more information, check Toastmasters46.org; 3824.toastmastersclub.org or Toastmasters.org. You may also call 347-419-0570.

––Lauretta Jaysura

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

Building 15B Association

Happy New Year! We hope everyone had a healthy and happy New Year. Our next building association meeting will be on Thursday, January 26, at 7:00 p.m. in our meeting room in the rear lobby of Building 15B. We will have a guest speaker: Ms. Nicole Manchand, Jr. Property Manager (CSO #2). Please come down with your concerns and she will gladly answer any questions.

We would like to welcome any new cooperators to the building and invite them to join us at our meeting. Please make every effort to attend and bring a

NAACP

Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. Known as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), it profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and the course of 20th Century American History.

January General Meeting: Zoom on Sunday, January 22, at 3:00 p.m. Meeting ID: 843 9158 0474, passcode: 163896

NAACP Co-op City Branch in collaboration with the NYC Department of Education and Riverbay Corporation will host a Townhall Meeting – Meet NYC DOE Chancellor David Banks on Thursday, January 26; time: 6-7 p.m. in the Bartow Community Center, Room 31. RSVP at naacpccity2210@gmail.com, or call 718-320-3210. Doors will open early.

The Co-op City Branch was established in July 1973. In recognition, we have a 50th Anniversary Commemorative Pin that is now available. Purchase yours now for $20 each. To order, send payment to the address below. More information to follow regarding our 50th Anniversary Celebration Events.

New Coalition to Defend Student Debt: “Education is meant to be a key to the overwhelming burden of student debt has kept Black Americans from utilizing their education to attain upward mobility and create the generational wealth they seek. Let’s be real - student debt is crushing Black America,” said NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson. President Biden’s plan to begin addressing the student debt crisis is not only legal but essential for providing much-needed relief to some 40 million Americans who are dealing with the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. The NAACP proudly joins our partners in pulling out every tool in the box to make sure borrowers receive the relief they need. It is up to the Supreme Court to do the right thing and uphold the President’s plan to pave the way toward greater economic and racial equality in America.”

Scholarship: Do not miss the chance for your child to apply for a $5,000 scholarship. The deadline for high school seniors to apply for an Albert Shan-ble and be accepted in a full-time, matriculated, degree-granting program at an accredited college or university. We believe that education is the gateway to a productive life. This opportunity will instill a greater sense of belonging and motivation for your child to make it through their higher education. The deadline to apply for a $5,000 scholarship is Tuesday, Feb. 28. Encourage your graduating students to apply!

54th NAACP Image Awards – Saturday, February 25, at 8:00 p.m. on BET. Remember, Covid-19 is still here. Wash hands, wear a mask, get vaccinated,

Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP. Become a member or gift a membership: Adults: $30, Youths: $10, make check/money orders payable to: NAACP Co-op City #2210, and mail to: N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

––Brenda Brown

I want to take this opportunity to congratulate our retiring General Manager Noel Ellison for his decades of committed service and hard work for the residents Co-op City. I’ve known Noel since the late 1970’s, and wish nothing but the very best for him and his family. Happy retirement, Noel!

Many, many cooperators were not accepting of a

Bartow Avenue. The probability of attracting an unwanted element into the community, combined with being a physical attraction for young men and women, including the high school student population from Truman H.S., were the most often described concerns.

Those, and other reasons of concern, acted as the cle from the Bartow Avenue location. Questioning the legality of the alleged sale of the cannabis products, and the actions taken by law enforcement, became a real learning experience. Additionally, it served to prove what can happen when the enforcement of rules & regulations are left to bureaucratic interpretation.

What I can also report to you is that it took that age-old combination of what you know, and who you tions as set forth under the newly amended NY State Rules and Regulations adopted to legally dispense cannabis products to adults in New York State.

In the final analysis, the vehicle was removed where it had been previously located on Bartow Avenue. I do not want to be redundant in writing about the particulars because I’m certain that this edition of the Co-op City Times will have completely covered the story, and the surrounding events in great detail. What I do opine, is that taking from December 6, 2022, to

vehicle from the streets of NYC, operating contrary to Part 114 of the Rules and Regulations, and possibly without a NYC Dept. of Consumer Affairs Vendor license, took too long.

To recap, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, remittee meeting held on November 29th, promised Pct., Capt. J.A. Orellana, regarding the observation of motor vehicles advertising the sale of cannabis products. The assemblyman did, and reported that Capt. Orellana was in favor of addressing the van issue. Assemblyman Benedetto correctly informed committee members on November 29th that no business had been legally authorized to dispense cannabis products at that time.

Information Supplied by the 45 Pct./ Resourceful Cooperators

of Bartow Avenue and Co-op City Blvd.

vised concerned cooperators that the owner of the had produced an OCM-issued license to operate.

closely monitor the van, who stated that they could remove the van for violating commercial statues, but not

of the 45th monitored the van and, in fact, ticketed and towed the vehicle on Christmas Eve, December 24th. Problem was, the vehicle returned three days later. The van’s return served to initiate a deeper dive into the legality of its operation on the street.

Ruth Sharma, an extremely resourceful cooperator, documentation, review its content, and then proceed

our Co-op City community. She provided me with copies of:

• The NY State OCM’s Cannabinoid Hemp Retail License listing

Regulations

Adult Use Retail Dispensary License

• A CBS News interview between Maurice DuBois and NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell:

Building 13 Association

We are pleased that the NYC Department of Education Chancellor is coming to Co-op City in-person to share his plans and hear suggestions.

NAACP Co-op City Branch, in collaboration with the NYC Department of Education and Riverbay Corporation, will host a Townhall Meeting – Meet NYC DOE Chancellor David Banks on Thursday, January 26, from 6-7 p.m. in the Bartow Community Center, Room 31. RSVP at naacpccity2210@gmail. com or call 718-320-3210. Doors will open early.

Thank you to member Lisa Rodriguez who scheduled the FDNY mobile CPR Training Unit on Saturday, January 21, from 10 a.m. to noon. The CPR classes were held in the Building 13 Association Room. This was a free course provided Paramedics who teach basic instructions on how to use an Automated External and “watch-while-practice” DVD instruction for the general public.

NYC Public Service Retirees Update: TheCity Council chair of the Civil Service & Labor Committee, Carmen De La Rosa, was treated to a marathon hearing from public service retirees who showed up in massive numbers to testify against the proposed controversial bill that would affect the medical services of retirees. The hearing lasted almost 12 hours long. If there is a vote on the bill, it may be on January 19. The NYC Retiree Organization will provide additional information regarding these dates.

its retired workers with cost-free coverage for life. A Manhattan judge issued a preliminary injunction against the administration, barring it from charging the $15 levy as the case moves forward. For additional details, check the website at The NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees or look for them on Facebook

Note:

public space. Shareholders are complaining about the holes being left in the walls when the coverings are being removed and reinstalled. We hope to have updated information shortly regarding this situation.

Scholarship: Do not miss the chance for your child to apply for a $5,000 scholarship. The deadline for high school seniors to apply for an Albert Shanker and be accepted in a full-time, matriculated, degree-granting program at an

https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/ nypd-commissioner-keechant-sewell-maurice-dubois-interview-cbs2-exclusive/

I would urge all of you to please go to the link that I have just provided you with. Commissioner Sewell addresses both the “Weed” trucks operating all over NYC and the Department’s policy in dealing with them, as well as another problem that we’ve encountered here in Co-op City since pre-COVID-19, the dangerous operation of e-bikes by individuals making deliveries to Co-op residents.

The OCM’s Enforcement Unit was asked to inoperating in compliance with the OCM’s license that comply with their Rules and Regulations per Part 114. The Enforcement Unit’s investigation determined that the van was not in compliance, which led to the boardvan, and the van itself being towed from the Bartow Avenue location.

Dispensing of Cannabis Products to Adults going Forward

As a community, there needs to be a civil discussion regarding how Co-op City may wish to address the distribution of Cannabis products in and around

ness operating in a NYC street, or on a NYC sidewalk, sumer Affairs, and shouldn’t having a vendor’s license legitimately operate a van dispensing cannabinoid products on NYC streets?

The Board and Management can address the retail sales of, or the prohibition of cannabinoid products to adults from commercial stores that we lease to businesses. Addressing where vans may be permitted to operate is a consideration for our elected representatives to hear from us sooner rather than later. The one thing I don’t want to see, is a vehicle parked outside our buildings dispensing cannabinoid products.

As always, thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be reached at rsaunders@riverbayboard.com.

accredited college or university. We believe that education is the gateway to a productive life. This opportunity will instill a greater sense of belonging — and motivation — for your child to make it through their higher education. The deadline to apply for a $5,000 scholarship is Tuesday, Feb. 28. Encourage your graduating students to apply!

Visit our Facebook Page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370; or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Leslie Peterson

African American Association

Black History Month is Upon Us

Our next Event Gathering is scheduled tentatively for Saturday, February 4, at 12:00 p.m. We encourage your participation. If your email has changed, drop us a line at aaaccpower@gmail.com. This will be our Annual Black Film Festival that is usually held in the Bartow Center from noon until the evening.

Be a card-carrying member of the AAACC

Be the vision you want your people, your children and your world to see. Membership is $15/year for a single membership and $25/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call: 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Kindly send a check or money order only.

The African-American Association was organized with the following objectives:

• To provide a forum for African-American issues of importance that affect our lives;

• To address problems affecting the African-American community in Co-op City in particular – and the African-American community in general;

• To provide and make accessible the most up-to-date and accurate information, through educational lectures, forums, study groups, etc., to enable critical analysis and intelligent decisions based on fact;

• To provide cultural awareness, programs, educational scholarships and social activities for our youth.

The African American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation (Contact respective instructor indicated below for updates)

Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438.

Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917903-7073.

Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact: Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917863-1507.

Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” with Joyce Smith –Contact: Joyce, 718-320-0714.

––Michelle Marbury

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

New Cooperators – Welcome, all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next general membership meeting.

General Membership Meeting – Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, February 9, at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:45 p.m.), in the Building 10 Association Room (rear lobby of Bldg. 10B). Face masks are preferred. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. Light refreshments will be served.

Building 10 Association Dues – The collection of building association dues for 2023 has begun. Building association dues are $10 per apartment. You can bring your dues to the building association meeting or give it to any executive board member. Please note, the money collected is used for association-related

Karaoke Night/Game Night – Karaoke Night/Game Night was held on Saturday, January 14. The food was delicious, and a great time was had by all.

Just a Few Reminders – Remember to turn on your car headlights when driving in the garage and please follow all directional signs. Turn your car off, lock it and take your keys with you. Please wipe up spills in hallways, elevators and dryers.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call the Coop City Public Safety Department at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-879-6311.

Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help in NYC is 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355) or text “WELL” to 65173. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number is 988, you can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day. Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Facebook

the happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born in January an incredibly happy birthday. Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy Anniversary!

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

To all who have lost a loved one recently, we offer our deepest condolences. Have a great week.

––Jewel

Crawford-Duncan

Baychester Library is temporarily closed for renovations to make improvements to the branch Holds can be picked up at the Eastchester Library, 1385 E. Gun Hill Rd., Bronx, NY.

open NYPL branches, visit: nypl.org/locations.

Building 33 Association

Good day, neighbors.

The building association hopes you all enjoyed your holiday weekend. We next week’s paper. We are giving you enough time to arrange your schedule where you will be able to be there. The meetings are for all residents, regardless of race, creed, or color. It gives us a chance to have a conversation with one another, express likes and dislikes regarding the building, and meet new people. With so much going on in Co-op City, I am sure there are many things we can discuss.

I recently attended the monthly 45th Precinct Community Council meeting and found it to be informative. You get to hear the crime stats that cover our area and I also got to meet the precinct commander, Captain Johnny A. Orellana. There were various other Bronx dignitaries, or someone representing them, in attendance. This time, I got to see how the meeting works. Next time, I will feel more comfortable asking questions regarding what they are doing for our community. It was actually interesting seeing the faces behind the names you see on the election ballots.

Bugs! Do you have bugs in your house? Please call Riverbay at 718-3203300, select the prompts to get you to maintenance, and request an exterminator! It appears I am getting more complaints than what is usual. It is time to get rid of these pesky things!

Key fobs! Mine is not working, is yours? Call the Parking department if you are having a problem. I do not know what is going to become of us when they remove the key holes that allow us to use our keys to get into the building! Any thoughts? Contact me.

Let us start this year differently and become more involved. Stop thinking nothing can change because that is where you are wrong. There is power in numbers. If you want change, come to the building meeting and let us talk about it!

If you have any questions or concerns, email the association at amayo14033@ gmail.com.

To cooperators in the building who are sick or suffering from any type of loss, our prayers include you.

Until next time, enjoy your week!

––Andrea Mayo

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Dr. Martin Luther King was jailed in 1963 as he fought for civil rights. Eight white clergymen criticized him and called his protests “unwise and untimely.” He wrote a letter from the Birmingham City Jail saying, “I guess it is easy for those who have never felt the stinging darts of segregation to say wait!” Still today, his writings stand as part of the great writings of our history. Further, in those writings, Dr. King wrote about vicious hangings and acts of cruelty at the “will and whim” of cruel mobs. Dr. King was assassinated in 1968. At the time, I was heading back to college from spring break. Our college civil rights organization took immediate action to present opportunities to grieve and honor Dr. King. A scholarship was created in his name, and we swore to continue his mission. And still in 2023, we are on that mission.

Longtime General Manager of Riverbay Corporation, Mr. Noel Ellison, is retiring this month. Mr. Ellison and the Ellison family make their home here. They have been committed to supporting Co-op City for over thirty years. They have never discredited the ideals making our Mitchell-Lama middle-income development strong. Mr. Ellison’s knowledge of our history, his ability to negotiate and deal with problems and set up solutions have been exemplary. Thank you for all that and more.

January 2023 is here, and soon the next Riverbay Board of Directors election will be headlining the Co-op City Times. Yes, come February 2023, it will be time to prepare. Candidates will be asking for your signature to get on the ballot then the campaigns are underway. Voting is your cooperator responsibility, so prepare to do it.

Live here and expect to live longer in this NORC community. We have shopping, many medical services, exercise and rehabilitation, and socialization opportunities all within walking distance and those items contribute to a robust community.

Regarding having a meeting in Building 21, their executive members have gotten back to us and responded that their meeting room is not completed for use.

I was hoping to generate an association newsletter. We want your tidings and shout-outs. All your news is welcome; anything of importance from you is important to me.

Reviewing garbage procedures: the white bin is for paper, while green and blue are for all other house garbage. Mattresses are required to be covered. Use pedestrian bins and pails for masks. Clothes for recycling should be brought to Garage 6, front or rear.

877-VAX-4NYC, or visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine. Seniors, register with the Riverbay “RUOK” emergency contact programs. This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic sickness. Seniors, get involved with JASA.

This week, we must announce a son of our shareholders Mary and Tom Walker, John, has succumbed to cancer at the age of 57 on Saturday, January 14. We extend our deep and sincere condolences to the Walker family. May they know no more sorrow.

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

AARP Chapter #4997

January 2023 is ending very quickly. Unfortunately, the medical status for this pandemic era is now changing and not for the better. The newest subvariant of Covid-19 is more transmissible than the others; 73% of the new cases are in NY; more people over 65 are at risk. These factors are even more startling when you realize that the latest booster does not reduce your chance of getting this virus. It will help reduce the severity if you get the virus. Masks are required in all Riverbay areas, social distancing is required in elevators and public spaces.

Our last General Membership Meeting was very well attended, and we are thankful for all who participated. At the meeting, we heard information on some of the changes in Social Security and IRS for Tax Year 2022. We will issue updates as they are released from the IRS and Social Security. Our Tour Committee advises that the trip to Niagara Falls, USA is completely sold out and there is a waiting list. We do have other one-day trips to offer. The trip to Ipa’s & Poker Chips is on March 9, and the cost is $150 per person (trip insurance available); Vynecrest Winery and Casino trip is on August 8, 2023, and the cost is 119 per person. We are also fea-

Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962,

With Congress in full session now, we are reminded that the chemistry is different and the majority has changed. We are responsible for holding our elected of-

Greetings, Retirees and friends.

and won. The National AARP and Chapter #4997 are working in unison to ensure that our rights are protect-

Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

We hold a General Membership Meeting every second Monday and the next is February 13 at 1 p.m., Room 1, 177 Dreiser Loop, and we are looking forward to seeing more of our friends each month. We are also preparing for our Executive Board Elections and we need more nominations and volunteers. Contact Ms. Polite, 718-320-4278, for information.

During our holiday break, we missed information about the husband of Mrs. Bell Symes. Frederick Symes passed on December 19, 2022 and we send condolences to his wife and family. St. Michael’s Church held a special Birthday Mass on January 8, which would have been his 83rd birthday. Sending get well wishes and prayers to Ms. Ida Morton. Contact Mrs. Wilson, 718-671-5493, to share any missed news you would like to share.

AARP Chapter #4997 wishes to thank Mr. Noel Ellison for his many years of service to our community as he retires, well deserved, and begins the next joyful chapter in his life.

Be safe. Be well. Be aware.

––Ann Purnell

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Happy Lunar New Year! The Chinese New Year begins on Sunday, January 22 (the Spring Festival) and ends on Sunday, February 5 (the Lantern Festival). This is the Year of the Rabbit. In Chinese culture, the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity and 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope. May prosperity and good fortune be with each of you always.

Trip Committee – Seats are still available for our trip to the Resorts World Casino in the Catskills on Wednesday, June 28. This trip will include “A Musical Tribute to Motown” show, lunch and $25 in slot play. The cost per ticket is $140. To reserve a seat for this trip, a deposit of $50 is required by the end of this month. Serita will be available in Room 19 on Friday, January 27, at 1 p.m. to accept payments for this trip. Questions may be addressed to Serita at 347-564-5722.

Membership – If you wish to remit your $25 annual dues for 2023, please make your check payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and write “2023 membership dues” in the memo section of your check, and mail it to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-655-9170.

Members who are 80-plus years of age and have been members of the RoDL for 10 years and are in good standing with their membership dues (dues paid for the past two consecutive years) are eligible to apply for “honorary membership.” If you would like to apply, please submit your letter of request to Dorothy Chambers- Byrd, president of the RoDL.

Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our January birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly hap-

py birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year.

Condolences – Please continue to pray for all those who have recently lost loved ones.

Good and Welfare – We extend get well wishes and prayers for Eleanor Minor and Ida Morton and to all others who are sick and shut-in. We pray that they will all soon see brighter days ahead. Please contact Lorraine at 718-671-6403 or Gay at 718-320-0979 to notify them of members who are hospitalized, in nursing/rehabilitation facilities or recently deceased.

General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held on February 1st at 1 p.m. in Room 19. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend this meeting.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Goose Island Seniors

Become a member of the Senior Citizens Social Club of Goose Island for $25 a year. All members must pay their dues in order to join in any club room activities in 2023. Thank you for being a part of the Goose Island family.

Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard – Friday, May 19 – Monday, May 21; three days. For more information, call 646-579-1701.

Carnival Cruise 2023 – Departing from NY, July 5th–13th, 2023. For more information call, 646-579-1701.

Notary – Yvonne Menefee is available for notary Tuesdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Bingo – Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1:15 p.m. Members only. Admission $5 for three cards, 12 games and jackpot. Extra cards are $0.25 each. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination. Temperature taken at entrance.

Game Day – Every Tuesday and Thursday at 1 p.m., come play dominoes, watch movies, read books and socialize with other members. Members only.

To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of January: Diane Williams, Mary Roach, Yolanda Jones, Othelia Jones, Novella Thomas, Sarah Arteaga and Zulma Medina. It was great celebrating your birthday with you January 18th. May this be your best year ever.

Sick and Shut-in: Stephen Roberts Sr., Barbara Owens, and Maria Mendez, we are praying for a speedy recovery. Get well soon, we miss you. Ella Thorne misses everyone. She is in Workmen’s Circle. Mary Pilla, former Goose Island president, sends her love to all. You can call her at 718-753-1816.

Our club is located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475 at the Section 5 Center. Our phone number is 718-379-9613. You may call (mornings) Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m.12 p.m. (Evenings) Mon., Wed. and Fri., 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; Tue. & Thu., 1 p.m.-9 p.m., or call, text or Zelle Stephen, 347-847-1941. Cash app to $StephenCarlSr. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net.

––Stephen Roberts Sr.

Share

Comments & Suggestions with Riverbay

Shareholders are encouraged to submit input on how to improve services and service delivery as well as other ideas that impact the quality of life of Co-op City residents.

If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the Riverbay Board and/or Management, website, coopcity.com, scroll down to the bottom and click on the “Comments & Suggestions” link. Be an engaged shareholder. Share your ideas to improve quality-of-life in Co-op City.

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED ON MONDAYS ONLY

Walk w/Odessa, On leave until the Spring

Blood Pressure w/Willa, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. (1st and 3rd Tues.)

Health and Wellness w/Ann, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Smartphone and Tablet Class w/Julesa, 2-3 p.m.

Dinner, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa, On break.

Mindful Mornings Tai-Chi 9 a.m.-10 a.m., Rm. 38

Health & Wellness 10-11 a.m., Rm. 49

Always Grand Line Dancing 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Books & Tea Book Club 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 49 Ageless Facials & Self-Care 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 35

Never Too Old To Learn Spanish, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 35

Bridge To Care Arthritis Exercise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Creative Arts & Painting, 1-3 p.m., Rm. 35

Go Easy on us Computers 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 40

Wed., Jan. 25

Bereavement Hour w/Dorine, 1st & 3rd Wed., 12-1 p.m.

Line Dancing w/Cynthia, 12:30 a.m.-1:45 p.m.

Weight Mgt. Support Group w/ Gigi, 2nd Wed., in rear of JASA main office, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Dominoes w/José, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, 10 a.m.-11:15 a.m.

Arts w/Laura via Zoom 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Beginners Crochet and Knitting w/Lynne, 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Dinner, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Manicure, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Line Dance with Cynthia, 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Dinner, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Spring in Your Step Stretch & Tone, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45

Action Bodies In Motion, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Prize Bingo & Board Games, 1-2 p.m.

Sultry Salsa Dancing, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45

Smart Phones & Tablets 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 49

Indoor Walk Club 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 35

Open Mic Singing and Poetry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Let’s Get It On Zumba, 1-2 p.m., Room 45

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 (Schedule subject to change without notice)

Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m.-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.

Dreiser

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler, 1011 a.m., Zoom (Virtual only for now), 1-646-876-9923, Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173, Passcode: 855423 Stay Well Exercise w/Denise 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Room 2 Piano Sing Along Class (in-person) 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Room 7 Smartphone and tablet literacy w/ Julesa, in-person, 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m.

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Rm. 2. Computer Learning w/Ralph, Zoom only: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dial-in #: 347-893-2966, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554. Blood Pressure, 1st & 3rd Tues., 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Art, In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Tai-Chi, In-person, 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Game Time 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Drama Class/Club, In-person, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 4

Arthritis Exercise, In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2

Tablet Time, In-person, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Self Defense Class, In-person, 2 p.m., Rm. 2

Line Dancing w/Ellie, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Spanish Class, In-person, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Manicure, 2:00-3:30 p.m.

Alert and Alive, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 4 Knitting & Crochet, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Art Class w/Dmitry, Virtual, 1-3 p.m. Massage Therapy, 1st & 3rd Friday, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., In-person Bingo, 1:15-2:30 p.m., Rm. 4, In-person

Vegetarian Chili

White Rice

Toss Salad w/ Dressing Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Egg Frittata

Shake and Bake Chicken Roasted Potatoes Moroccan Vegetables Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice ALT: Baked Breaded Fish

Rib Eye Roast Mashed Potato Steamed Carrots Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Tuna Patty

Non-Kosher

Pernil (Roasted Pork Shoulder) Steamed Peas Sweet Baked Yams

Baked Flounder Couscous Roasted Eggplant Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Vegetable Cutlet

Roast Chicken Kasha w/Noodles Steamed Cabbage Challah Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Gefilte Fish

BBQ Chicken Yellow Rice Sauteed Green Beans

Cornmeal Crusted Fish Cooked Cabbage w/Shredded Carrots Home Fries w/Peppers and Onions

Vegetarian Chicken Brown Stew White Rice Steamed Spinach

Curry Chicken Mashed Potatoes Steamed Carrots and Green Beans

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk Menu subject to change without notice.

Bartow Center: (929) 399-1394

Dreiser Center: (718) 320-1345 Einstein Center: (718) 671-5161

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities

New York Common Pantry – Tues., Jan. 24. Please bring ID; 9 a.m.-12 p.m. in Room 31.

Call Einstein OAC at 718-671-5161 to schedule appointment for Hair Styling: 1st & 3rd Wed., 9 a.m.11 a.m.: braids, haircuts, shape-up, twist, ponytails, curls and more. Facials & Manicure: Mon., 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

JASA Einstein Public Notary – Tues.,10 a.m.-12 p.m., and Thurs., 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

Aldi – Wed., Jan. 25; $4. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m.; Einstein, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered with JASA.

African American Heritage Tour of Philadelphia – Payment due now. Thurs., Feb. 16; $124. Deluxe motor coach transportation. Spend time at African American Museum. Lunch included at Golden Corral. Pickups: Bartow, 7:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 7:45 a.m.; Einstein, 8 a.m. Trip is sold out; wait-list only.

Free Financial Counseling services started Jan. 9, and Free Tax Services starting on Jan. 30, from 10 a.m.4 p.m. by appointment only in collaboration with Ariva. Please call 718-320-2066 to make appointment.

Medicare Information w/Alex Wu from the Dept. of the Aging – every Thursday, 9 a.m.-12:p.m., rear of

Are you interested in learning (virtual) how to tailor your own clothes? Would you like to attend virtual crochet classes? Please register at 718-320-2066.

Would you like to be part of a vocal program that will culminate in a concert for the community? Ses-

tion with Riverbay and the Onaje Allan Gumbs and Sandra Gumbs Community JazzArts Foundation.

Concerts in Motion – Mondays, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Call-in #: 646-558-8656, Meeting ID: 527-067-8391.

Bereavement Support Group w/Dr. Smith – Mon., 1 p.m. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 839 6918 9974, Passcode: 520396.

Painting Class w/Dmitriy – Mondays, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 846 0511 1606, Passcode: 585936.

Notary, Appointment ONLY – Call 718-320-2066. Available at Tues., 9 a.m.10:30 a.m.; Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Einstein Thurs., 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Painting Classes – Every Wed., 9-11 a.m. Zoom meeting. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID:

920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057.

Meditation Class – GPC (Grandparents), 11 a.m.12 p.m., 3rd Thurs. of every month. Dial-in #: 929-2056099, Meeting ID: 991 1390 5105, Passcode: 170462.

Technology class w/Ralph Lucenti – Smart devices and computer. Thurs., 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

Line Dancing with Bartow Swingers – Mon., 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Bartow Center, Room 31; Wed. & Fri., 12 a.m.-1 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 2.

JASA Bartow Black History Month Celebration – Fri., Feb. 24, 1 p.m.-4 p.m., Bartow Center, Room 31. Light refreshments. Tickets: $3. Tickets on sale at the Bartow Center, Room 31 only.

JASA Bartow Arts and Crafts show for Black History Month – Sat., Feb. 11, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Bartow Center, Room 31.

JASA Einstein Black History Month Celebration, “African American Dance,” Tues., Feb. 21, 11:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. Lunch and refreshments served. Tickets: $4.

JASA Einstein Public Notary – Tuesdays, 10 a.m.12 p.m. & Thursdays, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

Kosher Meals are available Kosher

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry (Free):Defensive Driving Class:Contact Us: ––D. Illis

MetroCard Bus

The bus only makes one stop in Co-op City: Some services offered by the bus are: For more MetroCard information, please visit new.mta.info/fares.

St.

Joseph’s

Episcopal Anglican Church

----Zoom Facebook LiveZoom Zoom

––Bishop Nancy Rosario

Church of God’s Children Church of the New

Vision-

January

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo De Cristo

147 Dreiser Loop Bronx, NY 10475 (lower level).

Come As You Are…

“I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the Lord.” (Psalm 122:1)

If you are looking for a place of worship in the local area aimed at teaching the transforming word of God, Circle of Christ Church invites you to fellowship with us. We are a non-denominational, multicultural, and loving church that accepts you just the way you are. Our Senior Pastor Elisamuel Colón and the body of Christ are committed to loving people into a life-changing-liberating relationship with God. The English service has a Bible-centered children’s church for ages 5 to 12. We have a food pantry that serves the community; moreover, we offer family counseling based on need. If interested, please contact us at (347) 9451992 or on Facebook: @Circle of Christ Church. See the schedule below and follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and on our website: circleofchristchurch.com.

Monday – Friday: Devotionals on Facebook Live at 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday: Bible Study on Facebook Live, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Thursday: Prayer Group from 10 p.m.-11:30 a.m. and Prayer Group from 6:45 p.m.-8 p.m.

Spanish Bible Study on Facebook Live from 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Friday: Youth Service (Operation Grace), 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Saturday:

Women’s Fellowship, every second Sat. of the month, 12 p.m-2 p.m.

Young Adults, every third Saturday of the month, 12 p.m.-2 p.m.

Men’s Fellowship, every other month

Couples Fellowship, every other month

Sunday Services: Spanish, 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. & English Service, 11:15 a.m. -1:30 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier for screening at the door.

Kids Career Day/Mid-Winter Break

Come Join Us: Ages 5-12 years old; Date: February 20-22; Time: 12 p.m.-3 p.m.; Location: 147 Dreiser Loop (lower level). Register at the front desk.

We invited guests to discuss their professional careers with the children. Our goal is to encourage the kids to think about their career interests. There will be fun and games. Likewise, we will provide the children with a cold sandwich, fruit juice and a snack.

––Pastor Elisamuel Colon

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow in-person at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Masks are required. The 11:00 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web. zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: 646-568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#.

Rev. Williams asks everyone to call into the Sunday Worship service or Wednesday Bible class using Zoom through your computer or dialing in using the Zoom information shown above.

The Scholarship Ministry invites all to join them on a trip on June 26th for six

nights lodging and eight meals, Soul of Motown show and guided tour of the Smoky Mountain National Park and much more. The cost of the trip is $765 per person based on double occupancy. The due date for the $100 deposit has been extended to February 28. Final payment is due March 5. To make a reservation or for additional information, call Sis. Brenda Robinson at 718-671-1271, or Sister Claudette Cutler Day at 718-379-0541.

Adult Sunday School classes are held on Sundays at 9:15 a.m. in-person. Classes are also available on The Free Call Conference.com Line, dial-in number: 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

Young Teens Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 701-8025240, Access Code: 2528913. Teens Class is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 702-843-2644, Access Code: 2676710, and Juniors Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 737-774-8306, Access Code: Juniors.

Mid-Week Bible Study will be held on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m.

Prayer Warriors Prayer service is held on Thursdays at noon. Prayer Service is also held on Fridays at 10 a.m.

Friday Evening Prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Please note it is not

All Prayer services can be joined using the Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number, 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

The church has a free app. You can go to your app store Apple, Android, Google or wherever you get your apps and put in Co Op CBC. Share this information family, friends and neighbors.

Please keep each other in prayer and be wise in your decisions. Please continue to mask-up, practice social distancing and stay safe!

“God will strengthen us as we continue to travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

––Hattie L. Lucas

Traditional Synagogue

The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate.

General Information

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, January 21, at 5:52 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, January 27, at 4:47 p.m.

Good and Welfare

only $15 per tree (if you want to buy a tree, call 347 449-5005). Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you are ill, we wish you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To All Members

Happy birthday, Saul Weber, and to all our members who will be celebrating their birthday or anniversary in January. Please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games

After services and Kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

––Bruce Gitelson

The Pentecostal Tabernacle, 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, invites everyone to Worship Services. Telephone number: 718-324-0334 or 646-345-6707.

Sunday worship Service is from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Prayer and fasting service will be held every Wednesday morning from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m.

Bible study every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. Come prepared to learn more about God’s word.

Focus: The Effective Fruitful Christian.

(11 Peter 1:1-3) “Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through-the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord. According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.”

Becoming A Matured Christian

We become a matured Christian as we develop the qualities of virtue, knowledge, self-control, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. These qualities will develop in our growing relationship with Jesus Christ.

In a letter to the believers in Ephesus, Paul addressed the topic of spiritual growth and maturity in Christ Jesus.

“And he gave some Apostles, and some prophets, and some, evangelists, and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the edifying of the body of Christ. That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ. From whom supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that he henceforth walk, not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart, Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.” (Ephesians 4:11-19)

Continual progressive spiritual growth is a normal process for all spiritually healthy Christian believers. As individuals continue to grow in Christian character, their reverence and respect for God continue to increase. This process of growing spiritually brings a believer to full maturity in Christ. God has given to His church the gift of ministry in all its aspects and dimensions in order to perfect this process of spiritual growth for believers. We should continue to grow spiritually as long as we live.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Pentecostal Tabernacle

CCPD –––– (Continued from page 7)

case of a collision. Today’s automobiles are designed to keep the passenger compartment intact in the event of a collision. Without a seatbelt, you will not remain within that safety zone. Unsecured persons in a vehicle continue to travel at the vehicle’s speed until they strike a solid object within or outside the vehicle. Internal organs of the unbelted person then collide with the skeletal system causing serious internal injuries. An unbelted person also serves as a projectile and can cause injuries to other persons in the vehicle. A person properly restrained stays within the vehicle’s safety zone and comes to a slower stop thereby minimizing injuries.

Drivers should consider taking a Defensive Driver Training Course. These courses teach drivers tactics in becoming a safer driver plus provide an insurance discount and possible point reduction.

DRIVE CAREFULLY when school is open or any event when pedestrians are present. Never pass a stopped school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its -

ers must give pedestrians the same level of respect that they expect from motor vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road safely.

If consuming alcoholic beverages is part of your weekend plans, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State.

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

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

Co-op City Department of Public Safety (718) 671-3050 • www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc

If you SEE something, SAY something!

Community Pantry/Fridge Food Distribution Continues Despite Winter Temperatures

Photos by Yolanda Ramirez