Co-op City Times 02/10/18 by Co-op City Times

Co-op City’s Official Newspaper Serving The World’s Largest Cooperative Community. Vol. 53 No. 6

Saturday, February 10, 2018

Technology, Reorganization Improve Services In Parking & Leasing Department

Two objectives drive the mission at Riverbay’s reorganized Parking & Leasing Department – provide Co-op City residents with excellent customer service and match shareholders with empty spaces.

BY JIM ROBERTS

were sitting empty and revenue was being lost. That was costing Riverbay money and delaying getting available spaces to shareholders. “We don’t allow that to happen anymore,” she said. “We’re staying on top of the workflow and maximizing

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Board President’s Address At Open Board Meeting, Feb. 8

Dear fellow share- President’s Message of oversight. holders, Board direcBoard of Directors, Management and tor Responsibilities staff: Four years ago, the President Welcome to this Board took a turn to open Board of Directors become a more involved meeting for the Riverbay Board to protect the interCorporation. I want to thank est of all shareholders. This each shareholder who came began with the search for a out tonight to participate in new management company this important process. and the training of all Board Your Board meets once directors where we have or twice a month to handle come to understand our fiduciary responsibilities, the need the business of the corpoto work together and our ration, in addition to presiduties as directors. As reported in the dential, treasurer and committee balance.com, standard duties of board chair responsibilities in between Board business meetings. This Board, directors are: your Board, works hard to ensure (Continued on page 2) we are meeting our responsibilities

Linda Berk

First Open Board Meeting Of New Year Held Feb. 8 In Dreiser Riverbay Corporation’s newly reorganized Parking & Leasing Department strives for efficiency and improved customer service. Photo by Jim Roberts

Parking spaces, basement closets, hallway closets, commercial stores, professional office space – keeping them all occupied is job number one. “We are moving our waiting lists as quickly as possible,” said Danielle O’Connor, Riverbay’s director of Parking & Leasing. “In the past, it was done randomly while spaces

revenue for the company while getting shareholders off the waiting lists. There are people who have been on the waiting lists for storage since before I was born, and that’s a really sad situation.” Formerly known as the Garage (Continued on page 4)

Commemorating Black History Month 2018

Approximately 75 shareholders braved the bitter cold and came out to the first Open Board meeting of the new year on Thursday, Feb. 8th in the Dreiser Auditorium. “I want to thank each shareholder who braved the cold to come out tonight and participate in this important process,” said Board President Linda Berk. “…This Board, your Board, works hard to ensure we are meeting our responsibilities of oversight.” BY LAURETTA J. JAYSURA

(Continued on page 5)

17 More Days To City’s Board Of Standards Hearing On Massive Billboards There are 17 more days until the New York City Board of Standards & Appeals (BSA) convenes a public continued hearing on Tuesday, February 27, on the matter of the massive monopole and other LED advertising signs the owner of the property at 500 Baychester Avenue/3001 Bartow Avenue has erected to support electronics LED advertising. The hearing is on BSA’s morning calendar which begins at 10 a.m. on Feb. 27, at 22 Reade Street, Spector Hall, New York NY 10007, however, there are other continued hearings being heard that day, a number of which are ahead of this one so please be prepared to wait, depending on what time you arrive at Spector Hall. To ensure a good turnout, Riverbay will provide a bus to transport shareholders interested in attending the public hearing. “If ever there was a time to stand up and be represented, this is that time!” Riverbay Board President Linda Berk told the Co-op City Times this week. “Through an oversight years ago, the zoning for the parcel of land that the new 7Eleven is built on was never changed from C-7 allowing commercial blinking illuminated signage. These are normally not allowed in a residential area. “We must stand up for this harsh invasion into our (Continued on page 3) BY ROZAAN BOONE

Black History Month celebrations began in Co-op City last weekend with the 21st Annual African American Festival sponsored by the African American Association of Co-op City. In addition to the showing of “Olympic Pride: American prejudice,” the celebration included the showing of a documentary “Lest We Forget...” by Gwen and Justin Ragsdale, curators of the Black Holocaust Museum of African American Slavery. There were also artifacts from the slave trade which could be viewed up close and personal. (See more on page 3.) Photo by Toriea McCauseland

Addressing the duties and responsibilities of Board members, President Berk said: “Our responsibility is not as advocates for our individual neighbors or friends, but as a business board working together for the interest of all shareholders. We must make sure Riverbay performs optimally for the senior in their apartment who can’t get to speak out or stand up; for the shareholder who is not outspoken; for the parents who are overwhelmed with work and

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

President’s Report

Duty of Care: A board member must be active in organizational planning and decision making. Board members must exercise reasonable care when he or she makes a decision for the organization. Reasonable care is what an “ordinarily prudent” person in a similar situation would do. Duty of Loyalty: A board member must never use information gained through his/her position for personal gain and must always act in the best interests of the organization. Board members must avoid conflicts of interest or the appearance of conflicts. Duty of Obedience: A board member must be faithful to the organization’s mission. He or she cannot act in a way that is inconsistent with the organization’s goals. The public trusts the board to manage funds to fulfill the organization’s mission. When we set our goals to ensure that Riverbay operates efficiently, provides excellent services and protects the quality of life at Co-op City, we can fulfill our commitment to every shareholder. Our responsibility is not as an advocate for our individual neighbors or friends, but a business board working together for the interest of all shareholders. We must make sure Riverbay performs optimally for the senior in their apartment who can’t speak out or stand up; for the shareholder who is not outspoken; for the parents overwhelmed with work and raising their children or the disabled facing challenges the rest of us take for granted. When we can do this for every one of us, we will satisfy our responsibilities to the entire community. As we work hard with Management to turn this corporation around, we are aware there is a need for improvements greater than we would like and we know where the needs are. It is a massive job to turn this place around, but with perseverance and a focused, deliberate and proactive approach, we, together with Management, will bring Riverbay into the 21st Century. As noted in the list of capital projects outlined for you, we are clearly well on our way. This Board has promised trans-

parency. In meeting that goal, we will continue to provide shareholders with their personal copy of the Riverbay Financial Report. I believe presidents should provide shareholders with a state of the corporation message as you received last year, as well as this month with your monthly invoice, and we will continue to hold open Board meetings several times a year. Shareholder Responsibilities While your Board of Directors has a responsibility to every shareholder, every shareholder has responsibility to the way of cooperative living here at Co-op City. The concept of cooperative living is so strong, that it is the name of this development, “Co-op” City. Cooperative living means we should all have a say, some input or participation in what happens in this community. Whether it is a park on our waterfront, glaring billboards next to our homes or an animal shelter on land originally identified to build a community center for over 40,000 residents. Clearly, everyone cannot be everywhere at all times. However, we have left the arduous work to a handful cooperators who always show up. I ask all shareholders to get involved. Please attend your building association meeting. Please come out to open Board meetings. Please vote in the Riverbay Board elections. Please find your way to be engaged in your community as a shareholder of Riverbay Corporation, as a cooperator of Co-op City. In numbers, we have power; in numbers, we can make change; in numbers, we can protect the quality of life here. We are an incredible community; I ask all shareholders to take ownership in Co-op City. Tonight, you have a chance to observe a business meeting. While we have put the gallery session at the top of the agenda for the convenience of shareholders, I hope you will choose to stay as we discuss resolutions and receive brief committee reports from committee chairs. Again, thank you to every shareholder who came out tonight. I encourage you to bring a friend or a neighbor for the next open Board meeting. Now, let’s get on with the business of the corporation. (Continued from page 1)

Local Law Inspections

Please be advised that Riverbay workers, along with Merritt Engineers, will be conducting a preliminary inspection of the exterior walls and masonry bricks from the balconies of your building for the upcoming Local Law 11 work that will soon take place. Workers will be knocking on your doors for access to the balconies according to the following schedule: Tuesday, February 20, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. • Buildings 30A & B and 31A & B – A, D & E Lines Wednesday, February 21, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. • Buildings 32A & B – A, D & E lines • Building 33 – B, E, H & L Lines Thursday, February 22, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. • Buildings 34 & 35 – B, E, H & L Lines Please make sure proper I.D. is shown. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact your Cooperator Service Office (CSO), Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3595, or you can contact the Construction Department at Ext. 2176, MondayFriday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Thank you for your cooperation. — Cooperator Service Office (Einstein Center)

Youth Honored at Dr. King Award Service

At the January 14th Rev. Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. Awards Service held by the Clergy Coalition of the 47th Pct. at Community Protestant Church (CPC), a number of young people were saluted. Among the young honorees who were congratulated were Dionte Mayers (14) of Co-op City; Lowkwong Fillmore (14) also of Co-op City; Emerald Baker (14) and Jada Phillips (14). In photo from left to right are NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Dionte Mayers, Emerald Baker, Dea. Lorraine Folson, CPC Sunday School Superintendent; Jada Phillips and Lowkwong Filmore. Congratulations to all of the honorees. Photo by Lauretta Jaysura

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

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Co-op City Times 2 n d

Front Pa ge

21st Annual African American Film Festival Honored Ancestors, Dick Gregory And Others

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

Reservations For Assemblyman’s Black History Program

Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto will sponsor a Black History Month Celebration in Co-op City’s Dreiser Community Center Auditorium for 650 people on Thursday, February 15th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free, however, reservations are necessary. Please contact Assemblyman Benedetto’s Co-op City office at (718) 320-2220 to reserve your seat today. No one will be admitted without a reservation. Invitees will enjoy a full-course buffet dinner, entertainment, music and dancing. New York State Assemblyman Jeff Aubry will be the guest of honor. During the evening, three people who have contributed to Co-op City’s vitality will receive honors. They are Leslie Peterson, Rivers Run Community Garden executive member and president of the Building 13 Association; Mr. George Clarke, a long-time community resident and president of the Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic Club and Joyce Wilson, a long-time member of the Co-op City NAACP. Joyce is also popularly known as the “Mayor of Co-op City.”

NCNW’s Annual Black History Month Celebration

The Co-op City section of the NCNW will hold their 17th Annual Black History Month Celebration on Saturday, February 24, 1-4 p.m. in Auditorium B of the Dreiser Center. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. This will be an afternoon of singing, dancing, stepping, poetry, spoken word, story-telling and much more. Youth and youth groups interested in showcasing their talent are invited to call (917) 399-2643 or (917) 826-5644. Come participate in “Telling Our Story in Our Voice, Our Image, our Way.”

The African-American Association of Co-op City presented its 21st Annual Black History Month program last Saturday, Feb. 3, in Co-op City’s Bartow Center. The event started out with opening remarks from Mrs. Francine Reva Jones, assistant secretary of the AfricanAmerican Association and program coordinator for the annual film festival, who led the Film Festival with a libation ceremony or “call to our ancestors.” Joined by a few members of the audience, Mrs. Jones and others called upon the spirits of historical figures and relatives to join the ceremony. The festival started with its first film, “Lest We Forget...,” a documentary by Gwen and Justin Ragsdale, curators of BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

the Black Holocaust Museum of African American Slavery. The film talks about “slavery in its essence,” according to Mrs. Ragsdale. “Slavery was a part of American History. It’s not just Black History. You can’t talk about American History and disregard the decades and hundreds of years of bondage.” The film examined the lives of African Americans throughout the slave trade and was Mrs. Ragsdale’s first directorial debut. After the viewing of their film, Mr. Ragsdale showcased a few artifacts or “tools of slavery,” including several restraints.

Hearing

“My husband has been collecting artifacts for 60 years,” said Mrs. Ragsdale. “To be able to view these things and touch these things truly brings history alive.” Mr. Ragsdale answered questions from both adults and children as they crowded around the table filled with the historical items. Mrs. Jones noted: “Africans in America have such an enormously rich and advanced history, with civilization having begun in Africa, and which they traveled and spread throughout the world. Africa’s advances were interrupted by invasions by barbarian groups. The slavers from America kidnapped and enslaved Africans and exploited their strength and talents when Africans were forced to use their free labor to build this country, making many rich banks, and corporations and individual millionaires.” After a brief intermission for refreshments, the festival continued with tri-butes honoring those who recently passed away. Mrs. Jones gave the tribute to Rev. Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker, along with Michelle Marbury, second vice president of the AfricanAmerican Association, who honored musician Hugh Masekela. Omowale Clay, member of the December 12th Movement of Brooklyn, gave a moving tribute to comedian and activist, Dick Gregory. “Our community, although diverse, is statistically predominantly African American,” said Kevin Lambright, president of the African-American As(Continued from page 1)

community. Please attend this Board of Standards hearing and let the powers that be know we cannot live with the intrusion of illuminated billboards in this residential community.” Shareholders are urged to make plans to attend this hearing and to speak out about these massive electronic signage that have impacted on the quality of life of neighbors. “This community must rally together to make our voices heard,” said Ms. Berk. “To make sure we have a significant representation, Riverbay will provide a bus to the hearing. We will take our fight to the Board of Standards.” If you would like to get on the bus, please call 347-9134224 to register for a seat. Registrations will be accepted until the bus is full. The bus will leave from in front of the Bingo Hall on Bartow Avenue at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 27. On Monday, February 5, during a budget hearing examining the 2018-2019 Executive Budget Proposal and its impact on local government officials and general government, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, chair of the Assembly’s Committee on Cities, while questioning Mayor Bill de Blasio, brought up the issue of the 260-foot monopole at 500

sociation of Co-op City. “Being able to celebrate our 21st Black History Film Festival is a rewarding accomplishment. More people are starting to recognize the importance of historical struggles and victories of African Americans. Our successes are the heart of American history. American history would be a bland plate without the historic contributions of African-Americans, and our film festivals are documented proof of that every year.” The film festival ended with a showing of “Olympic Pride: American Prejudice,” promptly following the honoree presentation. Olympic Pride documented the journey of African American athletes as they set off to the 1936 summer Olympic games in Berlin, Germany during Hitler’s administration. “The Black History Month film Festival could not have happened without the support of the African-American Association President Kevin Lambright and the Executive Board and members,” stated Mrs. Jones. “As program coordinator and former president of this organization, I will continue presenting the Black History Month Film Festival as long as possible – Lest We Forget.” Photos by Toriea McCauseland

Baychester Avenue. The exchange follows: Assemblyman Benedetto: “…the great city of Co-op, a wonderful place to live and a fine example of MitchellLama housing, there is a controversy there about a monopole going up…” Mayor de Blasio: “Excuse me, a what?” Assemblyman Benedetto: “I’m told that is the technical term for it. A monopole – a tall structure that holds outdoor advertising structure. Well most of these structures are fairly low, 20 feet or so. This one is going to be 260 feet. How could they do this? Because the zoning has never been changed since the existence of Freedom Land which Co-op City sits on, that particular site, and so he’s allowed to build a 260-foot pole to put this outside neon LED advertising that’s going to shine brightly throughout the Bronx and I guess to notify people flying in planes passing by. If there’s anything the city can do to look into that, we would greatly appreciate it, sir.” Mayor de Blasio: “We will certainly look into it. That is not something I’ve heard previously, but we’ll certainly look into it and get back to you.”

Parking Facilities

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Department, the reorganized Parking & Leasing unaccounted for, not being paid for,” Ms. O’Conhappen in the current antiquated technology and took on several new responsibilities in 2017. In nor said. “Our staff went to every single storage allow transient parkers to use credit cards for payaddition to the 10,000-plus parking spaces in Co-op unit in every building and we were able to get all of ment, Ms. O’Connor said. In addition, the window them fully leased to shareholders.” City’s eight parking garages, the department now stickers will deactivate if peeled off, stopping any sharing of access. The department took over the hall closets in Janmanages 1,100-plus basement storage units and Three other projects underway are also in the uary 2017. A full audit identified over 600 closets more than 3,000 hallway closets. works to improve service in the garages for sharethat were vacant or not being paid for or charged Ms. O’Connor is now also responsible for Riverholders. With the help of the Technical Services incorrect amounts. “Again we went through every bay’s commercial leasing activity covering 85 single unit, found that some people had moved out, department, they have been testing out an analytical storefront spaces in the three shopping plazas and 50 professional offices in several buildings — a and cleaned over 300 units,” Ms. O’Connor said. camera system that can record speeders and wrongresponsibility that was given to her by Riverbay’s “Our supervisory staff and porters did all the work in way drivers and send out notification in real time. addition to their normal work in the garages from “It’s very difficult to enforce people driving the Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer who May to November.” Ms. O’Connor hopes to have saw her superb organizational skills after working wrong way or speeding because it always turns into shareholders in the remaining newly-available hall with her over the course of several months. The a he said – she said situation unless you have them on video or get photos,” Ms. O’Connor said. closets by later in 2018. department has relocated to its new offices in room In the spring, the department will be re-doing all Over the past two years, hall closet revenue has 23 of the Bartow Center where all employees from of the signage in the garages because many of the the various functions are now together in one place. climbed 20% and basement storage revenue is up There are no commercial vacancies in Einstein, 3% vacancy in Bartow and 12% vacancy in Dreiser with several spaces currently under negotiation with prospective tenants. The vacancy rate of professional office spaces is 22% and Ms. O’Connor is exploring the possibility of repurposing the underutilized commercial space into additional storage units for residents. “Commercial rental rates have been historically low, but we are starting to get a little closer to market rates,” O’Connor said. “As we do renewals for leases, we’re bumping everyone up. A lot of tenants didn’t pay common area maintenance fees for a long time so we’ve been incorporating that as we renew leases and that helps to supplement the cost of maintaining the shopping center walkways, customer parking areas, etc. Water and trash removal fees are now being paid by tenants as well.” The demand for reserved parking spaces in the garages remains far ahead of available supply. The capacity of 1,623 spaces are fully leased and the waiting list of 1,185 equals 75% of all the spaces. Anticipated changes to the garages include a new RFID tag to replace the access cards currently in use. Many other upgrades are planned. The waiting list for regular parking is less crowded Photo by Jim Roberts at nearly 500 for the nearly 9,000 spaces available. existing ones are old or missing. All of the garages Garages 2 and 7 have the longest waiting lists for nearly 50%. will have high-reflective signs that will make it regular parking. Parking & Leasing is also now responsible for The basement storage units are leased to capacclear to drivers which direction they should follow. scheduling rentals and activities in the community ity at 1,134 with 1,006 shareholders on the waiting The department has also started testing several center rooms. The current system of using a binder to write the daily schedules on paper is being list and the 3,016 hall closet units currently have different types of LED lights to determine which ones work best. Besides eliminating the dark condireplaced by a software system developed with 369 vacancies which the department is working to tions in some spots, the LED lights will also reduce Riverbay’s IT department. lease as quickly as possible. There are 1,648 on the the use of electricity. “We’ll have computerized record keeping and waiting list for hall closets. There are waiting lists Maintaining the garage structures is an ongoing more of our staff can have access to manage schedfor storage closets in every single building. responsibility that Ms. O’Connor is focusing her uling more efficiently,” Ms. O’Connor said. “We’ll Straightening Out The Storage, Closet Records Both the basement storage and hall closet units attention on. If water penetrates the coating on the be able to run reports to see which spaces are being took some cleaning up of the record-keeping and garage floors, concrete below will crack and start utilized and which ones aren’t.” many of the units themselves when Parking & rusting the metal rebar that holds the building The department is also working on updating all the signage in the community centers with directoLeasing took over management of them. together. “We’ve never had a preventative maintenance budget for the garages so now we are putting ries and wayfinding signage to help people navigate “In 2016 we did a full audit of the basement stora little money aside each year to keep up with ongoto various offices or community center rooms. age units and identified just under 400 that were ing minor repairs,” she said. Changes In Parking Ms. O’Connor joined Riverbay in 2014 after gainGarages ing a wide variety of experience in the garage parkShareholders will be ing business. She started on the ground floor collectseeing changes in the ing toll money in a garage booth at a Metro-North parking garages this train station after serving six years in the Air Force. spring when the departShe then moved into customer service, became a ment introduces a new supervisor, did internal auditing for Metro-North, RFID tag that will served as a parking manager for the parking operareplace the current tion at Ridge Hill in Yonkers and worked for a propaccess cards. Shareholderty management company in parking in Manhattan. ers will receive a win“We’ve made a lot of strides forward in the past dow sticker with an three years by eliminating paper and the million forms imbedded sensor and an information form about that we have,” Ms. O’Connor said. “We’ve moved everything over and all of our records are now electheir vehicle. When the tronic. All of our obsolete records have been purged form is returned, the and we’ve been able to make sure that every space is sensor will be activated allowing the car entry. accounted for, that we’re selling as many as we can. “Our staff has been really great in getting spaces The rollout will be one to shareholders. We put the whole plan together, but garage at a time. without the customer service staff helping the The new system will shareholders on a daily basis doing what they need reduce the computer to do, it wouldn’t be possible.” system crashes that (Continued from page 1)

Open Board Meeting

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

raising their children; or the disabled facing challenges the rest of us tend to take for granted. When we can do this for everyone, we will satisfy our responsibilities to the entire community.” Prior to the meeting, shareholders who arrived between 6-7:30 p.m. were able to meet with Riverbay department heads concerning any specific and individual issue or problem they may have in their apartments or buildings. Additionally, staff were on hand to help anyone who had not yet turned in their Window Guard Form as mandated by the City of New York. In her opening statement, President Berk affirmed that the Board, working together with Management to turn the Riverbay Corporation around, with perseverance and a focused deliberate and proactive strategy, will bring Riverbay into the 21st century. The Board president also encouraged all shareholders to “get involved” and be informed. “In numbers we have power, we can make change and protect the quality of life here…I ask all shareholders to take ownership...” All fifteen Board directors were in attendance. The President’s Report was followed by the management report which was given by Bob Klehammer, executive general manager. He reported about a meeting held with Wells Fargo bank, HUD, DHCR, and NYC Housing Development Corporation. “We reported to them accompishements we’ve made over the past year since our last meeting with that group and also discussed plans for this year. Significant plans for this year are going to revolve around our capital improvement program so get ready because it will mean a lot of disruptions which I will apologize for now but in the long run it will, just as the president said, it will make for a better Co-op City for the next fifty years,” Mr. Klehammer said. Mr. Klehammer said that among the work shareholders will see happening this year is the elevator modernization program where all 160 elevators in the residential buildings will be modernized, a 5-year project. Major Local Law 11 work, mandated by the city, which has not been done in Co-op City in the last 10 years will also be worked on this year. He noted this work is the reason for the sidewalk bridging up around some buildings in Section Five. “This year we will be doing inspections in Section 1-4; that report is required to be filed next February,” said Mr. Klehammer. “And that work will probably get started, we anticipate, somewhere in 2019, but those in Section Five will actually see work starting probably in September or October.” Detailing more capital projects, Mr. Klehammer said all of the T-beams on the roofs of the garages will also be removed this year (part of the required work for our mortgage), as well as portico repaving which is needed at some buildings to prevent water seeping into the basements. Another project he discussed is the lobby entrance modernization in the Chevron buildings which the Board was slated to vote on that night and also the modernization of the Dreiser Auditorium, and renovation of all the public restrooms in all of the community centers. “They are in horrible, terrible condition,” he said, to which a shareholder in the audience said, “Thank you.” The executive general manager also spoke about some of the projects which will not be visible to shareholders such as replacement of transformers, and preplanning of work to be done in the next year or two. He said: “One of the striking things I’ve come to conclude in my time here is how much things have just been ignored over the years here and we’re sort of playing catch up, folks. I can’t promise you change overnight; all I can promise is my efforts to consistently work for that change. We’re always in motion and it’s not just this, it’s improving customer service, it’s upgrading the software platform we use just to keep track of your rent payments, work orders, inventory. That system is ten years old; doesn’t sound old but in technology terms, you might as well be writing on stone tablets if you’re using a ten-year old technology system.” The management report was followed by the Gallery Session which was placed ahead of the business portion of the meeting to allow shareholders to openly ask questions or address concerns. Long-time resident Ms. Barbara Rose said that the corporation should “finish one project at time” and get a new AC system so that cooperators will not have to wait long for the air conditioning to be turned on. She also said that she would like to see more courtesy from the commercial tenants, but she did, however, have high praise for Riverbay’s current management staff. Shareholder Ed McCaster expressed several concerns and asked what is being done about the seeming increase of dogs in the community and how can we check if they are authorized? Board Director Lambright added his concern to this issue asking what about cooperators who have allergies or respiratory problems such as he has and cannot enter an elevator that a dog has just been. Director Jerome Rice reported about a recent court case involving dogs in another Mitchell-Lama development and cautioned that we should be aware what can and cannot be identified in special cases. Board President Berk said these issues and more are being looked into. Mr. McCaster later said that he thought Thursday’s meeting was a good, well-organized meeting and he looks forward to getting answers to his questions. The matter of “move in and outs” and the use of big black bags was also brought up. Mr. Warren Mitchell, Riverbay’s assistant general manager, reminded shareholders to call CCPD and make a compliant whenever they notice something that is not correct. This will help the problem to be controlled, he said, if you see something, say something. Another cooperator asked why we no longer have leases. Why is it that anyone wanting to transfer must pay what new cooperators are paying? He said this is not fair and especially hard on seniors who have to remain in large apartments they no longer need or can afford. President Berk said this is an issue that the Board has been working on for four years with the state supervisory agency, HCR, trying to resolve. “We want to help our seniors, however, the requirement is a state requirement under the Mitchell-Lama law and not a Riverbay requirement,” she said. Director Bernard Cylich shared a brief story on the matter and over the years how we have gotten to this point of cooperators not having a lease as was the case previously and the current requirements governing moving out and transferring from one apartment to another. Shareholder Vivian Burrus said that as suggested by President Berk, she is “trying to (Continued from page 1)

be involved and served on the Contracts Committee.” However, she has concerns about the committee’s meeting schedule. Both Director Cylich, a member of the Board’s Committee on Committees, and President Berk said they will look into the matter and get it resolved. Ms. Zoe Halston reminded all cooperators of the importance of recycling. Long-time shareholder Ms. Novella Thomas commended the Board on their decorum. “I’m seeing good behavior and I commend you to keep up the good work,” she said. Ms. Thomas inquired about the process of approval for new residents into Co-op City and if a lot of subletting is going on. In response, Mr. Mitchell said that the criteria has basically remained the same in that a 650 credit score is required and house visits are still being made. “We stay on top of it,” he said. Mr. Mitchell also pointed out that if cooperators suspect an occupant of an apartment is not the legal cooperator, that information can be submitted anonymously and CSO can request an investigation. Other ways of investigating illegal sublets are also being looked at. Director Junius Williams offered that for shareholder who wish to make an anonymous phone call, they can press *67 on their cell phone before calling the number to make sure their call is confidential. Mr. Nels Grumer, also a long time cooperator, inquired about the upcoming Feb. 27th hearing into the huge LED signs on Bartow Avenue and how to get details in order to participate. President Berk said that arrangements have been made for a bus to leave at 10:30 a.m. from the Bingo Hall and all the details will be posted in each building. President Berk said: “…a sign this large should not be on residential property.” Notwithstanding, she told shareholders that if they want their voices to be heard, they must come out and voice their opposition to what is happening in the community. Some shareholders have also started petition drives around this issue. During the business portion, Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III gave a comprehensive overview of the lobby entrance modernization and Local Law 11 work before the Board voted on the resolutions. When asked by President Berk how the decision was made about which of the Chevron buildings to start the entrance modernization work in, Mr. Smith said that Management is looking at traffic patterns in the buildings and not a lottery system. Concerning Local Law 11 work, he explained that bridging has to go up immediately as a safety precaution for workers and others. During the meeting, Mr. Klehammer credited Director Johnson for bringing to his attention that a lot of residents are not taking advantage of the STAR program. “This is free money,” he said. Shareholders are encouraged to go online for information and to determine their eligibility. The business portion of the meeting was followed by voting on three resolutions and committee reports before the meeting concluded.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Letters to the Editor No To Sanitizing Nazism

To the Editor: I find the letter of a cooperator and regular writer to the editor published in the Feb. 3, 2018 Co-op City Times full of contradictions, distortions, and half-truths. I don’t even know where to begin and certainly would need more space than allotted here. The writer crudely attempts to “sanitize” Nazism by characterizing it as “a philosophy of the left.” Nazi’s original political name, National Socialist German Workers’ Party (1920), lured unsuspecting workers to a party whose ideology, spelled out in Hitler’s Mein Kampf, was racist, virulently anti-Semitic, anti-Communist, antiparliamentary democracy, anti-trade unionism, territorial expansionistic, etc. – far from “a philosophy of the left.” Hitler’s financial backers were handsomely rewarded after he captured control of the German government when he banned unions, revoked labor laws, cut wages, jailed and murdered labor leaders and Communists. The writer accuses the Council on Foreign Relations and the Trilateral Commission, two conservative think tanks, of conspiring a one-world government – a 1960’s John Birch Society charge. As a matter of fact, some of the writer’s words appear to echo their program – opposition to government-backed wealth redistribution, economic intervention,

collectivism, totalitarianism, anarchism, Communism and Socialism. They opposed the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Equal Rights Amendment, and US-Soviet disarmament negotiations (1980s). The writer’s suggestion that somehow the opioid epidemic is linked to Medicaid and Obamacare, very popular programs, obscures and absolves the out-of-control pharmaceutical companies of their guilt in flooding vulnerable communities with massive quantities of these life-destroying drugs, as they rake in billions of dollars in profits. The writer, a retired cooperator, is and was the beneficiary of “socialist” programs, such as Social Security, Medicare, unemployment compensation, union recognition, minimum-wages laws, etc., won after decades of struggle by workers, often led by Socialists and Communists. And as a cooperator, is the beneficiary of our “collective,” conceived and sponsored by Socialists and built with 100% union labor. Today, with a president who appears to sympathize with working people, but has been promoting corporate welfare for the 1%, any effort to dismantle the “Socialist” gains won by and for the rest of the 99% must be resisted. Which side is this shareholder on? —Bernard Cylich

Actual Facts, Please

To the Editor: When challenged, limited government advocates typically respond with rambling generalizations and accusations. They presume to know the forefathers’ intentions regarding a wide range of issues. If one believes in strengthening, not destroying, the social safety net, you’re a lefty, a Socialist, a Communist. If one supports a universal health initiative, that’s outside the true focus of the federal government. Consideration for the welfare of our citizens is as old as the Constitution, a piece of writing engineered to be a flexible, living document, as evidenced by the words, “…in Order to form a more perfect Union…” The preamble also includes the words, “... [to] promote the general Welfare...” To General George Washington, the general welfare meant health care. He insisted his troops be inoculated against smallpox during the revolutionary war. In 1798, the U.S. Marine Service, to contain disease, provided health insurance to seamen. Jefferson took on the cost of inoculating his family and his neighbors, despite the legit-

imate concerns of the anti-vaxers of his day. Following the lead of his fellow forefathers, Madison, in 1813, signed into law a national public health bill – the Vaccine Act – to protect citizens from fake smallpox vaccines and to make effective vaccines available to all. The Vaccine Act was repealed in 1822 and transferred to the states, where it died, along with many citizens. This is one example of the need for federal intervention in, “the general Welfare.” Globalists caused our economic woes, the poor are poor due to their own shortcomings, ObamaCare created the opioid crisis. No. Mega corporations, ruled by the bottom line, not the common good, are the true villains. Systemic racism, sexism and classism is the root of poverty. Big Pharma’s greed caused the opioid crisis. Actual facts, please. —Kelly Canzoneri

The Golden Rule To the Editor: Quite by coincidence, I found myself in two conversations this morning that brought up “The Golden Rule.” One was about the general divisive state of society and the other was in reference to the blazing billboards on the corner of Bartow and Baychester. Both conversations dealt with, as my mom and dad used to say, “the God-almighty-dollar” being more important than people. United, the Co-op City community can fight the billboards. That’s easy. One entity’s desire to make a buck is trampling the tranquility of many, many of our neighbors. I met a nineArticle 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.

year-old who, after listening to the discussion, said, “That’s not fair. Why don’t they just turn off the lights at night?” A no-brainer indeed. The court has already stopped the construction of a third more massive billboard at the same location. Combatting the monied interests can be a struggle, however, so join the crusade! Get involved in the fight to take them down!! Plan to attend the downtown hearing on February 27th or at least find a petition to sign. Treat people the way you’d like to be treated. Support your neighbors. It’s the rule. —Mary Pearson (More letters continued on page 7)

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 9 Building 9

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr. Expiration Date

Building 9 100 & 120 Dreiser Loop

May 31, 2018

May 30, 2021

Co-op City Times Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. (718) 320-3300, ext. 3375 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Bill Stuttig Associate Editor

Jim Roberts Business Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the authors. Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp. Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corporation of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available. The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.

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

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Public Safety Report

CCPD Alerts Residents Of Romance Scam

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO The Co-op City Department of Public Safety receives updates from various agencies regarding trends in scams. The fact that scammers would target Romance right on time for Valentine’s Day is proof that nothing is sacred in the world of scammers. Pursuit of love or the perfect romantic partner may leave some people at risk of becoming a scam victim. Scam artists are a very clever group of people. They take their knowledge of human nature and combine it with current information in an attempt to find new victims. Recent studies have shown that certain types of scams, especially internet scams, increase every year. By being aware of potential scams, readers can reduce their chance of becoming a victim. Valentine’s Day should be a time for love and romance; instead, it has been a new avenue for thieves to try to scam unsuspecting victims. Use caution when giving out personal information on dating websites. Be wary of anyone who wants you to quickly leave the dating website to engage in conversation in another forum, such as email or telephone. Be cautious of anyone who states they love you in just a short time of online communication. Never give anyone personal information, such as bank account numbers, date of birth or Social Security number. Never wire money or send a Green Dot card to anyone you do not know and have only met through a dating website. Never send money for plane tickets, bail money, medicine for a sick family member or any other reason to anyone you do not know well. Be also leery of fake websites for flowers or chocolates. Always be sure to enter a website directly into your browser; never click on a link from an email. Sometimes one letter off can take you to a fake website. This is true every day, not just Valentine’s Day. Some people may read about these scams and wonder how anyone could possibly fall for them. Scam artists are very persistent; they blanket a large number of potential victims until they find their prey. The internet has made it extremely easy for scam artists to target millions of potential victims with a single touch of a button. Telephone or regular mail scam artists work a little harder, but do eventually find their victim. Bold scammers have even been known to approach their potential victim in person at their door or in a public place. Another scam I heard about and then actually received myself is a PayPal scheme. The email states that you are almost finished completing your registration for PayPal. The email looks legitimate and it asks you to enter your PayPal username and password. It then prompts you to enter your bank account number. When you call the customer service number, it tells you to mail a Green Dot card to an address. A friend of mine did not realize there was a problem until that point. When I received the same email I investigated the email right away as I was not trying to set up a PayPal account. Upon scrutiny, the email came from an email address at e.paypal.com, very close to the actual email. In any case, when you are doing business with a legitimate company, enter the website into your browser yourself, do not use search engine results or click on a link from an email. PayPal is a legitimate company which offers an extra level of protection for online payments, but a scammer pretending to be PayPal can be a real threat to your financial identity. Although not necessarily a scam with malicious intent, some Co-op City residents may have received a group mailing offering insurance for water pipes between the New York City water main pipes and the pipes inside your home. Here in Co-op City, cooperators are not responsible for any of the water pipes. Any problem with the water pipes inside the home or between the buildings or townhouses and the New York City water mains will be

repaired by Riverbay without cost. Sending out these mailings may not have been meant to defraud cooperators, but it is clearly a type of insurance which is not necessary. Cooperators are only required to have renters insurance for their Co-op City apartments. Renters insurance protects items within the apartment and against claims that might arise for damage caused by the cooperator. Another type of scam we have seen either calls or texts someone’s phone and tells them that a family member is in danger unless they wire money to specified person. In most cases, the scammer does not even know who the victim or their family members are. Many calls or texts are initiated until someone falls for the scam. Wiring money to someone you do not know is almost never a good idea. If something seems out of order, notify authorities. Another scam is a “sweepstakes” based scam. In this case, the victim receives a real looking check. New technology makes it possible for this forged check to appear realistic. The quality of the forged check is so realistic that it can even fool banks or check cashing establishments. The problem comes in when the bank attempts to retrieve the funds associated with the check and finds that there are none. By this time, the victim may have already wired money to another state or country attempted to receive an even larger sum of money. Unfortunately, the victim may be responsible for the funds received from the fraudulent check. Remember a legitimate contest or sweepstakes will never make you pay money to receive your prize. Another scam involves a person claiming to be from a government agency claiming to have unclaimed funds belonging to the intended victim. For a fee, the “government employee” can help you obtain these funds. While there are legitimate means of obtaining unclaimed funds, the government does not send employees out to solicit the owners of these fees. If you believe that you are entitled to unclaimed fees, seek out the New York State Attorney General’s office and find out how to proceed. Never pay anyone to help you to obtain these funds. The appropriate agency will provide assistance in this matter free of charge. Several of my avid readers have actually come into the Public Safety Office with a scammer on their cell phone. That gave me the opportunity to speak to the scammer on the phone. The scammer had a blocked number and claimed to be from the government with free grant money that you don’t have to pay back. My reader never applied for a grant. The United States government does not randomly give out grant money. Sorry scammer, no bank account number for you. Another scam derailed by one of my savvy readers. Keep up the good work; scammers can’t fool my readers. The mere mention of fraud somehow makes potential victims more likely to believe the scam artist. It is not impossible that a bank could call you in the event of fraud, but a legitimate bank employee would not ask you for your account num-

ber, Personal Identification Number (PIN) or other personal data. If you receive a request like this, call your financial institution using a number you are sure belongs to your bank or inquire in person. Banks and other financial institutions are happy if their customers do not readily give out their banking information. In order to protect yourself from these and other scams, realize that legitimate persons will never ask you for upfront fees to obtain a loan or receive a prize. Be leery of a lender who is not concerned with your credit history. Hang up on any caller making a loan offer. Check a lender’s legitimacy with the New York State Department of Banking or the Better Business Bureau. There are reputable lenders (Continued on page 26)

Letters

(Cont’d from page 6)

When Negatives Far Outweigh Benefits To the Editor: I believe the Board's over-hasty vote to donate Riverbay property to New York City for a park may have signaled officials that this community is wide open for further plunder. With the increasing development encroachments threatening our tranquility and quality of life, it is my opinion that the Board should take immediate steps to rescind the park offer and also to stay vigilantly involved against a Metro North train station in Section 5 as it will only be a nightmare of congestion and a magnet for crime. —Sally Kya-Hill

Appropriate Use Of Director’s Viewpoints To the Editor: A director’s viewpoint of February 3, 2018, was interesting but should have been in the letters to the editor section. The director was responding to a letter to the editor and the contents of the viewpoint were not directly related to Co-op City. They were a general political statement. If members of the Board of Directors want to respond to cooperators’ letters that are political in nature, they should write a letter to the editor that conforms to its rules. If viewpoints are going to be used to respond to letters to the editor, then the cooperator who wrote the original letter should be allowed to respond with the same space and positioning as a viewpoint. —Stewart Berman

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

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

There are no new employment opportunities to list this week. Please check back again next week. Please Visit The Bartow Administration Office To See All Jobs Posted.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

NYPD Building Bridges Through Neighborhood Policing Initiatives Director’s Viewpoint

Sonia Feliciano Treasurer

On Thursday, February 1, the 45th Precinct Community Council held its monthly meeting at St. Theresa’s Church, Bronx, NY. Our invited guest was Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill. His visit presented the community with an opportunity to not only meet with him, but to discuss matters on the minds of the residents of the communities of the 45th Precinct which covers Co-op City, City Island, Throgs Neck, Pelham Bay, Westchester Square and Zerega. Commissioner O’Neill thanked the men and women who work 365 days a year for the sacrifices they make in being a cop. He discussed his career coming up in the New York City Police Department having just celebrated his 35th year on January 5th with the NYPD. In 2017, he stated that we were in good shape on crime throughout the city due to the hard work and great relationship we have with law enforcement agencies. He discussed transitioning to neighborhood policing in the 45th which encompasses the improvement of communications and engagement

between local police officers and the community residents. They work proactively in partnership with residents to identify and solve problems. This strategy allows officers to build relationships and to get to know their local residents. The officers patrol in the same areas where they work increasing their connection to the community. The model established for the 45th will be overseen by two NCO’s (Neighborhood Commanding Officers). This will create pride amongst the officers as they become the eyes and ears of the community. Overall, the whole city will be using this model by 2019. A resident asked about the closing of Riker’s Island. Commissioner O’Neill indicated that the NYPD does not run Riker’s Island, however, a policy decision made by City Hall began the process on instituting a 10-year plan for its closure by the Department of Corrections. The current inmate population is at 9,000 and has been steadily decreasing. The rollout of body cameras will be coming in the next few months with training to start with the officers in the 4 p.m. – 12 a.m. shift and then everyone else. Commissioner O’Neill is a firm believer in officers visiting the schools to educate our youth and adults on the perils of substance abuse. This is a problem that cuts across race, age and income. We can create an impact through enforcement and investigations as “we are not going to arrest our way

Black Forum Defensive Driving Course Next course: February 10, 8:50 a.m.-3 p.m., Dreiser Center, room 1. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to four points from your driver’s license. Please make checks of $35 payable to ‘Black Forum of COOP City,’ and mail to 177 Dreiser Loop, room 20, Bronx, NY 10475 at least 1½ weeks before class. Include name and phone number. Walk-ins are welcomed, but only a $35 cash payment will be accepted the day of the class – no checks. Call by noon Friday to register and assure seating. Please bring your current driver’s license and a pen; (718) 320-8035. Nordic Lodge & Foxwoods Casino Trip Join us Saturday, August 18, for an amazing dining experience at the awardwinning Nordic Lodge in Charlestown, Rhode Island. Enjoy 2-hours of an allyou-can-eat seafood-plus buffet with lobster, prime rib, specialty desserts and more! The excitement continues at Foxwoods Casino. $165 includes dining, shopping, & round-trip coach transportation. Three payments of $55 due 1/26, 2/16 and 3/16. Please make checks payable to ‘Black Forum of CO-OP City,’ and mail to 177 Dreiser Loop, room 20, Bronx, NY 10475. Include name and phone number. NO REFUNDS. Pick-up and drop-off at Dreiser Loop, Asch Loop and Section 5. Please call 917-209-5334 or 718-320-0033 if you have questions. Black Forum Aerobics and Zumba Body by Andrea aerobics classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays & Zumba are on Thursdays. Location: Dreiser Aud., 7:30 p.m. Nominal fee for each class. Emergency Food Program (10475 residents only) Our mission is to provide food pantry services to those facing economic hardships. Brand new guests must bring a current photo ID to register for the program. ONLY accepted IDs: are driver’s and non-driver's licenses, and the ID NYC card. Bring four clean shopping bags and cart (if available). You'll be issued a card that must be shown on every visit to pick up food. Only ONE participant per household. Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food on Thursdays at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Buildings 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m., also on Thursdays. Section 5 townhouses can visit either church. Other buildings and townhouses must pick-up at Dreiser, room 20. Dreiser food distribution hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m., room 20. Pilot Program: Dreiser hours extended Tuesdays, 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; Saturdays, February 10, March 10, April 14, May 12 and June 9, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. All hours are subject to change based on demand. New and currently registered guests are welcome to participate in extended hours. Re-certification for 2017 guests is now complete. Those who missed the deadline can re-certify at a later date to be announced in this article. Contact Reach out to us if you have questions, (718) 320-8035 or coopcityblackforum@ gmail.com. —Tony Illis

through this,” he said. The goal is to save a life, providing aid to the addicted, and going after the suppliers and distributors. We want our children to have a good quality of life and live their lives in a positive way, the commissioner said. He also reported that one of the things that keeps him up at night is terrorism with three attacks in the last 16 months, but with the NYPD Critical Response Team they have the ability to investigate and respond with a good deal of collaboration from other law enforcement agencies. Commissioner O’Neill said that if we see something, we should be calling 9-1-1. With the help of the mayor and the City Council, the New York City Police Department is now at 36,000 in capacity. Everyone who attended the meeting had an opportunity to speak with the commissioner. Commissioner O’Neill is proud of the positive changes made in the NYPD over the last few years and will continue to provide strategies to improve the quality of life for its citizens. Our next 45th Precinct Council meeting will be held on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. at Santa Maria Church at 2352 St. Raymond’s Avenue, Bronx, NY. Shareholders First – We Matter… You can write me at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY; or call me at 917-992-7311.

Spanish-American Community Club

Please join us on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 8:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome! Our next meeting will take place next month, on March 8th, in room 16 of the Dreiser Community Center. Our traditional ‘Tres Reyes Magos’ party took place on Saturday, January 6th. Many braved the brutal sub-zero temperatures to join this warm gathering celebrating our shared traditions. Thank you to all who participated. ‘Recordar Es Vivir,’ hosted by the Cultural Committee, is planned for Saturday, February 10th, beginning at 7:00 p.m., in room 4 of the Dreiser Center. There will be no special theme this year, just great music, provided by el Trio Ideal and DJ Salsero. Donations for the pot luck will be greatly appreciated. Members will enjoy free admission; Non-members will be asked for $10 at the door. February’s ‘Social Friday’ will take place on the 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Upcoming events Nomination of Club Officers and Elections are coming in March. Nominations will take place on March 8th. We will also be raffling off two individual tickets to the Installation Dinner. Everyone present at nominations will have a chance to participate, but the winners must be present on Election Night, March 22nd, in order to receive the prize. Members: Please plan to attend both meetings. The Installation of Officers Dinner and Dance is scheduled for Friday, April 28th at Maestro’s. Tickets are $60 for members, $80 for non-members. Due to space issues, we will only be able to accommodate the first 100 people who have paid. The payment deadline is April 12th. If you have not renewed your membership as of February, you will be required to pay the non-member rate. Please contact Luz Peña at (407) 716-4476, Daliah Rodriguez at (917) 577-9047 or Alfonso Gonzalez at (347) 249-3403 for more information. Applications for the Tony Mondesire Scholarship are now available. The forms will be available in room 16 of Dreiser Loop Center at any of our monthly meetings, either the 2nd Thursday of every month or at the Board of Directors meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and residents of the Bronx. Students must carry a minimum of 12 credits per semester at an accredited institution for at least one year. Applications must be returned by May 10th, either by mail, or to a member of the Scholarship Board of Trustees. We welcome our newest members, Isabel & Elias Baez, Wilfred Denis & Lourdes Pilar, Judy & Rufino Garay, Domingo & Alex Soto and George & Vivian Vazquez to our club family! Membership renewals for this year are past due. A penalty fee of $48 for the year ($4 a month) will now be assessed. Additional information for all of our upcoming club events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website: http://spanamcccc.synthasite.com. You may also email the club at SpanAmCCCC@gmail.com or find us on Facebook (search for ‘spanamcccc’). —Carmen Rodriguez

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018 We want to thank Assemblyman Michael Benedetto for attending our recent building association meeting. He shared his journey becoming an assemblyman. He was engaging and informative. With the closing of the Chase Manhattan Bank on Co-op City Blvd. near Peartree Ave., it becomes more important that we stay informed about the many developments happening in our community. The time is now more than ever to become proactive. Our councilman has advised us of the hearing that will be held on February 27, at the Board of Standards and Appeals where ultimately a decision will be made regarding the newest pole being requested at the 7-Eleven store location on Bartow and Baychester Avenue. Read all notices regarding this matter to stay informed. File a complaint with the Department of Buildings (DOB) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding the billboard intrusion located at 500 Baychester Avenue by calling 3-1-1. Do your part as a community. It may not be right next to you today but tomorrow, who knows what may be suggested near your building. There were several areas of concern shareholders noticed in our building so I reached out to the CSO and Janitorial supervisor for our area and scheduled a Building 13 inspection. During the inspection, we agreed there were areas that need to be addressed. A list of problematic areas that need to be corrected was compiled and a plan of action was requested to correct some deficiencies. Youth Writing Workshop: We are preparing the return of the writing workshop for our youth. Let us know if you are interested in your youth participating. Remember, we are open to all, not just our building, so if you would like to join the workshop, let us know. The dates and time will be announced soon. Don’t miss the sign up table in the lobby coming soon. We are currently preparing for our Summer Fun Day event. Do you want to volunteer, be a member of our flash mob dance? We will be posting information soon. The Section 2 Alliance is gearing up! Hungry for some lobster, shrimp, chicken, ribs, and all types of deliciousness? Then join us Saturday, July 14, for our second all-you-can-eat bonanza LOBSTERFEAST at the NORDIC LODGE, and 4-hour casino stay at Foxwoods with outlet shopping at Tangers. The cost is $165 per person (includes taxes and gratuities). Payment of $85 due February 28, and balance of $80 due April 30. Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc., Inc. and mailed to 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. Contacts: Sherrie Hernandez at 914-837-5970, Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370 (daddpeterson@aol.com). Our website is http:// www.bldg13assoc.com or email us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com. Again, thanks for making our team work. —Leslie Peterson

Building 13 Association

Councilman King Celebrates NY’s Black Leaders

Kicking off his Black History Month program, Councilman Andy King and the Bronx Youth Empowerment Program celebrated New York’s Black leaders on Thursday, Feb. 1 at Evander Childs High School. Among this year’s honorees were Tamika Mallory, activist and founder of Mallory Consulting, and national chair of the Women’s March. Tamika grew up in Co-op City and her parents, Voncile and Stan Mallory, still live here. The other honorees were Hazel Dukes, civil rights activist and past national president of the NAACP; Michael J. Gardner, president of One Hundred Black Men, Inc. of New York; Al De Castro, a founder of the North East Democratic Club and a NYS Democratic State Committee member, former district leader and founder of the North East Bronx Community Coalition. The late Ms. Louise Floyd, a Co-op City shareholder, was also recognized. She was a founding member of the Williamsbridge NAACP. In addition to the awards ceremony, the celebration included song, spoken word and performances by the Bronx Youth Empowerment Program. In photo, from left, are Julian McDavid, president of the Williamsbridge Branch NAACP; Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark, Dr. Hazel Dukes, president NYS Branch NAACP, and Mr. Al DeCastro, community activist. Photo by Eva Lazaar

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Director’s Viewpoint

Black History Month Celebrations

Francine Reva Jones Assistant Secretary

Thanks to all the cooperators who came out to support the 21st Annual Black History Month Film Festival sponsored by the African-American Association. Following the Libation Ceremony, “Lest We Forget …,” a documentary by Gwen and Justin Ragsdale, curators of The Black Holocaust Museum of African-American Slavery, was shown. The Ragsdales then displayed and discussed some of their artifacts, books and videos. This was followed by a tribute to Rev. Dr. Wyatt Tee Walker (8/16/29-1/23/18) who served for many years as the head pastor of the renowned Canaan Baptist Church of Harlem. He was an activist minister who fought alongside Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and became the executive director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Dr. Walker also served as president of the NAACP, director of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and founded the Petersburg Improvement Association. In addition, Dr. Walker was determined to preserve the spirit and rhythm of gospel/sacred music in the Black church. His legacy of struggle for freedom and justice will long be remembered. The second vice president of the African-American Association, Sister Michelle Marbury, then gave an acknowledgment for jazz musician and activist, Hugh Ramapolo Masekela (4/4/39-1/23/18), who was known as the father of South African Jazz. One of Masekela’s famous instrumentals, “Grazing in the Grass” was played throughout the event. His composition of “Bring Him Back Home” (Nelson Mandela) in 1987 became an anthem of the anti-apartheid struggle. After more than 30 years in exile, Masekela returned to South Africa in the early 1990s after the release of Nelson Mandela from prison and the end of apartheid. In the minds of many, Masekela’s music will represent freedom and justice. The guest speaker, Brother Omowale Clay, spoke about the late comedian and civil rights activist, Dick Gregory (10/12/32-8/19/17). Gregory joined his high school track team, broke several records and won a track scholarship to Southern Illinois University. While in the Army, he performed as a comedian; he performed at Hugh Hefner’s invitation at Chicago’s Playboy Lounge; performed on the Jack Paar Show, as one of the first Black comedians to break through to national White television audiences. Gregory marched with Civil Rights activist Medgar Evers and with Dr. Martin Luther

King Jr., and others. He also focused on world hunger, healthy nutrition, became a vegetarian and started running marathons. He created Bahamian Diet to encourage physical fitness and the importance of drinking water. Gregory also fasted to draw attention to national and international causes, such as racial injustice, the war in Vietnam, world hunger, the treatment of Native Americans, and apartheid. Gregory dedicated his life to bringing about freedom and justice to the world. The Festival concluded with “Olympic Pride: American Prejudice,” featuring 18 Afrikan-American Olympians. These athletes defied Hitler and Jim Crow racism to win hearts and medals at the 1936 Summer Games in Berlin, Germany. Although there were compliments about the Film Festival, it was recommended that, along with the undesirable periods of our African-American past (slavery), that the positive achievements also be shown. The response is that, over the past 20 years, many progressive people and periods in AfricanAmerican history have been presented (Madam C.J. Walker, Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Eyes on the Prize, etc.). Thank you for your comments. They are welcome and appreciated. Appreciation is extended to association members, Ellen Boone and Deborah C. Nelson, as well as to the Riverbay staff who were a tremendous help. I was pleased that Board Directors Kevin Lambright, Andrea Leslie and Junius Williams took the time to join us. Community activist, Mary Pearson from the Working Families Party, collected signatures on petitions, which will help to rid the community of the 7-Eleven LED signs. There will be several more Black History Month events in our community this month. One is scheduled for today, February 10th at 12 p.m. in the Einstein Community Center, room 45, featuring the Hon. Helen D. Foster, Shaun King and Tamika Mallory. This event is sponsored by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. On February 24, the NCNW will hold their annual Black History Month Celebration at 1 p.m. in Dreiser Center Auditorium. Winter Blues On January 31st, the Disabilities and Accommodations Committee (DAAC), headed by

Board Director Andrea Leslie, presented Dr. Eric J. Padol to discuss the Winter Blues. It is also called “seasonal affective disorder” (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that typically occurs each year during fall and winter. Other symptoms are weight loss or gain, over sleeping, thoughts of death, etc. Use of a light therapy box can offer relief. But for some people, light therapy may be more effective when combined with another SAD treatment, such as an antidepressant or psychological counseling (psychotherapy). Light therapy boxes for SAD treatment are also known as light boxes, bright light therapy boxes and phototherapy boxes. All light therapy boxes for SAD treatment are designed to do the same thing, but one may work better for you than another. It is best to talk with your health care provider about choosing and using a light therapy box. Another method used to combat the winter blues is to eat lean proteins, fruits and vegetables. Carbohydrates will weigh you down, which will add to depression. Also, planning activities and events that will make you feel better during that time of the year are encouraged. Many thanks go out to all the cooperators who attended the session and participated with enthusiasm; and especially to Sharan White and Marie Smith, who were instrumental in planning this event. Stay tuned for the next session in the DAAC Speaker Series. Contact Remember to make an effort to attend your building association meeting where you will find good neighbors and updates on what is happening in our community. Should you wish to share your thoughts, you may write to me at: Riverbay Board of Directors, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or fjones@riverbayboard.com.

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Co-op City Toastmasters Club

At the Co-op City Toastmasters Club (CCTM) individuals can work on acquiring new leadership and communication skills while honing various aspect of their presentation repertoire. Your skills and confidence are developed and improved which are qualities highly valued in the workplace. And did you know that Co-op City Toastmasters Club offers an avenue for recognition? Our members gain recognition through individualized club projects and speech competitions at home and around the world. Toastmasters is in over 100 countries globally. Each year, two competitions are held beginning at the club level, advancing to the area level, to the division level, the district level, and finally, the International Level where the World Champion of Public Speaking (WCPS) is crowned. It can happen if you prepare. Club contest winners advance

to the Area Contest and upwards. Come to a meeting and get involved and learn how Co-op City Toastmasters can help you grow and be recognized. At our last meeting, we heard two great speeches: new member Moses Qithaibi did his “Ice Breaker” speech and advanced member Kathy Blount presented her interpretation of Eugene O’Neil’s “Long Day’s Journey Into Night.” Toastmasters is really the place to be for leadership and vocal communication. It is selfpaced and easy to follow. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of each month. Mark your calendar for February 15th, March 1st and March 15th now so that you don’t miss these fun and life changing gatherings. You may call 718-344-6719 or go to www.toastmasters46.org for more information. —Marietta C. Phoenix

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

They're Going Too Far With These Big Lights

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson

If you go online, you'll see that there are disturbing news stories about a developer that is erecting gigantic light poles on Baychester and Bartow Avenue to bring attention to a new mini-mall that they're still building. Out Of Touch The coverage of the dispute between the developer and our residents is not going well. In fact, one online broadcast stated that the bright lights are keeping some residents up at night. "The lights are very annoying," stated one cooperator. Then, the broadcast stated that the developer was not willing to work with the community. In fact, the developer has two electronic signs up right now. But, not being satisfied with the current lights, the developer wants to erect a tremendous electronic light pole that might stretch above 300 feet in the air. "This is total disrespect," stated City Councilman Andy King. Other cooperators have stated that the outrageously tall light poles should not be in Co-op City. Personally, I cannot see why a developer would choose to erect light poles that can stretch up above one of our Bronx buildings. Yes, they will have a few stores at that relatively small mall. But, have you ever seen anyone in the Bronx erect this many light poles to bring this much attention to their small business? Additionally, I do not understand why a developer or a person that is even slightly familiar with business and community affairs would want to have this amount of negative publicity hovering over their business. But, the publicity is going to get worse because there's going to be a public hearing over this matter on Tuesday, February 27. This hearing is going to take place at 22 Reade Street, Spector Hall, New York, NY 10007, according to the Co-op City Times. But, regardless of the outcome of that hearing, I personally cannot see how a developer can win financially from all of this turmoil that is surrounding their business. In other words, even if the developer wins this hearing, the community can simply make a choice as to where they're going to shop.

So yes, it's possible that a developer can hire the best lawyers to win this hearing and their right to erect as many light poles as they want. But, that developer will eventually have to come back to this community and look at the amount of business that's being conducted at their store after that hearing is over. Bottom line: We have some really nice cooperators in this community with good beliefs and good values. Therefore, they will never try to take advantage of any business. So, I want to ask this developer to please come to Co-op City and work together with us in a good and productive manner. STAR Resolution Each year, Riverbay gets a rebate from the NYS School Tax Relief (STAR) program. Thereafter, that money must be distributed to our cooperators. However, out of our 15,372 apartments here, only 8,171 cooperators received a credit from this program on their February carrying charge statement. The cooperators that were enrolled in the Basic STAR program received a credit of $96.64. And, the cooperators that were enrolled in the Enhanced STAR program received a credit of $211.56. So, what happened to the other cooperators? Did they get any money? The other cooperators didn’t get any money because they were not enrolled in this program. So, that means that 7,201 cooperators paid their carrying charges on a monthly basis to Riverbay. But, they didn't receive a part of that rebate because they did not send in an application for this STAR program. To me, that's a big and unfortunate problem. So, as promised, I wrote a board resolution that will drastically reduce the number of cooperators that are not enrolled in this program. Here is a portion of the resolution that will come before our board for a vote at an upcoming board meeting: "at the beginning of each year, management will send out an application to every shareholder that is not enrolled in the STAR program. Additionally, management will develop a flyer to explain the STAR program to all of the shareholders that receive an application. "Additionally, management will place

Rivers Run Community Garden

Please join us for our first meeting of the year to be held on Thursday, February 15th beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser, room 4. All are invited. The beginning of the year is a time for reflection and planning. Rivers Run Community Garden is in our fourth planting season and today we have a clearer understanding of our strengths and our positive impact on the community. We welcome the look forward, the new ideas and the new ways we will maximize our impact in 2018. Join us. We will begin collecting the membership dues at the February meeting. If you cannot attend, please mail your $20 check (no cash) to Rivers Run, 100 Casals Pl. #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. Please note: Dues must be paid by March 16th. Important dates (All are welcome) • Thursday, February 22, 7 p.m., Dreiser, room 4, Members Meeting • Thursday, March 15th, 7 p.m., Dreiser, room 4, Members Meeting • Saturday, April 21st, 10 a.m., Earth Day/Family Day Parade. 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

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

notices in the Co-op City Times to encourage shareholders to apply for the STAR program. This resolution will take effect immediately upon a majority vote of the board of directors." Late Update: After I sent this resolution to the board and management, I received a message from management stating that they would do some “outreach” to deal with this problem. Therefore, knowing how strong our no-nonsense executive general manager works, I agreed to withdraw my resolution. Thereafter, some board members sent some ideas to me. Now, I want you to please see my article for next week to see how we want to help our community. Thanks. Income Tax Thieves About a year ago, a man received a letter from the IRS that congratulated him for receiving a refund. However, the man had not filed a tax return for that year. So, what happened? It turns out that someone stole his personal information and filed a phony tax return. The IRS has cracked down significantly on tax scams. But, criminals have stolen sensitive data from lots of businesses. Additionally, lots of people have typed in their social security number, birth date, and other personal information on outrageously horrible email messages. So, now, lots of people are filing their taxes early so that other subsequent tax returns can be questioned. Additionally, they're employing other security measures to protect their identity. Close Please think carefully about who will prepare your tax return. Thank you. Questions or comments? Please send a letter to: Daryl H. Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Also, please call me at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Building 10 Association

Happy Saturday, dear neighbors. Valentine's Day is just around the corner so don't forget to do something special for that special someone. Black History Month – February is Black History Month, our "28 days-time to shine." There are many events planned (both inside and outside our community) to celebrate the sacrifices, contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout our nation's history. Please set aside some time and allow your children to experience some of these enlightening (many free) events. General Membership Meeting – Our first meeting of the new year was held on Tuesday, January 30th. We welcomed a new shareholder, recapped 2017 events and discussed plans for 2018. Members were challenged to become more proactive and to come up with suggestions for association-related activities they would like to see take place. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 27, at 7 p.m. Ms. Danielle O'Connor, director of Garage Parking and Storage Units, will be our guest speaker. Association Dues – We will begin collecting building association dues some time in March. Dues are $10 per family/apartment for the year. Flyers will be posted later this month. Please note, these monies are used for associationrelated expenses, i.e. bus trip expenses/supplies, meeting & party supplies & refreshments, etc. Piano Lessons – A piano was donated to the association and while it needs a little fine tuning, it's functional. If you know how to play and are interested in volunteering to teach others to play, please call (718) 320-2366. Laundry Room – Many residents are complaining to each other about the frigid temperature in the laundry room. There is no heat. Please lodge your complaint with the CSO in Dreiser. Building 10 Mission Statement – The overall goal of the Building 10 Association is to continually seek improvements in the quality of life for Building 10 cooperators and their families. The mission of the Building 10 Association Board is to be advocates for the Riverbay Corporation and for Building 10 cooperators and families. We will seek opportunities to source information that will be useful to its members and plan for activities that will enhance the life and well-being of all. Have a wonderful week. “A people without knowledge of their history is like a tree without roots.” –Marcus Garvey —Carol Campbell

Building 27 Association

Greetings, neighbors. We had a little sprinkle of snow, now let’s hope for an early spring. The association’s first general meeting of 2018 was held on Thursday, January 25. Our guest speaker was Mr. Warren Mitchell, asst. general manager of Riverbay. Mr. Mitchell expounded on the ongoing projects, elevators, ADA compliant lobby doors, UPS lockers pilot program in Bldg. 20 and lobby renovations were done in Building 15. Questions of concerns about the scaffolding and fencing around Building 26, 30 and 31 for Local Law 11 work. These buildings are in dire need of bridging and it could take possibly 1 to 2 years to complete the bridging. All questions were answered by Mr. Mitchell. We take this opportunity to thank Mr. Warren Mitchell for patiently answering all of the questions and concerns. Thank you, cooperators, for your interest and standing room participation. Constituent Day … was hosted by Jerome Rice, president of NAACP, Co-op City Branch # 2210. Our esteemed guest speakers were Senator Jamaal Bailey and Councilman Andy King. It was standing room. The theme was “Putting People Before Politics.” Senator Bailey shared an abundance of information, such as, ages 16 and 17 are treated as adults in the court system, policies to change this injustice, advocating cases to move through the system faster, the Discovery Reform program to ensure that information is received from the district attorney in a timely manner. Policies that will enhance speedy trials. Councilman King expounded on the LED billboards, that a hearing will be on February 27, and that Co-op City should come out in full force. Also, an animal shelter is in the works by the city, a Hilton hotel may be in the works in the vicinity of our theater area. Reference was made that Riverdale, when faced with unfavorable issues or crisis, shows up in full force to fight for their community and Co-op City must do the same. Stay Alert of what’s happening around us, and begin to become proactive as opposed to reacting. Black History Month – There are a lot programs beginning February 1, so attend as many as you can for we, as a people, will continue to march forward and not backwards no matter the circumstances. Remember others who are in bereavement. Contact Lydia Rondon at (718) 583-3030 to share news of any sickness, or if a neighbor has deceased. Please continue to pray for our Board members to make the best decisions for our homes and community. Pray for peace amongst the nation’s leaders. —H. Overman

Building 9 Association

Greetings. Happy Valentine's Day, Building 9 family! February is Black History Month. As has become our custom, we have planned a Black History Month event for the last Saturday in the month. Should you misplace your window guard form, please call or visit the CSO and provide your name, address and apartment number in order to obtain your personal access code which will be required for you to have your Emergency meeting (L-R): Wanda window guard response recorded. Rodriguez, Shirley Johnson, Shirley Thank you to our members for coming out Wells and Gabriella Concepcion. to join us for the February monthly membership meeting scheduled for Wednesday, the 7th. Our meeting date was changed from Thursday, the 8th, in order to accommodate the Riverbay Corporation Board of Directors' Open Board meeting. Thank you to Bronx 10 CERT: Team Chief Khalil Abdul-Wahhab, Team members Rafa Alomar and Brenda Frances, for graciously changing their scheduled presentation date to suit the needs of our building association on very short notice. At the time of this writing, our Volunteer Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 5th. Our membership drive will begin next week. Thank you Janice Rosario, Eloise Coleman, Catherine Lemon, Shirley Wells, Gwen Anderson, Barbara Cloud, Shirley Johnson, Mitzi Cleare, Helen Blakes, Gabriella Concepcion, Wanda Randall, Wanda Rodriguez and Daisy McCoy. Thank you to Ms. Anna Lucas and the Black Forum volunteers for the outstanding work they do at the Dreiser Food Pantry. Our community needs your assistance and we appreciate your hard work on our behalf. It is our expectation that the Building 9 Association will have a designated table at Assemblyman Benedetto's Valentine's Day celebration in Dreiser Auditorium as we did last year. Let me know if you plan to attend with us this year. Only 10 seats are available. Please do not smoke your cigarettes near the entrance to our buildings. Please do not slam your apartment doors upon entering and exiting. Please do not litter in our elevators and lobbies; remove your clothes from laundry machines upon completion of the cycle; observe the speed limit and follow the direction of travel signage in our garage. Be a good neighbor and you will have good neighbors. Reminder: The New York City Board of Standards and Appeals Public Hearing will be held on February 27th, at 22 Reade Street, New York City. The Hearing is in regard to the Baychester Retail III, LLC, Stop Work Order (BartowBaychester Avenues). Please join us in support of our community. More information will follow as the date draws near. "Chance favors the prepared mind." –Louis Pasteur —Linda Collins

Building 26 Association

Warm greetings to our Co-op City families, friends, merchants and especially our new residents. Congratulations to the Philadelphia Eagles for successfully winning the 52nd Super Bowl. It was an exciting game. Well wishes for a speedy recovery to all of the sick, hospitalized and homebound residents. Congratulations to everyone celebrating birthdays, wedding anniversaries, new births, and other celebrated events during the month of February. Our sincere condolences to those families who’ve recently suffered the loss of a loved one. May you and your family be blessed during your difficult time of bereavement. Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching so don’t forget to purchase your significant other a nice gift. And, we wish everyone a very happy and safe Valentine’s Day. Reminder – Submit your Window Guard form by Thursday, February 15th. Please call your CSO office for additional information. Flu season is extremely serious. Remember to cough towards the fold of your elbow. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 30 seconds. Use hand sanitizer when you can’t wash. If you’re sick and feverish, stay home and go to your doctor. When riding public transportation, wear gloves while holding onto hand rails. And do not put your fingers in your nose or eyes. Germs can quickly enter your system. If you see something, say something by calling 9-1-1 for emergencies and 31-1 for all non-emergencies. It’s better to be safe than sorry. —YuVonne Lewis

Follow Riverbay Fund on Facebook at www.facebook.com/riverbayfund and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/riverbayfund.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Association of Building 14 Cooperators

Love is in the air as we approach Valentine’s Day, which is next Wednesday (just a reminder). We are asking all cooperators to support our annual Valentine’s Day fundraiser, “Show Some Love.” It’s an opportunity to show kindness, sentiments of love and gratefulness. Let your loved one know how special and important they are to you, your family, the community, your place of worship and beyond. To ensure that we have another successful event, we need volunteers to assist for an hour or so on Friday evening, late morning/early evening Saturday and/or late Sunday afternoon. This year’s event will feature the $1 heart doilies for posting and a Bake Sale, so we’ll help you please your sweetheart and your sweet tooth! Donations of baked goods are appreciated. Billboard Update: As informed in the letter from Riverbay Board President Linda Berk, the developer of the 7-Eleven strip mall, hence humongous billboards, is refusing to cease with erecting the 300-foot LED billboard. Cooperators and neighborhoods nearby, we must make our voices heard. EVERY DAY, take a moment while riding the bus/train/passenger in a car, dial 3-1-1 and file a complaint, call the City Council, the Mayor’s Office, the Bronx Borough President’s Office, and Congressional members. Do not patronize the store(s) either. We must be relentless from all fronts! There are many Black History Month celebrations in and around Co-op City. Don’t forget to support the hosting organizations and learn something new. Knowledge is power! Mark your calendar: Section 2 Summer Fun Day will be held on June 23. We are well on the way to making this best day ever! Our next building association meeting will be on Thursday, March 22nd. Details forthcoming. Be blessed. —J. Ferguson

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

“Let no one deceive or beguile you in any way, for that day will not come except the apostasy comes first [unless the predicted great falling away of those who have professed to be Christians has come], and the man of lawlessness (sin) is revealed, who is the son of doom (of perdition).” 2 Thessalonians 2:3 (Amplified) Spiritual Food for Thought: Make every effort to walk in righteousness. There is a world-wide epidemic of lunacy, but you must stay on the path of life that is becoming increasingly narrow. Stay connected to Jesus Christ, and allow the Holy Spirit to keep you in a place of truth and sincerity. We are indeed living the days of the great falling away. Senior Pastor Boyce Landrum and Pastor Carol Landrum and the Greater Love family welcome you to worship with us on Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. – Worship at Greater Love Refuge Ministries means gathering with people of all ages and cultures to express our love for God, our Heavenly Father, and Jesus Christ, our Savior. Greater Love is conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg. 2A), on the ground level, Bronx, N.Y., 10475; main entrance - red button. Parking is available for a nominal fee in Garage #1 on Darrow Place. Five Loaves & Two Fish Food Pantry: The pantry will reopen on Saturday, February 25th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Donations of non-perishable items & toiletries are needed. Please bring donations to the church or call us to arrange a convenient drop off time. Thank you to all of our neighbors who continue to support the pantry and the generous donations left at our doorstep. Save the Date: On Sunday, March 11th, Pastor Carol Landrum will celebrate her 60th birthday at Greater Love. Following morning worship (11:30

a.m.), there will be an afternoon service beginning at 3:30 p.m. to celebrate God’s amazing grace and keeping power. The guest preacher for the afternoon is Rev. Dr. Betty Hosten, Founder & Pastor of Word in Heart Healing & Deliverance Ministry in Queens, NY. Don’t miss this awesome celebration of abundant life. Shoutin’ shoes required! Save the Date: The next Women’s Fellowship is Saturday, March 17th from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Our guest speaker is Chaplain Doreen G. Lesane, Domestic Violence Educator, Trainer, Founder of Sunshine in My Living Room and author of “THRIVER: My Story to Tell: What Domestic Violence Taught Me and How I Learned to Live.” There will be a book signing and a Back to Eden lunch provided. RSVP required. THRIVER can be purchased on Amazon. Weekly Schedule Church Phone: 347-920-5607 Adult & Children Sunday Morning Bible School, 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Continental Breakfast: 11 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship: 11:30 a.m. Holy Communion – First Sunday Salvation Teaching (Combined Class): First Sunday, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Adult Bible Study/Discipleship Class: Tuesday evenings, 7:00 p.m. Mid-Week Prayer – Wednesday at 1 p.m. Prayer Line: Thursday 9 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Dial 712.770.4010 – Access code: 527976) Deacon Training: Thursday at 7 p.m. Food Pantry: 4th Saturday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Choir Rehearsal: Friday, 7:30 p.m. —Pastor Carol Landrum

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Second Reading - Resolution #18-03

Board of Directors’ Meeting - Feb. 8, 2018 Second Reading - Resolution #18-02 SUBMITTED BY: Linda Berk SECONDED BY: Sonia Feliciano BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: February 8th, 2018

WHEREAS, the Lobby Modernization Project will make the existing lobbies easier accessible and ADA compliant; and WHEREAS, Riverbay solicited to General Contractors pertaining to the scope of work developed by the Architect of record (Architectural Preservation Studio (APS) for this project; and WHEREAS, Riverbay and APS, after performing its due diligence of both contractors who bid, recommends R. Acevedo Contracting, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder for contract #3114 (REBID), see attached 1/2/18 memos from the Project Manager and the Architect of record. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: That the Board approves awarding contract #3114 (REBID) to R. Acevedo Contracting, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder for the total amount of ($2,630,238 plus 10% contingency $263,023.80) $2,893,261.80 as recommended by Management in accordance with Board of Directors’ Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective. YES: Berk, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Sampson, Saunders, Turner, Williams NO: Cylich, Leslie PASSED

Co-op City Working Families Party

SUBMITTED BY: Jerome Rice SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson and Francine Reva Jones BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: January 17th, 2018

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department sent out seven (7) requests for proposals for Bid 3186, Local Law 11 Scaffolding - 25 Buildings (Section 1-4); and WHEREAS, six (6) proposals were received and reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, The Project Manager found that of the six qualifying contractors Xinos Construction was the lowest. They have been vetted, provided all relevant information and are in good standing; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager, recommends that this contract be awarded to Xinos Construction as the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendation and Spreadsheet attached); and NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract # 3186 with Xinos Construction for one (1) year at a total cost of, $360,400.00 based on unit pricing be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 as amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective. YES: Berk, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Sampson, Saunders, Turner, Williams NO: Cylich, Leslie PASSED

Lease - Resolution #18-04 SUBMITTED BY: Claudia Sampson SECONDED BY: Evelyn Turner BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: February 8th, 2018

WHEREAS, Kyu Soon Lee has requested a lease from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 2093A Bartow Avenue, Bronx, New York, to be used for skin and nail care; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is 5 years with one 5 year renewal option and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 2093A Bartow Avenue, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and Kyu Soon Lee, Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s management is hereby approved as submitted by management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President of the Corporation is authorized to sign the lease agreement and related documents on behalf of Riverbay Corporation. YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Leslie, Peterson, Richardson, Rice, Sampson, Saunders, Turner, Williams NO: Lambright ABSTAIN: Jones PASSED

Current Issues Voting Reform, especially Early Voting, is an important, if not glamorous, issue for New Yorkers. Voting is a fundamental right and responsibility, but New Yorkers lag far behind in voter turnout due to flaws in our voting system. Working Families Party, through Let NY Vote, strives to expand certain Voting Rights in New York to boost voter turnout. Be boosted and take action. Call Governor Andrew Cuomo at 1-518-474-8390 (#2) during this “amending the budget" period to insist on funding Early Voting. Also, go to the LetNYVote.org site to sign a petition to be hand delivered to Gov. Cuomo on Valentine’s Day. On the home front, protesting the monster billboards at the corner of Bartow and Baychester Avenues continues. Help our neighbors, our Board, and our legislators fight against those who took advantage of a fifty-year-old zoning loophole to callously cause our fellow residents inconvenience and discomfort. A petition campaign is underway as are plans to attend a public hearing on this matter. Residents, especially those living nearest the relentless lights, join us on a trip to Spector Hall at 22 Reade St., NYC, NY on February 27th. Next Actions We’ve been invited to phone bank with NO IDC and WFP/NY to make sure constituents of Jeff Klein, the Democrat who votes with the Republicans, know exactly who their senator is! Learn all about it at the next meeting. Also, there’s still time to do some research. Please prepare a list of 2018 candidates in need of our support and bring that list to our next meeting on February 20th. The Co-op City Working Families Mission Shirts & Pants As a political party, Working Families works to elect the most progressive candidates possible who will stand in the way of all regressive legislation. when 10 pcs. or more. As a civic action group, Co-op City Indivisible (limited time offer) Reg. Price $4.25 each (an aspiring Co-op City certified community organization) promotes progressive causes. As Co-op City WF/Indivisible members, we do after 20 lbs. minimum both. We embrace progressive values by modeling Same Day Service inclusion, respect, and fairness in all of our actions; if you order before 11 a.m. we work to make Co-op City a stronger community; and we insist our representatives serve as our voice We accept credit card in Co-op City, in the Bronx, in Albany, and in Washington, D.C. payments. Next Meeting The next meeting of the WFP is scheduled for Tuesday, February 20th at 7:30 p.m. in room 35, EinR&S Express Laundry Center stein Community Center, Section Five. WF meetings 2077 Southern Blvd, Bronx NY, 10460 are held on the third Tuesday of each month, through June. All progressives are welcome. For more inforXpressLaundryNY.com mation, please email mpjazz@optonline.net. 212.470.7689 • 718.220.1005 —Mary Pearson

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Bright Lights, Animal Shelter & Public Park

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner

Special thanks to Co-op City cooperators who refuse to sit on the sidelines without showing their concerns about new businesses in our neighborhood. The bright lights at a new local establishment are very disruptive to some and you are taking action. Reacting after the fact is better than no action at all. You have my full support. Animal Shelter One can argue that shelters are a necessity for people, as well as animals. A cooperator has reached out to this director about the problem with “stray cats” in the community. Seeking space for this shelter evidently has been planned for some time. However, because we don’t always pay attention to what’s being planned in our district, this announcement came as a surprise. We may want to consider asking our elected official in the City Council to do more to keep constituents informed of new initiatives being planned. However, we now must react to what was public knowledge somewhere and we missed it. A major concern is controlling the number of unapproved “dogs” already here. A cooperator recently complained that she is aware of one cooperator with two “service dogs.” However, when Management does not get specific information, we cannot follow-up. It appears that we, as shareholders and residents of this community, have not raised our voices loud enough for the city to pay attention and, as a result, the city has decided to use it for an animal shelter. Public Park We all have accepted the fact that the Board has passed a resolution to donate, or rather, give waterfront property to the city for a public park. Thanks to a cooperator who is keeping a watchful eye on this “controversial” initiative. The Mayor’s Office of Contract Services is making plans for Co-op City. It says that “the Mayor will be issuing the following solicitation(s) not included

Building 2 Association

Greetings, neighbors! Our next general building association meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, February 13 at 7:00 p.m. in the association room behind Building 2B. The guest speaker at this meeting will be Linda Berk, president of the Riverbay Board of Directors. Light refreshments will be served. Please save the date and plan to attend. This meeting will be an excellent opportunity to hear first-hand about the many capital projects underway by the Riverbay Corporation. Some of the projects include elevators, new ADA lobby doors for the Chevron buildings and the modernization of Chevron lobbies. Ms. Berk will also be able to provide us with an update on the recent developments regarding the proposed City Park, USPS lockers for building lobbies and the NYC Board of Standards and Appeals public hearing to be held on February 27 regarding the massive LED billboards erected in front of the 7-Eleven on Bartow and Baychester Avenues. We would like to thank our neighbors who have paid their 2018 annual building association membership dues. Our annual membership dues are $6 per family. If you have not had an opportunity, as yet, to pay your dues, you may do so at our monthly association meetings. We extend a hearty welcome to our new neighbors, cheers to those celebrating a birthday or other celebratory event in February and, our sincere condolences to those who have suffered a loss. —Georgianna Rodriguez

in the FY 2018 Annual Contracting Plan and Schedule that is published pursuant to New York City Charter 312A.” “Description of services sought: Landscape Architectural Design Services for the Construction of Waterfront Park at Co-op City (X251) in the Borough of the Bronx.” The start date of the proposed contract is 2/1/2018 and the end date is 2/1/2019. Matthew Cruz, district manager of Bronx CB10, mcruz@cb.nyc.gov, listed personnel as a Landscape Architects, Assistant Landscape Architects, Landscape Architect Interns, Project Managers, Associated Project Managers. So for cooperators who have sent me letters expressing your absolute disapproval of the Board’s decision, you may want to be in touch with CB10 now. Your concern in letters to this director is the “impact” on Co-op City that such an influx of noncooperators would have on our open space. Public means just that. Reportedly, meeting with cooperators will be held in spite of the fact that the city has what it needs to move forward with the planning. Please keep your eye on the prize, which is “your land.” Just think, Bright Lights, an Animal Shelter and a Public Park, open space, to the public in the neighborhood! Other Cooperator Concerns The cable bill is too high and cooperators want answers to what can be done since the company has a “monopoly.” Management is following up. Upcoming Meeting The Community Relations and Parking Committees will meet on February 27. Notices are being mailed. We are meeting from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. & 7 p.m. to 8 p. m. Jerome Avenue Rezoning Proposal Approval At a recent meeting, it was announced that despite push back by Community Board 5 members, Jerome Avenue will be rezoned. What this means is that a 92block area primarily long Jerome Avenue and the adjoining eastern and western commercial corridors in Bronx Community Districts 4, 5, and 7 will be affected. The plan is to add 3,228 dwelling with an anticipated 9,500 new residents moving into the neighborhood. Reportedly, the city will ensure a

number of “affordable units” since a large percentage of the present residents are below the poverty level. Also commercial displacement will occur for a disproportionate number of employers and employees. Something For Our Youth The UFT College Fair and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Expo will be held on Friday, March 23, and Saturday, March 24. Friday College Fair will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UFT Bronx Borough Office, 2500 Halsey Street. Representatives from over 100 colleges and universities will be on hand to offer admission support and information. No need to register. Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a. m. is geared towards students of all ages who are interested in Career and Technical Training and CTE Schools. The vice president of CTE high schools will be present. Registration is FREE: @UFT.org/Bronx-college fair. Contact Nicholas Cruz at 718-862-6074. Summer Internships The New York City Department of Design and Construction is looking for 30 NYC high school students to intern full-time this summer. This is a great opportunity for students interested in building trades, architecture, and engineering and information technology. Contact before 2/16/2018 – 718-391-2888 or STEAM@ddc.nyc.gov. Summer Youth Employment Application information obtained via website: www.nyc.gov/dycd. It’s Black History Month For many of us, this is indeed one of our favorite months. Thanks to all who are ensuring that programs about Blacks are made available to all. According to Dr. John Henrik Clarke, “To control a people you must first control what they think about themselves and how they regard their history and culture.” “…And when your conqueror makes you ashamed of your culture and your history, he needs no prison walls and no chains to hold you.” Yours in Truth & Service: I may be reached at: eturner@riverbayboard.com or 917-324-1033. Your ongoing support is needed and appreciated: Evelyn M. Turner, LCSW.

Building 21 Association

In a thriving community, the key word is… Hello from Building 21!!! Are you a member of the African American Association? Are you a member of the Spanish American Community Club, the Ghanaian Association of Co-op City, Young Israel of Co-op City, the NAACP: Co-op City Branch, the National Council of Negro Women: Co-op City Branch, the Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City? Are you a member of any of the clubs and associations that welcomes all of us? There are some that say there are not enough activities in our community. The list you just read is but a smattering of the list of clubs and organizations that have regular activities and events that take place right here in CO-OP City. The element that is missing is more involvement by you, the people, namely adults and their children or grandchildren or nieces and nephews. The message here is, get involved. Get our youth involved. Let us stop complaining and become an effective and active part of this grand landscape of ethnicity. “We are,” (CO-OP City is) the embodiment of people of all races, from a wealth of different countries who offer a broadening of our “social education” without using a “handheld device.” In celebration of African American History Month and for all time, we must embrace each other and enjoy our differences. The key word is “Involvement.” To quote the youth of today, “Do you feel me?” Think Tank at Building 21 How do we do that? How do we create a thriving community? Our intention is to answer those questions in the THINK TANK at Building 21. It needs your input. Every Friday evening, 8:30 -10 p.m. in the Gathering Room in the rear of Building 21B. Your intentions, your dreams and your foresight are as good and as welcomed as anyone else’s. You are invited to contribute to Think Tank on any Friday except Christmas and New Year’s. Rewards Points Program is going “21 Strong” The 21 Association Rewards Point Program is underway. The rewards are for all 21 Association members, BUT NOT 21 ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS. Note: A member is ANY shareholder who has paid their annual $5 dues to the Building 21 Association. Every shareholder of CO-OP City is eligible to be a paid member of The Building 21 Association. Our next 21 Association gathering will be Thursday, February 22. Questions regarding The 21 Association? EMAIL: 21association@gmail.com. CALL: 347.504.1821. ATTEND the monthly meetings every 4th Thursday in the Gathering Room in the rear of the B-section at 7 p.m. FYI, all monies collected (i.e., annual dues, etc.) are turned in to our treasurer and installed in the association’s bank account. We are now accepting annual dues for fiscal year September 2017 thru June 2018. We are dedicated to the empowerment of every shareholder in CO-OP City. Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals a force for good. See you around the neighborhood! —Michelle Marbury

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Velocity Track Club New York Co-op City Sports

The blessings continue with VTC (Velocity Track Club)! On February 3rd, we competed in the 2018 Millrose Games at the New Balance Armory and on Saturday, February 4th, we competed in the YMCA Series Meet #2 at the YMCA Brooklyn Armory. The 111th Millrose Games is the World’s Longest Running Indoor Track & Field Competition. Plus, you were able to watch on NYRR Millrose Games Videos at USATF.TV. The jammed-packed, star-laden 2018 NYRR Millrose Games did not disappoint as some of the world’s best runners put up incredible per-

formance at the Armory. At the 111th edition of the famous meet, we saw not one, but two world records, the fastest indoor 800 in 17 years, a daring solo run in the men’s Wanamaker Mile, and two super-tight finishes in the women’s 3 0 00 a n d wo men’s Wanamaker Mile. Our athletes qualified to compete in the 12 & under age division 4x200 meter relay and the 8 & under age division Fastest Kid in the World 55-meter race. “Fastest Kid in the World” winner, Brianna Burrell (bottom photo) and Millrose Games 4x200 Bronze VTC had three girls in Medalists (top) the 8 & under 55 meters race, plus a Girls & Boys relay teams. Our children had the opportunity to preform in front of World Class athletes, college and high school athletes and coaches! In the Girls 4x200 meters race, Allyson Wright, Saggi Hemmings, Jadah Benthan and Olyvia Burrell took 4th place. Our Boys team of Kyle Reinosa, Dontae Lindo, Julian Caldwell and Khalil Mitchell won Bronze medals. In the Girls Fastest Kid in the World 55-meter race, Brianna Burrell won the Gold medal and the title, “Fastest Kid in the World.” Shyenne Blake took 4th place and Hannah Deflorimonte took 5th place. Congratulations, student athletes! The YMCA Series Meet #3 at the Brooklyn Armory had one of the largest meets in the nation, serving almost 1200 athletes! The competition was hard, and medals were hard to earn. The top five athletes in their gender/event earned medals. In the 8 & under Boys division, Justice Wellington earned a Silver medal in the 400 meters and 5th place medal in the 200 meters. In the Boys 9 & 10 division, Pierce Parker won a Silver medal in the 1500 meters run. In the Girls 11 & 12 division, Jada Clarke won the Long Jump and Saggi Hemmings won a Bronze medal. In the Girls 4x800 meters race, Aysya Brown, Jadah Benthan, Adonijah Washington and Saniah Caldwell won Bronze medals! Our next meet will be today, Sat., Feb. 10th, at the Colgate Women’s Games Finals, New Balance Armory! After the meet, the team will go to Sky Zone in New Rochelle to celebrate! Velocity Track Club New York is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit. One hundred percent of your donation will go towards helping our children. For additional information, you can go to our website, Velocitytrack.org or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins, at 914-441-6196 or email watclt@aol.com. —Winston Dinkins

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Coalition To Save Affordable Housing

The Coalition invites all its members and all interested cooperators to join us at our next meeting on Monday, February 12th at 7:30 p.m. in Bartow, rm. 28, when we will present our platform for the 2018 Board of Directors election and vote on its amendments and acceptance. We will also introduce cooperators who want to run for the Board on the Coalition’s slate. They will take questions from the members present who will then vote on whether or not to support their candidacy. The creation of a platform and selection of candidates for our Board of Directors is central to the mission of the coalition and requires the cooperation of our members and all interested cooperators. Please join us this Monday and be part of the process to create the strongest Board we can to uphold the values of affordable, cooperative housing in Co-op City. We are also moving forward with our annual Mardi Gras Dance and fundraiser. The 2018 edition will feature DJ DR. ROCK who has guaranteed to keep us movin’ and groovin’ all night. This year, the dance will take place on March 3rd in rm 31 in the Bartow Community Center from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. There’ll be complimentary masks and beaded necklaces, it’s BYOBB plus a bar with setups, a 50/50 raffle, a best mask competition with $25 awarded to the winner and some door prizes, too. Tickets are $30 and the following people may be contacted to purchase them: Yolanda, 347-837-3806; Stuart, 718-671-0142; Bruce, 718-869-6375 and Andrea, 917-821-2419. So come on out and have a fun evening celebrating Mardi Gras while supporting the Coalition to Save Affordable Housing and Co-op City. —Bruce Silberman

National Council Of Negro Women

Membership – Our second membership meeting of the New Year will be tomorrow, Sunday, February 11th, in room 11, Dreiser Community Center at 3 p.m. Our president is asking us to all wear red in honor of women’s heart health as February is American Heart awareness month. Please come with ideas of services we can bring to the Co-op City community and ready to roll up your sleeves and get to work! If you can’t come to our meeting, remember you can contact us at Facebook.com/ncnwco-op or ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com or at P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. Black History Month – Save the date: Saturday, February 24, when we will have our 17th Annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. This free event will take place in Dreiser Center, Auditorium B from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Light refreshments will be served! It’s not too late for 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. Just call the NCNW Youth Committee at 917-399-2643. Women’s Celebration Program – Save the date, Saturday, April 21. This will be a free afternoon event in room 4, Dreiser Center. The theme is “Love Yourself.” This will be a literary afternoon of poetry, book excerpts, play monologues and recitations that will all encompass self-care, self-esteem and the strength of Black women. If you are interested in taking part, please email worrellswords@aol.com. Spirit Cruise Pre-Mothers’ Day Celebration – Back by popular demand, we will once again celebrate Mother’s Day on a Gospel Luncheon Cruise on Saturday, May 12, for a delightful 2-hour cruise with a lunch buffet, DJ and dancing, skyline views on New York Harbor and great gospel music as well. Mother will be delighted! No last minute desperate arrangements for you! For just $80 per person, your preparations are complete. For more information, contact (718) 379-3788 or (347) 602-5600 or (917) 670-4012. Checks are payable to NCNW Co-op City Section and can be mailed to P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. No refunds please. Bethune Height Recognition Program – Plans are under way for our 44th Annual Bethune Height Recognition Program that will take place on Saturday, May 19, at Russo’s On the Bay, 162-45 Cross Bay Boulevard, Howard Beach, NY. This is a celebration in which all NCNW sections in New York State come together to support and live the legacy of NCNW’s founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Dorothy I. Height, Chair/President Emerita, by contributing to the work for which they dedicated their lives. The luncheon will be from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. an d wi l l co s t $ 1 0 0 . Tickets can be purchased at tomorrow’s meeting. The theme for this year’s BHRP is “National Council of Negro Women, Strong through MultiGenerational Commitment.” Happy Birthday to our members with birthdays in February! Happy Valentine’s Day to all!! —Joyce Howard

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Stronger Together – Flexing Our Political Muscle

Director’s Viewpoint

Leslie Peterson

The State: During her recent visit to Co-op City to discuss Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 2018 State of the State Address, I found Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul to be very charming and sincere. I look forward to receiving her response to the Board members’ concerns shared with her, however, this is an election year for the governor of NY State and although his deputies did a fantastic job sharing the State Address, I think we should extend a special invitation to the governor to visit the borough of the Bronx and experience the largest cooperative in the world and the largest NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) in his state. The City: We asked before and apparently we must ask again. Assisting NYC agencies, our dollars are being spent reducing Sanitation pick-ups, assisting the NYPD via our CCPD, and lastly, continuing to do what is, in my opinion, unnecessary asbestos testing. For all that we do, we should not have to donate or give up anything. We should be celebrated by the city and given financial relief along with a state-of-the-art Youth Center. The city owned property located on Bartow Avenue will be available when the police trailers are moved to a new structure in Queens. Are the needs of this community being considered? We have not wavered in our request for a youth center, never an ASPCA. The Co-op City Times dated February 3, 2018 included a story about the “Hotel Planned for Bay Plaza.”

Building 29 Association

Time after time prior to building and completing Bay Plaza, Co-op City management reached out to Prestige Properties and they did not make themselves available to meet with Co-op City. When I read the article in the Co-op City Times, the reporter stated, “Calls to Prestige Properties and Friend Development Group were not returned.” This is reminiscent of past treatment of this community. Are they required to speak with us? No, but a courteous neighbor would. The proposed area for the hotel is zoned as M1-1. It is a legal obligation of the city to provide shelter to all eligible persons within the five boroughs, and the city must maintain the existing flexibility in zoning that permits temporary housing for the homeless in all M1 districts to ensure it has sufficient capacity to meet census demand for temporary accommodations. There is also an increase in the construction and renovation of hotels throughout all of the boroughs due to the rise in tourism, so there are many factors to consider and discuss. I am not suggesting one or the other is happening, but that we need dialogue to allay concerns. The main purpose of the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) is to hear and make decisions on appeals from property owners who have filed construction or zoning applications and been rejected. The property owner of 2001 Bartow Avenue (7Eleven, aka 500 Baychester Avenue) involves the owner’s appeal challenging the Department of Buildings denial of a permit based on the request to install 54 individual signs at the subject property back in October 2016 (3515-A referred to as Bartow I by BSA). Shortly after, there was a change in the proposed sign specifications, a change of representation and a new appeal case number (2016-4329-A, now referred to as Bartow II). There have been several

Thank you to Building 29 cooperators for attendance at our monthly meetings. Attendance and participation continues to be good. A special “thank you” to Elly for the baked goods she donates for our enjoyment. It is much appreciated. A special “thank you” also to members of the association’s board for the time and effort contributed to keep our association active. A big note of appreciation to Mr. Mark Warren, assistant general manager of construction, who was instrumental in resolving the lobby door accessibility issue. For those with various disabilities, the front door can now be entered without struggling to turn the key and the handle. You can simply place the key into the cylinder on the left or right of the door, turn the key and push the door to enter. Our next meeting is scheduled for Friday, February 16th at 7 p.m. in the association room located in the rear lobby of Building 29B. At this meeting, the latest information will be shared. Additionally, the association will be brainstorming to find activities which can be offered to the building’s cooperators. Some activities we would like to discuss include game night, bus trips, raffles, exercise class and fundraising (i.e. flea market). Please come and bring your ideas and share your concerns. We need and value your input! All cooperators are reminded that your association would like to be made aware of life events such as birthdays, births, illness, etc. A note with this information can be placed into the Input/Suggestion Box located next to the association room door. February is a month filled with activities for “Black History” Month. Be sure to attend (along with children and grandchildren) some of the many educational activities being offered in Co-op City and throughout the city commemorating the many contributions made by people of African descent. Reminder: Valentine’s Day is on the 14th. Remember to share the love, especially with those who have been in your life and seen you through good and bad times! Safety is the responsibility of us all. If you do not know who has rung your intercom, do not buzz them in! If you do not know who has rung your bell, do not open your door! As our community changes, cooperators must be mindful of who is allowed entry into our buildings and homes. —Marie Standford

hearings with the BSA. On March 21, 2017 Richard G. Leland, Atty. for the property owner, argued the decision rendered by the DOB refusing the permit was arbitrary. Is it one sign with various advertisements or considered several signs. What is the square footage? Are the LED panels on a grid on a monopole? Various arguments and questions spurred many appearances and hearings dated May 23, 2017, October 3, 2017, and December 12, 2017. The next hearing is at 10:00 a.m. on February 27. The public hearings are held at 22 Reade Street, Spector Hall, New York, NY 10007. Along with Councilman Andy King and District Manager Matt Cruz, we encourage shareholders to attend the public hearing and express your concern. If you want to see how the hearings proceed, google NYC Board of Standards and Appeals, go to Public Hearing videos and then on the next page select a date. Black History Month: Tell Them We Are Rising – The rich history of America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) began before the end of slavery, flourished in the 20th century, and profoundly influenced the course of the nation for over 150 years — yet remains largely unknown. With “Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges and Universities,” the latest documentary from Stanley Nelson (Black Panthers, Freedom Riders) and Marco Williams, the powerful story of the rise, influence, and evolution of HBCUs comes to life. On PBS channel 13, February 19, 2018. “You must never be fearful about what you do when it's right.” –Rosa Parks Share your thoughts. I can be reached by mail at: Leslie Peterson, Riverbay Board Director, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; Tel. at 718-3201370, or email at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com.

Broun Place Townhouse Association

From Broun Place Townhouse Association: Broun Place celebrated February 2018 Black History Month by attending the opening event in the historical Evander Childs Campus Library. The library is furnished with state-ofthe-art laptops and other technological equipment and a myriad amount of hardcovers. Councilperson Andy King honored Bronx District Attorney General, the Honorable Darcel Clark; president of the New York State NAACP, Dr. Hazel Dukes and Mr. Al DeCastro, community activist. State Assemblymember Mr. Jamaal Bailey, Mr. Julian McDavid, president of the Williamsbridge Branch NAACP, and former president of the Williamsbridge Branch Ms. Shirley Fearon were present. Youngsters from public middle schools and Youth Empowerment Program members attended. We are very glad to have been there. Broun Place attended the Riverbay Board Construction Committee Meeting on Thursday. Updates and plans were heard on Dreiser Loop construction; January Power Plant issues; convectors, maintanence plans, hall painting and other Co-op City projects that are in the works. Did you get President Berk’s letter on “Capital Projects?” Read and save this letter. Keep it as a guide and information provider. Scammers attack by phone, email and even postal mail. On the phone: “A warrant has been issued by the Internal Revenue Service…call to get information;” by email the Building and Grounds member-list hijacked to spread a phony charity request on behalf of an Autistic child; finally, a letter headed “Department of Automobile Records” saying

call “this” number to renew some maintenance insurance or be liable for fees under the “Endurance” program. Be alert and suspicious, question before you respond! Our first meeting of 2018 was on Wednesday, January 24th. According to Ms. Aldea, manager, an email problem exists; if you are writing or phoning CSO, you may not be receiving replies. Our Broun Place Executive Board list of questions included: tax assessment letter; appointment acknowledgement; fence repair work, delivery people hazards; Basketball court opening; grounds person; water problems and snow removal. A report on each issue will be part of our press release as time goes by. Snow removal pertains to the main egress of the cooperator; submit the “borough tax letter” to “Rent Bookkeeping;” complain to the merchants about their bikers; cooperators should be appraised of repair work appointments by letter and phone; water problems will be investigated; the Basketball Court’s opening ceremony will be in spring. Our vice president wrote a report on the Cooperator’s United Meeting on Bartow signage. Three of us attended the rally, the main things to do: Call the owner’s business office to lodge complaints and threaten to boycott the 7-Eleven. The lot is registered to Baychester Retail III, LLC at (347) 850-7446. The owner listed on the (public) building documents can be contacted at (646) 660-4254. In addition, call 3-1-1 and the Planning Board. Negotiations could be forthcoming if and when the owner speaks to the community or Councilmember King. Because of the litigation, further construction of the largest, tallest light has stopped. —Eva Lazaar

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Retirees Of Dreiser Loop Travel Events: (price includes Coach Bus; located at Dreiser Loop, in front of H&R Block) • March 13, 2018 (Tues.), “SANDS CASINO RESORT.” Price: $40. Payment Due Date: Mon., Feb. 5. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-3200500. • May 17th** (Thurs.) “HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE THEATRE,” NJ. Showtime: 11:00 a.m. Price: $75. Deposit: $40. Balance $35 due Mon., April 19. (**Date changed). Contact: Serita G., 347564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. • July 10-12th, (Tues.-Thurs.) “DOVER DOWNS HOTEL & CASINO.” Price: Double, $400/Single, $490. Deposit required $100. Two payments each. $150 double/$195. FINAL payment: May 21. Contact: Serita G., 347-5645722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. Theatre Committee: (price includes van transportation from Dreiser Loop opposite Rehab Center) • May16th. (Wed.). Price: $65** “SISTER ACT” at Westchester Broadway Theatre. Deposit $35 ASAP. $30 balance due by April 12. (**Price correction). Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671-4949. Remember – Your deposit, along with your name and telephone number, is required to reserve your trip and/or theatre seat. A check or money order only payable to RETIREES OF DREISER LOOP will be accepted. Committee members will be available in the Dreiser clubroom 19 (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:00-5:00 p.m. Good And Welfare Our sincere condolences to the families and friends of Albertha Manley and Allison Scales who both passed earlier this week. Best wishes to Clara Evans, our former Chaplain, who is ill. We hope each day brings Clara renewed strength and that much closer to recovery. And to those of you still under the weather, know that you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. Our next JAZZ UP YOUR HEALTH WITH A SENIOR SPA DAY will be Wednesday, February 28th. Call Claudette D, 718-379-4784 or Hattie L, 718671-8449 if interested in joining us on our upcoming SENIOR SPA DAY. “To be HAPPY you must follow F.A.C.T.S. – FORGIVE others, ACCEPT your mistakes, CRY and move on, THANK GOD for everything, SMILE always.” —Claudette Davis

American Legion Post 1871

Black History Month This is a very good time to pay attention to the historic involvement of Blacks in the military in this nation, and I will be glad for any contribution from our wartime veterans so that we can maintain this page for the services of our people. On Thursday, February 1, the Metropolitan Hospital kick-started the celebration of annual Black History events and veterans from across the cities were invited. At the opening ceremony of the event, Commander Toba of Post 1871 was honored, as well as being one of the keynote speakers. To this, we say congratulations to our commander for an award well deserved. The celebration will run for the entire period of February, with different events for every week. The theme of this year’s event is African Americans in the Military. About ten men and women of African descent from different branches of the military were honored at the event. Margaret Groves, who chairs the Black History Month Planning Committee, gave a warm Welcome Address as she cited several firsts of Blacks in the military. As earlier stated, the event will continue and if anyone is willing to attend, just call the Metropolitan Hospital Center for details. African Americans account for 13.3% of this nation, and the history of their involvement spans from the arrival of the first enslaved Africans during the colonial history of the United States to the present day. In every war fought by or within the United States, African Americans have always been part of it, including the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812. Many of these men were unofficially allowed to enlist in the Union Army. After President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, Black soldiers were officially allowed to participate in the war. By the time the war ended in 1865, about 180,000 Black men had served as soldiers in the U.S. Army. This was about 10% of the total Union fighting force. Most—about 90,000—were former slaves from the Confederate states. When World War II erupted, over 2.5 million Black men registered for the draft and one million served as draftees or volunteers in all of the branches of the Armed Forces during conflict. Most Black men who served were in the Army and were relegated to segregated combat support groups. Shutdown Is Looming Again The shutdown is over and we all had a relief, but it was only for a short period. The agreement that was reached will last until February 8, and as of the time of this submission, no one knows what will happen next in the Congress. Thus, I want to point your attention to the effects of the last one on our National Guard in terms of training, especially in a major combat exercise despite Congress’ action to re-open government. About 20,000 reservists lost training during the three-day shutdown that ended on Monday, January 22nd. Hopefully, there won’t be any shutdown again. —Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown O’toba

Church Of The New Vision

Pastors Kenneth Hodge and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us. Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s people. Serving the community for over 45 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian love. All are welcome. Order of Services Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Adult and Youth Sunday School: 9:45 – 10:45 a.m. Mid-day Bible Study: Tuesdays, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Youth Ministry: Fridays, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Upcoming Events My Body, God’s Temple Women’s Conference: Today, February 10, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. You are invited to join us for a day of sisterhood, fellowship and workshops to include Alzheimer and nutrition awareness, a low impact exercise session along with a nutritious lunch. We encourage ALL women of all ages and physical shape to join us. Please wear comfortable active wear for a blessed and fun event you don’t want to miss. Donation $20; for tickets and further information, kindly contact Sis. L. Scott at 718-671-2623. Friday, February 16th, the NGFC Youth Ministry invites you to a Friday Night service, “Jesus Loves You.” A night of prayer, praise and worship, 7 p.m.-9 p.m.! Let us gather together to fellowship. Worship and share the love of Lord Jesus Christ. The NGFC Youth Ministry will be hosting a Dinner Sale, Saturday, February 24th from 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Come and get your fish and chicken dinners. Donation: $10, all proceeds go towards the Youth Ministry. If you’d like to donate a dish, please contact Sis. Dominique Hodge at 475-225-1878. Sunday, March 11th, there will be one morning service at 10:00 a.m. At 3:30 p.m., we will celebrate Rev. Kenneth Hodge’s birthday and second year anniversary as pastor with Rev. Deborah Hodge as asst. pastor. Cruise with us in 2018, July 20th to July 27th on the Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Sea. Going to Port Canaveral, Fl., Cococay, Bahamas, and Nassau, Bahamas. Interior $1,025 - Ocean View $1,175 - Balcony $1,320. NOTE: $500 for all staterooms is due now. Entire balance is due by April 1 (price Includes taxes, fees and transportation to/from cruise ship in NJ). Gratuities not included, can be charged to your stateroom upon check-in. No refunds after January 21. For additional information, please contact Sadie James at 718-652-8943 or Hermena Smith at 917-974-9282. Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: (718) 671-8746 or (203) 374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 75303, Bronx, NY 10475. Visit our Facebook page: Church of the New Vision concerning upcoming events and trips, or call the church. —Sis. Carol Haque The itinerary for the rest of the month of February is as follows. Building meeting Our building association meeting will be on Wednesday, February 21st, with our guest speaker Edgar Perez from Restorations. The door to the association room will open at 7 p.m. and the meeting starting at 7:30 p.m. Crochet Class There would be no crochet class on Valentine’s Day, Wednesday, February

14th. Classes will resume on Wednesday, the 21st of February, starting at 1 p.m. in the association room. Movie Night Movie night will be Friday, February 23rd, with the door opening at 7 p.m. and the movie starting at 7:30 p.m. Those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and new arrivals, congratulations. Those who suffered a recent loss, our condolences. Those under the weather, get well soon. —Linda Werner

Building 30 A and B Association

• Public school students in Jackson, Tennessee will have a chance to meet with state lawmakers. • Poets will gather in the town of Salina, Kansas for an evening of spoken-word performances. • Students in Lincoln County, Mississippi will put on a pageant honoring Black trailblazers. • The Vancouver, Washington community library will feature an exhibit confronting racism and xenophobia in the Pacific Northwest. Coming Soon… Community Think-Tank Meeting on Voting Registration/Education Membership, “The hottest place in Hell is reserved for those who remain neutral in times of great moral conflict.” –Martin Luther King, April 30, 1967. Become a member, Become a Voice. Annual dues: $30. Contact Brenda, 718-320-3210. Stay woke/Stay engaged. —Jerome Rice

NAACP Co-op City Branch #2210

BLACK HISTORY Have you celebrated Black History Month yet? For 109 years, NAACP members have fought for equality and opportunity in the United States. We’ve spoken up, sat down, and sat in. We’ve won hundreds of lawsuits and marched thousands of miles. We celebrate all of our members and allies who are sharing Black history this month and are making history each and every day. Our efforts for voting rights, quality public education, police reform, affordable health care, and clean air honor the sacrifices of our forbearers and advance the cause of justice for all. Here are just a handful of the Black History Month events taking place across the country thanks to NAACP efforts: • Buses in Corpus Cristi, Texas will be decorated with the faces of local Black leaders and civil rights heroes.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Church of God’s Children, located at 127 Dreiser Loop, patio level to the right of Montefiore Clinic, welcomes you to a Word teaching house of worship. We invite you with open arms to come along to our church. We hope that you can join with us in worship and God’s word. If you have needs, and want someone to listen and to pray, we’re here for you with open hearts and God’s love to give away. Schedule of Services: Sunday – Spanish Worship, 9:30 a.m.; English Worship, 1:15 p.m. Sunday Bible Studies – Spanish Women Studies; English Women & Men Studies; English Children Studies, 11:30 a.m.; Monday-Fasting-Prayer-Word Study, 9:30 a.m.; Wednesday-Intercessory Prayer & The Word, 7 p.m. Sat., July 21 – Trip to Sight & Sound in Lancaster, PA to see the new show titled “Jesus.” Trip includes: Bus fare, movie in bus, discount coupons to the famous Tanger Outlets Shopping – mall chain featuring a variety of brand name & designer outlet stores. Dinner at the Hershey Farm, a full-service family restaurant offering a scrumptious dinner smorgasbord. Adults, $181; children up to 12, $119. Reserve your seat, $50 deposit. Call 718-671-7265 for information. We are on a PR Relief Mission Trip from 2/4 – 2/12. As chair of Community Bd. 10 – Ad-Hoc Co-op City Committee, please be informed that there will be a combined Ad-Hoc and Municipal Services meeting on Wednesday, March 7, at 7:30 p.m. in Auditorium A, Dreiser Loop. All residents are welcome to attend. February (besides it being my birthday month) is a month in which a lot of attention is given to the topic of love. The sad part is most people have absolutely no idea what love looks like or how it’s supposed to act. It’s no wonder. Over the last five centuries, thanks to an increasingly unscrupulous entertainment industry, love has become synonymous with sex. Sad to say, most people don’t know the difference. The Bible, on the other hand, gives a very different picture of love. In 1 Corinthians 13 we read, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” And in 1 John 4:7-8 we learn that love comes from God because God is himself love. No mystery here. Love is clearly defined by God’s word. Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35) By understanding the nature of love and then choosing to operate in it we declare ourselves as followers of Christ. The fruit is the evidence. I must confess I sometimes struggle with whether I’m doing this “Christian life” thing the way I’m supposed to. “Lord, this is hard!” I whine during my prayer time. “It shouldn’t be this complicated.” And usually, in the middle of my whining the Lord reminds me it really isn’t all that complicated. Love God and love everyone else, because love covers a multitude of sins. So—what’s love got to do with it? Just everything. Jesus Loves You. —Bishop Nancy Rosario

Church of God’s Children

Building 35 Association

The next meeting of the Building 35 Association will be on Feb. 12th at 7 p.m. Our guest speakers will be from Equality Charter School Adult Education. Come out and hear the courses available to adults, most of them free of charge. —Bill Gordon

Newsong Church The Power To Become

Have you ever wondered what the will of God is for your life? When it comes to God’s will, we tend to focus more on what we’re doing instead of who we’re becoming. The Apostle Paul reveals what God’s will for all of us is… 3 God’s will is for you to be holy…1 Thessalonians 4:3 NLT (Emphasis Mine) Notice that Paul doesn’t say God’s will for you is to be a doctor? God’s will for you isn’t to be a teacher, or even a pastor? God’s will for you and me is to be holy. In other words, God is more concerned about who we are than about what we do. The word “holy” means to be set apart, to be different. As followers of Jesus, we’re not called to follow the values of this world, we’re not called to live for what’s temporary, we’re called to be like Jesus. When it comes to the will of God, our character and integrity matters! Instead of praying “God what do you want me to do?” A better question is, “God who do you want me to become?” I’ve been pastoring for about 15 years. I absolutely love what I do. However, being a pastor isn’t God’s primary will for my life, being holy is. Let me explain. I could be a great preacher, but be abusive to my wife and children, therefore, I’m not in the will of God. I could be a great pastor, but not have integrity in my finances, therefore, I’m not in the will of God. Why? Because God cares more about who I am, than what my vocation is. I believe God would rather have me do anything vocationally and do it with integrity, than do something that appears “spiritual” and have unconfessed sin in my life. God’s will for us is that we live holy lives. Holiness isn’t about not wearing jeans, or makeup, or jewelry. Holiness has nothing to do with our outside appearance, and everything to do with what’s going on inside our hearts. God has given us His Holy Spirit. His primary role in our lives is to help us become more like Jesus. Notice that I used the word “become,” because this is something that we will never fully obtain on this earth. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to become more like Jesus, He changes us from the inside out! Instead of worrying about who you’re going to date, what job you’re going to take, or what you’re going to major in when you get to college, concentrate on who you’re becoming in Jesus. If you allow the Holy Spirit to help you become like Jesus, what you do will have more meaning! Please join us this Sunday as we start a new teaching series, “Divine Direction.” Sunday’s Schedule New Location: 135 Einstein Loop (room 45) New Service Time: 11 a.m. *Kidsong available in rm. 49. *Deaf Interpretation available during adult service. Please visit our website, www.newsongchurchnyc.org. —Pastor Mike Tolone

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for worship service. Sunday School for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us. The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774. And, be sure to extend your worship with us today and every Saturday, 4 – 5 p.m. on Principle Centered Living Radio, redeemradiofm.com. Also, learn more about our pastor and the principles of our church while enjoying a laugh or two on Facebook (Principle Centered Living with Rev. Sheldon Williams). Please “Like” the page and share the posts. Only those who “LIKE” the page will qualify for upcoming contests and rewards. Join us for a midweek spiritual pick-up at our midweek worship service held on Wednesdays at noon. Bible Study classes are held on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Bible class will also be held on Wednesday, February 14 at 5:00 p.m. Prayer service is held on Fridays at noon. Prayer Service is also held on Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us from the comfort of their home for an hour of prayer. Making use of available technology, Friday evening prayer service is held using a conference call line. On Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m., you can call 563-999-2090; when asked for the PIN, enter 660065 and you will be connected. Please Note: Prayer service will no longer be held on the 1st Friday of the month. Tomorrow, Sunday, February 11, the Hospitality Ministry will celebrate seven years of service at our 11 a.m. service. The theme is Hospitality is Love in Action. The scripture is Romans 15:7. “Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.” Bishop Mary Freeman, pastor of Emanuel Church for all People, New York, NY will be the guest speaker. We invite all to attend. On Sunday, February 18 at our 11:00 a.m. service, the First Lady’s Ministry will celebrate the 22nd Anniversary. The guest speaker will be Minister Diane Asphal, associate minister of Mt. Zion Christian Baptist Church, Mt. Vernon, NY. The theme for the day will be “Praise God for the great things He has done.” — Philippians 4:8. All are welcome to this celebratory service. The First Lady’s Ministry will sponsor its annual Women’s History Month event, “Herstory,” on Saturday, March 24, at 10:00 a.m. Central to this event is hearing from an African-American female, community leader focusing on her life’s journey to her current status. Their 2018 presenter will be Ms. Patricia Myers, manager of McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, Inc. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children 3 y.o. to 12 y.o. All are invited to join us. 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

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Pentecostal Tabernacle is located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A (Main Lobby), Bronx, N.Y. 10475. You are invited to attend services on the following days. Sunday School for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship starts at 11:45 a.m. each Sunday. Wednesdays: Prayer and fasting service will be held in the morning at 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Bible study & prayer meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening Youth Service will start at 7:30 p.m. Focus: Miracles are a normal part of revival that includes physical wonders, salvation, and the establishing of the people of truth. And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being cripple from his mother’s womb, who never walked. The same heard Paul speak: who steadfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet, and he leaped and walked. And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia. The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. (Acts 14:8-11) The role of signs and wonders in the confirmation of truth is seen in Hebrews 2:3-4 Which states: How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? Simon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentles, to take out of them a people for his name (Acts 15:14) When the first church council met in Jerusalem about A.D. 50 to consider whether it was necessary for Gentiles to keep the Law of Moses, the argument ended when the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.(Acts 15:12) The fact that God worked miracles and wonders among the Gentiles was considered to be proof of God’s approval of the Gentile’s faith. If He honored their faith with miracles and wonders, they must have been acceptable to Him even though they were not keeping the Law of Moses.

Co-op City Seventh-day Adventist Church

As we continue our look back at our history among our neighbors, we are grateful to God for our continued presence here. From 1010 Baychester Avenue, a worldwide Bible study, The Israelite Heritage Bible Studies, was mailed and marked. A Russian pastor was hired to promote the bible studies and efforts to draw attention to the heritage were intensified. The congregation would observe the Jewish festivals and invite the community to participate. During the spring, they would hold a Seder (Passover Supper) and a build a Sukkoth (temporary dwelling) in the backyard in the Fall. Rabbis from the community would enter to engage in conversations as the church lot was visible across an empty lot. Among the members of the advising board of the Co-op City Congregation Hebrew Adventist were Clifford Goldstein, Mitchell Greenbaum and Samuel Jacobson. In 1991, Cheryl Silvera was employed by the congregation through the Greater New York Conference to conduct a feasibility study and then to create a health food store in the basement of the church. The purpose of the project was to supplement the income of the ministry and to promote healthy eating. Products ranged from whole grains to frozen foods. Clients included local businesses, as well as customers from as far as Connecticut. The store no longer exist. The name to the Co-op City Seventh-day Adventist Church occurred in 1998. The Jewish population inside the church and in the community diminished drastically and so the demographics changed again. On March 18, 2007 a groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark a new era in evangelism and the ambition of a newer, larger facility to house the community projects. In 2008, the church held its first Mental Illness Awareness program as part of the Disabilities Ministries community outreach, inviting the press and the community to join with us in caring for our fellow citizens. Each year, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, during National Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW), the church provides awareness programs for the community. Over the years, the church has sought to increase its visibility and involvement in community affairs. On August 9, 2010 the Co-op City Seventh-day Church was officially welcomed as a member of the Riverbay Corporation neighborhood organizations. Further community involvements ensued with collaborations with Michelle Sajous, director of Community Relations of Riverbay Corporation. This historical review was gathered and complied by Cheryl C. Silvera in April 2012 with research from the Center for Adventist Research, James White Library, Andrews University and from the notes of Jonas Apau II, and Pastor Billwayne Jamal. To be continued. Services and Community Outreach Wednesday — Food Pantry every 1st and 3rd 4:30 – 6 p.m. Wednesday — Night Prayer Meeting, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Saturday — Sabbath School, 9:15 a.m. Saturday — Divine Worship, 11:00 a.m. Saturday — Adventist Youth Program, 2:30 p.m. The Co-op City Seventh-day Adventist Church is located at 1010 Baychester Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; http://coopcity22.adventistchurchconnect.org/ —Cheryl C. Silvera

Celebrating Our Thirty-Six Years In Co-op City – Part 3

Miracles, signs, and wonders accompanied the ministry of the early Christians and played an important role in the church. Moreover, the days of miracles are not over. God still works through miracles today and they are still important to the ministry of the church in this world. It is important, however, that we meditate on the word of God daily and we will be able to experience great miracles in our lives. God takes great delight in his people when they worship Him with all their heart and walk in His way. Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly. (Psalm 1:1) For more information, call 718-324-0334 or 718-430-4218. —Rev. R. Sibblies

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Word Games 9:30-11 a.m. Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. NEW Health & Wellness Support Group Bartow Center, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Arthritis Exercises 11 a.m.-noon Bingo 1-2 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m. Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Walking Club: 10:30 a.m. Bingo: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Caregiver Support Group: 1:00 p.m., 1st and 3rd Tues. Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Fri., Feb. 16

Thu., Feb. 15

Wed., Feb. 14

Mon., Feb. 12

Einstein Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Tues., Feb. 13

Bartow Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Blood Pressure: Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday 9-10 a.m. Games 9:30-11 a.m. Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Line Dancing 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Bingo 1-2 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m. Smartphone Class Bartow Main office Beginner – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Intermediate 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. 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. Spanish Class 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Bartow Main Office Chat Session 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Bingo 1-2 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Dominos 2:30 p.m. Men’s Line Dancing 9-10 a.m. Word Games 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Women’s Line Dancing 10-11:30 a.m. Chat Session 10 a.m. Piano Sing-along 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Bingo 1-2 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Line Dancing 10-11 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 day - 1:00 p.m. Dominoes 10 a.m. Matinee Movie 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Health & Wellness Support Group 10-11 a.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Library, Bike, Chat 9:30-10:30 a.m. Stay Well Exercise 10-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Color Your Stress Away 11 a.m., Rm. 4 Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Diabetes Support Group 1:00 p.m. – Last Monday of the month Bereavement Counseling 1 p.m., Rm. 13 Gentle Yoga 1:15-2:00 p.m., Rm. 2 Basic Cell Phone & iPad 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bingo 1:00pm -2:30pm, Rm. 7 Intermediate Yoga 2-3 p.m.

Orange pineapple juice Honey mustard chicken breast Mashed potatoes Steamed kale Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Egg salad

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m. Alert & Alive 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (New) Computer Class – Rm. 13 Beginner 11:00 a.m. - noon Cultural Dance 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Aud. B Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud. A

Orange juice Turkey meatballs Rice w/corn Green beans Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Veggie liver

Beef brisket w/ tomatoes & onions Broccoli & Red peppers Homemade mashed potatoes

Computer Class – Rm. 13; Beginner 1011 a.m.; Intermediate – 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Only 6 seats available. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m. Sewing 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tai Chi 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Mind Teasers 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Rm. 4 African Brazilian Dance 1 p.m., Rm. 2 Art Class 1-3 p.m. Yoga 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Orange Pineapple Juice Beef Moussaka Garden salad Fresh fruit Whole wheat bread Alt: Tuna salad

Grilled chicken breast Rice vegetables Steamed green beans

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m. Blood Pressure 10-11:30 a.m. 1st & 3rd, Rm. 8 Line Dancing 10-11 a.m., Aud. A Piano Sing Along 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Drama Club 1:30-4:00 p.m.

Orange juice, Salmon cakes, Kasha Varnishkes, Winter blend vegetables, Healthy strawberry & applesauce, Whole wheat bread, Apple sauce Alt: Grilled chicken breast

Baked ziti w/beef meatballs Mixed vegetables Tossed salad with dressing

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Meditative Moments 11 a.m.–12 p.m., Rm. 8 Pokeno 3rd Fri., 1-2:30 p.m. Movie - Raisin in the Sun – 1:00pm Card Games, Dominoes 2-4 p.m.

Apple juice Roasted chicken Potato Kugel Carrot Tzimmes Challah bread Alt: Gefilte Fish

Baked whiting fish fillets Baked macaroni Cucumber tomato salad

Kosher

Non-Kosher Jerk Chicken White rice Cauliflower w/ carrots & parsley

Karaoke by Steven 1-2 p.m., Rm. 45 Walk Group 9:30 a.m., Rm. 40 Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 10 a.m. Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Computer Lab Zumba 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Dominos 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Grandparent Connection 1st Thurs., Rm. 35 10:30am Arthritis Exercise 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m. Word Search 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Karaoke by Steven 1 p.m., Rm. 45 Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Art 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Bingo 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Pokeno 2-4 p.m., Rm. 35 Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Fri., 1011:30 a.m., Rm. 45 Free Oil Painting Classes Rm. 38, 10:00 -11:30 a.m.

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

(Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation. JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Payments for trips can be made at all three centers. Trip registration policy: There will be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation! All trips must be paid in advance – JASA will not accept checks under $5. (FREE) LiveOn NY – SCRIE/SNAP (Food Stamps) Assistance – Fri., Feb. 23, 9 a.m.- 2 p.m., JASA Main Office 2049, Bartow Ave. No appointments. Walk-ins! First come! First served! Please make copies of your documents before coming to the office. Free Tax Help! AARP Foundation Tax Aide Free E-Filing – Until April 17, 10 a.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays, JASA Einstein Senior Center, room 35. First come, first served (Walk-ins Only). This free tax assistance program is for taxpayers with low- and moderate-income with special attention to those 50 and older. Tax assistance is limited to the first 15-25 taxpayers, no exceptions! Call 718-320-2066 for additional information. NEW – NORC Cross Roads Program – If you are 50–59 years old, we invite you to join us to explore your Future - a 4-session workshop. Tuesdays, Feb. 6th, 13, 20 and 27, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., 2049 Bartow Ave. Main Office. Stuart Singer, Facilitator. NEW – Every Tuesday Choir/Singing Class – beginning Tues., Feb. 13, 1 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 7.

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

NEW – Movie Matinee Mondays—Dreiser Center, rm. 7, 1 p.m., until June. JASA Is Closed Monday, Feb. 19 in observance of Presidents’ Day. Notary change for 2018 in Dreiser Loop – Jeannette Graves will be available every Thursday at 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 13 for the months of Feb. & Mar., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Shoprite – Tues., Feb. 13; $3. Bartow, 9:30 a.m. Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Wait list. Costco – Wed., Feb. 14, $5, (2 hours) – Bartow 9:30; Einstein - 9:45 & Dreiser - 10 a.m. Must be a Costco member. St. Mary’s Pool – Fri., Feb. 16 - $3. Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m. –12 p.m. Bartow - 8:30; Einstein -8:45 & Dreiser – 9 a.m. There is a $25 yearly fee to use the facility, which can be paid at the pool by check or money order. Art Exhibition – Fri., Feb. 16, the Einstein Art class will be having an Art Exhibition in celebration of Black History Month. Room #38, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Light refreshments will be served “Remembrance through Film”– Showing at the Dreiser Loop Senior Center, Room 7, Fri., Feb. 16: Roots (Episode 1); Fri., Feb. 23: Mudbound at 1 p.m. Tuesday movies shown at Dreiser will be suspended for the month of February “Game Day”—Sat., Feb. 24, at 135 Einstein Loop Senior Center: Dominos, Cards, Bingo & lunch:

Baked chicken, macaroni & cheese, Sautéed string beans. (Kosher food by request.) Call the Einstein Senior Center, 718-671-5161, or stop by to sign up for lunch - $2 for seniors and $5 for guest 2nd Bus Added—Mohegan Sun – Sat March 24, $40. Pickups: Bartow – 8:00; Dreiser Loop 8:15 & Einstein Loop 8:30 a.m. Arrive 11 a.m., depart 5 p.m. Bonus package is $15 bet & $10 for food. Refreshments will be served on the bus. Payment due no later than Fri., March 10. “Jesus” @ the Sight & Sound Theater – Thurs., April 26, $130. Refreshments will be provided. Deluxe Motor Coach transportation. Enjoy a delicious family style luncheon at the Good & Plenty Restaurant from 1–2 p.m. Show starts at 3 p.m. Depart from destination at 5:30 p.m. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:45; Dreiser Loop, 9:00 & Einstein Loop, 9:15 a.m. 50 seats available. Payment due no later than Friday, March 24. Wait list. Cabaret LuLu—direct from Harlem’s Historic Alhambra Ballroom, Wednesday, February 21, $55. Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. “Every Time I Feel The Spirit.” Music from Gospel to Motown honoring great artists like Mahalia Jackson, Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, The Supremes & Marvin Gaye, which includes lunch and a complimentary glass of wine. Only 35 seats available on a Coach Bus. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m.; show starts at 1 p.m. Time for pick-ups to follow.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

Scheduling Activities Calendar

Goose Island Seniors

Happy Valentine’s Day. Thank you for coming to our Valentine Party, February 7th. We hope you enjoyed it. Thanks to all the people who brought something and especially those who stepped right up and volunteered serving food and whatever you did to help make the event a success. You are the best. Bingo — Wednesday, February 14th, 1:30 p.m., with Stephen in our club room #39. Members only. (One-time, non-member guest visit is allowed). Admission $5 for 3 cards, 12 games and Jackpot. Extra cards are 25¢ each. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Resorts Casino — February 15th, this Thursday, in Atlantic City, N.J. Pick-up time change: 8:30 a.m., Einstein Loop; 8:40 a.m., Bartow; 8:50 a.m., Dreiser Loop bus stops. The bus is full. No one sits alone. Any unpaid reservations will be replaced by people on the waiting list who are ready to pay. Please contact us if you are still planning to go. On the day of the trip, please stay inside your center’s lobby to keep warm. I will give you your seat number there. Bartow, stay inside by the art gallery next to the library. Looking forward to seeing you. Presidents’ Day — Monday, February 19th, all senior activities in the center are cancelled. Matinee Movie — Tuesday, February 20th. Time change: 9:45 a.m. for refreshments in room 45. Feature movie: “Girl’s Trip.” Four lifetime friends travel to New Orleans for Essence Festival. 2 hrs. ($1 is collected for refreshments and snacks). There is karaoke at 1 p.m. Spring Party — April 18th at 1:30 p.m. with Stephen in our club room #39. Members only. $3 donation. It’s a cover dish party, so if you want to cook something, feel free. No cash donation if food,

drink or dessert is donated. Come party with us. Sands Casino — Thursday, May 24, in Bethlehem P.A. Price $35. Game Days — Tuesdays and Thursdays. Our club room is set up for Dominoes, Spades, UNO, Kalooki and Mahjong from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Stop in and have some fun. Members only. Members may bring a friend or two to play with. $1 is collected for snacks. Sister Act — Friday, June 15th at the Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford, N.Y. Come and enjoy a delicious lunch and a terrific show. Price $79. See Ann, Stephen or Mary. To all members: Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to all members who celebrate their day in the month of February: Dorothy Gilliard, George Vasquez, Joyce Chaney, Lucila Correa and Aida Gonzalez. Our Lounge — Come sit and relax, read a book from our large library, play Dominoes, Mahjong or Cards every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. ($1 is collected for refreshments and snacks). Play Bingo every Wednesday and last Sunday of each month for only $15 per year. Also, come with us on wonderful trips. Membership dues are for indoor club room activities only, except Sunday Bingo. Note: Call Ann or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613, or visit Ann, Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39. Visit or call Stephen in room #39, every Mon. & Fri. from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Tues. & Thur., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Wed., 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. or 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Call Stephen at 347-847-1941. Good health to all. —Stephen Roberts Sr.

FYI: Membership meeting scheduled for Monday, February 12, 1:00 p.m. in Dreiser Community Center, room 9. Looking forward to seeing all members and prospective members. Remember to bring your dues for 2018. Great plans scheduled for 2018. FYI-2: AARP Smart Driver Class scheduled for Saturday, April 7, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For an appointment, contact Ellie Minor, 718-379-4429. Fee: $20 for National AARP members; $25 for non-members (Only check or money order). Heartfelt Condolences to the family of Allison Scales and the family of Albertha Manley. Good & Welfare: Please contact our Good & Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-6715493, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home. 2018 Tour Activities April 10, 2018-April 11: Sight & Sound Theatre & Sands Casino – Motorcoach trip to Sands Casino with casino bonus and shopping; next day (after breakfast) to Sight & Sound spectacular production of “Jesus” to experience the greatest rescue story of all time (reserved seating); dinner & breakfast coupons. $309/person - double; $395 – single; $295/person triple. $50/per person Deposit + optional Travel Protection. $34/per person due ASAP. Final payment due February 23. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370. April 23, 2018 (Monday): Pop The Cork Theme Party at Tomasville Winery (Hammonton, N.J.) – full luncheon, wine tasting, music and dancing; “Mommy Dearest” Raffle;” beauty wins” door prizes; 4-hour stay at Resorts Casino w/$25 slot play; deluxe motor coach transportation. $125. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370. July 21, 2018: Nordic Lodge & Foxwoods Casino – All-You-Can-Eat lobster buffet; 4-hour stay at Foxwoods Casino; deluxe Motorcoach transportation. $170. $50 deposit due ASAP; balance due June 1. Contact Hannah, 718-379-7962. Attention: When signing up for the above trips, please give your name, phone number and a deposit. Checks/money orders made payable to AARP Chapter 4997 with the name of the trip in the memo section of your check/money order. Room O (Dreiser Community Center) is opened Monday or Thursday, noon – 3 p.m. for checks to be dropped off (in an envelope w/Group/Trip Leader name). They may be mailed to the Group/Trip Leader. —Delores Debnam

AARP Chapter #4997

Our meeting date has been changed to Friday, February 16th at 7 p.m. to accommodate our guest speaker, Board Director Bernie Cylich. Sheila, one of our neighbors on Bellamy Loop, who has lived here for about 12 years, tells me she doesn’t see any real changes here that would be proof of the Board’s success. She cites the long delay in redoing the building lobbies and doors as one example of its ineffectiveness. Bernie will explain what’s happening with the lobbies and why it’s taking so long and challenge her belief that we are not making change happen fast enough. Is the Board not getting the job done or are there good reasons for the delays? Join us as we try to take a look at the way things are done or not done here at Co-op City and get a better idea of how we’re doing. Are there any ways you think the Board could be more effective? If you’d like to discuss them Bernie will be happy to give us the lowdown. Join us on Friday, the 16th at 7 p.m. in the community room under the portico as we welcome Bernie and Sheila and try to determine if we really are progressing or not. Light refreshments will be served. —Bruce Silberman

Building 24 Association

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

General Information: The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of Building 27B, is on the ground floor of Building 27B. It is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone #: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message. The synagogue has services Saturday morning starting 9 a.m. After services, we always have a nice kiddush. The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue. Rabbi Kronengold will conduct services. 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 service. Please come by 10 a.m. so we can take out the Torah. Our synagogue has a casual atmosphere. Come on down for about two hours. This will be a mitzvah, you’ll feel better. We welcome all men and women from the Young Israel in Section 1 who want to attend services. We are now the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbaths ends on Saturday, February 10, at 6:07 p.m. Candle Lighting for Friday, February 16, is at 5:14 p.m. Bingo: The synagogue’s next Bingo is Sunday, March 4, weather permitting, at 1 p.m. The cost is $3 admission, which includes refreshments and 10 games of Bingo. Also, there is a three-part Jackpot game for $2 in which you can win up to $30 if you win. Purim Party: Thursday, March 1, we will celebrate the Purim Holiday. The rabbi will read the Book of Esther (The Megillah) at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Purim party, 50/50 raffle and Mini Bingo. The cost for the party is $20. We will be serving roasted chicken, mixed salad, potato and macaroni salad, coffee, tea, soda and hamantaschen. For reservation, call the synagogue, 718379-6920, or Marilyn, 347-449-5005. Also, the rabbi will read the Megillah on Wednesday, February 28th at about 8:15 p.m. in the synagogue. Good & Welfare: We sell Tree Certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel tov to all having simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make a donation to the synagogue. Wishing Birthday wishes to Debbie Schwartz. Fun and Games: After services and kiddush, some men and women play Rummy Cube game. Your support of the Traditional Synagogue, and Men’s Club is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends, peace and good health, and a happy holiday season. —Gary Schwartz

Traditional Synagogue

Community Protestant Church

On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. more abundantly (John 10:10). We encourage you to bring your child, children or grandchildren to Sunday Owens, and our church family, welcome to ComSchool and we look forward to seeing you. munity Protestant Church, a church of love and Other Scheduled Events understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, On Wednesdays, at noon, you are cordially invited Bronx, NY 10469; telephone: (718) 862-9172. to NOON DAY PRAYER AT CPC, an hour of Power, Regular Church Schedule Prayer, Praise and Testimony. Refreshments will be Sunday School – 9:00 a.m. served. RSVP: (718) 862-9172. Worship Service — 11:00 a.m. Tomorrow, Sunday, February 4, at the 11:00 a.m. Communion Service – Every first & third Sundays Service – Observance of Official Boards Day. Theme: Noon Day Prayer – Hour of Power – Wednesday at noon “Working to do His Will.” Our Guest Preacher will be Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at Rev. Dr. Edgar Howard. All are welcome. 7:00 p.m. About Our Father’s Business The following program is at the Church’s “Walking by faith, not by sight, our eyes on the Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) prize we scale the height Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Of Christian commitment in a troubled world, Sunday School Is Now In Session holding our ground as some among us fall. Every Sunday At 9:00 A.M. Earnestly helping wherever we can, saying to the Master, yes, here I am. Sunday School is really a part of our history, and Helping each other along the way, about our because someone cared and was concerned enough, Father’s business every day.” many of us benefitted and know its value. In Sunday School, in a nurturing Christian education environThe doors of Community Protestant Church are ment, an opportunity is provided for children to learn open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian about the Bible, to grow in grace, to show love and believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are correspect for one another and to live more abundant dially invited to come in, join in and receive your lives. Jesus came that we might have life and have it blessing. —Evan G. Mitchell

Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue Our first trip of the year is Sunday, March 18, to the Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. The cost of the trip is $35 per person. You will receive $25 slot play. Shop at the outlets, enjoy the sights, food and have a good time. ALL MEN and WOMEN over 21 years old can attend our trips and functions. You need a Resorts Casino card or a Government ID, passport, non- or driver’s license to receive the bonus. On the bus, we provide a drink, snacks, play Bingo, 50/50 raffle and show a recent movie. We keep you entertained, the trip goes fast to Atlantic City. The bus stops by all three shopping centers going

and returning. This trip, we will be leaving Einstein Loop at 8 a.m. by the supermarket, Asch Loop at 8:15 a.m. by the library, and Dreiser Loop by 8:25 a.m. For a reservation, call Gary at 718-671-8424 or Bruce, 718-320-2234. Please make out check, money order to Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place, Lobby, Building 27B, Bronx, New York 10475. We also accept cash. Hope to see you on the trip. Your support of the Men’s Club is greatly appreciated. Wishing everyone peace and good health. —Gary Schwartz

Try your luck with the Men’s Club

Faith In God Church & Bible Institute

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

No one is an island. We all need help sometimes. The Maker of the universe is the helper of God's people. Let's look at scripture to support this. Psalms 121 says: 1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. 3 He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; 4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand; 6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; 8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Invitation: Sweet Hour of Prayer is today at 3 p.m. Sunday School is tomorrow at 10 a.m. Our Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 11 a.m. Every 3rd Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion. Vernon Little just released a new EP titled 'Double Minded' on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, etc. It's a fusion of Gospel, R&B and Rap. He also has videos on YouTube. You will be blessed, encouraged and inspired. We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone # is (347) 276-4925. Jesus loves you, and so do we! —Evangelist Vernon Little

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome. Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. On Wednesdays, there is a very short midday service starting promptly at noon. Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m. and we are looking for new members. The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) meet immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the 2nd Sunday of each month. We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 11, when we will celebrate The Last Sunday after the Epiphany. Members who have not yet submitted their 2018 Pledge Cards are encouraged to complete and submit them as soon as possible. Current Events and More • Month of February: Special services in honor of Black History Month • Saturday, February 10: Blessed Absalom Jones Celebration with Eucharist at the Cathedral Church of St. John The

Divine starting at 10:30 a.m. The Right Rev. Andrew M.L. Dietsche, Bishop of New York, will preside. • ECW Meeting rescheduled for Sunday, February 11, after service • Ash Wednesday, February 14: No midday service but service to include imposition of ashes will be held at 7 p.m. • Fundraising: 1) ECW Raffle tickets are $1 each and $5 for a book of 6. If you have not yet picked up yours, please do so after service. Drawing takes place on Thursday, May 10, and winners need not be present. 2) St. Joseph’s Day Luncheon will be held at Eastwood Manor in the Bronx on Saturday, May 26, from noon until 5:00 p.m. Flyers are out and we are depending on our members to distribute them and spread the word. Adults, $100; children 12 and under, $50. For tickets, please see contact information on the flyers. Outreach Program: Collection of non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms is ongoing. Please remember to donate. For additional information on all of the above, you should call the church at 718-320-0844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org. “The Lord, the God of gods, has spoken; * he has called the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting.” – Psalm 50:1 —Merville Chambers

Open Door Ministries Stop Fighting with Pigs “It would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” —C.S. Lewis Luke 15:16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him. – He desired what the pigs ate – but he had a feast at home. Luke 8:27 When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man. 28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Highest God? I beg you, don’t torture me!” 30 Jesus asked, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 32 A herd of pigs was feeding on the hillside. The demons begged Jesus to let them go into the pigs, and he gave them permission. 33 When they came out of the man, they entered the pigs, and the herd rushed down the bank into the lake and drowned. 37 Then the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. 2 Peter 2:20-22 When a person has escaped the wicked ways of the world by learning about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and gets tangled up with

sin and becomes its slave again, he is worse off than he was before. 21 It is better if he had never known Christ at all than to learn of him and afterwards turn his back on the holy commandments that were given to him. 22 There is an old saying, “A dog comes back to what he vomited, and a pig is washed only to come back and wallow in the mud again.” • Desires can lead us into sin that we think frees us but instead imprisons us. • We can go lower than we can imagine – education means nothing. • Do not allow sin close – eventually it will find a way in. • People tolerate sin before they tolerate Christ because they benefit from the evil. • There is true freedom in Christ – he can calm the desires and sin that compels us. • The presence of good is obnoxious to some people – they have a hard time accepting it. • If we focus on what we have lost in following Christ we have returned to the pigs. • Freedom in Christ is freedom from sin not freedom to sin - we must guard our hearts. Sunday services are at 11 a.m. in Bartow Community Center, room 28. Open Door Ministries’ Therapeutic Mentoring Program offers free counseling. Contact Pastor Luis by text 917-334-4407, or email opendoorministries.net. Blessings in Christ. —Pastor Luis Ramos

The Circle of Christ Church family extends a warm welcome to you and your family and invites you to come and worship with us at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level (located in the Dreiser Community Center). La familia de la Iglesia Circulo de Cristo les extiende una cálida invitación a usted y su familia para que vengan a alabar a Dios junto con nosotros. Nos encontramos en el 147 de Dreiser Loop, al nivel del patio (localizado en el centro Comunal de Dreiser). We are a multicultural church that embraces God’s love for all. Family unity is very important to us. We have a wonderful Children Ministry focused on learning God’s word. Our Youth Ministry is very active and dynamic. The youth are involved in music, retreats, concerts, debates, conferences, drama and counseling, among many other activities. Somos una Iglesia multicultural que recibe y da del amor the Dios para todos. La unidad de la familia es muy importante para nosotros. Tenemos un ministerio para los jóvenes que es muy dinámico. Los jóvenes disfrutan de música, retiros, conciertos, debates, conferencias, dramas, consejería, y mucho mas. We also have a food pantry for those in need in our community. Our phone number is 347-945-1992. In case there is no one in the office, please feel free to leave a message, we will call you back. Suplimos comida a aquellos en nuestra comunidad que lo necesitan.

Nuestro teléfono es 347-945-1992 de no haber nadie en la oficina sientancen libres de dejar un mensaje, le devolveremos su llamada. Thought for the week 24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” John 5:24 Reflexion para la semana Juan 5:24 Nueva Versión Internacional (NVI) 24 Ciertamente les aseguro que el que oye mi palabra y cree al que me envió tiene vida eterna y no será juzgado, sino que ha pasado de la muerte a la vida. English services Wednesday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Prayer & Bible Study. Friday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Youth Night Sunday, 11:00 a.m., Worship and the Word Children Church, 5 years old to 12 years old Little lamb nursery. Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m., Prayer and the Word Thursday, 5:00 p.m., Boys and Girls Club Horario de Servicios en Español Domingo, 9:00 a 10:30 a.m., Alabanzas y Predicación Jueves, 12 p.m., Oración y Estudio Bíblico Special Event Boys and Girls Club is free every Friday at 4:30 p.m. —Pastor Sam Colon

Circle of Christ Church

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018

CCPD

that can help you to consolidate your debt in order to make payments more manageable. Those of you wishing to make donations to assist in the event of a legitimate emergency make sure that the agency to which you donate is legitimate. In the past, scammers posing as charities attempted to solicit donations for disasters. It is unfortunate, but this is unfortunately a fact of life. In some cases, it may be better to donate funds locally at your church, synagogue or religious institution. Be certain the charitable organization you select is, in fact, using the funds for the intended purpose. It is unfortunate that scammers will take advantage of a tragic situation. If you fall victim to a scam, notify the New York State Attorney General at 1 (800) 771-7755 or www.oag.state.ny.us/ and the Federal Trade Commission at 1877-382-4357 or www.ftc.gov/. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has set up an Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) specifically for the purpose of reporting internet crimes. The website is www.ic3.gov/. School is open, DRIVE CAREFULLY. Never pass a stopped school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Yes some die hard bike riders do ride bikes in the winter. Snow makes this even more hazardous. Motor vehicle operators must be extra vigilant. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must give pedestrians the same level of respect that they expect from motor vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road safely. If your Valentine’s Day celebration includes consuming alcoholic beverages, do not operate a motor vehicle. Enforcement of drunk driving has increased nationwide in an attempt to reduce Drunk Driving deaths and injuries. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State. Always remember, if you see something, say something. If you see suspicious persons in the garage or lurking near parked vehicles on the street, an auto crime could be taking place or be ready to happen, notify the authorities. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained. (Continued from page 7)

Cooperators United Of Co-op City

Greetings! February is Black History Month. Let’s not forget that we stand on the shoulders of all who have gone before us to pave the way for us to follow. GET INVOLVED. SPEAK OUT. KEEP THE PRESSURE ON by calling the Strip Mall Property Owner at 646660-4254 or 347-850-7446; NYC Buildings Dept.-Bronx Commissioner, 718-9604700; Bronx DOT Commissioner Nivardo Lopez, 212-748-6680 or online at GOOGLE NYC.DOT., City Council Member Andy King, 718-684-5509; NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey, 718-547-8854 and NY State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, 718-320-2220. The next Cooperators United of Co-op City meeting is Tuesday, February 27, 7 p.m., Bartow, room 31. We will have an update on the Strip Mall signs and a discussion regarding USPS Boxes and mail delivery. Regarding the Post Office, the consensus of opinion at our last meeting is that we do not want the P.O. boxes in our lobbies and a better place for the P.O. boxes would be in the basements. Also, in our backyard are proposed an animal shelter and a hotel. Shareholders have got to get involved. Please note that on Tuesday, February 27th at 12 noon, the Planning Office will hold a hearing regarding the billboards. We must show up and be heard. Board President Linda Berk, in her February 3rd President’s Report in the Co-op City Times stated that Riverbay will provide transportation to the hearing. More details to follow. Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Be careful when out and about. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who have suffered a loss or is sick and shut-in. Special thank you to everyone who so generously gave and continue to give to the Hurricane Relief efforts. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718-379-7841. —Sonja Maxwell

Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association

Greetings! February is Black History Month. Let us continue to fight for voting rights and equal rights. Our next meeting is Monday, February 26, 7 p.m., activity room. Regarding the P.O. boxes in our lobby, the consensus of opinion is that the P.O. boxes should not be in our lobby, but in the basement. This is not about accommodating the P.O. The P.O. on Connor Street should be accommodating us by hiring more window clerks to alleviate the lines to mail and to pick-up packages. Spend Your Pre-Mother’s Day With Us… We still have seats available to see “JESUS” at the Sight and Sound Millennium Theatre, on Saturday, May 12, leaving at 7 a.m. from Building 12. Adults, $165 per person; each child under the age of 11, $140. Adult, 1st deposit of $55 due January 30th, 2nd deposit of $55 due February 28th, final payment of $55 due March 30th. Child, 1st deposit of

$40 due January 30th, 2nd deposit of $40 due February 28th, final payment of $40 due March 30th. Please make checks payable to Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association, 120 Casals Pl., 26L, Bronx, NY 10475. Contact Sonja, 718379-7841, or Sonia at 718-379-8305 or Donald, 917-848-0122. “Straight Outta Co-op City” shirt purchases can be made by contacting president of Building 11, Deborah Henry, 718-379-6312. Sizes are children (small-xl) $10; adults (small-xl) $12; adults (2x-3x) $15. Please be extra careful when you are out and about. Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who has suffered a loss or is sick and shut-in. If you see something, say something. To contact CCPD (Public Safety), call 718-671-3050. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718-379-7841.—Sonja Maxwell

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH Black Women In Art And Literature Over the first two decades of the 20th century, continuing racial injustice and widespread reports of lynchings and other violence inspired a literature of protest, including the short stories, novels and commentary of Pauline E. Hopkins, editor of the Colored American’s Magazine. The 1920s, of course, saw a flowering of AfricanAmerican literature based in the New York City neighborhood of Harlem. Among the most eloquent voices of the Harlem Renaissance was that of Nella Larsen, author of the novels “Quicksand” (1928) and “Passing” (1929). Zora Neale Hurston, who studied at Barnard and Columbia in New York, published early short stories during the Harlem Renaissance but would become most famous for her 1937 novel “Their Eyes Were Watching God.” The Civil Rights And Black Arts Movements The hardship of the Depression and the coming of World War II refocused African-American literature and art towards social criticism, as evidenced by the work of such novelists as Ann Petry, whose 1946 novel “The Street” chronicled the struggles of a working class black woman in Harlem. In 1949, Chicago native Gwendolyn Brooks, whose work dealt with everyday life in black urban communities, became the first African-American poet to win the Pulitzer Prize. In the realm of drama, Lorraine Hansberry (also from Chicago) scored tremendous critical and popular success with “A Raisin in the Sun,” which opened on Broadway in 1959. During the 1950s and 1960s, few black artists–and even fewer black women–were accepted into the mainstream of American art. Elizabeth Catlett, a sculptor and printmaker, spent much of her career as an expatriate in Mexico City in the 1940s; the activism of her life and work led in the 1950s to her investigation by the House Un-American Activities Committee. Catlett was known for sculptures such as “Homage to My Young Black Sisters” (1968). In 1972, at the age of 80, the abstract painter Alma Woodsey Thomas became the first AfricanAmerican woman to have a solo exhibit of her paintings at the Whitney Museum. Artists and writers would play an active role in the civil rights movement of the late 1950s and 1960s. Gwendolyn Brooks, for example, composed “The Last Quatrain of the Ballad of Emmett Till” for a black youth murdered in Mississippi in 1955; she included more explicit social criticism in her volume “The Bean Eaters” (1960). Poetry was also a central form of expression for the Black Arts movement, the artistic branch of the Black Power movement of the late 1960s and 1970s. Important female poets in this movement, which emphasized the solidarity of the African-American community, included Sonia Sanchez, Jayne Cortez, Carolyn M. Rodgers and Nikki Giovanni. The autobiography of the murdered black activist Malcolm X, written with Alex Haley and published in 1965, influenced similar memoirs by black female activists like Anne Moody and Angela Davis, who published her own autobiography in 1974. (Continued From Last Week)

(Continued Next Week) Source: History.com

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2018