Co-op City Times 02/10/2024 by Co-op City Times

Honoring the struggles, achievements and history of African-Americans

Vol. 59 No. 6

Saturday, February 10, 2024

MTA Hosts Informational Session in Einstein Community Center BY BRANDON ORTIZ

07$ DQG 0HWUR 1RUWK RI¿FLDOV JDWKHUHG RQ :HGQHVGD\ QLJKW )HEUXDU\ in Room 45 of Einstein Community Center to answer questions and provide updates on the Metro-North Penn Station Access Plan. Riverbay Board President Sonia Feliciano kicked off the event by expressLQJ KHU JUDWLWXGH WR WKH 07$ RI¿FLDOV LQ DWWHQGDQFH DQG WKDQNLQJ WKHP IRU being available to answer questions from shareholders. Joe O’Donnel, director of Government and Community Relations for MTA Construction and Development, then began the discussion by reviewing the Metro-North Penn Station Access Plan overall, and detailing the latest updates on project construction. Since the new Metro-North stations will be using Amtrak’s Hell Gate Line to deliver service, a key aspect of the plan involves revamping that line “to a state of good repair,” as described by O’Donnel. Integral to those efforts will be improving Amtrak’s existing catenary system, which powers Amtrak trains, and modernizing the various bridge structures along the Hell Gate Line such as the Pelham Bay Bridge. O’Donnel also touched on how the upgrades to Amtrak’s Hell Gate Line will deliver electrical upgrades, an improved signaling system and a state-of-the-art communication system. In areas where tracks reach close to the surrounding water table, such as the marshlands that surround Co-op City, O’Donnel exSODLQHG WKDW FRQVWUXFWLRQ ZLOO LQFOXGH ³VLJQL¿FDQW HQKDQFHPHQWV WR VWRUPZDWHU management including new drainage.” (Continued on page 4)

Applying for SCRIE and DRIE BY ROZAAN BOONE

Senior shareholders 62 years and older, and shareholders who are disabled may be eligible for the city’s SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) or DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption) program. Those who qualify may be minimally affected by the proposed 2.1% carrying charge increase to be implemented on April 1, 2024, pending approval by Co-op City’s state-supervisory agency, New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR). At the Tuesday, January 30th DHCR Carrying Charge conference, the agenF\ LQIRUPHG VKDUHKROGHUV WKDW D SURMHFWHG LQFUHDVH PD\ EH QHFHVVDU\ WR KHOS WKH KRXVLQJ FRPSDQ\ PHHW LWV ¿QDQFLDO REOLJDWLRQV IRU LWV operations H[SHQVHV 7KH +&5 &RPPLVVLRQHU ZLOO PDNH WKH ¿QDO GHWHUPLQDWLRQ RQFH feedback and comments from shareholders as well as other factors have been reviewed and taken into consideration. Shareholders already receiving SCRIE or DRIE do not need to reapply. Riverbay will submit the paperwork when the increase becomes effective. (Continued on page 3)

NYC Summer Youth Application Now Open The NYC Department of Youth and Community Development’s 2024 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) Application for young people 14-24 years of age is available online at https://application.nycsyep. com. The application deadline is March 1, 2024. This program offers career exploration, project-based learning, work experience, community building and the opportunity to earn money. Selection is based on a lottery, and submission of an application does not guarantee an offer of summer employPHQW 7R ¿QG RXW PRUH DERXW 6<(3 FRQWDFW &RPPXQLW\ &RQQHFW DW 246-4646.

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Riverbay Management Meets with Building Presidents for Discussion on Apartment Repairs Process BY LAURETTA JAYSURA

On Thursday evening, February 9, in Co-op City City’s Dreiser Auditorium, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton and his executive management team consisting of Mr. Cary Smith III and Mr. Warren Mitchell held a very important meeting exclusively for the 35 high rise building presidents or their representatives in Co-op City. On Tuesday evening, February 6, a similar meeting was held in the Bartow Center’s Room 31 with the presidents or designated representatives of the townhouse associations. These meetings were called to discuss the apartment repairs process and to brainstorm possible solutions. Thursday’s meeting was called to order by Mr. Walton, who quickly noted that, unfortunately, he had to say “no” to the many requests Building and Townhouse Association presidents were he received asking if others called to a special meeting this week with Executive could come. Management to discuss the Apartment Repairs pro“This meeting has been set cess and ideas to make the process more efficient. Photo by Charlotte Okoro

(Continued on page 2)

Completed Window Guard Forms Due on Thursday, Feb. 15 Completed Window Guard forms are due by this coming Thursday, FebruDU\ 6KDUHKROGHUV DUH UHTXLUHG WR ¿OO RXW WKH UHVSRQVH FDUG WHDU LW RII place the completed card into the pre-paid envelope and drop it in the mail. You can also respond by phone, online or by faxing the completed card back. Please follow the instructions included in the mailing.

3XEOLF 6DIHW\ 2I¿FHUV $SSUHKHQG 3DFNDJH 3LUDWH 2Q 0RQGD\ )HEUXDU\ DW DSSUR[LPDWHO\ S P 2I¿FHUV from the Co-op City Public Safety Department (CCPD) responded to Building 31A and arrested a 52-year-old male for package theft. The male is suspected of dozens of package thefts in Co-op City. Additionally, he has an extensive criminal record involving property crime and violent crimes against persons. He was last arrested by CCPD in September of 2022 for the same offense. The suspect is not a Co-op City resident. CCPD reported that the suspect gains entry by piggy backing into buildings. At approximately 3:15 p.m. on February 5, CCPD received a call from a shareholder who reported receiving an alert on their Ring camera and observed a male removing a package from their apartment door. The shareholder immediately called CCPD’s emergency number to report the theft. 7KH UHVSRQGLQJ 2I¿FHUV LQLWLDWHG DQ DSSUHKHQVLRQ SODQ DQG VWUDWHJLFDOO\ UHsponded to the incident. The suspect was observed coming out of the rear lobby VWDLUZHOO ZLWK D VKRSSLQJ FDUW ¿OOHG ZLWK WKH VWROHQ SURSHUW\ KH KDG UHPRYHG IURP PXOWLSOH ORFDWLRQV RQ PXOWLSOH ÀRRUV ZLWKLQ WKH EXLOGLQJ &&3' 2I¿FHUV stopped the male at the rear exit of the building and placed him under arrest. The CCPD Detective Squad recovered empty boxes and packages that were left in the stairwells. Every empty box was indexed with a shareholder victim. Every victim was contacted by Public Safety Detectives to obtain a detailed inventory from each package. Every empty box that had an item removed (Continued on page 5)

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Repairs ––––– (Continued from page 1) up to talk directly to you about the problems we’ve heard from you,” he told WKH EXLOGLQJ DVVRFLDWLRQV¶ RI¿FHUV DQG RU WKHLU GHVLJQDWHG UHSUHVHQWDWLYHV +H also corrected a bit of misinformation he had heard, “We have 27 departments, DQG QRW ´

Deputy General Manager Warren Mitchell (left) engages with building presidents DQG GHVLJQDWHG UHSUHVHQWDWLYHV GXULQJ 7KXUVGD\ QLJKW¶V PHHWLQJ Photos by Charlotte Okoro

Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith (left) mounts a list of concerns and issues highlighted by one group for review.

)ROORZLQJ WKHLU LQWURGXFWLRQV 0U 6PLWK DQG 0U 0LWFKHOO JUHHWHG HYHU\RQH EULHÀ\ RXWOLQHG WKHLU VSHFL¿F DUHDV LQ WKH DSDUWPHQW UHSDLUV SURFHVV DQG DVNHG IRU WKH FRRSHUDWLRQ RI DOO VWDNHKROGHUV WR KHOS LPSURYH WKH SURFHVV 0LWFKHOO pointed out how important cooperation is since more than one department may EH LQYROYHG LQ JHWWLQJ WKH UHSDLU GRQH LQ D WLPHO\ ZD\ WKDW LV JRRG IRU HYHU\RQH 6PLWK VSRNH RI WKH ³&DOO &HQWHU´ DQG ZKDW KDSSHQV ZKHQ D UHVLGHQW PDNHV D FDOO +H SRLQWHG RXW KRZ LPSRUWDQW LW LV WR JHW WKH QDPH RI WKH SHUVRQ ZLWK ZKRP \RX VSHDN

VKHHWV DW WKH HQG RI WKH PHHWLQJ $W WKLV ¿UVW EUDLQVWRUPLQJ VHVVLRQ RWKHUV ZLOO IROORZ HYHU\RQH ZDV DFWLYHly engaged, some tables more than others, but discourse could be heard talking QRW RQO\ RI WKH SUREOHP EXW KRZ WR ¿[ WKH SUREOHP ± VRPHWKLQJ WKH RUJDQL]HU HPSKDVL]HG DW WKH EHJLQQLQJ RI WKH PHHWLQJ 7KH ¿QDO DFWLYLW\ LQ WKLV PHHWLQJ PRGXOH FDOOHG IRU HDFK WDEOH WR GHVLJQDWH D WDEOH ³VSHDNHU´ WR SUHVHQW WKH LGHDV DQG FRPPHQWV IRU WKHLU VSHFL¿F WDEOH WR WKH ODUJHU JURXS 7KLV ZRXOG SURYLGH D SLFWXUH RI ZKDW¶V JRLQJ RQ LQ &R RS &LW\ DV VHHQ E\ VKDUHKROGHUV According to Management, a revised management module will be presented WR $VVRFLDWLRQV DQG %RDUG PHPEHUV IRU FRQFXUUHQFH EHIRUH WKHUH LV D UROO RXW ,I GHHPHG QHFHVVDU\ PRGL¿FDWLRQV PLJKW EH PDGH WKDW LQFOXGH VRPH VKLIWLQJ LQ VWDII EXW RUJDQL]DWLRQV ZLOO EH QRWL¿HG ,Q FORVLQJ ([HFXWLYH *HQHUDO 0DQDJHU :DOWRQ WKDQNHG HYHU\RQH IRU FRPLQJ DQG SDUWLFLSDWLQJ +H DOVR WKDQNHG WKRVH KH PHHWV RQ WKH *UHHQZD\ ³WHOOLQJ PH P\ MRE ´ DV ZHOO DV %RDUG GLUHFWRUV GRLQJ GRXEOH GXW\ +H QRWHG ³, DP JUDWHIXO WR EH DVVRFLDWHG ZLWK &R RS &LW\ :H DUH DOO RQH &R RS &LW\ ± MXVW LQ PXOWLSOH VHFWLRQV ´

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The Premier Foot And Ankle Practice In Co-op City TWO LOCATIONS! SECTION 2 SECTION 5 BUILDING 13 BUILDING 29C 100 CASALS PLACE 4240 HUTCH. RIVER PKWY E. Sonia Feliciano, president of the Building 19 Association, presents for her table at the meeting with Executive Management.

1H[W LW ZDV WLPH IRU WKH PHHWLQJ¶V KRVW 0U :DOWRQ WR H[SODLQ KRZ WKH meeting would be run: One table per section was set up with chairs to acFRPPRGDWH EXLOGLQJ SUHVLGHQWV *URXQG UXOHV ZHUH VWULFWO\ IROORZHG WR NHHS SDUWLFLSDQWV IRFXVHG RQ DJHQGD LWHPV (YHU\RQH FRRSHUDWHG DQG VHWWOHG GRZQ for the real (no stories) part of the meeting, dealing with the Apartment Repairs Process. $W WKLV ¿UVW VHVVLRQ HDFK SDUWLFLSDQW ZDV JLYHQ D JUHHQ VKHHW DQG D \HOORZ sheet of paper and then instructed to write what they individually thought about WKH FXUUHQW DSDUWPHQW UHSDLUV SURFHVV 7KH FRPPHQWV ZHUH WR EH VWUDLJKW WR WKH SRLQW VKRUW DQG OHJLEOH 5HFRPPHQGDWLRQV VKRXOG EH RIIHUHG DOVR RQ KRZ WR ¿[ D SUREOHP WKDW¶V LGHQWL¿HG 0DQDJHPHQW ZRXOG FROOHFW DOO WKH FRPSOHWHG

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Assistant Executive General Manager Smith and Executive General Manager Walton listen attentively to building presidents, some of whom are also Board members, present their concerns and possible solutions to the repairs process.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Co-op City Times COMBING

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

Senior Food Box Distribution Senior food boxes will be distributed at the Dreiser Center on Thursday, February 15, and Thursday, March 14, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. next to the hardware store. Current enrollees in this program must bring photo ID. Proxies must bring their own photo ID, photo ID of the person you are picking up food for and a signed Food Bank Proxy form. No new enrollees are accepted at this time. This program is open to seniors 60 years and older. It is a collaboration among the Food Bank of New York, USDA and Riverbay Corporation.

Feb. CB #10 Meeting The next General Board meeting and public hearing of CB #10 will take place on Wednesday, February 21, at 7 p.m. at Villa Barone Manor, 737 Throgs Neck Expressway, Bronx, NY 10465. For additional information, you may contact CB#10 at (718) 892-1161 or by email: bx10@cb.nyc.gov.

Black History Month Celebration, Feb. 22 Assemblyman Michael Benedetto’s Black History Month celebration will be held in the Dreiser Auditorium on Thursday, February 22, beginning at 12 p.m. The Guest Speaker will be Lester Young Jr., Chancellor, New York State Board of Regents. There will also be live performances and lunch. To attend, RSVP by calling (718) 320-2220 or email Iris Figueras at Figuerasi@nyassembly.gov or Tremaine Ogarro at Ogarrot@nyassembly.gov.

February is Heart Health Awareness Month!

Front nd Page

SCRIE and DRIE ––––– (Continued from page 1) Both SCRIE and DRIE are part of the city’s Rent Freeze Program, and for homeowners in Mitchell-Lama developments such as Co-op City, SCRIE is administered by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), not the NYC Department of Finance. Information on SCRIE can be obtained by calling HPD’s SCRIE Unit at (212) 863-8494, or 311, or by going online to nyc.gov/hpd. Shareholders applying for DRIE do so through the NYC Rent Freeze program which is processed through the NYC Department of Finance. For information and application forms, visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/rentfreeze/index. page, or use https://on.nyc.gov/3T7fZLN, or call 311. Shareholders already enrolled in the SCRIE and DRIE programs are sent recertification packages, however, both initial and renewal applications are available online. For the convenience of Riverbay shareholders, initial SCRIE and DRIE applications can also be picked up at the reception desk at the Riverbay administrative office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. Completed SCRIE applications and supporting documents can be returned by mail directly to: SCRIE Unit, New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Division of Housing Supervision, 100 Gold Street, 7th floor, New York, NY 10038, or emailed to SCRIE@hpd.nyc.gov. Completed DRIE applications and supporting documents must be returned by mail to: New York City Department of Finance Rent Freeze Program: DRIE, P.O. Box 3179, Union, NJ 07083. For assistance, call 311 or send DOF a message by visiting www.nyc.gov/contactdrie. TTY callers, use (212) 639-9675. Virtual appointments are also available. To be eligible for SCRIE, applicants must meet all of the following criteria on the effective date of the carrying charge increase: • You (or spouse) lived in the apartment • Your (or spouse) are head of the household • You (or spouse) are 62 years of age or older • Total household income does not exceed $50,000 (household income for all persons living in unit) • Monthly basic carrying charge is more than or equal to 1/3 of your total annual household income (Any portion of your carrying charge that is for other fees/charges is not considered part of your base carrying charge) • You are NOT on any other carrying charge assisted program (i.e., DRIE, Section 8) Supporting documents for SCRIE applicants must be provided for all persons living in the unit. All financial information required is for the calendar year immediately PRIOR to the year in which the carrying charge increase becomes effective. Supporting documents include: • Current year Social Security award letter • Proof of age (government issued Driver’s license, ID, passport or birth certificate) • Federal and New York State tax return with All schedules or tax transcripts. If taxes not filed, provide a non-filing verification letter from the IRS for each occupant in unit • W-2 for all wage earners • 1099-R form for all pension(s) held • November and December bank statements to verify SSI and SSP • Proof of public assistance or unemployment, if applicable • Retirement letter, if applicable Eligibility for DRIE (must answer “yes” to all of the following): • Be 18 years old or older • Be named on the lease/occupancy agreement or have been granted succession rights • Have a combined household income of $50,000 or less • Spend more than one-third of your monthly household income on carrying charges/maintenance

• Have you been awarded one the following benefits? • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) • Federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability pension or compensation, or • Disability-related Medicaid if the applicant has received either SSI or SSDI in the past • Do you live in NYC in one of these types of housing? • a rent stabilized apartment • a rent controlled apartment • a Mitchell-Lama development • a Limited Dividend development • a redevelopment company development • a Housing Development Fund Company (HDFC) Cooperative development • a Section 213 Cooperative unit • a rent regulated hotel or single room occupancy unit Supporting documents to accompany a DRIE application (for applicant and each additional household member): 1. Proof of Age – Copy of birth certificate, baptismal record, passport, Driver’s license, government-issued photo identification card, or other federal, state, or local document displaying date of birth. 2. Proof of Income – Copy of federal or state income tax returns with all schedules and 1099s (for calendar year immediately prior to date carrying charge increase becomes effective). If applicant or any additional household member who did not file a federal or state tax return, submit copies of all sources of income including wages, salaries, and tips; Social Security benefits (SSA, SSDI, SSI); Pension payments; unemployment, workers’ compensation, or disability benefits; IRA earnings; annuity earnings; capital gains; Interest or dividends (taxable and non-taxable); child support or alimony payments received; public assistance (cash); financial support from family or friends for rent/ carrying charges; debt cancellation, and all other sources of income 3. Proof of Carrying Charge – For Mitchell-Lama shareholders, submit HCR Commissioner’s Orders, carrying charge history printout or letter from management office specifying the date of your last carrying charge increase and the amount before and after the most recent carrying charge increase 4. Power of Attorney (if applicable) – If a power of attorney or court-appointed guardian signs the DRIE application on behalf of the applicant, documentation for the power of attorney or guardianship must be submitted. Applicants of both SCRIE and DRIE are urged to consult the application package for more details or call 311, or visit the respective agency’s website online. One hundred and ninety-seven (197) Co-op City shareholders are currently enrolled in the DRIE program and 1,370 in the SCRIE program. SCRIE and DRIE exempt those who qualify from future carrying charge increases, essentially freezing their carrying charges, and provides the housing corporation with a tax credit. Shareholders not currently enrolled who believe they qualify for either program are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible.

Wednesday, February 14

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

MTA ––––– (Continued from page 1) us to talk to who would be able to move the needle The MTA was able to schedule a single-track on that conversation, then we’re happy to sit down long term outage in 2023 from March 6 to Septemand have those conversations as well,” O’Donnel ber 1 in accordance with Amtrak so that the MTA said in response. FRXOG GHOLYHU PRGL¿FDWLRQV WR WKH H[LVWLQJ LQIUD$ VKDUHKROGHU ZKR VSRNH QH[W DVNHG 2¶'RQQHO structure. /RFDOO\ WKH ¿UVW VWDJHV RI SUHSDUDWLRQ IRU WKH about public safety accommodations at the new &R RS &LW\ VWDWLRQ LV H[SHFWHG WR EHJLQ VRPH WLPH Co-op City station. “As part of the public safety, all of these stations in 2024 with area preparations, foundations, mini will have help points – the blue light help points – piles and drilled caisson installation for the station WKDW \RX ¿QG DW WKH YDULRXV 07$ IDFLOLWLHV EXW WKH\ and substation, according to the MTA. 07$ RI¿FLDOV DW WKH PHHWLQJ DOVR GLVFORVHG WKDW will also be patrolled. There’s CCTV’s at all of the stations as well as patrols. There’s shareholders interested in viewing an not going to be a physical presence updated rendering of the Co-op City of NYPD or MTAPD at the stations VWDWLRQ FDQ H[SHFW RQH ODWHU WKLV \HDU themselves,” O’Donnel said in reAfter reviewing the Metro-North sponse before allowing Brad Knote, a Penn Station Access Plan and the latest Metro-North Civil Engineer and Asprogress updates, O’Donnel opened VLVWDQW 'LUHFWRU WR H[SDQG RQ SXEOLF WKH ÀRRU IRU TXHVWLRQV DQG FRPPHQWV safety protocols for Metro-North stafrom shareholders in attendance. tions. 7UDI¿F FRQJHVWLRQ SDUNLQJ DQG “All MTA train stations are papublic safety were the most commonly brought up topics of concern for Board President Sonia trolled by MTAPD, a separate diviFeliciano asked about VLRQ ,W¶V QRW 1<3' ´ .QRWH H[SODLQHG shareholders. Board President Feliciano began parking accommoda- “The most highly populated MetWKH TXHVWLRQ DQG DQVZHU SHULRG ZLWK tions at the Co-op City ro-North train stations have MTAPD Metro-North station, D TXHVWLRQ DERXW SRWHQWLDO SDUNLQJ DF- pointing out that ga- substations associated with them. The commodations. rage #8 already has an number of people that you’re going to see here at these stations – at this “The issue that I think we are going extensive wait list. station in particular – really it’s relato have is parking,” said Board Presitively low compared to other ones at 125th Street dent Feliciano. “You state that only residents from in Harlem or Fordham train station in the middle of this area are going to utilize the station. I don’t WKH %URQ[ 6R WKHUH ZLOO EH SDWUROV 7KH\¶OO VZLQJ think that is accurate. I think you are going to get a by on some sort of regular cycle – we don’t know lot of folks from the outside. Our closest garage is what that is yet – they’ll set that up before the sysGarage 8 and we don’t even have enough space in tem starts running. But, there will not be permanent it for our own people. So, this is a problem. I think manned MTAPD.” that we need to look a little wider and consider that Another shareholder asked O’Donnel if there we should have some kind of parking lot. Even if were any plans to address the narrowness of the I were to go to the other side of Co-op City, which current road along Erskine Place, especially where is Section 1, which is 920 Baychester, I would still WKH %[0 H[SUHVV EXV PDNHV D ULJKW KDQG WXUQ RQWR have to hop on a bus to get over to Section 5. So, Erskine Place and is forced to do so while turning that 50 minutes that you’re talking about is probLQWR RQFRPLQJ WUDI¿F ably 75, 80 maybe even 90 minutes depending on “To your point, that’s part of the conversation WKH WUDI¿F ´ we’re having with city and state DOT (Department O’Donnel then responded to Board President of Transit) as well as our bus folks to see what can Feliciano and acknowledged her concern. “I don’t EH GRQH LQ WKDW DUHD ZKHWKHU ZH FDQ H[SDQG WKH think there’s been a single meeting that I’ve been at roadway – the width of the roadway – whether we – not only about Co-op City – but some of the other can add bus stops, whether we can make it more stations as well. Hunts Point is another one where LW FRPHV XS TXLWH D ELW 6R WKHUH LV QR SDUNLQJ DV QDYLJDEOH IRU WKH H[LVWLQJ EXVHV ´ 2¶'RQQHO UHpart of the scope and budget of this project. That sponded to the shareholder. doesn’t mean that we aren’t considering how to Following O’Donnel’s answer about addressPD[LPL]H DQG EHVW JHW SHRSOH WR DQG IURP WKH VWDing the narrowness of Erskine Place, a shareholder WLRQ 6SHFL¿FDOO\ LQ &R RS &LW\ RQH RI WKH WKLQJV LQTXLUHG DERXW WKH SRWHQWLDO IDUH SULFH RI WKH WUDLQ that we’ve been talking about internally with our and whether there would be reduced fares for sebus folks is the possibility of adding more buses nior riders. and bus stops to both the north and south side of “What I can tell you is Metro-North is going to be who sets the fare. Service is not going to start running until 2027, so that fare will be predicated on whatever the economic climate is at the time, they’re going to set it based on how the economy is going. What I do know is that there is a reduced fare being considered similar %RDUG 'LUHFWRU 0DU\ 3HDUVRQ EURXJKW XS -RH 2¶'RQQHO 07$¶V GLUHFWRU RI Govt. and Community Relations, an- a south side entrance to the Co-op City to the City Ticket… so this area – much Metro-North station. swers shareholders questions. like Long Island Erskine Place. There’s also talk about the possibiliRailroad – folks going from Jamaica to either Atty of including a shuttle from other areas directly to lantic Terminal, Penn Station or Grand Central Stathe station. Now, as I say, revenue service doesn’t tion get a reduced fare. Similarly, folks from these start until 2027 so we have some time to think this (new) four station areas going into the city will be through…In our conversations with Riverbay, they able to utilize a reduced fare or City Ticket type of KDG ÀRDWHG WKH LGHD DERXW SRVVLEOH FRQYHUVDWLRQV situation. That is on the table for sure,” O’Donnel about third-party development of parking in the said. area, and we would be happy to have those conRiverbay Board Director Mary Pearson spoke versations…and if there are folks you would like QH[W DQG HPSKDVL]HG D QHHG IRU DQ DGGLWLRQDO HQ-

trance into the Co-op City station. “When we originally conceived this station, it was much further east. Because of the fact that Amtrak has designs on raising the bridge, we needed to move the station west in order for once the train stops here and picks up its passengers and continues on, to be able to get up to the speed to get over the new Amtrak bridge when it does come… When this whole project was budgeted, designed DQG H[HFXWHG WKHUH ZDV QR FRQVLGHUDWLRQ RI D VWDtion on the south side because it was technically infeasible when it was further east. Therefore, there’s no money to put it (an entrance) in on the south side. What it doesn’t do is preclude us – should there be a need, should come 2028, 2029, 2030 – we see that there is a real need based on ridership patterns and the origin and destination of the folks who are going to be using this Co-op City station. Where the station is being built today and the way WKH HQWUDQFHV DUH EHLQJ FRQ¿JXUHG WRGD\ GRHV QRW preclude us from coming back in some future capital plan and putting an entrance on the south side,” O’Donnel replied to Director Pearson. Riverbay Board Director Rod Saunders spoke after Director Pearson and discussed his opinion of the Co-op City Metro-North station. ³7KH FRQFHSW GRHVQ¶W ¿W WKH UHDOLW\ ,Q WKH years that I’ve been here, there was never a time where we begged to have the Metro-North going from Co-op City into Manhattan. That was a deci-

%RDUG 'LUHFWRU 5RG 6DXQGHUV RIIHUHG D SRVVLEOH solution to fix the parking dilemma. Photos by Brandon Ortiz

sion that was made by Metro-North, by the State, by the Governor – whoever made it. But the problem here is that in doing what you wanted to do – what the state wanted to do, what Metro-North needed to do – the problems that you create afIHFW XV $QG WKH DWWLWXGH KDV EHHQ VSHFL¿FDOO\ DV LW FRPHV WR SDUNLQJ DQG WUDI¿F LV WKDW ZH¶OO GHDO with it or, as I heard you mention earlier, we’ll get a third party to deal with it. The problem is that’s not fair. We didn’t ask for this, you are giving it to XV«,¶P QRW WKLQNLQJ WKHUH¶V JRLQJ WR EH D WUDI¿F problem, I am telling you that there’s going to be D WUDI¿F SUREOHP«,W¶V QRW DERXW WU\LQJ WR ¿QG WKH property, it’s got to be about securing the air rights and building a reasonable platformed parking lot over the tracks. That would be a reasonable solution,” Director Saunders said. ³7KH WUDI¿F VLWXDWLRQ LV VRPHWKLQJ WKDW ZH DUH aware of and we are working with, again, State and local DOT because that’s their purview…Those conversations are happening, we’re trying to understand how we work with them based on our view DQG DQWLFLSDWLRQ RI DQ LQÀX[ RI FDUV RU SHGHVWULDQV into this area, what needs to be done. They’re considering those things right now,” O’Donnel said to Director Saunders. The meeting concluded following the Q&A session with Joe O’Donnel. Shareholders who are interested in reading more about the Metro-North Penn Station Access Plan can go online to new.mta.info/project/penn-station-access. Questions or concerns can be emailed to PSAOutreach@mtacd.org or by calling the project hotline at 347-263-7837.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Arrest ––––– (Continued from page 1) and deposited in the suspect’s shopping cart was verified and indexed, together with recovered empty boxes in the hallways. All items were found in the possession of the predicate career criminal suspect. The 52-year-old male is facing numerous charges. In addition, the CCPD Detective Squad is enhancing this arrest by working with the Bronx District Attorney’s Office to provide them with additional dates, videos and pictures wherein this male was observed in other buildings committing the same act. CCPD Chief Joseph Riley said: “One again, our community is subject to being victimized by career criminals who have been apprehended over and over again. This suspect is particularly troubling due to his propensity for continuing his criminal acts after being repeatedly arrested. I am hopeful that if this suspect is convicted, he will receive a penalty befitting the hardship and inconvenience he has imposed on his victims.” Chief Riley urges Co-op City residents to redouble efforts to receive packages in a secure and controlled manner “to eliminate opportunities for criminals to continue stealing packages left unattended at their door.” “There are many other package pirates out there and we encourage shareholders to continue calling CCPD when they see individual/s removing packages from in front of apartment doors and/or from the lobbies in the buildings,” said Lt. Anthony Warner, Commander of CCPD’s Detectives Squad. “Co-op City residents know who live in their buildings so when you see suspicious persons lurking around, please call and provide CCPD with a detailed description. Shareholders work hard to be able to afford the things they want and it is hurtful and aggravating to have your belongings stolen. With your assistance and cooperation, CCPD will continue to combat crime and bring justice and closure to these situations such as is the case with this arrest.” Lt. Warner added that shareholders with doorbell videos of persons removing packages should contact the CCPD Tips Hotline at (718) 879-6311.

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

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

– • Letters to the Editor • –

Stiffer Fines Needed for “Uncooperative” Dog Owners

City’s Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption Program is Dysfunctional

To the Editor: It is time for Riverbay to stop being too kind to people here who have dogs that poop all over the place and the owners get away with it. It is so very obvious by now that these people don’t care about our community and that they are incompatible to our spirit of cooperation. It’s time that the Board meets to discuss this matter at length and draft a resolution that will call for increased fines for those who do not pick up after their dogs. Riverbay should have a list of every cooperator and cameras should be mounted around every building in the front, back and the sides. When poop is discovered, the camera should see who the violators are. Violators then should pay a stiff fine of $500; after the second violation, the fine should double. The only way to discourage and severely curb this filthy, reckless behavior is to hit them very deeply in their pockets. Signs should be posted all over Co-op City with the fines inside our buildings and outside the buildings stating that Public Safety and Riverbay are monitoring and the rule shall be strictly enforced. A notice also should go out to everyone who has a dog in their apartment. I refuse to let our community go to the dogs because of careless apathetic people with no decency but an abundance of indifference. —Mike Miller

To the Editor: This dysfunction is critical because soon Riverbay’s carrying charges will increase by 2.1% to 8.1% (the final figure to be determined by New York’s State’s Division of Housing and Community Renewal (“DHCR”). Senior citizens living on fixed incomes will be among those most seriously hit by this increase. While claiming the pain of a large carrying charge increase is necessary for Riverbay’s continued operation, DHCR attempts to sidestep the increase’s calamitous effect on seniors by advising them to apply for SCRIE. But this is a dead end. SCRIE isn’t working. Some background: In December 2022, I attended a SCRIE workshop at the Bartow Center and learned there are only three people in the City’s Department of Finance processing SCRIE applications. Of those three, only one employee handles Co-op City. At the time of this workshop – December, the end of the year! – I learned the City had processed no – ZERO – applications for 2022. A few weeks ago, I participated in a DHCR Zoom meeting about the upcoming 2024 carrying charge increase. George Simon, the DHCR moderator, encouraged seniors to apply for SCRIE, claiming application processing time “should take about 90 days.” Over the past year, I’ve assisted many seniors applying for SCRIE at workshops I’ve given in my building association room. As of today, none has received a decision. It’s been a year, seniors are still hanging in limbo, and another large increase is on the way! At Mayor Eric Adams’ recent Co-op City town hall meeting, I attempted to learn the status of 2023’s applications but the Finance Department representative was unavailable. Later, I was contacted by J. Melendez of the Department of Aging. He told me he’d forward my question to the Department of Finance. The seniors and I are still waiting for a call. —Carol Arthur

Correction In the February 3, 2024 Co-op City Times, shareholder Wanda Randall was misidentiﬁed on page 4 as Wanda Randu. We apologize for the mistake and any inconvenience caused.

Need Formal Wear for Prom 2024? Operation Prom National Network will distribute free formal wear for prom on Friday–Sunday, April 26-28, at the Westchester County Center, 198 Central Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606. On Friday, April 26, 1-5 p.m., high school seniors with valid HS ID’s or transcripts can pick up free dresses and tuxedos. Reservation is required. Scan the QR Code here or visit https:// forms.gle/XapMtfDed4WXDJaZB. No reservation is required on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free dresses and tuxedos will be distributed to high school seniors with valid HS ID or transcripts. On Sunday, April 28, between 10 a.m.-2 p.m., only prom dresses will be available to all students and the general public. There is a $10 donation per dress. Tuxedos will not be available on this date.

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

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

John Crow New Media Producer 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 writer and include their address and phone number, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the author. 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 submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m. Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475. Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp. Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corp. of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available. The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor, only from Co-op City shareholders, at cctimes@riverbaycorp.com. Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner. Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The Co-op City Times does not publish anonymous material. Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which will be kept conﬁdential – so authenticity and residency of the writer can be veriﬁed. Thank you for your cooperation.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Deadly Game of Swatting: A Dangerous Trend with Dire Consequences In the era of advanced technology and internet connectivity, a disturbing trend known as “swatting” has emerged, posing serious threats to public safety and law enforcement. Swatting, often perceived as a malicious prank, involves falsely reporting a critical incident, such as a hostage situation or an active shooter, to emergency services with the intention of prompting a heavily armed police response, including SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) teams. While the perpetrators may view it as harmless fun or a way to harass others, the consequences of swatting can be catastrophic, leading to unnecessary risks, injuries, and even death. Swatting typically begins with online disputes, gaming rivalries, or even as retaliation for perceived slights. The perpetrator obtains personal information about the victim, including their address, and then makes a hoax emergency call to law enforcement, claiming a serious threat at that location. The call is often made to appear urgent and credible, resulting in a swift and forceful response from authorities. Innocent individuals, unaware of the situation, suddenly find themselves in the midst of a terrifying and potentially life-threatening ordeal as armed officers storm their homes. Swatting puts innocent individuals, including children and elderly family members, at risk of physical harm or psychological trauma. Imagine the sheer terror of being abruptly confronted by heavily armed officers breaking into your home under the false belief that you pose a threat. Swatting incidents trigger massive mobilizations of law enforcement resources, including SWAT teams, emergency responders, and crisis negotiators. These resources are diverted from genuine emergencies, putting the community at risk and potentially delaying responses to real crises. The following are some key points related to swatting in the U.S. Swat-

Public Safety Report

Public Safety Blotter

January 28 – February 3, 2024 January 28, 2024 Asch Loop/Alcott Place Patrol Units observed multiple Honda and Acura vehicles that had been vandalized on Asch Loop, Alcott Place, Aldrich Street, Bartow Avenue, and Baychester Avenue. Vehicles had their rear passenger window smashed, airbag removed and the vehicle interior was ransacked. The investigation is ongoing. Asch Loop/Alcott Place A cooperator reported that while riding the BX28 city bus, an unknown individual removed personal property from his coat pocket without his knowledge. The cooperator did not realize that his property was missing until he arrived at his apartment. January 29, 2024 120 Casals Place A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package that was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission and the package theft was captured on her Ring camera. 120 Co-op City Blvd. A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission. January 30, 2024 Rear of 99 Asch Loop CCPD responded to a fight in progress. Upon arrival, a cooperator reported that her classmates from Truman High School engaged in a physical altercation with her. A canvas of the area by CCPD resulted in negative results. No injuries were reported. January 31, 2024 120 Dreiser Loop A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was

removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission. 120 Casals Place A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission. 120 Casals Place A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission. 120 DeKruif Place A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without her permission. February 02, 2024 120 Alcott Place A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without his permission. February 03, 2024 140 Alcott Place A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of his apartment door by an unknown individual without his permission. 170 Dreiser Loop A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from the lobby by an unknown individual without her permission. 120 Asch Loop A cooperator reported being physically assaulted by a family member causing injuries to her body. The suspect fled the scene after the assault. CCPD conducted a canvas of the area for the suspect with negative results. FDNY EMS and NYPD were also present on scene.

ting incidents have been reported across the country, occurring in various states and jurisdictions. While precise figures vary from year to year, there have been numerous documented cases of swatting, with some areas experiencing higher frequencies than others. Swatting places a significant burden on law enforcement agencies, with each incident requiring a substantial allocation of resources. These resources could otherwise be deployed to address genuine emergencies, underscoring the disruptive and potentially dangerous nature of swatting. In recent years, law enforcement agencies and legislators have taken steps to address swatting more effectively. Some states have implemented specific laws or enhanced penalties targeting swatting offenses, aiming to deter perpetrators and hold them accountable for their actions. Several high-profile swatting incidents have garnered widespread attention in the U.S., drawing public scrutiny and prompting calls for greater action to combat this troubling trend. These cases have underscored the serious risks and consequences associated with swatting, particularly when innocent lives are put in jeopardy. Law enforcement agencies, internet platforms, and advocacy organizations have increasingly collaborated to address swatting through education, awareness campaigns, and technological solutions. These efforts aim to raise awareness about the dangers of swatting, enhance reporting mechanisms, and improve coordination among stakeholders to prevent and respond to incidents more effectively. While specific statistics may vary, the collective efforts of stakeholders across the U.S. reflect a growing recognition of the seriousness of swatting and a commitment to combatting it through collaborative, multi-faceted approaches. Only through collective efforts can this perilous trend be stopped and public safety for all be safeguarded. The thrill-seeking perpetrators behind these incidents must understand the gravity of their actions and the immense harm they inflict on innocent lives and communities. Swatting is not a harmless prank—it is a serious crime with severe legal consequences. Perpetrators can face charges ranging from filing false police reports to assault or even manslaughter if someone is injured or killed as a result of their actions. In recent years, law enforcement agencies have been cracking down on swatting cases, employing advanced techniques to track down and prosecute offenders. Each swatting incident erodes public trust in emergency services and increases skepticism towards genuine distress calls. As authorities work tirelessly to maintain public safety, these hoax calls undermine their efforts and hinder their ability to respond effectively to real emergencies.

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

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES For employment opportunities, please visit these following sites: www.Indeed.com https://indeedhi.re/ 3SgTKEr

www.Glassdoor.com https://bit.ly/3SgI9Go

www.ZipRecruiter.com https://bit.ly/3Se8bdw

Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply at any site. Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department. Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024 Director’s Viewpoint

Claudia Sampson, First Vice President

Beacon Program in Co-op City In 1991, the ﬁrst Beacons were established by then-Commissioner Richard Murphy to address public safety and drug-related crime in 10 so-called “high poverty” neighborhoods. It was cast as prevention-focused, collaborative, multi-service safe havens for both youth and adults, and are school-based community centers serving children ages six and older as well as adults. There are currently 91 Beacons located throughout the ﬁve NYC boroughs, operating in the afternoon and evenings, on weekends, as well as during school holidays and vacation periods including the summer months. Funded by the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), Good Shepherds Services (GSS) was selected to administer the program located in Truman High School at 750 Baychester Avenue. In early November of 2023, members of the Riverbay Board, senior Management, and facilitated by Council Member Kevin Riley’s Chief-ofStaff, Jahmal Yapp, we were given a very comprehensive overview of the Beacon Program services and opportunities for Co-op City organizations interested in co-locating at Truman (using the space free of charge to conduct events open to the public). The Good Shepherds’ staff, Shaneva Gaskin, Chante Brown and Annie Minguez, did a great job presenting the program’s offerings and opportunities for greater access to those community-based

Co-op City organizations. Asked to provide some key data about enrollment for the 10475 zip code and Co-op City residents’ participation, here’s what we learned: In Fiscal Year 2023, 239 participants (45% of enrolled participant) live in the 10475 zip code — 219 of them reside in Co-op City. Whereas in FY 2024 YTD, 119 participants (38% of enrolled participants) live in the 10475 zip code —110 live in Co-op City. Note: These enrollment ﬁgures are as 11/21/23, so they’re more likely to have changed. The Sections with the highest enrollment in 2023 were 1, 3 and 5. Whereas in 2024, Sections 1, 3 and 4 were the highest. We are unsure as to what caused the decline in Section 5 which currently lags behind all other Sections. With regards to a request for the addition of a Boxing program by a meeting attendee, Good Shepherds is exploring different options and funding opportunities as there are about seven subcontractors offering other programs like basketball clinics, adult cooking and salsa classes. For more information on the Beacon Program, email Ricardine Verdiner, Bronx Community Relations Manager, at: Ricardine_Verdiner@GoodShepherds.org. Riverbay Fund: Looking for Candidates for Non-Voting Associate Membership Having reorganized its operating structure, amended and restated its By-Laws to better support

its main goal and ensure efﬁciencies, the Riverbay Fund formed ﬁve Committees which are: Nominating/Governance, Finance/Budget, Community Engagement, Fundraising and Strategic Partnerships. Looking to be more inclusive, diverse and growth-oriented, the Fund seeks to build the power of the Co-op City community through strategic cultural, recreational and educational partnerships such as the National Council of Negro Women Co-op City Branch, the Renaissance Youth Center Music & Dance Program and the American Legion Co-op City Post 1871, just to name a few. In order to connect cooperators, residents and individuals to programs, resources and to each other, the Fund’s mission is empowering the Coop City community where everyone thrives. If you’re 18 years or older, you can seek to join the Fund as a non-voting Associate member, where you can initiate and participate in the discussion of any subject that takes place at any meeting. You need not reside in Co-op City. You can be a business owner, a foundation, a corporation, an individual with a unique perspective to share, etc. Should you wish to apply to join as a Non-voting Associate Member of the Fund, kindly send us an email at: Nominations@riverbayfund. org. You will receive packet of information and application to complete. I can be reached at either csampson@riverbayboard.com or csampson@riverbayfund.org.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

BBB Scam Alert This Romance Scam Tricks Victims Into Laundering Money With Valentine’s Day looming, romance is in the air. If you seek love via a dating app, watch for scammers who only love your money. Scammers are using people to funnel stolen money out of the country. This con may look like a classic romance scam, but victims are tricked into illegal activity and can be prosecuted. How This Scam Works You join a dating app and start messaging someone who looks amazing. They are the complete package: good-looking, successful, kind… and, most importantly, really into you, too! After chatting for a little while, your new love interest suggests that you chat by text or email rather than through the app. If you do that, you may notice that they also delete their dating proﬁle. Everything seems great, but soon, your new beau has some unusual – but seemingly harmless – requests. They want you to receive money for them and wire it overseas. They may claim to be helping a loved one battling Covid-19, doing a business deal, or representing a charitable organization. If you refuse, your amorous new beau may become hostile, threaten you, or become distant. It turns out that the money they want you to receive is stolen. After stealing it, scammers send the money through someone in the United States or Canada, making it harder for authorities to trace. Money laundering and wire fraud are illegal! Although the “money mule” is a victim, they may also face prosecution. In a recent example, a victim reported to BBB Scam Tracker: “I was involved with internet romance by Andrew Charles Carlos, apparently sent me a package as a gift from Syria. When the package arrived, cnd global logistics asked for 2250 fee before releasing the parcel due to its content containing $10000 cash. $2250 was paid and the parcel was transferred to Seattle, Washington and I was told another fee for 4500 before releasing the parcel. 4500 was paid and I was told the parcel will be arriving on January 24, on that day I received an email stating that my parcel was on hold by the customs/Federal

Bureau of Investigation at Indiana, with the notice that I have to pay the sum of 6500 USD for the delivery process to continue. Also stated in the email, “We were talking with the customs; they said the last victim of this case was charged the sum of $20,850 USD, but due to our explanation we made to them, telling then this is a military package and probably you might not aware that such amount of money is in the box, that they should just help us and reduce the price of the tax. We came to the conclusion that you have to pay 6500 USD.” How To Avoid Similar Scams • Do your research. Many scammers steal photos from the internet to use in their dating profiles. You can do a reverse image look-up using a website like Google Images to see if the photos on a profile have been stolen from somewhere else. You can also search online for a profile name, email, or phone number to see what adds up and what doesn’t. Scammers most often pose as men and target women in their 50s and 60s. • Ask specific questions about details given in a profile. A scammer may stumble over remembering details or making a story fit. • Never send money or sensitive personal information to someone you’ve never met in person. Cut off contact if someone starts asking you for financial or personally identifiable information (PII), like your credit card number or government ID number. • Be very suspicious of requests to wire money or use a pre-paid debit card. These are scammers’ favorite ways to send payments because, like cash, it can’t be recovered once the money is gone. For More Information Learn more about money mule scams on the Federal Bureau of Investigations website. If you’ve been the victim of scam, please report it on the BBB. org/ScamTracker. Your report can help others to stay alert and avoid similar scams.

Stay Vigilant: Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

Cover Your Cough or Sneeze

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.

Wear a face covering in public if you are sick. A face covering can protect those around you by preventing the spread of germs.

Wash Your Hands After

Wash with soap and water.

Clean with alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Stop the spread of germs that make you and others sick! For more information, visit nyc.gov/health. DIS1914101. – 3.21

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024 Director’s’ Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

Riverbay Has To Answer For This 8.1% Increase I’ve published several articles that documented my opinions about Riverbay’s wasteful spending and bloated budgets. Thereafter, Riverbay would make poor excuses for not cutting anything. However, this 8.1 percent increase and our outraged cooperators might be the answer to getting Riverbay to do the right things for our community. It’s Riverbay’s Turn To Pay Personally, I think that Riverbay has wasted millions of dollars over the past few years. In fact, at one point, Riverbay had only $900,000 in the bank. Regardless, every penny of that money had to be paid out. In fact, Riverbay used to wait for checks to arrive. Then, all of that money would be spent almost immediately. Now, in my opinion, Riverbay didn’t have to operate this community in this manner. Nevertheless, bad choices were made to maintain 28 departments here. They also made a choice to spend about $100 million to keep 950 employees in those departments. Our contractors were paid $12,000 just for labor to basically restore a 1-bedroom apartment. Simultaneously, Riverbay would issue $5,000 in materials to these contractors for each 1-bedroom apartment. Additionally, our budgets show that we’re losing millions of dollars because hundreds of apartments are not being restored for a rapid sale. So, why couldn’t Riverbay hire minority and women-owned business to do this work? Why were only a small number of contractors issued multimillion-dollar contracts to work here? Then, there were poor excuses that all of our multimillion-dollar insurance policies had to be presented to the board just when they were about to expire. For instance, the NYS Insurance Fund was created to deliver the lowest cost for Workmen’s Compensation insurance. So, why did a broker issue a higher price for this same insurance? Why did a broker receive an $82,500 commission for a recommendation to buy insurance from the NYS Insurance Fund? Why was this resolution presented to the board just days before expiration? From my perspective, Riverbay has never been under pressure to make changes in the way that they conduct business. Therefore, the attitude has been to make our cooperators pay for their business conduct and for all carrying charge increases. Thereafter, some directors would go throughout this community and tell everyone that: “Everything goes up. So, we have to pay more money every year to live here.” Truthfully, those same directors approved ev-

ery resolution for a carrying charge increase to this community. But, think, have you ever read anything in this paper that Riverbay was going to cut their budget to avoid a carrying charge increase? No! In last week’s edition of the Co-op City Times, it was revealed that Riverbay expects to make almost $275 million on April 1, 2024. However, Riverbay’s budget shows that there will be a cash shortfall of $4.3 million. Regardless, the NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) agency’s projected budget shows that Riverbay will need an 8.1 percent increase to continue operations in a proper manner here. But, I reviewed HCR’s projected budget. And, in my opinion, they made several errors with their projections. Therefore, I sent messages to our board and our lawyers that proved that some of HCR’s projections might be unreasonably inﬂated. So, we need to meet with HCR before they impose an 8.1 percent carrying charge increase onto our community. We also need Riverbay to make cuts to their budget to avoid a carrying charge increase. Bottom line: As a board director, I should always want to support our business conduct and our ﬁnancial data. However, what can I do when Riverbay’s board resolutions and budgets clearly prove that we have been going in a wrong direction for a long time? So, in my opinion, the only way to change these matters is if we can get no-nonsense shareholders, with good backgrounds in business, elected to our board. Then, we can make a tremendous amount of positive changes to this Riverbay Corporation. No nonsense!!! Board Development Training Previously, some board directors would vote yes for carrying charge increases. Then, they would go away to a hotel for board development training. Thereafter, Riverbay would be charged with paying for the hotel bill, food, transportation, along with other items. Furthermore, can you believe that they made it mandatory for all directors to go away to these costly training sessions? However, I stayed home. And, my response would be that we could save money

if we had that training in Co-op City. Then, their response was that they could not concentrate if they were to have training sessions here. But, hey, we had a board development program in Dreiser on January 21-22, 2024. And, everyone concentrated on the entire program. Close From my point of view, Riverbay has never been forced to make mandated cuts to their budget. So, our cooperators always had to cut their personal budgets to pay for carrying charge increases. But, now, it’s time for Riverbay to pay for any increase that HCR wants to impose here. Diminished service? Dirty buildings? No, these scare tactics should not work here anymore. Thank you. Contact Information Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Currently, here is my ONLY email account: djohnson@riverbayboard. com. I will never ask for or accept money from anyone. Therefore, please do not respond to any message with my name on it that requests money, money transfers, gift cards, personal information, or anything from you. And, please do not ever send money or anything to anyone because you saw my name on a false message. Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. And, please hang up your phone immediately if someone calls you and says that they’re Daryl Johnson or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Broun Place Townhouse Association

National Council of Negro Women

Are you getting ready for the big football game or making plans for Valentine’s Day? Perhaps you are participating in the many events this month to honor Black History. That’s all wonderful but please read the following and think about this. Co-op City is not like purchasing a Co-op in the open, real estate system. In Co-op City, you get free utilities, private police force, garbage pick up, an education park, heat and air conditioning and other amenities. Where else is heat/air conditioning part of the package each family receives? You also have a Maintenance department and a 24-hour emergency unit. We remind cooperators to participate in our opportunities to voice opinions and ask questions. It is only effective if you participate. Thank you, Sonia Feliciano, president of the Riverbay Board of Directors, for stating clearly the disappointment when just 33 people attend a meeting discussing a future carrying charge increase. Have we become an apathetic group? Yet when Mayor Eric Adams came to host a community conversation, the auditorium was overflowing. The meeting met all the markers for being well-run and answering questions that could not be answered by our Board of Directors. This week, we had a conversation with a long-time cooperator from Section Four who has made inquiries regarding the commercial leasing side of Co-op City. He has spoken with some of the store owners about why they are planning to leave and why others have already done so. He states they have complained to him that their rent is very high. The question of who sets these rates needs to be asked. What are the incentives to build a commitment to the community? A small business owner needs to feel a bond to the community where the business is and the consumers to the business. There are litter bins on the dumpster pads, in the basketball court and street corners. Let’s use those receptacles correctly. Pedestrian cans are for garbage happening as you drink water or eat snacks along your way. I pick up what I see as I come across it. You could too. Wear gloves and while you are walking, pick up bottles, bags and paper. It makes a big difference. Remember if you see a crime or something you know is against our rules and regulations, call CCPD; phone number: 718 671-3050. Neighbors, don’t forget your vaccines. The Flu vaccine, RSV and Covid booster are valuable and important as you go about your life. They truly help save lives. Make arrangements to get vaccinated. Please let me know if you have a tiding to publish. We send best wishes and hopes for complete healing to all those who are recovering from suffering and illness. Former First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, wrote this, “Where flowers bloom, there is hope.” It is a short, easy to memorize, meaningful statement. Hope you have a beautiful Valentine’s Day. —Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

NCNW Co-op City Section – Our section membership meetings are always on the second Sunday of each month at 3:00 p.m. except the month of May, when in deference to Mothers’ Day, we meet the third Sunday. That means that tomorrow, February 11, at 3:00 p.m., we will be having our second Membership meeting of the new year. If you’re a little interested in what we do in the Co-op City community and would like to attend our Zoom meeting, contact ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com to find out how you can visit our meeting. Two recent new members, Francine Reva Jones and Anna Goulbourne, have already become Life Members. Youth Committee – The first big program that we will be presenting this year will be our 21st Annual Black History Celebration that will take place on Saturday, February 24, in the Bartow Community Center. Our Youth Committee is seeking talented youth groups and young adults interested in volunteering to show case their talent in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, Spoken Word, drama skit, etc. Please contact the NCNW Youth Committee at 914-826-5644 or send a video of your performance to ncnwcoopcitysocial@gmail.com. February is Heart Health Awareness Month – Did you notice many people wearing red the first Friday of this month? National Wear Red Day is the day that communities around the country bring greater attention to heart disease among Americans. This Heart Month, women are especially being encouraged to listen to their hearts and speak up for their health. Women in the U.S. are experiencing unacceptable and avoidable heart-related illness and death, and nearly half of U.S. women do not recognize that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women! Women should no longer experience delayed recognition, diagnosis, and treatment for cardiac events, such as heart attacks. Commit to making healthy lifestyle choices and educate yourself on the signs of heart attack and stroke. NCNW National – The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 is a landmark federal statute in the United States that was the first bill signed into law by U.S. President Barack Obama on January 29, 2009. The Act creates protections against wage discrimination based on differences including but not limited to sex, race, color and age granting the ability for those discriminated against to seek remedies. The law also prohibits employers from lowering some wages in order to make them equal. Despite the strides the Act has made, wage inequality still persists throughout the workforce. Black women’s wages range from 45 to 64 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men in 25 states. On this anniversary, NCNW reaffirms our commitment to fighting for Black women to receive fair and equal pay. Social Media – Remember you can find us on our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com; on Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco. opcity@gmail.com. —Joyce Howard

Building 33 Association February is Black History Month. During this time, we should honor Black heroes and the incredible contributions they have made to the Black communities, support the Black-owned businesses here, and research Black politicians representing Co-op City to learn what they are doing to help where we live. You can also commemorate the month in the comfort of your home through online celebrations. There is much to learn about our history and maybe you will better understand the things you are witnessing today. You received safety notices in the mail. Please complete the form and mail it back in the envelope provided or you can respond online. The important thing is you need to respond as soon as possible. On January 22nd, building presidents were invited to meet with Mayor Eric Adams to discuss concerns about our community. I asked him if there is a system in place to help shareholders who are suffering from mental illness. Does the city monitor if they are keeping in touch with a social worker or medical provider and taking their medication, or checking if they are okay? He responded yes, but they can do better. I was informed that if you witness anyone or if you are struggling or in a crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org, or text MHA to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor from Crisis Text Line. If you see something, say something! Get yourself or someone else some help. It could be a matter of life or death. Recently, a roach from somewhere got into my apartment and laid an egg! I happened to go into the kitchen one night and there it was, this baby walking across the floor. After my meltdown, I went into DEFCON mode! I must have killed eight babies because I sat in that kitchen for the rest of the night! First I sprayed everywhere with Raid, wiped down all the counters, swept and mopped the floors with disinfectant! When Riverbay opened up its phone lines, I was calling to get an appointment for an exterminator. He came the next day and treated the kitchen. Luckily, he didn’t see any more, but I might have seen one after he left. When you see one, you have to get on top of that situation. You don’t have to live with anything you don’t want to! And that is something no one should want to live with. If you see one, make that phone call, pronto! I don’t want any of them traveling to my place again and you shouldn’t either. Lastly, remember to clean up after your dogs! Stop letting them urinate on our pillars, lampposts, and trees. Would it be too much to ask if you can carry a bottle of disinfectant spray and spray them afterward? I kind of know the answer to that but I thought I’d ask. LOL. Enjoy your week. Happy Birthday to our February babies. Take care, and walk good. —Andrea D. Mayo

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Managing Connections: Glenn Acosta’s Two Careers BY P.M. CAMPBELL

A lifelong Co-op resident went off the beaten path in his career as a carpenter when he became the road manager for a world renown singer. A shareholder who was raised, educated, and employed in Co-op City found a second career which takes him around the world. Glenn Acosta, 57, worked as a carpenter for 35 years and credits his union and love of his job for his decades in the profession. His second career however, and the one he continues to work in retirement, is as road manager for the singer-songwriter and actor Marc Anthony. After attending Truman High School, and briefly answering telephones for a local tow company, Acosta was introduced to his ﬁrst true occupation. His father, a Co-op City Little League coach, introduced him to the New York City District Council of Carpenters, and he ofﬁcially joined the union on May 5, 1986. While doing work at a friend’s Lounge, he met a DJ who worked for John Toro, Marc Anthony’s manager at the time. Acosta started working weekends as a stage tech for Latin artists managed by Toro, and he came to manage the group within 6 months. Twelve years into his union career at this point, he said that a successful career does not only rely on who you know, but “it’s more who’s going to trust you. Going from the small artists to the bigger artists to Marc – that all happened in a matter of two years” Some of his cherished memories working with Anthony include meeting famous actors and actresses like Julia Roberts and Leah Rimini as well as Bernie Williams and other international sports stars. As a road manager, he oversees a 16-player band and a 10-person crew in their travels between hotels and performance venues. “It’s all about logistics,” Acosta says. “I com-

Submit to Co-op City Creatives! BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Marc Anthony, 2nd left, with Glenn Acosta (L), Acosta’s wife, Wilma, and daughter, Paula Leon Amaya (R) Photo courtesy of Glenn Acosta

municate with everyone in the band and let everyone know what’s going on.” Before retirement, Acosta would often ﬂy out of New York on weekends, and make it back in time for his job as a union shop steward. On other occasions, he could be away for a month or two at a time. He attributes his ability to balance his responsibilities to the help he receives from his wife. He assists both of his children as they follow in his footsteps – he guided his son, Christopher Cartegena, into the carpenters union, and is helping his daughter, Paula Leon Amaya, in her career as a production coordinator. Acosta’s advice for young workers comes after decades of making connections, building experiences, and switching lanes to ﬁnd his successful career path. “Create options for yourself in life, don’t stick around to do one thing…” he said. “Do your job, do it well.”

With thousands of residents from all across the globe, Co-op City is home to artists of all kinds. Shareholders have written books, performed poetry, directed ﬁlms, created murals, and they all deserve a spotlight. The column, “Co-op City Creatives,” serves not only to analyze shareholders’ art from Sections 1-5, but to also take a deep dive on what makes that artist unique. If you consider yourself an artist, regardless of age, medium, or education, send your work to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com with the subject “Co-op Creatives” and include your phone number so you’ll have the chance to be interviewed and your work displayed in the Co-op City Times.

REMINDER – Carrying Charge Boxes Shareholders are reminded that the carrying charge deposit boxes located in the community centers open on the morning of the ﬁrst business day of the month and close at midnight on the 10th of the month, which is the last day to pay your carrying charges before a late fee is accessed. If the 10th of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, the carrying charge boxes remain open through the next business day. ––Riverbay Management

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Building 25 Association Greetings, neighbors! Can you believe we are already in the second month of the year? February is the shortest month of the year, and during this time, we celebrate Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, and Presidents’ Day. Please look for postings regarding programs providing education and celebration in honor of these events. Another February event, Groundhog Day, was on 2/2/2024. Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog, did not see its shadow, so that means an early spring. Our Grounds crew is already preparing our gardens, so ZH FDQ ORRN IRUZDUG WR VHHLQJ EHDXWLIXO ÀRZHUV VRRQ Health and Safety: When using exit doors, kindly make sure the door closes behind you, and report any door that does not close automatically. Also, the stairwells should be free of trash. On occasion, shoe print and even saliva have been noticed on the elevator door and/or the call button

panel, which is unsanitary. Let us all work together to keep our building clean and safe. We extend our best wishes to our neighbors who are sick, and to families who have lost a loved one, we offer our condolences. Building 25 Association strives to serve and act on your behalf and welcomes your input and support. Please attend our once-a-month meeting and share your ideas and concerns. You may also contact us at bldg25association@gmail.com. We also have a suggestion box in our laundry room. Let us hear from you. The next Building Association meeting will be February 20th at 7:30 p.m. in the meeting room under the portico. We look forward to seeing you. Have a wonderful week, and Happy Valentine’s Day! —Evelyn Herbert

Building 10 Association Greetings, fellow cooperators. New Cooperators – Welcome, all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next General Membership meeting. General Membership Meeting – Our next General Membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room located in the rear of Building 10B. Annual Window Guard Notices – The annual window guard notices must be returned by February 15th. You can respond by mail, fax, phone (646-392-7233) or online at www.safebuildingsnyc.com. If you failed to receive the notice or PLVSODFHG LW SOHDVH FRQWDFW \RXU &62 RI¿FH IRU more information. Laundry Room – Reminder our laundry room is used by over 475 families in Building 10 and families from the townhouses. Please remove items promptly from the washing machines and dryers so others can use them. If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety at 718671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-879-6311. Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help is 988; you can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day. Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Facebook, “Building 10 “ABC” Association.” /LNH RXU SDJH DQG JHW QRWL¿HG RI DOO WKH KDSSHQLQJV in and around Building 10. We would like to wish all who are born this month an incredibly happy birthday. Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy Anniversary!!! To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery. To all who have lost a loved one recently, we offer our deepest condolences. Check on your neighbors. Have a wonderful week. ––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Building 27 Association Hello, neighbors. We trust all is well. Stay vigilant, cautious and wear your masks in crowds. Hospitals and facilities have mandated mask wearing again. We were told the sun hadn’t shined in 11 days, but finally showed very bright last Friday. Black History Month – In 1976, President Gerald Ford was the first president to officially recognize Black History Month. We now have two talented and intelligent ladies, Sherri Sheppard and Jennifer Hudson, gracing the platform of television, providing and introducing so many younger adults who are doing very well. It is a pleasure to see all is not lost; there are good and positive things happening around us. NYC Summer Youth Application – now open for young people ages 1424 years of age. The deadline is March 1, 2024. Pass the word on to those parents and youths you may know. The program offers career exploration, project–based learning, work experience, community building. Selection is based on a lottery. To find out more about SYEP, contact Community Connect at 800-246-4646. Office of Council Member Kevin C. Riley – District 12 Tax Preparation Service, a free service for individuals without dependents with maximum income of $59,000 and with dependents with income maximum of $85,000. Individuals may call the office at 718-684-5509 or visit Section 5, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 44; phone (347) 326-8652 or go to 940 East Gun Hill Rd., (718) 684-5509. Happy Birthday to all celebrating this month. We offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the family of Diane Sweeting on the loss of her mother. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-5833040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card; she is excellent in sharing goodwill. Also, notify her of any illness, or a neighbor who has become deceased or transferred to a nursing home. For our community to be a better place to live is for the people of the community to understand and accept their personal responsibility for what happens. –Davis Merritt, Jr. —H. Overman

If the Co-op City Times is not delivered: Call 407-666-8317 on Saturdays only, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Section Five Association

Building 6 Association

We have been spared of a snowy winter for two years now. Please stay vigilant; there are new variants, and Covid on the rise again. The hospitals and facilities have mandated the wearing of masks once again. Black History Month – Every president since Gerald Ford in 1976 has recognized the month-long celebration. Black History Week actually began in 1926, an event created by Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The Citizen Police Academy – Information received, there are three seats available, if anyone is interested. This is a 6-week program with classes on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Police Academy in Queens. You will get an understanding of the NYPD policies and procedures and limitations of their power. First class will be 2/27/2024. Transportation is provided to and from meetings. Contact 45th Pct. Community Affairs at 718-822-5449. Good luck! Ofﬁce of Council Member Kevin C. Riley – is partnering with the Bronx Neighborhood Housing Services and Urban Upbound to host free tax preparation services for eligible residents of District 12. Individuals without dependents must have an income maximum of $59,000 and with dependents, an income maximum of $85,000. Location: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 44; Phone (347) 326-8652 or go to 940 East Gun Hill Road, (718) 684-5509. Other Council Districts are searchable at www.mygovnyc.org. The Students – from IS 160 are beginning to hang out in our shopping mall in Section 5; trouble and ﬁghting are brewing. We need to go school staff and the Board of Education to inquire what is being done to monitor these middle grade students. Public Safety is seen to be on the Mall site, however, these students ignore Public Safety which mean we have a problem. Saturday Volunteers – are needed for food distribution at 10:30 a.m. at the Co-op City Fridge. Interested in volunteering? Contact Coopcitycommunityfridge@gmail.com. The SFA offers our deepest sympathy to Diane Sweeting, wife of Nelson Sweeting, on the loss of her mother. We also offer condolences to all who lost a loved one. We wish all the best of good health. Happy Birthday wishes. One may reach Nelson Sweeting, president of SFA, at 646-644-4055. Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. –Henry Ford —H. Overman

Greetings, neighbors. I hope when you read this, it finds you in good spirits and health. Remember, next week, Tuesday (2/13) is our monthly Building Association meeting in Dreiser from 6:30-8:30 p.m. I implore all to attend to pick up copies of the newly created Building 6 bylaws and the information packet for the 501c3. Neighbors, I have great news. In conjunction with the Bldg. 2 Association, we have a fresh produce pop up every first and third Saturday of the month (2/17). This past Saturday (2/3), the Social Committee was able to provide over 40 neighbors with fresh blueberries, plantains, bananas and strawberries. With inflation still prevalent, these free items help out a great deal. On Thursday (3/7), CCPD’s Sergeant Gregory will demonstrate a self-defense class for all in the Association Room, 6:30-8:30 p.m. All Co-op City residents are welcomed. I kindly ask that you RSVP, 347-366-7690. In the case of superseding the room capacity, we can book a room in Dreiser that evening. On a sad news, the secretary, Lumari Coriano, will be stepping down effective immediately. Between her home-school-work schedule, she can’t commit to the Building Association being her time is limited. She will stay on as her floor captain and volunteer when she is free. So, hey neighbors, if you can, commit to volunteering a minimum of 14 hours monthly. Do you have innovative ideas, time management and organizational skills and you think you’d be a great addition to the team? Feel free to contact me as we build this building back better and stronger. In the past six months, we’ve made several gains for the building and community overall, strengthening relationships with other Building Associations, Riverbay Management, elected officials and organizations, only fostering community pride throughout Co-op City. So neighbors, if you wish to make a complaint, issue a compliment, or you need assistance in facilitating a repair in your apartment, please contact the Association’s email at bldng6assoc@gmail.com and stay tuned to the Co-op City Times weekly write-ups, and the Association bulletin board for events throughout the building and Co-op City. As always, I pray safety over all. God speed. My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together. ––Lauren K. Lassiter

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Have you dropped by Section 5’s food distribution at the Fridge/Pantry? If you haven’t, then you need to drop by Saturday mornings next to the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center (MMCC). A wide variety of free fruits and veggies are happily distributed to all our shareholders and neighbors. Rain or shine, volunteers are present to drive out hunger! See you at the fridge! Interested in volunteering? Drop us a note via email: coopcitycommunityfridge@ gmail.com, or visit @grassrootsgroceryny; #coopcityfridge. ––Yolanda Ramirez Photos by Yolanda Ramirez

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024 Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson

Our Priceless Community The Mayor’s visit: I regret getting people’s hopes up about joining the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit visit on January 22nd. Through bits and pieces of tentative communication, I found out the game plan too late to change what landed in print last week, otherwise I wouldn’t have written: I doubt it’s still a secret, but many cooperators are being invited to meet with the mayor this Monday. It’s a by-reservation-only event, originally meant for a restricted number of community leaders, but since it’s being held in Dreiser Auditorium, maybe it’s not all that restricted after all. I also sent out some emails. One recipient submitted a reservation that was honored. Did that person just happen to submit it in a more timely manner before the guest list was closed? Was there some other criteria that that person fulfilled to get themselves squeezed into the room? As it turned out, it pretty much was Invitation Only, with at least one exception. Someone at my table just showed up without attempting to rsvp. So to the aggrievedly disappointed resident who sent me an over-the-top, insult-filled email, I say – Harrumph. I thought it was terrific that the mayor held this “conversation with the community” and that so many Bronx elected officials and bureaucratic “higher-ups” attended. However, of all the valid requests for mayoral interference or largesse, only one request received more than a parental “maybe” (and we all know what a parental maybe usually means). That was the one offered by the man with Co-op City’s baseball concession; the guy with a thousand dollar “income” facing a fifteen thousand dollar “outgo.” According to what my ears heard, that guy got a definitive “I can help!” from Mayor Adams. Good for him (Adams). Good for him (the sports guy), and good for the kids – both inside and outside our clean, green, and safe community. A

happy and supported kid who lives inside or outside of Co-op City is always good for Co-op City, in my opinion. That’s me, Opinionated Pearson, on issues great and small. (Plus persistent.) For a small potatoes example: Spell Co-op City CORRECTLY! Persistent. I’ve been complaining about it for years. In print, in person, and in 311 complaints. For some, it’s no big deal. People who’ve lived here for 55 years don’t notice or care that the name of our community is spelled every which way. Well, I care and notice it everywhere. Misspelled on the local business receipt? Not the end of the world. But at our bus stops and schedules and shelters? Ay yi yi! Opinionated. I am of the opinion that misspelling the name of our community is a sign of great disrespect. Don’t fear the confrontation, neighbors. Join me in this quixotic ﬁght! And now, for something a bit more life and death related. I believe that Local Law 97, which at the very least attempts to struggle against climate change, is a noble undertaking and that we, the largest cooperative housing complex in the world, should encourage every innovation and do everything humanly possible to work toward that goal rather than try to evade the rules. Calling for a waiver to duck the responsibility to help this global effort, in my opinion, is misguided. Indeed, Co-op City must remain a middle income complex since so many of us are not keen on making timely preparations to move north or south (North or South Dakota or North or South Carolina). We must do all we can to keep our community affordable while we help save the planet. We may not be on ﬁre like California, or under attack by tornadoes or earthquakes like the Midwest, suffering the West Coast’s drought, or soon to be underwater like Florida, but climate change is coming for us all. Maybe not for us personally but

probably for our grandchildren and surely for our great grandchildren. Affordable and Liveable: It was determined a 2.1% increase was needed. Then HCR comes back and says no, no, no you need an 8% increase. For all the unexpected expenses that inevitably come our way, I think somewhere midway is the answer – just to have a buffer. When it comes to budgeting our money in/money out perennial struggle, I believe we need to always stay focused on keeping Co-op City clean, green, realistically safe, and fair. To that end, I persistently maintain that even though we are, and should be, cooperative in sharing our communal expenses, we do not, and should not, share the cost of our personal extras. That includes our personal spaces such as our storage units and hall closets and our parking spaces. As carrying charges go up, so should the cost of those extras. My rationale for increasing residential parking rates: we don’t give shareholders rebates when subway and bus fares rise, so why should residents without cars share the garage cost burden. My reasoning for raising storage space: if it’s not important enough to pay the price, open it up for a family that really needs it. You disagree? I bet you garage your car and pay for storage. You agree? I bet you don’t have or do either. How smart are we, living in the City’s most affordable, high quality apartments. Mostly we’re just plain lucky. Try to enjoy our good fortune, our beautiful homes, our fabulous grounds, and our beloved community. Special Note: Don’t forget the blood drive today in Einstein, Room 45, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There’s currently an extreme blood shortage in the nation but there’s always a shortage of African American blood donations best suited to safely treat patients with sickle cell anemia. Have a good week, everybody. MPearson@ RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.

African-American Association of Co-op City Annual Black History Month Film Festival Re-Cap and “Déjà vu”: If you missed our annual kick-off to Black History Month, you really missed something special. Laughter, tears, learning and great fun. One year ago, the African-American Association and The Coalition to Save Affordable Housing marched in support of police reform. We gathered to show our solidarity in support of justice for slain Tyre Nichols. We marched in solidarity for the passing of the “George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.” Symbolism of Tyre Nichols Death: The symbolism in what happened in Memphis should not go unnoticed, and so we bring it to your attention again. It is monumental that in the same city where Dr. King fought for civil rights and human rights, 56 years after his assassination, we are still fighting for the same rights in this country. This should not go unnoticed. Update: One Year Later: Four of the officers — Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith — have pleaded not guilty to multiple state felonies. Those charges include second degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression. The charge of second degree murder alone is punishable by up to 60 years in prison and fines of up to $50,000, even if the defendant did not strike a blow that by itself would have been fatal. In September, the Justice Department announced federal charges in a separate case against the former officers. A fifth officer, Desmond Mills Jr., pleaded guilty in the federal investigation and will be sentenced in May. Other officers, sheriff’s deputies and emergency responders have been fired in connection with the beating, including a sixth officer, Preston Hemphill, who shot his stun gun at Mr. Nichols as he ran away from the police. A top prosecutor said in May that Mr. Hemphill, who is white, would not face criminal charges. The Memphis Police Department also asked top Tennessee officials to prevent Dewayne M. Smith, the supervising police lieutenant that night, from ever working in law enforcement in the state. Mr. Smith retired before he could be disciplined. *Excerpts taken from the New York Times, January 7, 2024. Join the AAACC: $25.00/year single membership and $35.00/year family/ household. You can Zelle us your payment using our email address. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com. Call us at: 646-883-9095. The African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

The AAACC Programs Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917-903-7073 Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917-863-1507 Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” with Joyce Smith – Contact: Joyce, 718-320-0714 AAACC Event: Saturday, February 17 – Open MIC, Fundraiser, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Dreiser, Room 15. Be the change you want for more, in 2024. —Michelle Marbury

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Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Building 22A and B Association

Building 32 Association

I want to thank all the cooperators who attended the meeting on Jan. 22. Elections for officers will be at our next meeting on Feb. 19, at 7 p.m. Association members’ dues are $5 for this year. We will post times and dates on the bulletin board for collection. Floor captains are needed so please be a volunteer. Submit your name at our next meeting. If you’re interested in being a candidate on the board, please give your name, phone number and office on a piece of paper under Ms. Gladys Polite’s door, Apt. 15J. Voting will take place at the next meeting. All complaints at the meeting were referred to the CSO office. February is Black History Month so please read the Co-op City Times for all actions going on. Compactor Room: Please follow the instructions on the door and on the walls inside. We want to live in a clean environment, don’t you? Laundry Room Etiquette: Continue to respect your neighbors and remove your clothes from washers and dryers. If you use fabric softening sheets, please discard them in the basket and not onto the floor, and clean out the dryer tray. Happy Birthday to all. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones. If you see something, say something. Thank you, ––Betty Leak

The Building 32 Association will open its Association Room doors to shareholders with cool, quality goods and services for our Crafts Fair event on February 10. Market 32 will be open between noon-5 p.m. If you’re a shareholder and have an entrepreneurial spirit with things worth purchasing, please call Rochell at 917-406-1304 to rent a table. Large tables (6ft. length) are $25 for rent and regular tables (4ft x 4ft card table) are $20 for rent. Act fast because there is an extremely limited supply of tables and space left. Also on the Agenda: Openings for the Association’s Executive Board are once again available. If you would like to be hands-on with the Building 32 Association and your community, please attend our March 12th General Meeting at 7 p.m. There, we will have elections for open positions. Currently, open positions are president, vice president and possibly treasurer. Please continue to watch this space. We hope to see you soon. ––Ezekiel Springer

Building 13 Association In advance, we wish all a Happy Valentine’s Day and send love to you all. February is also Heart Health Month Thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to attend our building meeting. During our last meeting, we had a discussion on items of concern to shareholders in preparation for a scheduled meeting with the Executive General Manager. Kudos also to those who contributed to the discussion on Maintenance repair service issues and possible suggestions to make response time more efficient. As always, we encourage you to stay informed and continue to check the bulletin boards in the lobby for information regarding our community. As was requested by some shareholders, the petitions that were signed were forwarded to various parties, one being the Office of Cannabis Management. They have acknowledged receiving the petitions via email. Reminder: All cooperators should have received the annual Lead Paint, Window Guard and Fire Safety Information official notice. The forms must be completed by February 15, 2024. If you have not received your envelope with the notice, please contact our area CSO, Ms. English, at lenglish@riverbaycorp.com. Each year, there is a theme for Black History Month. This year’s theme, Black Americans and the arts, celebrates the profound and evolving impact of Black artistry on our culture, national identity, and social movements that have spanned the world over. The Black History Month 2024 theme, “African Americans and the Arts,” explores the key influence African Americans have had in the fields of “visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression.” Remember, Black History is a part of American History. Programs: • Assemblyman Benedetto is sponsoring a Black History Month Program on Thursday, February 22, at the Dreiser Loop Community Center at noon. • Church of the New Vision and the NAACP Co-op City Branch invite you to a Black History Month celebration focusing on “African Americans and the Arts” on Saturday, February 24, at 3:00 p.m. at 115 Einstein Loop. Free community events. • Earth Day: Climate change plays a part in all of our lives. Make sure to join/participate in the Earth Day Parade scheduled for Saturday, April 20, sponsored by Rivers Run Community Garden and the Co-op City Little League. Flyers will be out soon so in the meantime, “Save The Date.” • Getting Ready: Summer Fun Day is scheduled for Saturday, June 22, (Rain Date: June 23rd). There will be fun activities and new adventures and, of course, all are invited to these free events. Planning has begun and more details will be provided as the date approaches “We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community.” –Cesar Chavez Visit our Facebook page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City. Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@ yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370, or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team. —Leslie Peterson

For up-to-date communication from Riverbay Corporation, read the Co-op City Times, delivered to your building lobby and the community centers on Saturdays, tune in to the Crawler on your home TVs and lobby monitors, and register for Phone Tree notiﬁcations.

NAACP The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) has profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and equality for all during the course of 20th Century American History. Join the NAACP to help us do the work. We march to defend democracy. Membership is the Lifeblood of the organization. We meet the fourth (4th) Sunday of the month at 3:00 p.m. (currently virtual) barring any unforeseen circumstances. NAACP Office hours: Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m.-noon. Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP – Become a member, gift a membership or upgrade your membership. Take your advocacy further by joining in the fight for our sacred right to vote. Annual membership: Adult, $30; Youth, $10; or Silver Life, $750. Make check/money order payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mail to: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 36, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. To leave a message, call the office phone at: 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com. Branch T-shirt Fundraiser – Thanks to all who participated and purchased their shirts to promote our Branch. The 50th Anniversary Commemorative Pins and Journals are also available to purchase. Church of the New Vision and the NAACP Co-op City Branch invite you to a Black History Month Celebration focusing on Black History music through the years. Throughout the ages from the homeland to the new land, we told our stories and shared messages through song and music. You will learn some facts and hear what was happening in various decades along with other interesting information. Join us for “African American’s and the Arts” on Saturday, February 24, at 3:00 p.m. at 115 Einstein Loop. This is a free community event. All are welcome. SYEP/Summer Youth Employment Program 2024 for NY youth residents ages 14-24 years. Application Deadline: March 1st. Apply now! For further information, go to https://application.nycsyep.com/ Youth Scholarship: The Bronx Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has published their 2024 Youth Scholarship. Applications must be postmarked by February 23, 2024. Please share this with anyone you know who may need it. You can find out more by contacting scholarship@dstbx.org 2024 NAACP 55th Image Awards will broadcast live in Los Angeles on Saturday, March 16, at 8:00 p.m. Check local listings. Voting: This election season, we hold the most powerful tool to make democracy work for Black Americans: our vote. The issues that affect our community will make or break how we continue to thrive in this country. We can fix America’s broken democracy, VOTE. For more information on the NAACP’s work to mobilize Black voters, visit naacp.org/vote. —Brenda Brown

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Building 9 Association Greetings, Building 9 Association family and friends. We remain thankful, grateful, and blessed in 2024. Our next Building Association General Membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 29, at 7 p.m. in our Association Room located in Building 9B lobby rear. As you may know, our Building 9 Association vice president Wanda Randall attended the New York State DHCR conference on the proposed 2024 carrying charge increase. As a former Federal Reserve Bank of New York employee, Wanda’s field of interest was geared toward the Riverbay Corporation’s ‘bad debt’ position. You may read full comment in last week’s edition of the Co-op City Times. We thank Wanda Randall for representing the Building 9 Association on the virtual meeting and for participating with such a thought-provoking question. There is a Ring camera video circulating showing a young man turning the knobs of apartment doors in what appears to be a Chevron-style building in Coop City. I forwarded the video to CCPD. Please forward these types of videos to the proper authorities. It does no good to circulate among ourselves. Please be reminded to lock your apartment doors, even if you are only going to the compactor room. Girl Scout cookies are on sale. Please support our building Girl Scouts and/ or our local Girl Scouts. March is International Women’s Month. March 16 is Women’s Day. There will be a Luncheon Gala celebrating Global African Women’s Day from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Alhambra Ballroom in Harlem. More details will follow. Please be advised that Mr. Martin is no longer one of the Building 9 Porter staff. “A goal without a plan of action is just wishful thinking.” –Anonymous —Linda Collins

Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. All guests must present a pantry card, at least 4-6 clean shopping bags with handles, and a shopping cart to receive food. We require guests to wear masks when visiting the pantry. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Religious affiliation is not necessary to receive food. New Client Registration & Re-Certification for Returning Guests Registration and re-certification is now open through April 2024. Guests must be 18 years or older to apply or recertify. The required identification is as follows: NYC I.D. (zip code 10475), NY State Driver’s license, or NY State Non-Driver’s license. Passports, Medicaid and Medicare cards, employment identification, and Access-A-Ride identification are not accepted. At the time of registration or recertification, every member of the household must be present and produce valid identification. Household members need to have the same 10475 address. The intake forms will only include the number of household members who are able to show up in person at the office. Those living in Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 will register or recertify at the 920 Baychester Avenue location. Those living in Section 5 will register or recertify at the 2350 Palmer Avenue location on Thursdays. Closures On Thursday, February 15th, the pantry (920 Baychester Avenue location) will be closed. It will reopen at 11 a.m. on Friday, the 16th. Anyone scheduled to pick up food on February 15th is welcome to visit on Tuesday, February 13th; Friday, February 16th, or after during regular business hours. Upcoming Trips: In 2024, Black Forum will sponsor an exciting season of events! Here’s what’s to come: Saturday, February 17 – (Masks required) Winds Creek Casino, Bethlehem, PA; $55, Rebate: $25, full cash only payment is due now. Only a few seats remaining. Saturday, June 8 – Caesars Atlantic City Casino, NJ; $55, Rebate: TBA. Full payment is due by April 26. Saturday, August 17 – The Nordic, RI and Foxwoods Resort Casino, CT; $225; first payment ($75) is due by March 15; second payment ($75) is due by May 24; third payment ($75) is due by June 28. The Nordic is a popular hangout with an endless supply of lobster, crab, prime rib, filet mignon, shrimp, salads, veggies, and much, much more. Saturday, October 19 – Black Eyed Sally Southern Cajun Kitchen with MGM Casino; $120, first payment ($60) is due by September 6; second payment ($60) is due by October 4. We are accepting payments for trips now. Nonrefundable payments will only be accepted in the following forms: cash, personal checks, and only postal money orders. Please call 917-209-5334 to book trips and arrange payment drop-offs. Contact Us: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. ––D. Illis

Co-op City Toastmasters Club Thanks to everyone who joined in our Co-op City Toastmasters meeting on Thursday, Feb. 1, at 7:30 p.m. The meeting was awesome with over twenty Toastmasters and friends joining us. Due to the effective organization, engaging content, and active participation from everyone, it was impressive. The speech from TM Melissa Dawu, a dynamic Icebreaker, was a powerful story to tell. Such strength in her voice and passion in her transatlantic journey. Additionally, our very own talented TM Kim Suddeuth gave us another glimpse into her creative side with an amazing 10 minute Podcast about getting our financial affairs in order and TM Andrea Haye’s speech kept us yearning for more as she outlined how one can build wealth by owning multi-family dwellings. It was a great meeting. In addition, filling the role of Toastmaster of the evening for the first time, was TM Denise Gerrard, and she did a stellar job running the show. Shana Montgomery showed us how creative she is by improvising with multi-color paddle timing cards and kept the meeting running timely. Antoinette Gilstrap, another new TM, gave us a unique word-of-day: convivial – what fun we had using it! (Feel free to include in your vocabulary.) Each one pronounced it differently, but the message was clear, Toastmasters meetings are beneficial and fun. All in all, when everyone contributes at a meeting, there’s a positive atmosphere as it enhances the overall meeting experience. We are looking forward to the community coming out to our next meeting on Thurs., Feb. 15, at 7:00 p.m. as we host our hybrid Humorous and International Speech Contests. Winners and participants will receive trophies and certificates of appreciation and come away with a memory and impression that propels them towards being a better public speaker. Come out and support the contestants who bravely challenge themselves in preparation and hard work as they pursue the dream of becoming the next “World Champion of Public Speaking.” Lite refreshments will be served. Mark your calendar for the following activities: BAS: Meeting scheduled for Tues., Feb. 13, at 7:00 p.m., Rm. 5 at 177 Dreiser Loop. Speech Contests scheduled. Drivers Education sessions to resume April 6. Stay tuned for further information. Save the Date: Thurs., Feb. 15, at 7:00 p.m. Contest to be held at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. #5, Bx, NY 10475. Zoom ID: 955 852 7325, Passcode: x4by9C. —Kathy Blount

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. E-mail: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-3200844. Priest-in-Charge: Fr. Simeon O. Johnson; cell, 917-227-4303. Greetings! As we continue to make the necessary repairs to our space at St. Joseph’s Church, we thank you for your patience and understanding. We are gradually getting back to normal with our schedule of services and activities, and look forward to an early completion of the repairs. In-person worship service for the last Sunday after The Epiphany will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, February 11, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference. Please also remember to tune in for the usual teleconference weekday prayers at noon. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign. Sunday School has reopened. Please be sure to bring out your children and grandchildren. If you have not yet completed your Pledge Cards, kindly do so as soon as possible. These cards reflect our financial pledge and are used to update our proposed budget, as well as our offer to volunteer time and talent where and when possible. Our Annual General Meeting held on Sunday, January 28, went very well. The new officers, vestry members and church representatives were commissioned last Sunday. There was active participation both in person and on the phone. Upcoming Events: • Wednesday, February 14, at noon, Ash Wednesday, Imposition of Ashes and midday Service • Saturday, February 24, Circle of Prayers starting at noon. Please bring your favorite prayer and/or poem to share, as well as your lunch. The church will provide dessert and drink. • Sunday, February 25, in honor of our ancestors and the last week of Black History Month, we would love for you to wear an African print of any kind. Condolences: Our thoughts and prayers go out to all our members, families and friends who have recently experienced the loss of loved ones. Sick and Shut-in: To our sick and shut-in, we extend our well wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery. Birthday Greetings: Best wishes to everyone who is celebrating a birthday this month. We at St. Joseph’s are collecting food (cans and dry goods) for the food pantry at Grace Episcopal Church, West Farms. If you can, please contribute for those in need. Grace and Peace! —Merville Chambers

The Traditional Synagogue of Co-op would like to thank Co-op City Shoe Repair for its continued generous support. The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate, or mail to The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. The synagogue will be serving a hot kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Entrance to our synagogue for Saturday services is on the side door of Building 27B. General Information The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It 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 on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After Services, we always have a kiddush. The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue. The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah. The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbath ends on Saturday, February 10, at 6:16 p.m. Candle Lighting for Friday, February 16, at 5:11 p.m. Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates, in Honor or Memory of, a loved one. The cost is only $15.00 per tree (If you want to buy a tree, call 347-449-5005). Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue. To all Members Happy Birthday to Debbie Schwartz, Pauline Clair, Daniel Azizo, Jeff Sherman, Mark Cartier and all members who will be celebrating their birthday in February. Please send me your name and I will add them to the list. Fun and Games: After services and kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health. ––Bruce Gitelson

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Goose Island Seniors Goose Island Valentine Party – This Wed., Fed. 14, at 1 p.m. in our club room, # 39. Members only. Covered-dish. Bring something or pay $15 at door. Free for Feb. birthday members. Mohegan Sun – Cancelled. Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Tue., Feb. 20; $60, bonus: $25 play. Pick up: Einstein Loop, 7:45 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:15 a.m.; Dreiser Loop, 8:30 a.m. Payment due Feb. 6. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Vaccination required. Wind Creek Casino – Sat., Feb. 24; $60, bonus: $25 play. Pick up: 8:15 a.m., Einstein Loop; 8:45 a.m., Asch Loop; 8:55 a.m., Dreiser Loop. Info: 646579-1701. Resorts Atlantic City – Tue., March 19. Price: $65; Bonus: $20 slot play. Payment due Feb. 28. Mt. Airy Lodge Casino – Thu., April 18. More info. soon. Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA; Thu., April 25. Price: $215. Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant. For info.: 646-579-1701 Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA; Tue., May 7. Balcony seats. Price: $195. Deposit: $50 to reserve seat on bus. Balance due April 17. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors or Zelle to 347-847-1941. Golden Corral

Retirees of Dreiser Loop Greetings, retirees and friends, We hope this article finds everyone and their loved ones doing well. Happy Black History Month and we wish everyone an incredibly Happy Valentine’s Day on February 14. Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Wednesday, March 13; $60 with $25 bonus slot play. Payment is due by February 14. Bus pick up at 8:30 a.m. on Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block. Return trip drop-offs at Einstein, Asch, and Dreiser Loops. Atlantic City Overnight Trip – Tropicana Casino/Hotel; Wednesday, May 29-30. One night hotel stay and tribute to the “Jersey Boys and Girls” show. $295pp/double, $345pp/single; $15 bonus slot play & $25 food voucher. Deposit of $100 required by February 14 with the remaining balance due March 19. Bus pick up at 9 a.m. on Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block. Return trip drop-offs at Einstein, Asch, and Dreiser Loops. Carnival Cruise 2024 – Eastern Caribbean 9 day/8 night cruise (traveling to Amber Cove (Dominican Republic), Grand Turks, and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas) on the beautiful new ship Venezia leaving from NYC on July 16 (cruising through July 24, 2024). Please contact Serita at (347) 564-5722 for information regarding these trips. Serita will be available in Room 19 from 1-3 p.m. to accept payments on Wednesday, February 14. Membership Committee – We are now accepting annual membership dues for 2024. Please remit your check for the $25 annual dues made payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Please note “new member” or “renewing member” and the year(s) for the payment in the memo line on your check. Questions may be addressed to Mary at (718) 655-9170. Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our February birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year. Condolences – Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who have recently experienced the loss of loved ones. Good and Welfare – Please keep all of those who are sick and/or shut in, in your thoughts and healing prayers. We hope they will soon see brighter days ahead. Please notify Lorraine Parker at (718) 671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths. General Meeting – Thank you to those who attended our General Membership meeting on February 7. Your attendance and participation served to make it a productive meeting. Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 6, at 1 p.m. in the Dreiser Center Auditorium C. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend. We look forward to seeing you there. —Georgianna Rodriguez

Restaurant before show. Vaccination required. Villa Roma – Tribute to Diana Ross and Gladys Knight, Tue., June 11. Wait list only. Price: $125. Down payment, $50 to reserve seat. Balance due by May 20. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Mail to 135 Einstein Loop, Room 39, Bx., NY 10475 or Zelle to 347-847-1941. Vaccination required. Tribute to Whitney Houston – at Tropicana Casino, June 27. Price: $150; Bonus: $25 slot play and $20 food voucher. Wait list only. Deposit $50 to reserve seat. Balance due June 5th. Holiday Hills – Prospect, Ct.; Tues., Aug. 20. Price: $130; $50 deposit to reserve seat on bus. Balance due by Wed., July 17. 2024 Norwegian Cruise – Hawaii, Aug. 31-Sept. 7. Call: 646-579-1701. Latin Day at Brownstone – Thu., Sept. 26. Price: $145; $50 deposit. Balance due Aug.28. 2024 Las Vegas Trip – Oct. 11. Call: 646-579-1701. Motown Holiday Party – On the Lake in Ct.; Thu., Dec. 12. Price: $145; $50 deposit. Final payment due Nov. 13. Notary – with Yvonne Menefee, Thursdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 135 Einstein Loop, Room 34 or 39. Bingo – Mon., Wed. and Fri., 1-3:30 p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for 3 cards; $0.25 each additional card; 12 games and jackpot. Refreshments. Game Day – Tue. and Thu., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, Bid Whist, movies, socializing, plus. To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of February: Ida (Mitiz) Cleare, Zelma Usher, Maria Mendez, Aida E. Grant, Lauren Frederick, Zoraida Garcia, Janice L. Walcott, Tommy E. Williams, Joyce Chaney, Lucila Correa, Yvonne Menefee and Aida Gonzalez. Birthday cake celebration at Valentine’s party, Feb. 14. Birthday people free. Sick and Shut-in – Carlton Lawrence. Our former president, Mary Pilla, says hi to everyone. Call her: (718) 753-1816. Ella L. Thorne is in Workmen’s Circle; 718-379-8100. Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, Section 5 Community Center; (718) 379-9613; Stephen cell, (347) 847-1941. Our email: goose.island@optonline.net; $StephenCarlSr. Good health to all. —Stephen Roberts, Sr.

AARP Chapter #4997 AARP Chapter #4997 wishes to extend to all a very informative and special celebration of Black History Month. The community and city have many events planned and we want you to experience as many as possible. Remain aware of your health needs and the rights of others as you navigate through the days. Hopefully, by the time this article is printed, we will have concluded “A Visibility Day of Action” with the State and National organizations in Albany to visit our elected officials and express our needs and wants. Due to our increased activity, we had a bus leaving from Co-op City for the first time since pre-Covid. The Tour Committee has made a change for the pick-up location beginning with the April 30th trip to see “A Tribute to the Supremes.” The new pick-up location is Dreiser Loop, near the H&R block office. The time is the same and there will be the usual three drop-off locations. There is also a planned trip for June 18, to the Vynecrest Winery stopping at the Wind Creek Casino. Cost: $139, includes the winery with tasting, Wind Creek Casino, and an all-youcan-eat Buffet Dinner. Participants for the Hawaiian Cruise are beginning to make plans for their September departure. Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962, can supply you with information about this and other trips you might like to suggest. In addition to our trip to Albany, AARP is offering an online course, AARP Smart Driver, which can save you money on your car insurance. Mr. David McNally, State Advocate, is asking members to contact their elected officials and request they include Prescription Drug Price Reform in the budget. The cost of prescriptions is extremely high, and many must make choices as to what they can afford each month. Our next General Membership meeting is Monday, February 11, 1 p.m., in the auditorium, 177 Dreiser Loop, second floor. We will have a presentation for Black History Month with entertainment for your pleasure. Be sure to join us! The office hours and days are Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, Room “0,” second floor. Telephone: 718-320-1946; Email: aarp4997@gmail.com. Please leave a message, as we will return calls on our next in-office workday. Please remember, the rules of Covid are ever changing and our office and meetings are masked mandated. A mask will be provided, if you need it. We are looking for members to volunteer their time in the office and you can contact Ms. Polite, 718-320-4278, to sign up or get information. Ms. Baker, 718-379-2088, is our very able Membership contact, and you can renew/join our chapter by calling her or stopping by the office. The annual dues are $20, and you must also be a member of the National Organization. From Mrs. Wilson, Good and Welfare contact, 718-671-5493. Our prayers are continuing for all who are experiencing any form of stress or discomfort. We Are Here To Serve, Not To Be Served. —Ann Purnell

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities JASA FREE Tax Preparation - Income Limit Single $32,000 w/dependents $60,000. Start date: Mon., January 29; 2049 Bartow Ave., back of the JASA NORC Office. Mondays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for appointments. Agatha House Foundation - National Diabetes Prevention Program – 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Join our 6–9 month program. For more information or to register, call Coach Brittany, 917-943-3503. Dreiser OAC presents, “It’s a Love Thing” – A celebration of Love & Togetherness w/dancing, music & special performances on Tues., Feb. 13, 10 a.m., Dreiser Auditorium B. Tickets on sale at Dreiser OAC in Rm. 7 for $6. Bartow OAC Trips – Costco, Fri., Feb. 16, $6; Bartow, 10 a.m.; Einstein, 10:15 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:30. Walmart (Woodbury Commons), Wed., Feb. 21, $12. Pick-ups for Walmart are Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:30 a.m. Dreiser (near the hard-

Bartow

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Dreiser

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Mindful Mornings Tai Chi 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Line Dance w/Sassy 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Ageless Facials & Self Care, 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 35 Appointments only.

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Virtual. 863492-4183, Passcode: Dreiser23 Stay Well w/Denise 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Piano Sing Along Class, Rm. 2 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Returning – Smartphone & Tablet Literacy class w/Julesa 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m.

LUNCH: KOSHER: Mediterranean Fish, Roasted Vegetables, Cous Cous, Roasted Eggplant NON-KOSHER: Beef Brisket with Tomatoes & Onions, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Normandy Blend Vegetables

Wellness Mornings, 9-10 a.m., Rm. 7 Bridge to Care Arthritis Exer- Love Celebration Event 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Auditorium B cise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Computer & Tablet Class w/Ralph Creative Arts & Painting, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 35 Dial-in number: 347-893-2966 Go Easy on us Computers Meeting ID: 854 2963 5300 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 40 Passcode: Dreiser23

LUNCH: KOSHER: Chicken Breast Stuffed w/Wild Rice, Sweet Potato, Butter Beans NON KOSHER: Spanish Style Baked Chicken, Yellow Rice, Sautéed Spinach

LUNCH: KOSHER: Chicken Marsala, Orzo, Normandy Blend Vegetables; NONKOSHER: Summer ChickPea &/Veggie Salad, Basic Pasta Salad, Kale Salad w/Lemon

Einstein

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

NO DINNER SERVED

Walk w/Odessa, on break until Spring 2024 Blood Pressure, 12-1 p.m., (1st & 3rd Tues.) Health & Wellness w/Ann 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Adult coloring, 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Smart Phone & Tablet Class w/Julesa, 1:45-2:45 p.m. Dinner Hour: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

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

Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Bereavement Hour w/Dorine (1st Wednesday only per month) 12-1 p.m. Line Dancing w/Cynthia Wed. & Fri., 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Dominoes w/Jose 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner Hour: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Hair Care 4U, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Appointments only Spring in Your Step Stretch & Tone w/Ola, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Action Bodies In Motion 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Room 45 Prize Bingo & Board Games 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 49A

Game Time, 9-10 a.m. Current Events, 10-11 a.m. Arthritis Exercise w/Damion 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Auditorium A Afternoon Crafts w/Ines & Julesa, 1:15-3 p.m., Rm. 7 Drama Club, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Rm. 4 Self Defense w/Jimmy 2-3 p.m., Room 2 (Twice a month)

Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Woodbury Commons Trip 9:30 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. Current Events, 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

LUNCH: KOSHER: Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage, Mashed Potato, Steamed Carrots; NON-KOSHER: Salmon Salad, Classic Macaroni Salad, Garden Salad

Salsa Dancing, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Wellness Morning, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Manicure Services for Seniors 2:00-3:30 p.m., Room #7 (Twice Walk With Ease, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. a month)

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: Stuffed Vegetable Cabbage, Instant Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Carrots, Orange NON-KOSHER: Stew Chicken Thighs, Penne Pasta, Steamed Cabbage w/Green Peas, Banana

Sewing Class w/Joy, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Knitting & Crocheting w/Loretta 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Alert & Alive w/Cathy and Essie 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 4 Line Dance w/Sassy 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Aud. A Bingo w/Gay, 1:20-2:50 p.m., Rm. 4

LUNCH: KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Leg, Garlic and Rosemary Roasted Potatoes, Grilled Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Baked Breaded Fish Filet, Pearled Barley, Braised Collard Greens DINNER: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: BBQ Chicken Legs. Garlic Rosemary, Roasted Potatoes, Grilled Vegetables, Plum NON-KOSHER: Eggplant Parmesan, Ziti Pasta, Steamed Cabbage w/Green Apple

Menu Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice. For information, please call: (718) 320-2066. Schedule subject to change without notice. Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. & 2 p.m.-4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Saturday: Lunch served at 12:30 p.m. OAC LUNCH untilBARTOW finished: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: Baked Chicken Cutlet, in JASAGravy, BARTOW OAC KOSHER: Moroccan Style Roasted Mushroom Egg Barley, Banana Chicken Legs, Brown Rice, Steamed Green NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish in Black Beans, Plum CLOSED Bean Sauce, Penne Pasta, Corn w/Peas NON-KOSHER: Taco w/Vegetables., & Sliced Carrots,Soft Orange Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots w/Parsley, Banana

Sat., Feb. 17

Fri., Feb. 16

Thurs., Feb. 15

Tues., Feb. 13

(NORC) Line Dancing with Bartow Swingers (ONLY) 12-1 p.m., Every Mon.

Wed., 12:30-2:30 p.m. Medicare Information – Wed., 9 a.m.-12 p.m., JASA NORC Office. Notary – JASA NORC Office, Tues., 9-10:30 a.m.; Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. By appointment. Technology Class – Thurs., 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989. Line Dance with Bartow Swingers – 12-1 p.m., Wed. & Fri., 12-1 p.m., Dreiser Loop Aud. A. Notary – Einstein OAC, until Feb. 2024, Notary Appointments ONLY, Thurs., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Starting Feb. 2024 will be on Tues. & Thurs. for Affidavit Notarizations, etc. Please call Einstein OAC – 718-671-5161, for: Hair Styling, 1st & 3rd Wed. of the month, 9-11 a.m.: Braids, haircuts, shape-up, twist, ponytails, curls and more. Facials & Manicure, every Mon., 1-3 p.m. Call for appointments.

Wed., Feb. 14

Mon., Feb. 12

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

ware store). Mello Tymes Acupunture w/Dr. Flora Luyando in the JASA NORC Office – Wed., Feb. 21/March 20, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for appointment. Common Pantry – Tues., Jan. 27, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Common Pantry is now taking new applicants for their program. Please note: Seniors will need to bring their most recent award letter of income and State Identification Card for registration purposes. International Women’s Day Celebration w/ Cynthia Dixon & Friends – Fri., March 8, 12- 2:30 p.m. Pick up a free ticket at Bartow OAC, Rm. 31 ONLY. Caringkind: The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving representative will be in the Bartow Main Office every third Mon. of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for Alzheimer and Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation & other services. Steel Drum Classes – JASA NORC Office on

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, 10 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Visual Arts w/Laura via Zoom 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Knitting/Crocheting with Lynne and Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Card Games with Frankie, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Manicure, 10:30 a.m-12 p.m. Line Dance with Cynthia 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Drama Club w/Dazee Windley 3 p.m.-4 p.m., in the back of the JASA NORC Office Intergenerational Arts & Crafts w/Denise, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Salsa with Rasheed 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Word Games 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Bingo on Saturdays 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. in the back of JASA NORC Office.

Coloring for Calmness 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m Chess Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Let’s Get It on Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: Beef Stew w/Brown Rice & California Blend Vegetables, Apple; NONKOSHER: Spanish Style Baked Chicken, Yellow Rice, Sautéed Spinach, Apple

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: Special Valentine’s Day Dinner; NON-KOSHER: Special Valentine’s Day Dinner

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Community Protestant Church Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469. You may contact us by phone: 718-862-9172, fax: 718-671-4416, or email: Administration@thecpcchurch.org. Worship Schedule In person Sunday Morning Worship – 11:00 a.m.; Sunday School – 9:15 a.m. Every Wednesday – “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer,” 12:00 p.m. on the Conference Call Line, (712) 432-3900; Access Code: 343284#. Every Wednesday – 7 p.m., Bible Study via Zoom Special Services Tomorrow, Sunday, February 11, at 11:00 a.m., Installation of Officers; Sunday, February 18, 11:00 a.m., Official Boards Day; Sunday, March 10, 11:00 a.m., The Usher Board Anniversary, and Friday, March 29, 12:00 p.m., Good Friday Service. We extend our heartfelt condolences to our member, Dr. Sharon D. Ricks, on the passing of her father, Sidney Ricks, and to all who are mourning the loss of a loved one. To our sick and shut in members, please know that we are praying for you and for your speedy recovery. If you are celebrating a birthday this month, we wish you a very Happy Birthday! “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” –Psalm 100:4. —Lexa M. Mingo

Church of the New Vision Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The Church of the New Vision and Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge welcome you to worship with us at 115 Einstein Loop North, Bronx, NY 10475. Church phone: 718-671-8746 and Pastor’s phone: 914-522-5039. Happy Healthy New Year to all. Our scripture verse for 2024 is: Hebrews 12:2 NIV “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the Throne of God.” Sunday service at 11:00 a.m. All are welcomed. Masks are required and temperature will be taken. Noon Day Prayer Line now open 12-12:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study, 7:00-8:00 p.m. The Conference Line Number: 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099388#. Please mute your phone. February 3rd Worship Service Theme: “The Atoning Blood of Jesus.” Scriptures: Hebrews 9:22 & Leviticus 17:11 “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” “For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atone-

ment for one’s like.” Announcements & Save the Dates Saturday, February 10, Amen Ministries and Church of the New Vision present “A Blueprint for Wellness” at the church location, 135 Einstein Loop, from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Services offered are Pre-Bio Metric Health Screening, COVID-19 vaccine and Flu shots, Eye Exam and Blood Pressure testing. Bring family, friends and guests. Everyone must register with amen-ministriesrev314@gmail.com or ljscott_2000@yahoo.com. All are welcome. Saturday, February 24 – Church of the New Vision and NAACP Co-op City Branch invite you to a Black History Month Celebration, “African American’s and the Arts,” at 3:00 p.m. All are welcomed. This is a free community event! Wednesday, August 14 – Now accepting $50 deposits to see “Daniel” at the Sight & Sound Theatre. Adults, $215/Youth, $175. We continue to pray for speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, and offer condolences to families who lost loved ones and good health and wellness for all. Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Thank you. —Brenda Brown

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

Lead, Follow, or Get out of the Way Mark Twain: “Some people bring joy wherever they go, and some people bring joy whenever they go.” According to our capacity and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, each person is given a task in the church. That task may include leading in some area or helping in another. The important thing, however, is to never stand in the way of church progress. 1 Lead: 1 Peter 4:11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the words of God. Acts 20:35 In all I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work, we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive. 2 Follow: 1 Corinthians 11:1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. Romans 12:5 In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. 3 Get Out of the Way: 2 Corinthians 10:12 We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. 13 We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits but will confine our boasting to the sphere of service God himself has assigned to us, a sphere that also includes you. Nehemiah 6:3 So I sent messengers to them with this reply: “I am carrying on a great project

Share Your Comments & Suggestions with Riverbay Shareholders are encouraged to submit input on how to improve services and service delivery as well as other ideas that impact the quality of life of Co-op City residents. If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the Riverbay Board and/or Management, visit the Home page of the official Co-op City website, coopcity.com, scroll down to the bottom and click on the “Comments & Suggestions” link. Be an engaged shareholder. Share your ideas to improve quality-of-life in Co-op City.

and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?” 4 Four times they sent me the same message, and I gave them the same answer each time. If you’re going to come in, enter. If you’re going out, leave. But don’t stand in the doorway because you’re blocking progress. Schedule 147 Dreiser Loop (lower level). During February 20-22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., CCC Children’s Church (5-12 years) will be hosting random acts of kindness. Register at the entrance. Every 1st Sunday of the month, Bilingual Communion Service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday: Spanish, 9 a.m., & English Service,

11:30 a.m. Tuesday: Prayer, 10:30-11:30 am Wed. & Thurs.: Nonperishable food distribution from 12-2 p.m. Thursday: Prayer/Bible Study, 6:30-8 p.m. Friday: Youth Service (Operation Grace), 6:30-9 p.m. Saturday: Women’s Fellowship, second Saturday of the month, 12-3 p.m. Young Adults, third Saturday of the month, 12-3 p.m. Men’s Fellowship, fourth Saturday of the month, 12-3 p.m. Blessings in Christ, —Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

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Serving all cultures & faiths

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

Co-op City United Methodist Church IEMU de Co-op City Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds.

Come and Visit us – We are a multi-ethnic and bilingual, Bible-centered congregation with spirit -filled worship. We offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service to God and our community. Services are held in person at 2350 Palmer Avenue across from Building 30. Parking is available. You can also participate with us via Zoom (904 4685745) or Facebook live (United Methodist Church of Co-op City). You’re always welcome. –Pastor, David Jolly “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” –Matthew 22:37-39 NIV In this month of love, let’s return to the source of true love as we meditate and reflect on God’s love. We know that God is love and how much HE loves us. Thus, knowing who God is and understanding the extent of His love for us should inspire us to love God more fully and give Him His due. So,

how do we reciprocate God’s love? The primary way Christians are to be recognized is by love. This love comes from God who loved us first. It is not only what we feel, but what we do. According to The Great Commandment in the scripture above, our first response to God’s love, is to love Him with all our being. God wants us fully committed to loving Him with our emotions, thoughts, and actions. But what does it mean to love God and our neighbors? To love God is to Obey God. To love God is prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else. However, this love is not merely a mutual affection between us and God. It must also include love for others. 1 John 4: 12 states that, “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is made complete in us. God gives us strength through the Holy Spirit, to love our neighbors as ourself. Therefore, let us imitate the love of Jesus that exemplifies what it means to sacrifice oneself and serve others out of love with

concrete actions that glorifies God. May God teach us to love Him with our whole being out of love and may He lead us to the “neighbors” we can help to show His unending love. Happy Valentine’s Day! Come and Receive a Blessing Daniel’s Book Online Bible Study (Zoom: 904468-5745) Tuesday: Español at 12:15 p.m. Wednesday: English at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 14: Bilingual Ash Wednesday Service, 10:00 a.m. at UMC Co-op City; 7:00 p.m. at Trinity UMC, 331 City Island Ave. Thursday, February 15: Bilingual Prayer Service cancelled Food Pantry: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Upcoming Events – Save The Dates All are welcome! Sunday, February 11: Spanish Service at 10:00 a.m. and English Service at 11:30 a.m. —Grace Abadia

Newsong Church The Lord’s Prayer – 3 Your kingdom come. Your will be done. Matthew 6:9 (NKJV) We’re walking through the Lord’s prayer, and today Jesus teaches us to pray the Father’s agenda first. God’s will is perfect, so when we pray His kingdom come, we’re praying His heart. Jesus said, “He will always give you all you need from day to day if you will make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.” –Luke 12:3 TLB. As you pray, spend time focusing on what God is focused on. Here are some of God’s priorities to pray for: • Our world to know Jesus. • Blessing for those in authority (parental, spiritual, governmental, work, school.) Caring for the poor and marginalized. Freedom for those in bondage. • The church around the world to be salt and light. • Pray that God’s purposes and plan will be accomplished in us. When we pray His agenda first, we are declaring that God is sovereign, that He not only cares about these things, He wants us to care about them too! He’s our heavenly Father, through Jesus we’re

adopted into His holy family, and He wants us to be about the family business! About Us: Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We believe that every person can know God, find freedom, discover their purpose, and make a difference in this world! No matter what you’ve been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family…Check us out. We’re located at 135 Einstein Loop! Sunday Worship Experience: Our Sunday worship experience starts with celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. Colossians 3:16 says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” We sing to bring glory and honor to God, and celebrate who He is and what He’s doing in our church! Our Worship Experience starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. Newsong Deaf Church, Room 35: Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language!

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and The Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow at 8 a.m. in person only and at 11 a.m. in person and on Zoom. Sunday School classes for all ages will be held at 9:30 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone, 718320-3774. Masks are required. The service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line, (646) 568-7788, Meeting ID 962 343 0102#, Password 788175#. The church’s Free Conference Call Line dial in number is 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#. Rev. Williams asks everyone who calls into the Sunday Worship service to use Zoom through your computer or dial in using the Zoom information shown above. This week’s events: Wednesday Bible Study Class at 1 p.m. by Zoom. Prayer Warriors Prayer Service on Thursday at noon; Friday Mid-Morning Prayer Service at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Friday Evening Prayer Service – all are on the church conference call line. The First Lady’s Ministry will celebrate their 28th Anniversary on Sunday, February 18, at the 11 a.m. service. Our Pastor, Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams, will be the preacher. The theme is “Living by Faith.” Romans 1:17. All are invited. The CCBC Food Giveaway Ministry’s next food distribution will be on Friday, February 23, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop. Please remember to bring your own bag, and perhaps a

cart. Some products can be heavy. Our Black History Sunday celebration will be on Sunday, February 25, at the 11 a.m. service. The guest preacher will be Rev. Diane Simmons, co-Pastor of Life Line Ministries, Bronx, NY. Come dressed in your Afro-centric attire. All are invited. The Scholarship Ministry invites you to cruise with them aboard the Celebrity Equinox Ship on Tuesday, July 30, to Thursday, August 8, 2024. Ports of call are Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Price for inside double occupancy staterooms is $3,995.00 per person. Only two staterooms in this category remain. To make the required deposit, contact Ms. Hermena Smith, travel agent, at 646-780-9813. If you are interested in acquiring a balcony stateroom, contact Sis. Claudette Cutlar Day at 718-379-0541. Please be mindful of the date April 1, 2024. This is the deadline for paying the balance on the July cruise. Before making your final payment, please check with Sis. Day for the amount of your balance. Payments and balances will be accepted prior to April 1st. The church has a free app available on your app store by putting in Co Op CBC. This App is open to all. GOD is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through Worship, Prayer, Bible Study and Fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry. —Marilyn C. Williams

Kidsong, Room 49: We’ve created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level! Newsong Church Youth: NSCY is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world. At NSCY, our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus. NSCY meets every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. in Room 42. So, what are you waiting for? There’s a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5? Remember, a church alive is worth the drive! Come and find hope. Come and find healing. Come and find freedom. Contact Us...Mailing Address: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 42; Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc. org; Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org; Phone: 917-342-2559 Social Media: Instagram: @newsongchurchbx, Facebook: @newsongchurchbx, X: @newsongchurch bx, YouTube: Newsong Church NYC —Pastor Mike Tolone

It has already opened its doors!

The Spanish 7th Day Adventist Church, Co-op City We are located at 177 Dreiser Loop, Co-op City, Bronx NY 10475 Room #127 Our Day of Worship is every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and at the end we have a special lunch. Come with your family and a warm church of good people who love God and their neighbor will be waiting for you. For more information contact Pastor Elias Santana at 347-364-0601 “I was happy with those who told me: To the house of the Lord we will go.” Psalm 122:1 We will wait for you!

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

The Church of St. Thomas the Apostle 177 Dreiser Loop, second floor, Room 2. Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The congregation and clergy of St. Thomas invite you to worship with us. Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20) This Sunday is the Sunday before Lent. It is a day of devotion to the Holy Spirit as the fire of love. We will also be honoring Valentine’s Day today with special presentations. Today is all about love. As the lesson from 1 Corrinthians and the prayer for today tell us, nothing is worth doing if it is done without love. We seek power and guidance from the Holy Spirit to accomplish all of our doings with love so that we may be able to follow what Jesus taught us: “love one another” (John 13:34) The Sunday before Lent, February 11 • 11:00 a.m. – Communion Service • Fellowship with light refreshments following the service Bible Lessons: • 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 • Matthew 20:1-16 Prayer: O Holy Spirit, who hast taught us that all our doings without love are nothing worth, pour into our hearts that most excellent gift of love, the very bond of peace and of all virtues, without which whosoever liveth is counted dead before thee; who livest and reignest with the Father and the Son, one God for evermore. Amen. —Rev. Dorian Miceli

Pentecostal Tabernacle Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle is located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 204, Bronx, NY 10475. Sunday School starts at 10:30 a.m., Worship service starts at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bible Study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening worship service starts at 7:30 p.m. Please join us for Bible Study and prayer meeting on Zoom. Call 646-931-3860, Meeting ID: 7215591000, Code: 505050#. Focus: Freedom of Choice (Joshua 24: 14-16) “Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seemed evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that was on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. And the people answered and said, God forbid that we should forsake the Lord, to serve other gods.” God Desires a Relationship with Mankind One of the wonderful revelations of scripture is that God longs for a relationship with mankind. He does not need us, but he desires us. He loves us. He

wants communion and intimacy with those whom He created and redeemed. It was for this purpose Jesus Christ died on the cross. When God created mankind, He enjoyed close connection with Adam and Eve. He enjoyed daily fellowship with them, for when He arrived after their sin, they were not surprised by his presence, just ashamed for their nakedness. It was evidently common for them to enjoy time with him daily. What a precious thing it must have been to have ongoing, regular, intimate fellowship with Him! It still is. Some people are more decisive than others and seem not to have a problem making up their minds regarding natural choices both big and small. Others choose between their options, whether the decision is as significant as which job offer to take or as mundane as paper or plastic. Choices have consequences. We have observed this pattern throughout our lives. In matters great and small, this principle holds true, and it is no less true, regarding one’s spiritual standing before God. Life and death hang in the balance of the choice to repent and to obey the gospel. Our decision either to live for God or reject his appeal leads us ultimately either to Heaven or to Hell. This knowledge and understanding should cause us to approach every decision about our spiritual life soberly and in the fear of God. (Deuteronomy 30:19) “I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, I have set before you life & death, therefore choose life.” ––Rev. Sibblies

Get Involved in Your Community...Co-op City is your home!

Co-op City Times / February 10, 2024

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