Co-op City Times 1/25/20

Vol. 55 No. 4

STAR Credit for 2019/2020 reflected on February invoices Shareholders who qualify for New York State School Tax Relief (STAR) Program will see a credit applied to their February 2020 maintenance invoices which will be arriving in Co-op City households next week.

This year, shareholders eligible for Basic STAR received $98.67, and Enhanced STAR recipients, $215.67.

Shareholders who are new to Co-op City are reminded that all Co-op City shareholders are eligible for STAR, but it is not an automatic exemption; it must be filed for. Once you qualify, you do not have to re-enroll annually unless you receive Enhanced STAR and opted out of the Income Verification Program (IVP); are transitioning from Basic to Enhanced STAR, you move, or are contacted by the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance to update your registration.

There are two STAR benefits – STAR exemption, which is administered by the city and, in Co-op City’s case, results in a reduction in the corporation’s shelter rent tax which is then passed along in the form of a credit on qualifying shareholders’ carrying charge accounts; and STAR credit, administered by New York State through the Department of Taxation and Finance.

Co-op City shareholders receive STAR exemptions and therefore should be aware of changes to the program that occurred in 2019: Basic STAR • New York City is no longer accepting new applications for STAR exemptions (Basic and Enhanced).

First-time applicants or those who did not have STAR on their homes in the 2015/2016 tax year must register for the STAR credit with NYS Department of Taxation and Finance at https://www.tax.ny.gov/star/, or by calling the agency: (518) 457-2036, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

• If you currently receive Basic STAR and your annual adjusted gross income is between $250,000 and $500,000, you will henceforth receive a check for STAR credit, and not the reduction in corporation’s shelter rent tax.

• If you currently receive Basic STAR and your income is $250,000 or less, you may voluntarily register for the STAR credit to receive a check, in which case, you may receive a

BY ROZAAN BOONE

(Continued on page 4)

Saturday, January 25, 2020

$1.25

Triboro rail a possibility as bus plans finalize

Seven months ago, Co-op City residents and Board members formed an ad hoc committee to combat and counter the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s plan to essentially gut the community’s service as part of its overall redesign plan for Bronx buses. The committee, with support from state Assemblyman Michael Bendetto and other elected officials, was able to beat back the MTA’s changes and preserve just about all of Co-op City’s buses, even adding a few enhancements.

This week, Queens City Councilman Costa Constantinides sent a letter to MTA Chairman Patrick Foye and New York City Transit President Andy Byford — who resigned Jan. 23 — endorsing the idea of a Triboro rail line and calling for a study on how to make it happen.

Guess where that rail line would start?

Indeed, it seems everything is coming up Co-op with the MTA these days, as, not only is the bus redesign plan approaching the final stages with routes and schedules much more friendly to Co-op City, the proposed Triboro rail line, which would connect the outer boroughs of the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn with each other, would originate at its northern end in, you guessed it, Co-op City.

(Continued on page 2)

BY JASON CHIREVAS

Co-op City resident dies in fatal building fire

On Monday, Jan. 20, a fire in Building 12 claimed the life of an 85-year-old male, leaving his 45year-old daughter and two firefighters injured during the blaze.

At around 2:50 a.m., residents in neighboring buildings watched as heavy smoke, and orange flames escaped the dwelling at 120 Casals Place – engulfing the 11th-floor apartment.

According to news reports, army veteran and retired New York Police Department sergeant, Bernard Edwards, was found unconscious in his apartment and was rushed to Jacobi Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

His daughter, Ndela Edwards, was found in the building lobby suffering from smoke inhalation. She ran to the vestibule in search of assistance after seeing the fire and hearing her father scream for help.

It has been reported in local news that the fire was electrical in nature.

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

What’s Inside:

Public Safety Report and Blotter, p. 7 Riverbay Opportunities, p. 7 Classifieds, p. 23

The proposed Triboro rail line would begin in Co-op City in the north and terminate in Brooklyn, encompassing Queens along the way. The project is estimated to cost $1 billion to $2 billion, and there is a bill in the state Assembly calling for a feasibility study of the proposal.

Map courtesy of the RPA

Bookkeeping extended hours, Jan. 30

Riverbay Finance department’s Bookkeeping window will be open for extended hours on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., to accept carrying charge payments.

The Bookkeeping window is located in the administrative office, Bartow Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

JASA Senior Menu & Activities, p. 18

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Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Triboro Rail

There’s also the Penn Station access project, which would place a Metro-North station in Co-op City’s Section 5, but progress on that is a matter for another day, specifically Feb. 12, at 7:30 p.m., when Metro-North representatives will discuss the upcoming Co-op City station with Community Board 10 at the board’s 3165 East Tremont Ave. headquarters.

According to published reports, Councilman Constantinides used his letter to call for a feasibility study, commissioned by the MTA, to determine the technical aspects as well as predicted ridership and costs of running trains through three of the outer boroughs.

The push for a feasibility study into the Triboro rail project started with state Assemblywoman Latrice Walker of Brooklyn, who introduced a bill calling for the study in June 2019. The bill has been referred to the Assembly’s committee on corporations, authorities and commissions.

The idea for the Triboro rail line itself, on the table since 2016, came from the Regional Plan Association, an independent planning non-profit founded in 1922.

In its policy brief on the proposed project, RPA said the Triboro rail line would cost between $1 billion and $2 billion and run 24 miles from Co-op City to Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, acting as “the wheel connecting the various spokes of the subway system branching from Manhattan. It would open an urgently needed northsouth transit corridor, allowing New Yorkers, for the first time, to move seamlessly between communities in these three boroughs.”

RPA’s proposal cites as a key point for the necessity of the Triboro its own 2015 study that found 50% of the city’s job growth in the previous 15 years happened outside Manhattan. The brief also says RPA found travel from an outer borough to Manhattan takes an average of 10 to 15 minutes less time than public transportation from one outer borough to another.

The tracks proposed to be used for the Triboro are already in place and belong to Amtrak in the north and the Long Island Railroad in the south. The middle section, between Astoria and Glendale, belongs to CSX, a private, Florida-based transportation company.

As proposed, the Triboro rail line’s northernmost station would be what RPA calls Co-op City South, a station on Erskine Place behind Section 5. This station would use the same Amtrak rails that the proposed Co-op City Metro-North station is slated to utilize. As a possible extension of the Triboro, RPA posits the tracks might be extended to a new station it calls Co-op City North, which would (Continued from page 1)

be located more centrally in Sections 1 through 4.

In addition to providing easy, direct access to Queens and Brooklyn, RPA proposes to have the Triboro intersect with 17 subway lines and four commuter lines.

It would also involve building two dozen new stations to accommodate the 100,000 person initial daily ridership RPA anticipates.

“Many borough residents — 59% in the Bronx, 57% in Brooklyn and 36% in Queens — don’t own cars. These residents often require two buses and a subway ride to reach their destination, requiring an additional fare,” the RPA policy brief reads. “To avoid the multiple bus transfers, they might use informal transit such as car services or shared vans. That adds to costs for riders who already struggle to pay the upfront cost of a monthly MetroCard. Simplifying rail connections and reducing bus-to-subway transfers for these communities not only saves time but eases the financial burden of traveling by transit.”

Simplifying service and avoiding in-community transfers was a big part the Co-op City ad hoc committee on MTA buses’ success in countering the initial MTA redesign plan, as was the new Bx25 bus and preserving Q50 service to Co-op City during peak hours.

Recently, despite not acknowledging it was a new change, the MTA planned to cut BxM7 service from Co-op City to midtown dramatically on weekday afternoons and weekends but, after more feedback from the ad hoc committee and other Bronx residents, the authority now says it will not curtail the borough’s express bus service and allow riders to “vote with their feet” to keep those buses operating during off-peak hours.

There are a few other treats for Co-op City commuters on the table, as well.

The MTA’s bus redesign plan for Queens includes extending the Q50 to LaGuardia Airport. On the other end of its route, the Q50 will also stop at the ferry station Mayor Bill de Blasio said the city intends to build near the Whitestone Bridge.

All of this, MTA ad hoc committee member and Riverbay Board Second Vice President Rod Saunders said, is a big deal for local commuting.

“What Co-op City was able to accomplish with our negotiations with the MTA was nothing short of phenomenal,” Mr. Saunders told the Co-op City Times. “In its 50-year history, Co-op City never had the opportunity to address its public transportation at all. What you witnessed … was the perfect alignment of the community, our elected representatives, and a few outstanding and committed volunteers, who worked in Co-op City’s best interest.”

We are shareholders, not tenants!

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN NOW ACCEPTING GHI!!

NOW ACCEPTING AETNA!!

Podiatrist — Foot Specialist

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

accept most health insurance plans

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

Become involved in your building association!

Please Refrain From Littering.

• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program

Keep Co-op City Clean!

• Evening and Saturday appointments

Thank You!

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

COMBING

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

Build the Block Join Co-op City’s Neighborhood Coordination Officers on Wed., Feb. 5, 12:30 p.m., in room 1 of the Dreiser Community Center for a discussion on the public safety challenges in our neighborhood. Meet NCOs Griesinger and Anderson, along with the Steady Sector Officers who work with them to ensure a better quality of life for cooperators. The NYPD wants to hear your voices and concerns for our neighborhood. Refreshments will be served. For accommodations regarding any disability, please contact Police Officer Ivette Vargas at 718-822-5452 or at Ivette.Vargas@nypd.org at least 72 hours before the event.

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

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

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

Co-op City Times 2 n d

Front Page

Riverbay’s Succession Rights summarized and updated for clarity

Riverbay Corporation has summarized the Division of Housing and Community Renewal’s (DHCR) rules and regulations on succession rights to avoid confusion or misunderstanding.

The DHCR has specific rules governing the transfer or assumption of ownership of apartments within Mitchell-Lama developments, which are spelled out in 9NYCRR Part 1727-8.1.

“The Succession Rights Policy is intended to help a cooperator be aware of the protection provided to a family member or a ‘life companion’ in the event a cooperator moves or dies,” said Michael Munns, Riverbay’s Senior Attorney. “DHCR regulations provide that eligible persons may continue to live in an apartment after the death or move-out of the cooperator. Our policy follows DHCR rules and explains succession rights to Co-op City residents.”

It should be pointed out that while new ownership can only be assumed in cases of move-out or death, only persons who meet all of the regulatory requirements may obtain leases and stock certificates in their own names as successors.

According to the rules and regulations, succession of an apartment can only take place if the primary owner of the apartment moves out or passes away. As a general rule, whenever there is a change in the number of persons living in the apartment, Riverbay should be notified within ninety (90) calendar days of any such changes through the use of an Interim Affidavit Form, which can be obtained from their respective CSO Office.

“It is critical for all shareholders to inform Riverbay of changes in the household occupants in order for those occupants to potentially have succession rights at some point in the future,” said Peter Merola, Riverbay’s Director of Finance. “The annual filing of the Income Affidavit accomplishes this, as well as filing an Interim Affidavit in between annual filings.”

If the shareholder moves out permanently, any member of the primary shareholder’s family or life companion may request, in writing, to be named a shareholder on the lease and on the stock certificate. However, this person must meet certain requirements.

“They must have resided with the shareholder in the apartment as their primary residence for a period of not less than two years, or for one year if the succeeding shareholder is a senior citizen or disabled person, immediately prior to permanent vacating of the apartment by the shareholder,” said Mr. Merola. “In cases where the occupancy or relationship is less than two years, the succeeding shareholder must have lived in the apartment from the inception of the tenancy or commencement of the relationship. The succeeding shareholder must have been listed on the Income Affidavit and/or Interim Income Affidavit during the relevant period of time.”

Per DHCR rules, the “relevant period of time” must be documented by no less than 3 affidavits and can be supported by either combination of 3 annual affidavits, or 1 interim affidavit plus 2 annual affidavits if the successor moves in between annual filings.

DHCR’s rules define “family member” as a husband, wife, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, father, mother, stepfather, stepmother, brother, sister, nephew, niece, uncle, aunt, grandfather, grandmother, grandson, granddaughter, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-inlaw of the primary cooperator.

Cousins are not defined family members and therefore are not eligible for succession under this rule. However, cousins can apply for succession under the DHCR rule of “Emotional and Financial Inter-dependence.” In addition to meeting the residency requirements in this case, a successor would have to provide similar evidence as in the case of a life companion.

“Primary residence” is defined as the housing accommodation in which the person actually resides and maintains a permanent and continuous physical presence.

Proof of such residency must consist of the Income Affidavit or Interim Income Affidavits together with other evidence, for example, certified copies of tax returns, voting records, motor vehicle registration and driver’s license, school registration, bank accounts, employment records, insurance policies and other pertinent documentation.

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At the same time, ‘life companion’ is defined as any other person residing with the shareholder as a primary resident who can prove emotional and financial commitment and interdependence between such person and the shareholder. Evidence of this can be the Income Affidavit or Interim Income Affidavit filed by the primary shareholder, as well as evidence of longevity of the relationship; sharing of or relying upon each other for payment of household or family expenses; joint ownership of bank accounts, personal and real property, credit cards, loan obligations, sharing a household budget for purposes of receiving governmental benefits; engaging in family type activities by jointly attending family functions; and formalizing of legal obligations by such means as executing wills, naming each other as executor and/or beneficiary, granting each other power of attorney, etc.

The other avenue through which a successor can be named to the apartment is through death of the primary shareholder.

If this is the case, the lease and shares of stock for the decedent’s apartment shall be surrendered to the Riverbay Sales Office by the decedent’s estate or survivors for redemption.

If there are no legal disputes, Riverbay will sell or transfer the shares to any member of the decedent’s family or life companion, as long as they meet all of the requirements as stipulated by DHCR’s rules and regulations.

Mr. Munns stated that any family member or life companion of a shareholder who would like permission to remain in occupancy after the cooperator moves or dies should submit a written request within ninety (90) days to Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. 10475, Attn.: Succession Rights.

“It is imperative that shareholders understand that no other types of stock transfers or lease amendments are allowed except those directed by statute or an appropriate tribunal or court of law,” said Mr. Munns.

Shareholders may log on to Riverbay’s website at www.riverbaycorp.com to download a copy of these succession right.

—Rozaan Boone

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STAR

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

greater benefit since STAR credits can increase up to 2% annually, and STAR exemptions will no longer increase from one year to the next. On the other hand, both benefits may also decrease or remain the same in any given year, but the credit will always be more than the exemption. * If you receive a letter from NYS Department of Taxation and Finance asking you to update your STAR registration, you must complete Form RP-425RDM for the STAR credit. Once your updated registration is processed, you will receive a check instead of the reduction in property tax that results in a credit to your carrying charge account. * If you choose not to switch to the STAR credit or do not receive a letter from the state Department of Taxation and Finance to update your registration, you will continue to receive a credit on your carrying charge account for the amount set for Basic STAR for the current cycle going forward.

Enhanced STAR * While Enhanced STAR recipients (those 65 and older with income limit of $88,050) previously had two options to renew their annual STAR exemptions – either by reapplying or voluntarily enrolling in the Income Verification Program, since last year, all registrants for Enhanced STAR are required to enroll in the IVP. No senior will receive Enhanced STAR unless they enroll in IVP. If you are already enrolled in IVP, no further action is required unless you are contacted by the state to update your registration.

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website reassures seniors that their reported income will not be disclosed to their local tax assessor, only whether they qualify for the STAR exemption. * First-time applicants for Enhanced STAR and current Enhanced STAR recipients who receive a letter to update their registration with NYS Department of Taxation and Finance must fill out the E-STAR application online or call the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance at (518) 457-2036 to apply by phone for the Enhanced STAR credit.

Basic STAR is available to any owner of a house, cooperative apartment, condominium or other property as long as at least one owner lives in or uses the property as their primary residence. Married couples owning more than one property can only have STAR on one property unless they are divorced or legally separated and can provide documentation to support their claim.

There is no age limit to receive Basic STAR, however, the combined household income of the owner(s) must be $500,000 or less.

Total combined household income is the federal adjusted gross income minus the taxable amount of IRA distributions.

Enhanced STAR applicants must also use the residence they are filing for as the primary residence of at least one owner. Therefore, for a married couple applying for Enhanced STAR, if one owner is absent from the property because they are receiving inpatient health-related services at a residential health care facility, such as a nursing home or any other facility that provides lodging, board and physical care, as long as the property is not occupied by anyone other than the remaining spouse or co-owner, the property may qualify for Enhanced STAR as long as the following criteria are also met: the property owner(s) must be age 65 or older as of December 31 of the exemption year and have an annual total combined household income of $88,050 or less to qualify.

Senior shareholders who need assistance with their STAR applications may contact JASA Senior Services at (718) 320-2066, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or you may also walk in. Applicants must bring their 2018 taxes, and photo ID. Other necessary information include: • Number of shares you own and the specific date of purchase of your apartment. If you cannot locate your stock certificate, you can obtain this information from the Riverbay Finance Department.

• 2018 tax forms. Your federal adjusted gross income is on line 19 on the NYS tax return (IT-201) and on the federal tax form (1040), on line 37.

• Social Security award letter, pension, IRA, bank statements with your interest amount and any other income information.

• If your co-op apartment is in a Trust, have the title of the Trust handy as well as names of all owners and others living in the apartment and their date of birth.

Shareholder applying for Bais and Enhanced STAR who did not file a 2018 income tax return must provide the following: • Total income (wages, salaries, tips, etc.)

• Taxable interest income and dividends • Unemployment compensation • Total pensions and annuities • Social Security benefits • All other income Co-op City shareholders will also need the following information to complete their STAR application: • Cooperators who live in Sections 1-4, and in the Adler, Asch, Cooper, Debs, DeFoe and Broun Place townhouses – “Block #: 5141; Lot#: 120.

• Cooperators who live in Section 5 and the Earhart Lane townhouses – Block#: 5135; Lot: 51.

Of Co-op City’s 15,372 apartments, 6,487 received the credit for 2019/2020, which amounted to a total (Continued from page 1)

of $911,163.49 that was shared by households qualifying for Basic and Enhanced STAR. For questions about STAR, you may contact 311.

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Goose Island Seniors

Sunday Bingo – Jan. 26, 2020. Tomorrow at 1 p.m., rm. 39 in Einstein Center.

All are welcome.

Wind Creek (Sands) - Thursday, Feb. 6. Price, $40. Bonus, $30 play. Time, 8 a.m. from Einstein Loop; 8:10 a.m. from Asch Loop. and 8:20 a.m. from Dreiser Loop. Money due by January 24. Bus full, waiting list only. Pease note we are leaving one half hour earlier than we used to leave.

Valentine’s Day Get-Together - Saturday, Feb. 15, at 1 p.m. Members only.

Cover dish. Donate food, salad, dessert or beverage, or $5 donation. Members may bring a friend or two.

Sight & Sound “Queen Esther” Thursday, April 23, 2020 in Lancaster, PA. Price: $145, includes free buffet at Golden Corral, then the play “Queen Esther.”

Seats: Center stage balcony 1 to 4 steps down. Buses leaving from our three usual bus stops: Einstein at 8 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:10 a.m. and Dreiser at 8:20 a.m. A few seats available. All money is due by Wed., April 8. Make checks payable to Goose Island Seniors, visit us or mail to: 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475. First to pay in full, will be first to select theatre balcony seats.

Cruise to Bahamas - July 27, returns Aug. 5, 2020 on Carnival Cruise Line’s “Sunrise” Ship. Leaves NY and stops at Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos, Nassau Bahamas & Half Moon Cay Bahamas. Price: Inside Cabin, $1095.64 per person; Ocean View, $1255.64 per person; Balcony, $1555.64 per person.

Prices may vary. Reservation, $400. Final

payment April 15, 2020. For more information, please call 718-379-9613.

Bingo - Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Time: 1:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Members only, in our club room 39.

Admission, $5 for three cards, 12 games and Jackpot. 25¢ each extra card; three extra cards maximum.

Karaoke - Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. with Stephen in room 45. All are welcome. Come and listen or come and sing. Free concert.

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

Sick and Shut-In - Mary Smith and Adelle Lawrence. Ann Schlanger is in Workman Circle Nursing Home, 3351 Grace Ave. Ely Ave. entrance. Welcomes visitors.

Note: The dues for the Senior Citizen’s Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. is $20 from January - December. Call Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613. If there is no answer, please leave a message.

Feel free to visit us at the Section 5 Community Center, 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475. Office hours: (Mornings) Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

(Evenings) Mon., Wed. & Fri., 12 p.m. – 8 p.m., and Tues. & Thurs. evenings, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Stephen cell: 347-847-1941.

Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts

Broun Place Townhouse Association

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Remembering the life and principles of Dr. Martin Luther King, his dream is still our dream and is still a goal for us to reach; we are still struggling to have equal rights. It boggles my mind that voting rights are still being blocked.

Can you believe we are still marching for equal rights? We must continue Dr. King’s march and honor Dr. King’s achievements.

Praises and appreciation for CSO Manager Mr. Victor Dickson for following up on some of our problems. Some are not easy to resolve. By the way, the wind did a job on Section 4 in last week's storm. Garage 6's Verizon cable storage compartment got blown apart, so in order to protect us, it is now closed and will be repaired when spring arrives. We fought to get this side box of Verizon cables boxed neatly and we will again.

There has been an increase in robocalls of all kinds, in many languages.

First get on the do-not-call list. Scammers are trying to trick you into giving them your personal information and money. For example, scammers pretend they’re from Social Security. The caller says there is a problem with your Social Security number or account. But Social Security will not threaten you, or say your Social Security number has been suspended, ask you for credit or debit card numbers over the phone, a retail gift card number. Social Security may call you or mail a letter to confirm you filed for a claim or to discuss other business you have; they will use email addresses to provide information.

If you receive a call from someone alleging to be from Social Security, hang up right away, and report the scam at oig.ssa.gov/to, Social Security’s law enforcement team at the Office of the Inspector General.

Another important tip, always write out the entire year, 2020. Don't abbreviate it by writing 20.

There has been no permanent action to enable smooth entry to I-95 North or traffic across Bartow Avenue. We suggest going up Co-op City Boulevard.

Avoid Bartow Avenue and avoid exiting through Section 5. Exit from Connor Street, use that service road or left up Boston Road and left on Eastchester and across or the I-95 service road to cross up to Eastchester. At least you keep going to your destination. The double parking in Section 5 and all the buses make it a difficult way to go.

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

It is not too late for the flu shot; your symptoms will likely be reduced.

The association will post a meeting for February 2020.

Remember, keep dancing and we guarantee happy days ahead.

—Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

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Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

A Message from C.S.O. Dept: Hammering after 6 p.m., vacuuming after 9 p.m., music or TVs played very loudly at any hour, doors slamming constantly at all hours... these are just a few examples of what can disturb the peace of fellow cooperators. Please, let’s work together to make Co-op City a peaceful community.

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

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

Rozaan Boone

Follow Co-op City Times on Twitter

Editor-in-Chief

Jason Chirevas Managing Editor

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Follow @coopcitytimes for up-to-the-minute news and alerts relevant to Co-op City.

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Be sure to follow the Co-op City Times on Twitter and at issuu.com. Keep up with community news at home or on the go!

Social Security launches new campaign to fight scammers

The Social Security Administration has launched a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) campaign to continue warning the public about the ongoing nationwide telephone impersonation scheme. The PSAs feature a message from Social Security Commissioner Andrew Saul.

Social Security and its Office of the Inspector General (OIG) continue to receive reports about fraudulent phone calls from people falsely claiming to be Social Security employees. The scammers mislead victims into making cash or gift card payments for help with purported identity theft, or to avoid arrest for bogus Social Security number problems.

“I want every American to know that if a suspicious caller states there is a problem with their Social Security number or account, they should hang up and never give the caller money or personal information,” said Commissioner Saul.

“People should then go online to oig.ssa.gov to report the scam call to Social Security.”

People should also be on the lookout for a new version of this scam. Fraudsters are now emailing fake documents in attempts to get people to comply with their demands.Victims have received emails with attached letters and reports that appear to be from Social Security or the OIG. The letters may use official letterhead and government jargon to convince victims they are legitimate; they may also contain misspellings and grammar mistakes.

The new PSA addressing the telephone impersonation scheme is available online at www.youtube.com/socialsecurity.

Social Security employees do occasionally contact people–generally those who have ongoing business with the Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

agency–by telephone for business purposes. However, Social Security employees will never threaten a person, or promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange for information or money. In those cases, the call is fraudulent and people should just hang up.

Generally, the agency mainly calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit, someone who is already receiving payments and requires an update to their record, or a person who has requested a phone call from the agency. If a person is not in one of these situations, they normally would not receive a call from the agency.

Social Security will not: • Tell you that your Social Security number has been suspended.

• Contact you to demand an immediate payment.

• Ask you for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

• Require a specific means of debt repayment, like a prepaid debit card, a retail gift card, or cash.

• Demand that you pay a Social Security debt without the ability to appeal the amount you owe.

• Promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange for information or money.

If there is a problem with a person’s Social Security number or record, in most cases Social Security will mail a letter. If a person needs to submit payments to Social Security, the agency will send a letter with instructions and payment options. People should never provide information or payment over the phone or Internet unless they are certain of who is receiving it.

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

John Crow New Media Producer The Co-op City Times welcomes issueoriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the authors.

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

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

Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corp. of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available.

The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor.

All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.

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

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

Current Lease Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2020

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2023

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

7

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Juvenile reports prepared by Public Safety officers for offenses committed by persons under the age of 16

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO Officers of the Co-op City Department of Public Safety are authorized to prepare juvenile reports when offenses of the law are committed by persons at least seven years of age but less than 16 years of age. The juvenile report is a New York City Police Department form utilized when certain types of offenses are committed by persons under the age of 16. Preparation of the juvenile report takes the place of an arrest for all violations and some misdemeanors.

When a juvenile report is issued, it is forwarded to the youth officer at the 45th Precinct. The youth officer at the 45th Precinct determines what type of follow-up is required.

Parents of the child are often contacted to monitor future activity.

The juvenile report can start the process of intervention before serious delinquent activity begins.

When a child is taken into custody for the issuance of a juvenile report, the parents of the child are notified. It becomes necessary for the parent to respond to Public Safety headquarters and possibly also to the 45th Precinct with identification to pick up the child. In the event the child is truant from school, the school is also contacted. School safety is notified and the child is returned to school. After school hours, if the parent cannot be reached, the child may be transported to a juvenile detention facility.

A Co-op City Community Complaint is also issued when the child is a Co-op City resident and the offense was committed within Co-op City. The Co-op City Community Complaint carries a monetary fine and can be added to the monthly carrying charges. Subsequent violations result in increased fines. Multiple violations can lead to eviction. This helps to maintain a high quality of life and low crime rate within the community.

Juvenile reports are often issued for fighting during the school arrival and departure times. The officers of the Co-op City Department of Public Safety are strategically placed adjacent to the schools for the purpose of protecting the life and property of the residents of Co-op City. Students are encouraged to walk directly home or promptly board the bus to return home.

Parents of school-age children should instruct children to respond home without delay and refrain from engaging in fighting while on the way to and from school.

Engaging in activities such as snowball throwing or water balloon fights often escalates to fighting or other violence. Throwing snowballs or other objects at moving vehicles or pedestrians may result in property damage or serious injury.

Criminal penalties for this type of activity can be severe. An activity that may have started out as fun can have detrimental results. Although not so serious, last year we had many children lose their cellphones while playing in the snow.

Parents should also make sure students are always in possession of the proper bus pass or MetroCard for boarding the bus. Any theft or loss of bus pass should be reported immediately so a replacement can be issued. Children should be directed never to board the buses from the rear door. This act is dangerous and also illegal. Plainclothes enforcement by special New York City agents on many city buses is in effect.

(Continued on page 22)

Public Safety Report

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

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

Public Safety Blotter Jan. 12 to Jan. 18, 2020

Jan. 12 2099 Asch Loop A cooperator responded to the garage to retrieve her vehicle and found it missing. Search of the garage was conducted with negative results. NYPD notified for reports.

Jan. 13 100 Alcott Place Unknown man scammed food delivery person out of $63 worth of food.

Jan. 14 120 Donizetti Place Basement was flooded after an ejector pump malfunctioned. Laundry room was shut down while Maintenance repaired the pump and cleaned up the water.

99 Carver Loop Multiple items were removed from a vehicle after unknown individuals broke the rear window.

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

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see the end of the employment listings for specific directions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

8

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Great News from the MTA Director’s Viewpoint

Rod Saunders Second Vice President The New Year has provided welcome news for the Co-op City community.

The welcome news for all cooperators who rely on the MTA’s public transportation system was announced on Thursday, Jan. 16th. The BxM7 express bus service would continue into the 2021 year without any significant changes to the current schedule.

This is “very good news.”

This victory was made possible because of Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and his colleagues in the State legislation. The solution to resolving the boroughwide reduction in the daily operating schedules of all Manhattan-bound express bus service is fantastic news.

The implementation of the MTA’s Bronx Bus Network’s final plan is now highly anticipated. I cannot begin to express exactly how critical it was to have had the all-around fantastic support of Co-op City’s residents over these past 8 months. Again, I want to highlight and thank the hardworking members of the MTA Ad-Hoc committee as well as the incredibly important advocacy by our elected representatives, Congressman Eliot Engel, State Senator Jamaal Bailey, City Councilman Andy King, all on Co-op City’s behalf, and led by the direct involvement of Assemblyman Benedetto. Co-op City’s bus commuters can once again look forward to better service, and most importantly, we will return to the one seat/no transfer routing of buses within Co-op City.

Then came the news that along with our successful negotiations to continue having the Q50 come into Co-op City from the Pelham Bay station during “peak” ridership hours, that the routing of the Q50 will now be extended from its current termination at the Main Street Flushing location, and according to the Queens Fast Forward plan, will continue into LaGuardia Airport.

Combine that with the Mayor’s plan to build a new ferry terminal close to the Whitestone Bridge in Ferry Point Park.

When the terminal is completed, the Q50 bus will be routed to include accessing the new ferry terminal which, when implemented, will give Co-op City commuters and East Bronx residents, in general, greater, faster commutes to both Manhattan and Queens. Should all things work out as planned, the Bronx Bus Redesign network

plan will be very good for our East Bronx commuters.

Enforcement of Suspected Fare Evasion On January 16th, the Legislative Committee (which I have the pleasure of chairing) held a committee meeting in collaboration with Assemblyman Benedetto to address what many cooperators describe as unacceptable encounters with police officers in regards to allegations of fare evasion entering onto or exiting buses coming from Co-op City.

Attending the meeting were: Inspector Matthew Galvin, Borough Commander Bronx/Queens; Deputy Inspector Alan Cohen, and Capt. Gregory Mackie, Commanding Officer of the Transit 12th District, accompanied by his supervising officer, Sgt. Steven Buffit.

As reported in last week’s Co-op City Times, the Commanding Officers present represented the men & women whose predominant role is to patrol and protect the subway trains and stations here on the #2, 5 & 6 lines. Having said that, the large majority of bus commuters take the bus to the subway, therefore, the information that was forthcoming in the meeting was absolutely relevant and helpful.

Why all the officers?

Back in June (17th), Gov. Cuomo’s office sent out a press release directly relating to the hiring of 500 new officers that were being assigned to deal with the fare evasion on the New York City buses and trains.

According to the press release, once fully implemented, the Fare Enforcement Task Force – comprised of 200 NYPD officers, 300 MTA Police Department officers and Bridge & Tunnel Officers, and 70 New York City Transit Eagle Team members, “will be deployed to targeted locations with the highest levels of incidents of assault on MTA workers and the subway stations and bus routes with the highest ridership rates. The additional MTA personnel will receive training to support this effort prior to deployment.”

The Governor’s announcement was primarily based upon MTA President Andy Byford’s position that in 2018, more than $225 million in revenue loss had come from fare evasion, with $125 million of that attributed to revenue losses on MTA buses. In the Governor’s Serving press release, the figure was raised to $243 million.

Between the reported

Building 19 Association

Hello, Building 19 family. I want to thank those who attended last Friday’s general meeting. As I mentioned in my previous article, the association held its election for its executive board. All the nominated candidates ran unopposed.

The individuals who won the election are the following: President: Leon Tulton President-Elect: Saja Mobley Secretary: Sonia Feliciano Treasurer: Francine Brown Assistant Treasurer: Charlotte Codrington Congratulations to Catherine Ryans for winning our 50/50 raffle at last week’s general meeting. On a personal note, I want to thank Catherine for donating her portion of the prize to the association. The donation is very much appreciated.

The association will be collecting annual dues for 2020 starting next month.

During our January general meeting, a motion was approved to raise the membership fee from $5 to $10 dollars. The Association has tried to keep the cost of the annual fee at $5 for as long as we possibly could. However, with rising expenses associated with current and

future association-related activities — e.g. refreshments for general meetings and on-site notary public service during the income affidavit season — we had to eventually raise the dues to help offset the costs.

Collections will take place on the following dates in the lobby: Saturday, Feb. 8: Noon to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 11: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 13: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 21: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22: Noon to 6 p.m.

You’ll be given a membership card after you make your payment.

Please save the following dates for the upcoming general meetings for 2020.

All dates and start times are on a Friday at 7 p.m.: March 27: 2020 Census May 8: Breast Cancer June 19 Scam Awareness Sept. 25: Alzheimer’s disease and wills Nov. 20: Healthcare proxy and wills Dec. 18: End-of-the-year party Our next committee meeting will be held Wednesday, Feb. 12, at 7:30 p.m.

Please come out and attend.

—Leon Tulton

losses in revenue, coupled with the Transit Workers Union President John Samuelsen asking for more police officers to help protect their workers’ “from horrendous attacks,” we now have at minimum an additional 570 officers from at least 2 (possibly 3) different enforcement agencies, addressing fare evasion, and quality of life issues for Transit workers and commuters.

While the main reason for hosting the Legislative Committee meeting was to foster a more respectful level of engagement between our cooperators and officers from any enforcement body, the meeting obviously lacked 2 of the possible 3 participants.

The good news is that Inspector Galvin, Deputy Inspector Cohen, and Capt. Mackie, all agreed to come back to Co-op City, and meet with the appropriate members of the MTA & Eagle Team, to bring about changes in engagement with our commuters, and placement of their officers in general. I’ll continue to update the community as progress merits, as I have already begun to implement the necessary arrangements to hold a follow-up meeting.

500 Baychester Avenue The Board and our legal team have challenged several commercial development aspects of the property known as 500 Baychester Avenue (signs & wind turbine). The property owner has lost all but one appeal to place the largest illuminated advertising signs on the massive monopole remaining on the site. On January 9th (2020), the Dept. of Buildings wrote that they intended to revoke 10 existing approvals, permits, and sign-offs, relating to signs. The engineer/applicant of the wind turbine filed to withdraw it, however, nature already took care of that.

I am confident that Councilman King will keep his word and stand with the Riverbay Board of Directors to negotiate the rezoning of the property.

Thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be reached at rsaunders@riverbayboard.com.

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Building 15 Association

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

We would like to thank our guest speaker, Ms. Tanysha Farley, our area manager, for attending our meeting Jan. 16. It was a very informative meeting. We also wish Ms. Farley good luck in her new position.

Thanks to all those cooperators who attended our meeting. We wish more of our cooperators would attend the building association meetings.

Remember, if you see something, say something.

—Sandy Krasnove

Building 13 Association

Building 13 residents, along with many others, are saddened by the recent loss of life and property suffered by those in our neighboring Building 12. On Sunday, Jan. 19, the NYC fire commissioner was on television and reiterated what our safety director, Anthony Barzelatto, told us about hazards in the household.

As of this writing, you should have received an official notice envelope containing important safety information. Enclosed is a pamphlet with information to educate you about your building and what you can do to prepare for emergencies, prevent fires and protect yourselves.

Window guards Also enclosed in the envelope described above is a questionnaire distributed annually regarding window guards and peeling lead paint that must be returned by Feb. 15. You can respond in four different ways: mail, fax, phone or online. New York City law requires this information be returned by Feb. 15 to avoid a home visit.

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

Quilting workshop – When thread counts Free, family-oriented creative textile workshops using new and repurposed items, we encourage you to bring material worth reviving. Moments between workshops will be filled with music, snacks and making new friends.

Saturday, Feb. 8, noon to 5 p.m.

12:30 to 2 p.m., Mosaic patchwork: Traditional and modern EPP techniques 2:30 to 4 p.m., Create textile art panels using embellishments and other finds Sunday, Feb. 9, noon to 5 p.m.

12:30 to 2 p.m., Recycle T-shirts into bags and other exciting objects, must bring your own T-shirt 2:30 to 4 p.m., Creating textile art panels using embellishments, paint and markers.

Reminders Pick up your Co-op City Times from the lobby.

Our laundry room has new washers, dryers and carts. For refunds from old cards, place your card in an envelope with a note, “new machines, need refund for old card” and send to: CSC Card Services, 3201 West Royal Lane, Suite 100, Irving, Texas 75063.

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

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

Thanks for making our team work.

—Leslie Peterson

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Building 21 Association

Now is the time Now is the time, to come out in big numbers whenever there is a gathering in this community, especially when it is close by you. Notice the last sentence did not designate what gathering to attend or what gathering is important, because all gatherings and meetings in this community are important. Each of us, not only should, we really must show up for our own community and its needs or we will endure whatever cards we are dealt.

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

All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a floor captain is as follows: 1. Contact numbers for your floor only: List all emergency contact numbers and distribute to each neighbor 2. Co-op City Times: Place them at each apartment door, delivered on Saturdays 3. Elevator notices: Read them and talk to your neighbors about them 4. Promote: Meetings, clubs and gatherings 5. Encourage your neighbors to: Vote – vote – vote! in the Riverbay election Make calls to the Riverbay offices Security, 718-671-3050 • CSO offices, 718-320-3300 FYI, all funds collected are installed in the 21 Association’s bank account.

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

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

See you around the neighborhood!

—Michelle Marbury

Get involved! Join your building association!

Building 24 Association

At our last meeting, Riverbay’s new call center director, Lutitia Matthias, and Call Center Supervisor Mr. Hughes were our guest speakers. Ms. Mathias comes to us with many years of experience in customer service and Mr. Hughes has been a Riverbay employee for more than 20 years. The department is currently staffed with 13 representatives from the Restoration and Maintenance departments, with new hires planned to bring the work force up to 18 representatives. Workers have had extensive cross training to learn how other departments operate and even accompanied workers on service calls to better their understanding of issues reported by shareholders. Some of the challenges they face involve coordination with the other departments for scheduling of work and getting the bugs out of their call-back system so call-backs can be made in the order in which they were received. Training workers on policies and procedures and quality customer service are ongoing, as Ms. Matthias aims to decrease the wait time for appointments from 4 hours to 2 hours and address recurring problems more efficiently. They are dedicated to creating a more efficient and cooperator friendly department, and we wish them success in that endeavor.

Our next meeting was scheduled for Feb. 18, a Tuesday instead of our usual third Thursday of the month, but I was unaware of another meeting I have scheduled for that day so we will meet instead on the originally scheduled day, Thursday, Feb. 20.

Any comments or suggestions can be addressed to our email, building24association@gmail.com, and I can be reached at 718-320-1458.

—Bruce Silberman

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10

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

A Nightmare Deferred

Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson Secretary

Express Bus Time-Out Congratulations to everybody for their efforts in forcing the MTA’s change of plans to slash our BxM7 express bus hours... for now. The express bus changes are on hold till 2021. That’s right. The slashes have been postponed, not totally scrapped. According to a well-hidden page on the MTA website: “We will continue to refine the proposals for a new Bronx express bus network with the goal of implementation of those changes in 2021.” That’s the second sentence of the second paragraph on the public notice page. https://new.mta.info/ bronxbusredesign/publicnotice.

The MTA is holding one last public hearing on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020, “… to gather comments about Local, Limited, and Select Bus Service.” Only.

Express bus updates will be provided “at a later time.”

This 2/20 meeting is just for comments regarding local bus service. After that meeting, the MTA Board will vote on the package of local bus changes to take effect in fall 2020.

So? Have you any comments on that package of local bus changes? Maybe you want the Bx29 to continue to provide better mall access for Section 5 shoppers or workers. Maybe the “powers that be” in the mall want that as well. If you’re not totally content with the Final Bronx Resign Plan sign up, speak up, and go to that 2/20/20 meeting!

The public hearing will be held at the Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street, beginning at 6 p.m. To arrange in advance to speak, call 646-252-6777 or go to https://mtanyc.custhelp.com/app/hearings/register/h_id/52. Otherwise sign up in person from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. the day of the meeting. Each speaker will get three minutes to comment and written testimony may also be submitted.

If you can’t attend the hearing in person, submit your comments on any of the proposed (or postponed BxM7) changes by calling 511 (Say “subways and buses.” Wait. Say “comments and concerns.” Then wait for an agent.) or by clicking the comment button at mta.info/customer-feedback with your comments of how cuts will affect you and yours.

But Wait! There Could Be More!

While the MTA is reeling from the flood of negative

response their proposed slashing of express bus hours brought them, now is the time to remind the MTA that it is a public service. Give them even more to chew on.

Vittorio Bugatti’s 2,065-member Express Bus Advocacy Group on Facebook is doing just that. The group is gathering petition signatures from all over the City demanding the MTA stop all discriminatory practices against those living in transportation deserts such as ours.

The petition demands are: 1.) Reinstate the monthly express bus commuter pass. 2.) Reinstate the senior discount on express buses at ALL times, not just during off-peak periods. 3.) Reinstate the student discount on express buses at ALL times.

Tell everyone you know with Facebook access to join the group and sign the petition. Even if none of these suggested demands directly affects you, even if you – or your visitors – just occasionally ride the BxM7, continue to fight for your neighbors and your occasional self. Don’t wait till those cuts sneak up on us again.

Nag Nag Nag I comment on the MTA website a lot. I plan to continue and I plan to continue to encourage monthly comments from as many others as possible throughout 2020. All my comments will start with, “Thanks for the prudent postponement of the BxM7 scheduling changes!” and go on from there. My last comment cautioned, “Every half fare you lose on a senior discount you make up for many times over by avoiding a new Access-a-Ride customer.” (The cost of Access-a-Ride also comes out of the MTA budget and according to the last data I saw, it costs $72 a trip.)

So throughout 2020, anytime you go downtown by the BxM7 on a weekday/workday afternoon or evening, call or write them about it. (Remember they planned to cut all Co-op City Manhattan-bound express buses after 3 p.m.) Third shift workers, anytime you take the BxM7 uptown home before noon, call or write them about it. (Remember they planned

Building 10 Association

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

Post-holiday celebration The annual post-holiday celebration was held Saturday, Jan. 18, in the Building 10 Association room. We had good food, drink, music and, of course, good people at our celebration. A great time was had by all!

General membership meeting Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 29, at 7 p.m. — doors open at 6:45 p.m. — in the Building 10 Association room, rear lobby of Building 10B. Our guest speakers will be Ms. Vanessa Aldea, director of CSO, and Ms. Lois English, junior property manager. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. Light refreshments will be served.

Wind Creek Casino and shopping outlet On Saturday, March 28, we will be going to the Wind Creek Casino and shopping outlet — formerly the Sands Casino — in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Tickets are $45 with a $30 bonus. Reserve your seat now. For more information, call 718-320-4059 or 646-220-0802.

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

Email address: The Building 10 Association has a new email address: Building10Assoc@gmail.com.

Please use the email to contact the building association with your concerns and suggestions.

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

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

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

Have a great week.

—Jewel Crawford-Duncan

to cut all morning Manhattan to Co-op City express buses.)

As for the weekends, originally downtown travel would have been cut short by two hours on Saturday night, stopping at 10 p.m. instead of midnight. Sunday travel would have lost much, much more service, though, with the last bus heading downtown at 5 p.m. instead of 11 p.m. and the first uptown bus leaving 23rd Street not at 7:10 in the morning but at 12:15 in the afternoon. Those were the drastic cuts the MTA had planned.

Happily, the MTA heard from the Bronx legislators and an unheard of number of riders, and the MTA blinked. Now they say, “We have committed to working with local stakeholders on those [new Bronx express bus network] proposals,” for their 2021 implementation. Your comfort, your safety, and, if the pressure campaign works, your cost all depend on sticking to your guns and keeping those comments flooding in all year long.

Remember, the MTA’s planned major scheduling changes to the BxM7 have not been dropped, they’re just on hold.

Just Don’t Call Me Late for Breakfast A Board strategy meeting has been called for January 29. The January 15 Open Board Meeting encouraged resident input to inform that strategy. A spokesperson from one organized group called for the BxM7 schedule to remain untouched, the water front to be bare-bones developed, elevators to be installed in Bartow, and promised JASA free breakfasts to commence (having severely missed the promised June 2019 implementation date due to re-budgeting constraints). Another advocated for an ice rink.

Others griped about no-pet pooh and policy. If anyone had thrown in a Let’s Go Garage 9, I’d have sworn someone’s been reading my mail!

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

Building 29 Association

On Friday, Jan. 17, we had our building association meeting. Our guest speaker was Mr. Aaron Carnegie, Section 5 shareholder & chairman of the MTA ad-hoc committee. Aaron brought us up-to-date on the proposed bus changes, time schedules and the good news that the express bus will not stop running from Co-op City after 3 p.m. He answered our questions and we thank him for this valuable information.

Events We are planning a Valentine’s Day Dance on Friday, Feb. 21st. We will have a DJ, refreshments, 50/50 raffle and the enjoyment of each other’s company.

Our annual building membership dues which remain $5.00 per family are being collected in our lobbies.

Building 29C has begun. Buildings 29 A&B will post dates by our respective elevator lobbies.

Our building meetings are always scheduled with a flyer for the third Friday of the month, unless otherwise posted.

We have a book club and we read many great books last year. This club meets every other month on the fourth Friday of the month. We alternate with a Pokeno game night (similar to Bingo) on the fourth Friday of the month.

A flyer is always posted showing the date. This is our fundraiser for our building; everyone is welcome.

We send get well wishes to Katherine Wood, our secretary & senior exercise instructor while she is recovering from surgery. Our class is held on Friday mornings at 10 a.m. in the B-Association room. Class will resume in February and it will be posted.

We send healing wishes to anyone else recovering from surgery or an illness.

Happy birthday wishes to all celebrating in January.

Congratulations to everyone who had a special occasion this month. Condolences to any family who suffered a loss.

We have a building email address: building29association@gmail.com. We also have a Suggestion Box next to our association room door if you would like to leave us a suggestion with your name or anonymously.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at our next meeting. Get your dancing shoes on.

—Marie Smith

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

National Council of Negro Women

Black History Month Save the date, Saturday, Feb. 29, when we will have our 19th annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. This free event will take place in Bartow Center, room 31, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The theme of this year’s celebration is “We Count: Our Lives, Our History, Our Voice, Our Vote.” We are calling all talent! Youth groups and young adults interested in volunteering to showcase their talent in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc., please call the NCNW Youth Committee at 917-826-5644 or email ncnwcoopcitysocial@gmail.com.

Book club In mid-March, we will have our first book club meeting so start reading now. Our first book for 2020 will be “The Color of Water; a Black Man’s Tribute to His White Mother,”

by James McBride. The book is available in paperback; a delightful read, truly a paean to mothers everywhere.

Women represent!

Mark your calendars! Saturday, April 18. “She Shaped Me: A Man Reflects on Woman’s Way” is our women’s program theme this year. We invite male participants to reflect on how a woman has molded them into the men they are today. We would also like poets — men, women, boys and girls, of all ages — for our poetry segment in recognition of National Poetry Month.

So, if you are a poet, or if you like to read poetry by other poets, we would love to have you participate. This is a community event and everyone is invited to attend. The program will be in the Dreiser Community

Black Forum

11

Center, room 4, on Saturday, April 18, from Emergency food pantry 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Light refreshments will Guests currently registered with the program and who pick up food be served. Please contact Camille Worrell, co-chairman for our event, if you would packages at the 920 Baychester Ave. location are required to recertify at like to participate or for more information, the pantry starting in January 2020. A valid ID NYC card or a non- or at worrellswords@aol.com. driver’s license must be shown to remain in the emergency food program.

Women’s right to vote Please bring the required ID the first time you pick up food this year. We The year marks the 100th anniversary of open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. the passage of the 19th Amendment, guarCo-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Ave. is now the anteeing and protecting women’s constituonly distribution location for Section 5 Black Forum food pantry recipients. tional right to vote. This historic centennial Guests who normally picked up food packages from New Vision Church offers an unparalleled opportunity to comshould now go to United Methodist Church. Guests visiting the Palmer memorate a milestone of democracy and to explore its relevance to the issues of equal Avenue location must also recertify. A valid ID NYC card or a non- or rights today. Beginning in the late 19th cen- driver’s license must be shown.

Defensive driving tury, women sought to change voting laws to allow them to vote but African-American Next class: Saturday, Feb. 8, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Bartow Community women were increasingly marginalized. Center, room 28. Cost: $35/person. Lower your liability insurance cost African-American women dealt not only by 10% and remove up to 4 points from your driver’s license. Checks and with the sexism of being withheld the vote money orders can be made payable to ‘Black Forum of Co-op City’ and but also the political concerns of white suf- mailed to 920 Baychester Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least one and a half fragists, who knew they needed the votes of some southern state legislatures and southern weeks before class. Please include your name and phone number. Space U.S. senators and congressmen. The struggle and parking is limited because of the room change. Walk-ins are welcome for the vote did not end with the ratification but those who call ahead will have seating priority. A $35 cash only payment of the 19th Amendment. In some Southern can be made the day of the class. Bring your current driver’s license and states, African-American women were a pen. Call anytime by 1 p.m. the day before class to register for seating unable to freely exercise their right to vote priority. Kindly leave a brief message with your name and telephone up until the 1960s. However, these difficul- number at 718-320-8035. The class location is subject to change, so please ties did not deter African-American women check back for updates. Students arriving after 9 a.m. may be denied entry in their effort to secure the vote. Finally the into the class. Future class dates: March 14, April 11, May 9 and June 20.

19th Amendment was passed by Congress Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: Dreiser room 4.

June 4, 1919, and ratified on Aug. 18, 1920.

Sight & Sound – “Queen Esther” — Next payment due Feb. 21 Social media Join us for Sight & Sound Theatre’s live epic biblical stage event of Remember, you can find us on Facebook: “Queen Esther” on Tuesday, April 21. Dining is at Shady Maple SmorNCNWCoopcity Bethune; Twitter: @NCNgasbord, ranked No. 1 on TripAdvisor’s Quick Bites in East Earl, PennWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City sylvania list. Menu includes an all-you-can-eat full buffet including mouthand email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com. watering fried chicken, carved beef, baked fish, grilled chicken, fresh —Joyce Howard vegetables, homemade bread, salad bar, hot desserts and more! Shady Maple also has a gift shop and a 130,000-square-foot farm market with Please join us on the second Thursday of every month at 8 p.m. Our next general mem- an on-site smokehouse and locally grown produce. Meal, show and transbership meeting is scheduled for Feb. 13 in room 16 of the Dreiser Community Center. portation: $170. No refunds. Guests can pay all at once or in three installEveryone is welcome. ments: Nov. 15, 2019, $60; Jan. 24, 2020 and $55 and Feb 21, 2020, $55.

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

The first payment reserves your seats. Please call 917-209-5334 or 718Upcoming events 320-0033.

“Recordar Es Vivir,” hosted by the Cultural Committee, is planned for Saturday, Feb. 8, The proceeds go to purchasing food and supplies for the Black Forum beginning at 7 p.m., in room 4 of the Dreiser Center. Live music will be provided by the food pantry, which feeds members of the Co-op City community.

Contact us very popular Juan Ortega. Donations for the pot luck will be greatly appreciated. Members will enjoy free admission; Non-members will be asked for $10 at the door. If you have not We look forward to hearing from you at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. renewed your membership by Jan. 31, you will be considered a non-member for admission.

—D. Illis See the flyers page on our website for the full details.

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

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

Nomination of club officers and elections are coming in March. Nominations will take place on March 12.

Election night will take place March 26. Members: Family Owned and Operated Please plan to attend both meetings.

• Large Chapel • Pre-need counseling The installation of officers dinner and dance is schedon premises uled for Friday, April 24, at Maestro’s.

• Out of town services Tickets for members are $60; non-members are $80.

• Ample Parking Applications for the Tony Mondesire Scholarship on premises A dignified funeral every family can afford.

• Cremations for the next school year are now available. The forms • Casket Showroom will be available in room 16 of Dreiser Loop Center at All areas are handicapped accessible on premises any of our monthly meetings, either the second Thursday of every month or at the board of directors meetings Personalized & Professional Care • 53 Years Serving Our Community on the first Tuesday of each month. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and residents of the Bronx.

Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America Students must carry a minimum of 12 credits per semester at an accredited institution for at least one year.

Applications must be returned by May 14, either by mail, or to a member of the scholarship board of trustees.

Membership renewals for this year are due by Jan. 31. A penalty fee of $48 for the year, $4 a month, will Serving all Call be assessed after that date. cultures 24 Additional information for all of our upcoming club NOW WEBCASTING TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABROAD & faiths Hours events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website, spanamcccc.synthasite.com. www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net You may also email the club at SpanAmCCCC@gmail.com 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. or find us on Facebook, search for “spanamcccc.”

—Carmen Rodriguez

Spanish-American Community Club

718-231-7647 Fax: 718-231-7665

12

Building 2A/2B Building Association

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Greetings, neighbors!

We wish each everyone a happy and healthy New Year!

We extend a sincere thank you to Sheena McNeil, director of Sales/Marketing, who was the guest speaker at our Jan. 14 general building association meeting.

Ms. McNeill provided us with an overview of the succession rights rules when a cooperator dies or otherwise permanently vacates their apartment. She also provided us with information on the temporary pilot downsizing transfer program that is currently in place through June 30. Additional copies of the applications for these two programs will be available at our February association meeting, otherwise you can contact the sales department at 718-320-3373.

Holiday decoration removal Thank you to Mirna and those who assisted her with removing the holiday decorations from the A and B side lobbies. We don’t know what we would do without our master holiday put it up and take it down decorator, Mirna.

Holiday collections Thank you to everyone for your generous donations to the holiday collection for the building staff. Our hard-working porters, maintenance and lobby attendants were very happy with your generous holiday gift. Have you seen the handsome photo of our building’s porters that’s posted in the lobbies? It’s their thank you to all of you.

Holiday party Our building’s holiday party was held Jan. 11, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the association room. We had a jolly good time, thanks to everyone who attended. If you missed it, you missed out on the delicious food, good music by DJ Joe and your neighbors’ great company. Thank you to Adelina Martinez and Carl Chambers for their great job in decorating the association room for the party.

Cheers to those celebrating a birthday or other celebratory event during the month of January.

We extend a hearty welcome to our new neighbors, speedy recovery to our homebound and sick neighbors and our heartfelt condolences to those who have suffered a loss.

Next general membership meeting Our next meeting is scheduled to be held Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 7 p.m. in the association room behind Building 2B. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend this meeting.

Our next meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. in the association room behind Building 2B. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend this meeting.

—Georgianne Rodriguez

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Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

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14

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Review of our Board Meeting on 1/15/2020 Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson We had an open board meeting on Wednesday, January 15, 2020. So, let’s review a few things that we discussed.

A Good Opportunity to Meet the Community Just before this meeting began, cooperators had the opportunity to snack on some sandwiches, salads, cookies, and soda. Thereafter, reports were read. Then, we had a discussion on that collapsed wind turbine at 500 Baychester Avenue. Furthermore, based on a letter from the NYC Department of Buildings, it seems like all of that equipment has to be taken down and removed from that site. However, we hope that the developer, Baychester Retail III, LLC, will not challenge this matter in court.

Personally, I hope that the developer will think about reaching out to our community and working with us. We have thousands of kids here along with cooperators that can use some assistance. So, can consider funding some programs here? Educational programs? After school? Sports? Child care? Job programs? Disabled and senior programs?

In my opinion, working with a community in this manner is far better than spending millions of dollars on gigantic towers, useless light billboard blasters, and worthless wind turbines. Previously, that area used to be a gas station. Then, in 2013, that property sold for $6,300,000. And, now three very popular businesses are now occupying that space. So, that developer should be making a lot of money from those businesses.

Moving on, it was stated that 25 percent of our new elevators have been installed throughout our community. Afterward, a discussion was held about cable services here. However, my personal thoughts are that there are a tremendous amount of options when it comes to television services.

For instance, people can go with cable or streaming devices. However, I want to encourage everyone to go online and do some research to figure out which service might be good for your home. Example, you can choose the number of channels that you want from your cable service. Thereafter, you can work with them

to figure out a plan that can be good for you.

On the other hand, some streaming devices state that you can get access to thousands of channels. Then, you can decide to pay for only the channels that you want. So, can you see the possibilities with both services? Are you willing to go online to easily review both options? Please make a decision to go online to research both services.

The board then considered a few resolutions after the community shared their thoughts during the gallery session. For instance, we had a discussion about a fire alarm system for the Einstein Center. The price tag is $596,400. Regardless, the FDNY is going to require that some of our workers, on all three shifts, have specific FDNY certifications once that fire alarm system is installed.

Furthermore, the FDNY is going to require that specific log books be kept at our site. Then, we must get a company to inspect the fire panel along with all of the attached devices on it every six months. Additionally, the FDNY will show up unannounced and conduct inspections of all the above-cited items. Thereafter, hefty violations, that can possibly carry criminal penalties, can be issued if necessary. Nevertheless, do we need a fire alarm system in Einstein? Can we deal with these matters? Can we work together in a positive way with the FDNY? Yes! Therefore, I voted yes for this resolution.

Afterward, we approved resolution #19-64 for work to be performed on the “façade and balcony restoration work on buildings 9-14. This work will cost $11,046,335 plus a 15% contingency amount, $1,656,950.25. Next, we discussed resolution #19-65 for “the renovations of four public bathrooms in the Bartow community center.” The price will be a “total of $533,100 plus 10% contingency ($53,310). …”

Questions: Do you honestly think that we need to spend over $130,000 to renovate each bathroom in Bartow? What work will be done on these bathrooms? Bathrooms are primarily filled with partitions, toilets, and sinks.

So, how do we get to this exorbitant price?

Regardless, our budget indicates that we have

African-American Association African American History Month celebration Feb. 1 The African American Association will present its 23rd annual Black Film Festival. Here is the agenda for the day starting at noon: “Green Book” starring Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen. Inspired by a true story of the world-class Black pianist, Dr. Don Shirley, and his hired ItalianAmerican driver as they toured for Dr. Shirley’s concerts from Manhattan to the Deep South in 1962.

Then at 2 p.m.: “Tribute to the Ancestors” featuring homages to: Toni Morrison, novelist and college professor; Diahann Carroll, actress, singer, model and activist; Elijah E. Cummings, politician and Civil Rights advocate; John Conyers Jr., politician and Civil Rights advocate; John Witherspoon, ctor and comedian.

Next at 3 p.m.: “The Unknown Unknowns of the NMAAHC” National Museum of African American History and Culture featuring Anthony T. Browder; author, publisher, cultural historian, artist, and educational consultant. It’s going to be a fantastic event and all that is needed is you to enjoy it, learn and be inspired by it. Join us in the Bartow Center, room

31, at noon. Mark your calendars.

The African American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: Belly Dance Classes Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room #2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. Call Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room 2; also first and third Tuesdays in Einstein Center, Section 5, 6 p.m.

Fees are minimal. Call Cynthia, 917903-7073.

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

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

Healing drum circle Will resume in the Spring. Please continue to follow this article for updates.

African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

—Michelle Marbury

24 employees in our construction department. Twentyfour employees! So, they can’t do this work? Do you see a problem with this resolution? I voted no for this resolution.

Unprovoked Violent Crimes – Be Careful Lots of people are expressing thoughts of fear and anger as recent news reports have detailed acts of unprovoked violence in our subway system and on our streets. For instance, the news media has reported on several stories about people being violently pushed while they’re on the subway platform. Additionally, there was a recent report that someone allegedly threw bleach in the face of a lady on a subway platform.

Other people have been punched in the face for absolutely no reason at all. Then, there are videos of people being assaulted and robbed on our streets. Therefore, as a community, we’re going to have to be extra careful when we leave our apartments. Question: Do you think that it’s possible that someone can hurt you in the subway? If yes, do you think that it’s still a good idea to stand at the edge of the platform? The answer has to be no! So, please take some positive steps to improve your personal safety. Thank you.

Close Your neighbors care about you and your safety. So, please make sure that you think about your safety as soon as you finish reading this viewpoint. Also, please have a discussion with your family and friends about protecting themselves.

Thank you.

Questions or comments? Please send a letter to Daryl H. Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475/ Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week.

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

15

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Rivers Run Community Garden

When you’re a gardener, you think about things differently. You notice most things have value and deserve a second life. I’ve saved my Jalapeño pepper seeds from the delicious picks of last year and can’t wait to see what I get this year. Separating food garbage into “black gold” via composting encourages us to think about what’s in our diet. And, most importantly, learning from others and exploring new ways to be successful is the life of a gardener. Become one.

Our next meeting is Feb. 20. Please be there since our goal is to talk about policy, procedures, early clean up and repair. Membership dues will be collected.

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

Event dates, all are welcome Feb. 20 – Dreiser Community Center, room 13, at 7 p.m.

March 19 – Dreiser Community Center, room 13, at 7 p.m.

Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome.

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

—Gail Sharbaan

Toastmasters of Co-op City

Greetings to all.

You are invited to join us on Thursday, Jan. 30, for a special Speakout Meeting.

Nothing but great speeches. The weather may be chilly but members and friends braved the cold Jan. 16 and came out, warmed up and had a fun Toastmasters meeting. Let’s do the same on Jan. 30 7:30 p.m., Bartow Center.

Toastmasters is where you come to improve public speaking and leadership skills.

For more than 95 years, this world organization has successfully helped those who have these fears to overcome them simply by standing and making speeches.

Easy.

Join us.

At our last meeting we heard three members make speeches at their own individual level of confidence, followed by members giving encouragement and feedback.

For example, Lincoln Pressley’s project was on receiving an award; Nicole Howerton’s speech was titled “What motivates you?;” and Marietta Phoenix spoke about the challenges and expectations of educating students with special needs. She described how these same individuals may flower and emerge as adult professionals in medicine, finances or, beauty industry just to name a few. We learn so much at Toastmasters meetings. You can also, if you come out on the first and third Thursday of each month unless otherwise noted. We meet at the Bartow Center, room 28.

We have exciting events coming up in the New Year and look forward to having you with us. First off is the International and Table Topics Speech Contests scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 20.

For more TM information go to Toastmasters46.org or Toastmasters.org. You may call 718-344-6719 and leave a message. Looking forward to seeing you.

—Joyce Wright

Building 27 Association

Hello neighbors, we hope all enjoyed the holidays. We were blessed with reasonable weather and no snow. We wish all a year filled with the best of health and the wisdom to meet our goals and accomplishments.

General meeting The association’s first meeting of the New Year will be Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020 at 7 p.m. We will have a guest speaker, fliers will be posted. Let’s start our year with continued purpose, new ideas and goals and to involve the youth of our building as well.

Reminder The purpose is for men as well – what you want to see and make it happen for your building and community. Please give your ideas to do something. Being involved and solutions are what makes the difference. We must go beyond complaints and accomplish some goals. If there is trash laying around outside the building, pick up the phone and call CSO or go to CSO, etc. Things of this matter cooperators can assist with, this should not be a problem for the association alone. Something on your mind, give us a shout out at bldgassoc27@gmail.com.

Illness or deceased If you live within the community, and become aware of some who live in Bldg. 27 who has become sick, or sent to rehab, nursing home or deceased, please call the below phone number 718-583-3040. We have neighbors that no one has not seen in a while and, sometimes, there is no information available to us. So this would be helpful.

Happy birthday to all in this month. The best of health to all.

Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 to share news of an illness, or the deceased of a neighbor.

—H. Overman

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Attention, the Retirees’ next monthly general membership meeting will be Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 1:30 p.m. in the Dreiser Community Center, room 19. See you there.

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

Balance due, $45, no later than April 6. Contacts: Serita Grayson, 347-5645722, or Barbara Williams, 718-320-0500.

Theatre committee Price includes van transport, from Dreiser Loop, front of rehab center Feb .13, Thursday, “Five Guys Named Moe,” Westchester Broadway Theatre. Showtime: 11 a.m. Price: $80. Deposit to hold seat: $40. Balance due $40, no later than Mon. Jan. 6, 2020. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-6714949.

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

Good and Welfare Our sincere condolences to one of our honorary members, Helen Mitchell, who recently lost her son. Helen, we wish you healing and peace. To our members and friends still under the weather, know you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements.

Keep in mind, our next Jazz up Your Health with a Senior Spa Day will be in 2020, date to be determined. If interested in joining us, call Claudette D., 718-379-4784, or Hattie L., 718-671-8449.

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

Mark your calendars. The Retirees’ general membership monthly meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month, except in the months of July and August.

—Claudette Davis

Community Protestant Church

Neighborhood bible study, Thursday at 10 a.m.

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

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

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

Other scheduled events On Wednesdays at noon, you are cordially invited to noon day prayer at CPC, an hour of Power, Prayer, Praise and Testimony. Refreshments will be served. RSVP: 718-862-9172.

On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, N.Y. 10469; telephone: 718-862-9172.

Regular church schedule Sunday school, 9 a.m.

Worship service, 11 a.m.

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

The following program is at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North: Sunday, Feb. 9, at 3:30 p.m.; annual observance of Official Boards Day. Our guest preacher will be Reverend Willie Hairston, pastor, Pilgrim Baptist Church, Nyack, N.Y. All are welcome.

The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing.

—Evan G. Mitchell

16

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Improving our quality of life

Director’s Viewpoint

Leah Richardson Fellow shareholders, I would like to thank shareholders for attending our recent Open Board meeting. Your questions and concerns were important and relevant to the betterment of our community. As shareholders, you elected this Board to direct the cooperative. We are honored that you have placed this responsibility in our hands and delighted that you have enough passion and interest to attend meetings. This Board operates under the principles of Policy Governance, meaning, we have spent a lot of time defining what we do and how we do it, including setting a clear point of delegation concerning operational issues that the Board is committed to not crossing. We value your feedback and want to give each of you a voice.

I would like to give my heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Edwards and a quick recovery to his daughter and residents who were injured in the Building 12 fire on Monday, Jan. 20, 2020. It has been reported this was an electrical fire. I’d like to refer everyone to the NYC Fire Department for fire safety tips: https://fdnysmart.org/safetytips/ and https://education/10_electricity_home_safety_english.pdf. You may also refer to the U.S. Fire Administration, https://usfa.fema.gov/prevention/.

Winter typically means spending more time indoors and using more electricity to heat our homes and power devices that keep us entertained. Electricity is a hidden danger. Because it is so frequently used, most people tend to underestimate the risk potential. As we grow as a community and technology changes, Fire Prevention is critical and needs to be made more of a necessity in our homes today. In my opinion, Fire prevention needs to start in the home and then be carried onward in our lives. Remember, some household items can be especially dangerous if not handled correctly. Check your outlets for sparks and make sure the wiring on your products are not frayed. Electrical safety can lead to fire safety.

Looking When Cooking Unplug appliances when not in use.

Be attentive and alert when cooking Keep stove area clear of paper towels, pot holders anything that burns Keep kids at a safe distance Turn handles inward to prevent “knocking over” Keep a fire extinguisher handy and don’t forget a working fire alarm.

If a fire starts, get out and call 911.

Do not go back into a burning building. If you think someone is inside, tell firefighters when they arrive.

Slow Down Please be cautious and respectful and drive the 25 mph speed limit. Remember, Co-op City streets are public streets and are often patrolled by the Co-op City Police Department and the New York City Police Department. In light of many recent hit and run incidents that are plaguing our city, I feel it’s important to remind our shareholders to be careful when you cross the street. Co-op City is a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) in which there are a substantial number of residents aged 60 years or older.

We also have a large number of children who travel around the community attending school and various after school activities, so we must be vigilant about their well-being. Since Vision Zero became official City policy in 2014, agencies have transformed themselves, prioritizing safety and undertaking tremendous numbers of new projects to reflect the urgency of this need. The City’s speed camera program has reduced speeding by over 60 percent in locations near schools where cameras operate. https://www1.nyc.gov/content/visionzero/pages/ Pet Etiquette Like any good neighbor, it’s important that your pet doesn’t create an unpleasant environment for everyone else. To avoid unnecessary disputes and potential rule violations, here are some guidelines owners should follow to ensure their furry friends continue to be a welcome addition to the neighborhood. Read the Rules: While we welcome pets in our community, we have a few rules and requirements.

Please review your Pet Policy Agreement.

Is That Dog Poop Yours? No one wants to see,

Building 9 Association

smell or accidently step in the “gift” your dog left on the grassy common area. So when your dog needs to go, be sure to properly dispose of it. Not only will this keep our community looking better, but it will help keep ground water clean and prevent the spread of fecal-borne diseases. Would you like to step in one of those piles and have to clean off your carpet, shoes, or car flooring? Please, if you see someone not cleaning up after his/her pet, remind him or her of the pet policy agreement. If you know the owner’s address, contact Management.

Quiet Down: Pets will be noisy from time to time.

However, when loud barking or meowing becomes annoying to neighbors, it’s time to help your pet become less talkative. First, try to find out what causes your pets to get vocal: Have they gone through a stressful change in environment recently? Are they suffering from health issues? Do they simply like saying “hello” to every person that passes by? When you’ve identified the cause, take remedial actions such as confining them to an area where they feel calm while you’re away, removing or blocking as many stimuli as possible, exercising them more and spending more time with them. You can also take them to a professional or search online for tips on how to train your pets to reduce noise.

Some pet owners adjacent to our community walk their dogs in our community. Not using bags has suddenly become a problem and it’s doubtful that only non-residents are guilty.

There is a difference between saying thanks for a job well done and recognizing great work.

Director Leah Richardson’s Kudos Award goes to… * Director Rod Saunders — In grateful appreciation of your untiring efforts for successfully organizing the MTA Ad-hoc Committee with promising results to save our buses and the shut-down of the Wind Turbine at 500 Baychester Avenue * Director Jerome Rice – for obtaining a PhD in Criminal Justice specializing in Social Behavioral Science; Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society Peace and blessings!

Please feel free to contact me at lrichardson@riverbayboard.com.

Building 35 Association

The Building 35 Association would like to thank Jackie Lattie, Evelyn Greetings, Building 9 Assistant General Manager Warren Mitchell for his Mavins, Shirley Mcfamily.

Cann, Janet Yarrell, attendance at its last meeting. We appreciate the inforOur Miss Eloise had mation provided.

Janice Rosario, Shirley ambulatory foot surgery FriOur Youth Committee has been meeting on a regJohnson, Linda Holley, day, Jan. 17th. As always, ular basis Sundays at 3 p.m. and all are welcomed.

Dinora Tirado, Marshe is in high spirits. Please At the last youth committee meeting on Sunday, garita Mendez. We keep her in your prayers and Jan, 12, we were honored to have the CEO and could not have done it check on her as your schedwithout our volunteers. Founder of Travel With Chaz. Accompanying him ule permits. was his lovely wife and three children. He made it The Building 9 Our beloved Mr. George clear how excited his organization is partnering with Association held its continues to get better. He the Building 35 youth group. Chaz provides local 2020 executive board sends his best regards and election Thursday, Jan. and long distance travel experiences for youth and thanks you all for your conBuilding 9 Association presents Puerto Rico 16. According to our parents. He is known for his Guns Down Hands Up cern. earthquake relief funds to Spanish American Club. bylaws, those shareinter-generational boxing program. The goal is to Reflecting on the life and support our young people with providing alternatives work of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holders who have paid dues in the most recent two years Time magazine named him “Man of the Year” in 1963. and who have attended at least three membership meetto violence and helping them stay safe off the street.

In 1964, he won the Nobel Peace Prize and was ings in the past two calendar years are eligible to He also shared an initiative, Tell Your Money described as “the first person in the Western world to vote. The 2020 Election Committee — Jackie Lattie, Where to Go, and is planning a trip to the Frederick have shown us that a struggle can be waged without Shirley McCann, Gabriella Concepcion, Linda Holley Douglas Home in the summer. violence.” In 1977, he was posthumously awarded the — established and certified the eligibility roster.

A Building 35 Executive Board member shared a resource for a resume writing workshop, since this Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest award a The 2020 Executive Board is: was on the list developed by the youth. Plans are also civilian American can earn.

Linda Collins, president (unanimous) Wanda Randall, first vice president (unanimous) being made to have workshops on essay writing and Building 9 Association Executive Board President Shirley Wells, second vice president (unanimous) other topics identified by our youth.

Linda Collins spearheaded the relief effort campaign for victims of the earthquakes in Puerto Rico. Those Wanda Rodriguez has found passion and fulfillThe next meeting is Sunday Jan. 26, at 3 p.m. in efforts yielded a total of $1,606, which was presented ment working at St. Michael’s church. We wish Wanda the association room. to the Spanish American Club of Co-op City. well in her new endeavor.

—Evelyn Turner We are proud to have partnered with them to send The Building 9 Association has had great success much needed aid to Puerto Rico. I would like to thank in the past. We fully anticipate everyone’s coopera“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he Sonia Feliciano for her assistance. Humanitarian efforts tion for success in the coming years. Thank you for continued confidence and support. stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but reveal who we really are inside. Somos unidos. Our your “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What where he stands in times of challenge and controgreat gratitude is owed to our dedicated lobby collection teams: Linda Collins, Wanda Rodriguez, Wanda are you doing for others?’” –Rev. Dr. Martin Luther versy.” –Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. —Linda Collins Randall, Gabriella Concepcion, Rosemary Bailey, King Jr.

17

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Coalition of African-American Churches and Community Organizations of Co-op City

The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc.’s next general membership meeting will be held Tuesday, Feb. 4, at noon in the Dreiser Community Center, room 15. We are requesting all members please attend. Please watch this column for further information. It is important that representatives should be sent from each organization to attend all coalition meetings.

During the month of February, Black History Month, the Coalition commemorates African American

Section 4 Partnership

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

You are already an important member of this team.

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

About the Section 4 Partnership The Section 4 Partnership is comprised of every building in Co-op City that make up the sectional geographic which is referred to as Co-op City’s Section 4 — Building 20, Asch Loop; Building 21, Bellamy Loop; Building 22, Co-op City Boulevard, Buildings 23, 24 and 25, Benchley Place, the Adler Place townhouses, the Asch Loop townhouses and the Broun Place townhouses.

Join us. Remember, you are already an important member of this team. You are a shareholder. You don’t have to live in Section 4. Come and get involved.

Let’s show up! Let’s get it done!

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

Section 4 Partnership Mission Statement The Section 4 Partnership’s purpose is to promote a community of more than just neighbors, but as one family of many cultures, that proactively embraces greatness and promotes neighborhood interaction.

The goal of the organization is to offer solutions that will educate, elevate, inspire, and mobilize our community in unity, to sustain affordability and growth in order to remain environmentally sound and vibrant for generations to come.

—Michelle Marbury

Section 5 Association

The first meeting of the year was held Monday, Jan. 13, 2020. The association wishes all in the year of 2020 peace, love, the best of health and happiness.

We are convening with new prospects for the year.

The association is requesting a volunteer for the secretary of the Section 5 Family Fun Day. This event is held annually in the month of August. The secretary will only record for this event, send out letters to sponsors, etc. We hope one will volunteer. Please contact the president of the association, Mr. Robert Hedgpeth, at 718-320-2656 as soon as possible.

If one lives in Section 5 and wants to share some solutions or has a concern, contact the president listed above.

Mission Statement The mission of Section Five Association is to obtain the maximum quality of life for all shareholders residing in Section 5; to act as a liaison between Management and the building and townhouse associations, and to enlighten and educate all shareholders in Section 5.

—H. Overman

achievements and proudly presents a tribute to Sammy Davis Jr., Feb. 8, 1 p.m., Bartow Community Center, room 31, 2049 Bartow Ave. Let’s have a discussion about the life and times of this entertainer. Vendors will be available, along with light refreshments. All are welcome.

Please inform the Coalition of any suggestions you may have. Ms. Virginia Stewart is the president of the Coalition. Her phone number is 718-671-4506.

The Coalition is a non-profit organization dedicated maintaining and improving the quality of life of cooperators while providing educational and culturally enriching programs for the community. We also act as one voice for all Coalition members where there are issues of common concern and human rights. We also sponsor the Friends & Family Day Celebration, and the annual Kwanzaa celebration events, both

events are free for the community.

Members of the Coalition include: African-American Association; Co-op City Baptist Church; Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; NAACP, Co-op City Branch; St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church and American Legion Post 1871.

Churches and organizations that desire to join the coalition may apply for membership by calling 718671-4506 or 718-671-9610 for membership application, which should returned with a letter on your church/organization’s letterhead and signed by the minister/president. Read the Coalition’s weekly column for information about events and issues.

Remember, the Coalition’s motto is, “Coming together is the beginning, keeping together is progress and working together is success.”

—Harman T. Leacock

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

MENU

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

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

Library 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Health & Wellness Support Group

Library 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Line Dancing 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. - rm. 45 Around The Lunch Table 11:30 a.m.

Word Search 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Bingo 1-3 p.m., rm. 35 Diabetes Support Group 2nd Mon - 1

Tues., Jan. 28

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

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

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

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

Dominos 2:30 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Fri., Jan. 31

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

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

Group 10-11 a.m.

Caregiver Support Group 1:30 p.m.

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

Wed., Jan. 29

10 a.m.; Bartow Center 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

YOGA w/Peggy 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. JASA Main Office Arthritis Exercises 11 a.m. - noon Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominos 2:30 p.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

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

Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., rm. 2 Basic Cell Phone & iPad training 11 a.m.

Mind Teasers 12 p.m. - 1 p.m., rm. 4 Diabetes Support Group 1 p.m.

Last Monday of the month Bereavement p.m;. rm. 49 Counseling 1 Rm. 8 Computer Class for Beg. 9:30 a.m., Gentle Yoga 1:15 p.m. - 2 p.m., rm. 2 Int. 10:30 a.m. & Adv. 11:30 a.m. rm. 34 Intermediate Yoga 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Thu., Jan. 30

Mon., Jan. 27

18

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

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

Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

Social Worker Royvi 1-4 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 – 11:30 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

FREE LiveOn NY-SCRIE/SNAP (food stamps) Assistance – Fri., Feb. 7 & 21; 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. No appointments!

Walk-ins! First come! First served! Please make copies of your documents before coming to the office.

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

FREE Paint & Sip – Thurs., Jan. 30, JASA main office, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Space is limited, only 12 participants. Join us for this painting class, have fun while you paint on canvas. No experience necessary Juice will be served. To register call 718-320-2066.

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

AARP Foundation Tax Aide offers FREE tax preparation to anyone of any age –especially if you are 50 or older or can’t afford paid tax preparations.

Starting Feb. 3 until Apr. 15, Einstein Community Center, 2nd floor, Mon. & Wed. only, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tax preparation, rm. 40. Waiting room, 35.

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

Kosher

Non-Kosher

Juice, Deli sandwich Turkey & Turkey pastrami Lettuce & Tomato Potato Salad Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Tuna

Chicken Stir Fry w/vegetables Brown rice Steamed Cauliflower

Juice Yankee Pot Roast Brown rice Normandy blend Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Vegetarian chili

Stewed Pork chops Baked red potato wedges Tangy green beans

Juice BBQ Grilled chicken breast Toasted egg barley w/onion Grilled vegetables Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Vegetarian chili Juice, Mediterranean Flounder Mediterranean Couscous Roasted Eggplant Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Chicken Salad Juice, Rosemary chicken, Potato Kugel, California blend vegetables Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Gefilte fish

Baked turkey breast Baked sweet potato Collards Greens w/tomato

Teriyaki baked fish Rice Pilaf Oriental blend

Garlic chicken Rice w/vegetables Sautéed Brussels sprouts & Kale

Fee for lunch is $2.00; $5.00 for guest

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

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

Upcoming Events/Trips

Chronic Pain Management 6-week Sessions – learn how to manage chronic conditions. Tues., Feb. 4, 11; Mar. 3, 10, 17 & 31; 2049 Bartow Ave. Sr. Ctr., rm. 31. Participants will receive free lunch after each session. Attend all sessions & receive a special giveaway. Contact Julissa Reynoso to register, 718-320-2066 or 646-946-1252.

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

FREE Black History Month Art Exhibit – Wed., Feb. 5, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 177 Dreiser Loop Sr. Ctr., rm.

7. Light refreshments served.

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

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

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

Change of Date: IKEA - Christmas Tree Store/Bed Bath and Beyond –From Tues., Feb. 11, to Tues., Feb. 18; $15. Bartow – 9 a.m.; Einstein – 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m.

NEW Starting Feb. 11, Tai Chai for Arthritis w/Stan –Every Tues. and every Fri. 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

177 Dreiser Loop Sr. Ctr., rm. 2. To register please call the Dreiser office 718-320-1345.

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

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

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

JASA Closed in observance of Presidents Day, Mon. Feb. 17.

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

In honor of Black History Month, the movie “Loving” will be shown at the Dreiser Loop Senior Center, rm.

7; Fri. Feb. 21; 1 p.m. Call 718-320-1345 to register.

Light refreshments served.

FREE West Side Story – Wed., Mar. 4; 2 p.m. matinee. Pickups: Bartow – 11:30 a.m.; Dreiser – 11:45 a.m.; Einstein – 12 p.m. Depart: 5 p.m. 45 seats available.

NEW Tai Chi for Arthritis w/Stan – 8-week course, two days per week as follows: Tues., Mar. 3 ,17, 24 & 31; Fri., Mar. 6, 13, 20 & 27; Tues., Apr. 7, 21 & 28; Fri., Apr. 3 & 24; Fri., May 1 & 8; Tues. May 5. Classes held in Einstein Center, rm. 45. Please call 718-3202066 to register.

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

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

19

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

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

Weekly schedule Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday school are both at 9 a.m. Every fourth Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every’ fifth Sunday, our young adults assist in the service.

We look forward to welcoming you to church tomorrow, Sunday, Jan. 26, at 9 a.m. when we will celebrate The Third Sunday after the Epiphany. Father Simeon Johnson, our supply priest, will be the preacher and celebrant. Just a reminder that the annual general meeting takes place immediately after the service.

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, May 23: St. Joseph’s Day luncheon at the Eastwood Manor in the Bronx, noon to 5 p.m.

Adults, $100; children 12 and under, $50. Flyers are out and we are depending on our members to distribute them and spread the word. Tickets are available from Merville, 718-320-2089; Renee, 718-379-6511; Yvonne, 718-671-8815; Eileen, 718-379-8624 or Arethea, 718-379-0028. Please be sure to purchase your tickets early.

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

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

New pledge cards for 2020 are now available.

Please collect yours, pray on your ability to pledge, then complete and return them to the church as soon as possible. Bear in mind that a workable budget depends largely on your commitment.

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

For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718-320-0844. You may also visit our website, st.josephsepcbronx.org, for more information relating to St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church, Co-op City, Bronx, New York.

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom then shall I fear?* the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom then shall I be afraid?” —Psalm 27:1 —Merville Chambers

Circle of Christ Church – Iglesia Circulo De Cristo

147 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, N.Y. 10475, lower level.

Come as you are.

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

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. Senior Pastor Elisamuel Colón and the body of Christ are committed to love people into a life changing-liberating relationship with God. We are located at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level, in the Dreiser Community Center.

Our Sunday services are in Spanish and English. We have an anointed worship team and dance ministry that minister regularly. The English service has Bible-centered nursery program and children’s church where children are ministered to from the cradle to 12 years of age. Please see our schedule below and followed us on Facebook and our website circleofchristchurch.com.

Circle of Christ Church responds to Isaiah 68:10 says: Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. We have a food pantry that serves the community and we offer family counseling based on need. If you are interested, please contact us at 347-945-1992 or on

Facebook@Circle of Christ Church.

English Services Tuesday prayer, 9 to 11 a.m.

Wednesday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. prayer/Bible study Thursday, 9-a.m. to 10 a.m.

Friday, 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Operation Grace Youth Service, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., young adults Sunday service, 11 a.m.

Servicios en Español Salmos 122:1 Yo me alegré con los que me decían, “a la casa de Jehova iremos”.

Nuestros servicios dominicales son en español e inglés. Tenemos un equipo de adoración ungido y un ministerio de danza que ministran regularmente. El servicio de inglés tiene una iglesia infantil centrada en la biblia y un programa de guardería donde se atiende a los niños desde la cuna hasta los 12 años de edad.

Tenemos ministerios para todas las edades. Consulte nuestro programa a continuación y síganos en Facebook y en nuestro sitio web circleofchristchurch.com. Distribuimos alimentos y ofrecemos asesoramiento familiar según las necesidades. Si está interesado, contáctenos al 347-945-1992 o en Facebook Circle of Christ Church.

Domingo:Culto de Adoración de 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Jueves Oración y Estudio Bíblico de 12:00-2:00 p.m.

—Nancy Rodriguez

Scheduling Activities Calendar

20

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

General information: The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place the ground floor of Building 27B, it is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone: 718-379-6920.

Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message.

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

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations.

Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help the synagogue’s finances.

The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to services. Please come by 9 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, Jan. 18, at

5:48 p.m.

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

Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree.

Mazel Tov, to all having Simchas.

If you’re ill, wishing you good health.

If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

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

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

Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated.

Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

—Bruce Gitelson

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle welcomes everyone to attend worship service at 100 Co-op City Blvd. Building 22A, main lobby, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

Phone: 718-320-4218 or 718-324-0334 Services are as follows Sunday school for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m.

Worship service starts at 11:45 a.m.

Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Youth service will be held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: Protection by peace God provides a covering to equip and protect the feet, the gospel of peace to give stability and mobility that allow the believer flexibility to move and advance as God directs.

Believers need to have their feet protected.

Ephesians 6:15 stated: And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. The enemy is aligned against us whose purpose is clearly defined by the scriptures: “The thief cometh not, but to steal, and to kill, and to destroy’(John 10:10) Satan is bent on the complete destruction of every child of God. He will take what he can from and what he cannot take he will seek to slaughter, what he cannot kill, he will attempt to ruin to render it unfit for its divine purpose.

Ephesians 6:10-14, 16-18: Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Put on the whole armour of God that

ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places, Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God that he may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

We are absolutely engaged in a battle in which our enemy is more than willing and capable of being the aggressor. The armour of God in general and the gospel of peace in particular provide for us safety against his attacks. Our footing is sure, our foundation will never move or crumble. We are protected, God is our shield, our fortress, our high tower, our bulwark, and our refuge.

For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; He shall set me upon a rock. Psalm 27:5 Psalm 91:10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

—Rev. R. Sibblies

No Co-op City Times?

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

Newsong Church

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

As you walk through the Einstein community center, you will meet some of the happiest people on the planet!

Our greeters exist to help and serve you.

It’s not only their job to make you feel at home, it’s their pleasure. If you have children 6th grade and younger, they will show you where Kidsong is located, and our amazing children’s ministry team will assist you from there. I promise your child will not only learn about Jesus, they will have so much fun they will want to come back the following week!

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

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

After about three songs, one of our pas-

tors will then lead us in a prayer and announce important upcoming events.

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

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

Now it’s time for the word of God. At Newsong, we believe the Bible is the greatest book ever written, containing the greatest story ever told! We believe God’s word is powerful, we’re learning to trust in it, and live our lives by it!

During the pastor’s sermon, Bible verses and main points will be displayed on the screens so you can take notes. You can also download our app for free and have everything at your fingertips!

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

Now it’s time to go over to our connection area, where you can claim your gift as well as get more info about what’s going on during the week! You will also get a chance to meet a pastor who can help answer any other questions you may have. It’s our prayer that you leave feeling like you just had an encounter with God! So there you are! I hope this tour put your mind at ease, and we’ll see you tomorrow 135 Einstein Loop!

—Pastor Mike Tolone

Open Door Ministries “Pray for Relief” Full sermon on Open Door Ministries YouTube channel

Prayer is not an academic exercise but the humbling of your soul before the almighty. When we agonize in prayer, we are seeking God’s presence, wisdom and guidance. When we pray, we acknowledge we are powerless, limited in our knowledge and fruitless without the Lord’s intervention in our behalf.

We must pray without ceasing.

2 Kings 19:14 Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it.

Then he went up to the temple of the LORD and spread it out before the LORD. 15 And Hezekiah prayed to the LORD: “LORD, the God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth.

You have made heaven and earth. 16 Give ear, LORD, and hear; open your eyes, LORD, and see; listen to the words Sennacherib has sent to ridicule the living God. 19 Now, LORD our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone, LORD, are God.” Hezekiah went before the Lord with the evidence of those that came against him. He ensured God was aware of the threat and God himself was being belittled by this foreign king. Hezekiah acknowledged the power of his enemies but reminded God their gods were nothing but wood and stone. He provoked God to destroy his enemies.

2 Kings 20:1 In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death.

The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, “This is what the LORD says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.”

2 Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, 3 “Remember, LORD, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly.

4 Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the LORD came to him: 5 “Go back and tell Hezekiah, the ruler of my people, ‘This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the temple of the LORD. 6 I will add fifteen years to your life.

Hezekiah was so loved by God he was told of his impending death. He went before the lord and reminded God of his life of integrity and devotion.

Immediately God turned his prophet around and granted Hezekiah 15 more years of life. God told him I have heard your prayer and seen your tears. Even more, God promised deliverance from his enemies.

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

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

—Pastor Luis Ramos

Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. for worship service. Sunday school for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study and pray with us.

The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774. Visit us on the web at coopcitybaptistchurch.org.

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

Prayer service is held Fridays at noon.

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

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

Wishes for a blessed, healthy and happy 2020!

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

—Hattie L. Lucas

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

“Enlarge the place of your tent, and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare; lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes.” Isaiah 54:2 Spiritual food for thought Expansion is the order of this season. You can reach higher, go deeper and search wider to know God more intimately and to accomplish that which is set before you. Refuse to allow a sense of not being capable to cripple your efforts. Go forth with courage and expectation.

Senior Pastor and Presiding Elder Boyce Landrum, Pastor Carol Landrum and the Greater Love family invite you, friends and family to worship with us on Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. Children and adult Sunday school/Bible study is from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., after which a light continental breakfast is available to all.

Greater Love Refuge Ministries is a multi-generational, teaching, preaching faith and Bible way church with an old-school flavor and a new-school feel. Come in and experience the abundant love poured out to our family, friends and guests.

We are conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd., Building 2A, on the ground level, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

As a reminder, Greater Love church is a host site for the New York State Chaplain’s Task Force training program. The sessions began Thursday, Jan. 23, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Anyone may register for classes until the third week. If you would like to be a certified chaplain and join the team of New York’s Kindest, please contact the class instructor, Rev. Kim Osorio, at 646-265-2173 for more information and to reserve your seat.

Our food pantry and intercessory prayer is open today, Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10 a.m. to noon. Limited quantities of fresh produce will be available.

The Greater Love’s Christian Prayer Line is held each Wednesday afternoon from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. and on Thursday evenings from 9 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The dial-in number is 1-712-775-7031, access code is 578165132#. Join us and share your prayer requests.

The next Seasoned Saints Ministry fellowship is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 29, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This month’s special guest speakers are Reverend Florine Watson from Friendly Baptist Church in the Bronx and Sergeant Milton Gregory from our on Co-op City Department of Public Safety. Both of our invited guests will present on the topic of senior frauds and scams; the latest developments and how to protect yourself and assets. All invited, lunch will be served. Kindly RSVP by calling the church at 347-920-5607.

All are invited to join us for our second annual convocation, conference and luncheon on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. in room 38 of the Einstein Loop Community Center. The cost is $35 per adult and $15 for children under 12.

RSVP by calling the church at 347-920-5607. Leave a message and we will return your call.

—Pastor Carol Landrum

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

Church of the New Vision

21

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

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

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

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

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

All are welcome to join us for a Prayer Brunch on Saturday, Jan. 25, at 11 a.m. here at Church of the New Vision, doors open at 10:30 a.m., donation $10.

Tickets are available. Please contact the church office for ticket purchase or to R.S.V.P. Join us on our pre-Mother’s Day trip to the Sight & Sound Theater, Thursday, May 7, to see the play “Queen Esther.” Motor coach transportation and lunch at the Shady Maple Restaurant is included. Adults rates $170 adults/youth 12 and under $125. Payments in full will guarantee an assigned seat. For additional information, contact B. Brown at 718-671-3748 or T. Gavin at 917-587-5057.

Taxes and meal gratuities included.

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

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

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

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

—Sis. Carol Haque

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Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020 Boone Avenue, Bronx, NY 10460, Mon. through Fri., between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., to be completed and returned by Thursday, Jan. 30 (just five days from today!).

The NYS presidential primary will be held in April: Early Voting runs from 4/18 to 4/26 with primary election day on Tuesday, 4/28/20. Poll sites still TBD! Fight for the presidential candidate of your choice but be prepared to add… no matter WHO, vote BLUE. And whenever available, vote on the WFP line on your ballot.

In essence, the mission of Working Families Co-op City is to promote tolerance and end second-class citizenship.

Stand with this group. Come to the Co-op City Working Families meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 18, in Einstein, room 35, at 7 p.m.

Please Note: We are not yet in the process of organizing a forum showcasing the many federal and state candidates for U.S. Congress, NYS Senate, and NYS Assembly running in the June primary. If/when we decide to do so, we will write about it in these pages as soon as possible. If any other organization is planning one, we do hope it won’t be kept secret. Shouldn’t educating Co-op City voters be a joint effort of all of Co-op City’s political organizations?

Perhaps in 2020 that will be so.

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

—Mary Pearson

Working Families of Co-op City

Last Meeting/Next Meeting Did you miss the January 21 meeting? Couldn’t get past the bouncer at our over-capacity get together? No biggie. Come in February. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, Feb. 18 (the usual third Tuesday of the month) in Einstein, room 35, at 7 p.m. Details to follow.

A Matter of Survival At our January 21 meeting, we sent postcards to Assemblyman Michael Benedetto: Legislative Office Building, room 836, Albany, NY 12248, asking him to fight for the Working Families Party’s right to stay alive. That’s right.

We’re not cheap when it comes to protesting the Public Campaign Financing Commission’s results. We sprang for postcard postage!

But you can just email or call the assemblyman: benedettom@nyassembly.gov, (718) 320-2220 or (518) 4555385. Ask him to undo the damage caused by the commission. Ask him to reject the commission’s results that make it harder for new candidates to get on the ballot and nearly impossible for smaller parties to stay on the ballot. Ask him to show his constituents he’s on the side of democracy.

2020 Fed-Style And on the national front…This is the big one. The presidential petition period has begun. Petitions for six of the leading presidential candidates can be picked-up at the Bronx Dems headquarters at 1534

Public Safety

(Continued from page 7)

It is always important for cooperators to call the Department of Public Safety when they observe any suspicious activity, especially during school arrival and dismissal times. Youths observed fighting or attempting to enter the buildings for the purpose of loitering should be reported immediately.

Don’t forget, the Department of Public Safety has a lost and found for keys and eyeglasses located at our office at 2049 Bartow Ave., lower level. If you find keys or eyeglasses, bring them to Public Safety. Be sure to check here if you have lost these items as well. The Public Safety Department has had several recent experiences of reuniting owners with their property.

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

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like everyone to remain safe this winter. Be sure to drive safely and anticipate changing road conditions.

Avoid driving in bad weather if possible. Never drive if you have been drinking.

Avoid distractions such as texting or talking on a cellphone, these are the leading causes of accidents in New York State. Texting while driving has been so much of a problem that rest stops have been renamed text stops. Remember any text can wait; it is not worth risking your life. When driving, look out for cyclists, pedestrians and school buses. If you see anything suspicious, notify the proper authorities. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at 718-671-3050. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. Visit CCPD on Twitter at @CCPDnyc to see what is happening here in Co-op City.

We welcome your letters to the editor, however, if you would like your letter to be considered for publication, it must be signed, and include your address and telephone number – which will be kept confidential – so the authenticity of the writer can be verified. The Co-op City Times does not print anonymous or unsigned letters.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could result in a Community Complaint and fine.

23

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Co-op City Times / January 25, 2020

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