Co-op City Times 02/18/17 by Co-op City Times

Vol. 52 No. 7

Saturday, February 18, 2017

Riverbay Legislative Committee Holds Round Table Discussion With Elected Officials BY LAURETTA J. JAYSURA

On Saturday, February 11, the Riverbay Board Legislative Committee, chaired by Board Director Rod

In addition to Board Director Saunders, other facilitators for the early morning pow-wow included Riverbay Board President Linda Berk, who

All of Riverbay’s elected representatives came together to meet with Board Directors and top management officials to discuss current and future issues facing the community and how they can each better help their more 50,000 constituents who call Co-op City home. Photo by Lauretta Jaysura

Saunders, held a round table discussion with just about every local elected official representing Co-op City to discuss and elicit their help with a litany of important issues facing the housing corporation.

Budget Review

25¢

The Board of Directors has spent a five-year capital plan laying out the last month reviewing the budget the major infrastructure needs of submitted by manageRiverbay. Having a ment. We will vote on President’s Message five-year capital projthe budget before the ect plan gives Riverend of this month in bay the opportunity to plan for needed exorder to submit it to President penses without being DHCR for approval. surprised. It should keep us The entities had a preview from the old, bad habit we of the budget proposal last had of robbing Peter to pay month. Paul because Riverbay Most important to sharenever planned or forecasted holders is the question of a upcoming needs outside of carrying charge increase. the current budget period. As Bob Klehammer introThese projects include duced his overview of the replacing 160 elevators, budget at our recent Town Local Law 11 repairs, ADA Hall meeting, he explained that Riverbay is in good stead financompliant lobby doors, upgraded cially and we are still operating with fronts for the shopping centers and a surplus. For the purposes of Riveraddressing the cement beams on bay’s operational expenses, we have the garage top floors. Some of the enough money to meet our needs. expenses for the new lobby doors Along with the budget, our Exec(Continued on page 2) utive GM presented the Board with

Linda Berk

Installation of Economizer

opened the session with a warm welcome and introductions. “This is a rare event,” said Ms. Berk. “We thank our elected officials for (Continued on page 4)

CHANGE TO TAX FORM BY IRS DOES NOT IMPACT SHAREHOLDERS

A tax form that Riverbay sends out to shareholders each year may look different, but nothing has changed regarding how it affects your individual tax return. The form, 1098, is sent out each year to indicate the share of the corporation’s real estate tax and mortgage interest that each cooperator pays as part of their annual carrying charges. Those two numbers are still on the form as always. The IRS now requires three additional numbers on the 1098 form – the outstanding mortgage principal, the mortgage origination date, and the mortgage insurance premiums. None of these numbers affect a shareholder’s individual tax return, according to the Riverbay Finance Department.

Earlier this week, a milestone in the installation of the Power Plant’s new high speed boiler was reached and the economizer was moved and permanently placed inside the plant adjacent to the pad where the new boiler will sit. The economizer will regulate steam produced by the boiler before it is sent to the turbines to produce heat, hot water and electricity for the more than 15,000 homes of Co-op City. Full commissioning of the boiler is expected later this year. Photos by Bill Stuttig

Assemblyman Benedetto appointed to MTA Capital Program Review Board BY BILL STUTTIG

Mike Benedetto, Co-op City’s long-time representative in the New York State Assembly, announced this week that he was recently appointed to the powerful MTA Capital Program Review Board, a four-member panel that has veto power over capital budgets brought forth by the MTA and its Board of Directors. The long-serving assemblyman announced his appointment by New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie to the Review Board at the Riverbay legislative round table last Saturday. The Capital Program Review Board’s members are each appointed by four different branches of the New York State and New York City government. Those are the Governor’s office, the Mayor’s office, the New York State Senate and the New York State Assembly. As Assemblyman Benedetto explained it, he will serve on the Board at the behest and will of Speaker Heastie and in representation of all the members of the (Continued on page 3)

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

President’s Report and shopping centers are included in the non-critical reserves from our Wells Fargo loan. However, there never was enough money to cover the expense of these projects. Now, we must also address the elevators and other necessary property repairs and upgrades, such as elevators and lobbies. The Board has met several times over the past month reviewing and analyzing the budget painstakingly through every aspect and each department. We have asked for several scenarios to try to bring the budget down. Management was able to trim $4.6 million after various trials. In the end, I believe a carrying charge increase will be necessary. The Board will meet with management next week to finalize the numbers. I realize there are those who would say “NO” to a carrying charge increase. However, this, in my opinion, is not the responsible answer. There were boards in the past that vied not to increase carrying charges and did so for nearly 10 years. That strategy left Co-op City crumbling and in disrepair. It was then that MSI took out the proprietary loan of over $400 million to repair our garages, brickwork and windows that were major safety issues. Others would say just cut 10-15% off the budget. However, anyone who has had the responsibility for running a department, company or agency knows that to cut a budget is to cut your services. I do not believe shareholders want their services cut. While we continue to have our Internal Auditor evaluate each department for inefficiencies, waste and corruption; while we meet with city, state and federal representatives to assist Riverbay where they can, we need to move forward in a responsible way as collective homeowners, shareholders of Riverbay Corporation. Lessons learned from our past encourage us to take the

(Continued from page 1)

responsible route of maintaining our property. We cannot allow our property to fall into the state it was in as we entered 2000. We must remain the most affordable housing development in town without being the shabbiest housing development in town. We can do that! GOOD News Legislative Round Table On Saturday, February 11, 2017 the Legislative Committee, chaired by Rod Saunders, and co-chaired by Bernie Cylich, hosted a round table discussion with our elected officials. In attendance was Congressman Eliot Engel, State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, City Councilman Andy King and Assemblyman and the Bronx Democratic Party Chair Marcos Crespo. Riverbay methodically presented to these elected officials the burdens and issues that face us daily and have a serious budgetary impact for Riverbay. We discussed many issues, including: the asbestos abatement requirement that costs Riverbay $3 million a year, the Public Service Commission’s new requirements that will impact our ability to receive roughly $3 million with the power plant, the new water program with the city for which we currently are not eligible to participate, the lack of a community center, reduced MTA bus routes and the need to develop our waterfront. The discussions were earnest, intense, and strategic. The opportunity to talk these issues through together gave rise to new ideas and strategies that excited everyone. In the end, the Board, management and our elected officials finished the afternoon excited that there are real possibilities to affect positive change and cost saving actions for Riverbay. It is now up to the Legislative Committee, Board of Directors and management to keep

Man arrested for public lewdness Public Safety reported this week that a 60-year-old male Co-op City resident was arrested this week after the second of two alleged incidents in which he entered a building lobby with no clothes on. According to Public Safety investigators, the first incident occurred on December 1st in the lobby of Building 4B. On Tuesday, February 14th, at approximately 8:30 a.m., Public Safety received a report that a man again entered a lobby with no clothes on. The investigating officer, Detective J. Monahan, said that lobby surveillance from both incidents were checked and it was the same individual in both incidents. The following evening, Detective Monahan reported, investigators went to the home of the individual and brought him to Public Safety headquarters for questioning where Public Safety reported that he confessed. He was then charged with two counts of public lewdness. Public Safety Det. J. Lugo was the arresting officer with assistance from Lt. A. Warner, Det. Monahan, Det. Pagan, Det. Rodriguez and Officer C. Mora. Lt. Warner, the commander of the Public Safety Detective Unit, said: “This was excellent work by members of the CCPD Detective Squad to bring this case to a closure. Eviction proceedings are underway to remove this individual from the community.” —Bill Stuttig

MTA Real-Time Service Updates The most up-to-date information on MTA service status is always available at www.mta.info. For immediate notice of service changes, sign up for email or text alerts at www.mymtaalerts.com. For weekend subway service changes, visit web.mta.info/weekender.

this process going. We have definitely turned the corner with our representatives, and we must keep going! Meeting with Mayor de Blasio This week, Riverbay Executive GM Bob Klehammer, GM Noel Ellison and I met with Mayor Bill de Blasio and his top staff – chief-of-staff, budget director and several deputy directors – to address the issues raised at the recent Town Hall meeting the mayor held in December. We shared with this group of decision makers, the burdens and issues Riverbay faces providing the necessary municipal services. The good news is that the mayor and his staff listened to our concerns, asked pertinent questions and were able to share with us their thoughts, which convinced us that they “got it!” The mayor insisted we have a highlevel meeting with the agency heads regarding the asbestos abatement requirement and we bring back our data and technical experts. To relieve us of this requirement would save Riverbay $3 million a year. This is Riverbay’s opportunity to demonstrate how the money we spend in this abatement program would not change the way we remove floors. We have performed over 100,000 tests to date and there were ZERO positive tests. We also were able to share with the mayor and his staff that with the $16

million we spend on sanitation and policing, we could use their assistance in other areas. We raised the need for a community center, a place our young people could go to for programming, learning and socializing. We need to give our youth an opportunity to grow, develop and find the genius in them. We also need a unified location for our seniors to be able to offer them more diverse programming than we can now. The mayor and his staff heard us and they are considering the options, including the development of our waterfront. We will reconvene soon to discuss the specific options available. While it is important that we continue to be responsible and take care of our property, I believe we should continue in a deliberate and strategic approach to lower our costs and increase our quality of life. We can do that by continuing with recommendations from Internal Audit and building on the partnerships we are developing with our elected officials. It is universally beneficial to make sure we sustain Co-op City as the largest affordable housing option in New York that is exemplary of how affordable living can also be quality living. That is our goal and we are well on our way. I can be reached at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or Lberk @riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Co-op City Times 2 n d Benedetto

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

Annual Youth Celebration The National Council of Negro Women, Inc., Co-op City Section, and the Riverbay Fund will co-sponsor the 16th Annual Youth celebration on Saturday, February 25, 1-4 p.m. in Dreiser Auditorium B. This will be an afternoon of singing, dancing, stepping, poetry, spoken word, storytelling and much more encompassing “The African American Journey From Slavery To Black Lives Matter.” Youth and youth groups interested in showcasing their talent at this celebration, please call for more information: (917) 3992643 or (917) 826-5644. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.

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New York State Assembly. He said that by this appointment, Co-op City specifically does not gain any added representation in their efforts to secure better services from the huge, state-funded transit agency. But, he added, the visibility of the position might give him added leverage in lobbying on behalf of the community for future services. Published descriptions of the MTA Capital Program Review Board gives each member oversight over the MTA’s capital plan even after it passes through the MTA Board of Directors. The decisions of the MTA Capital Review Board must be unanimous in its approval of the final capital plan before its policies and expenditures are adopted. The Capital plan that will likely come before the current MTA Capital Program Review Board—of which the assemblyman is now a member—will likely be for slated expenditures beginning in 2019, Benedetto said this week. He said that a big issue facing Co-op City in the near future will be needed infrastructure to serve the already budgeted development of a Metro North Station in Section 5 perhaps in a few years and done concurrently with the completion of the East Side Access Project at Grand Central Terminal tentatively scheduled for completion in 2022. The East Access Project is a massive ongoing construction of an extension to Grand Central Terminal which will

February 2017 Celebrating Black History Month

allow LIRR trains to terminate at the midtown central Manhattan terminal. When that happens, spaces will open up to allow additional Metro North trains to terminate at Penn Station on the west side thus providing the track space for Metro North to expand using the existing AMTRAK tracks that currently run adjacent to Co-op City and three other east Bronx communities. When new stations come to Co-op City and the other three east Bronx communities to the south of here, the issue arises as to how to handle the incoming traffic into the new stations, especially considering the already over-congested Section 5 where the new station will be. Benedetto said that the seat on the board will allow him to propose that a parking lot or a garage along with a pedestrian bridge be built on the Pelham Bay Park side of the tracks, thus minimizing the effect that the new station might have on Co-op City traffic. He said he will also propose the establishment of a free shuttle bus to allow Co-op City residents to access the station without having to drive or pay an additional bus fare to get to the new much quicker transportation to Manhattan’s commerce and culture. These are all budget items that might come up in future capital expenditure plans to come before the MTA Capital Program Review Board on which Assemblyman Benedetto will likely have a seat.

Truman football star signs with University of Maine BY BILL STUTTIG

The excitement of National Signing Day, the day that culminates the process by which the nation’s college football programs recruit the nation’s best high school players

4th Annual Spelling Bee The 4th Annual Spelling Bee for children in the 4th to 8th grades is being organized by the AfricanAmerican Association and the Riverbay Fund. The spelling bee will be held on Saturday, March 18th, 11:00 a.m. in the Bartow Community Center, room 31. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend to support the young students residing in Co-op City. This year, the first place winner will receive $100, second place winner, $50 and third place, $25. All the children will be recognized. For further information and an application, please call 718379-5555.

Front Pa ge

the sometimes confusing recruiting process, said that the star running back was pursued by several top universities including Rutgers, Syracuse, Temple and Connecticut to name just a few, but chose Maine after visiting the school with his father, Wayne Jefferson, where they both met with the coaching staff and several of his future teammates. According to Williams, Truman’s Principal Keri Alfano also became involved in the process, meeting with members of the University of Maine coaching staff to ensure that the school offered the young man the best chance to succeed on the playing field, but more importantly in the classroom. According to Coach Williams, at the end of the process Alfano was pleased with the

Truman H.S. Principal Keri Alfano with the school’s star running back Ramon Jefferson and his father Wayne Jefferson (right). On February 1st, the record breaking running back signed a Letter of Intent to play football for the University of Maine under a four-year full athletic scholarship. Photos by Abel Alexander

to play for their college, came to Truman High School this year as its star running back Ramon Jefferson signed to accept a full scholarship to the University of Maine beginning this summer. Jefferson set school and PSAL records during his years as a star player for the Mustangs which won the New York City Bowl Division Championship in 2015 and was runner-up in 2016. This past year Jefferson rushed for more than 1200 yards and scored an astounding 23 touchdowns. He was named to the All New York City team and the All Bronx Team in both 2015 and 2016 and also was named to the All New York State team. In his high school career at Truman, he amassed 5,456 total yards with 52 career touchdowns. Truman’s long-time running backs coach Brian Williams, who helped guide the Jefferson family through

Truman’s running back coach Brian Williams (left) with star player Ramon Jefferson (center) and his father Wayne Jefferson holding some of the many awards Ramon won during his remarkable high school football career at Truman.

college choice made by the Jeffersons. “She was happy for Ramon,” Williams said, “but wanted to make sure it was the right fit for him, offering the best chance for academic success and support and safety.” Williams said that the recruiting process included a visit to the Jefferson home by the University of Maine’s (Continued on page 9)

Round table

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017 (Continued from page 1)

accepting our invite. We are the most Mr. Buss then opened the floor for successful and affordable housing suggestions from the legislators. company in the country and we seek a It was an amicable gathering with partnership with our elected officials.” all in agreement that some of the burDirector Saunders added that Co-op densome costs and other issues for City has the best management team, Co-op City do not seem to be handled best department directors and staff fairly, while expressing a commitand this is the first time we have had ment to unity, working together and the opportunity to have such “a distinalongside the Riverbay Corporation guished panel come here” for us to to resolve some of these issues, some tell them what our issues are. going as far back as 1985. “This legislative round table is, in Assemblyman Crespo, the powerful my opinion, the opening of a door, in head of the Bronx County Committee, a manner quite unlike anything preoffered greetings on behalf of himself ceding it before,” Director Saunders and Bronx Borough President Ruben told the Co-op City Times this week. Diaz. “We must all cooperate,” he “We took yet another step forward stated emphatically. “I am here to do bringing about a better, stronger and whatever we can do together.” Regardmore meaningful relationship with ing the PSC, Crespo said that Co-op our elected representatives. City should be “celebrated” for being “This was not about talking to one of in the forefront of using an electrical our representatives; it was about being mini-grid system, especially since able to address all of them together, there is a mandate in that direction. and in doing so, we could uniquely Congressman Engel also pledged communicate a host of issues, and then his support to Co-op City: “I am here crisscross ideas and possible solutions.” to serve; this is where I got my start. Co-op City has remained a strong Ben Carson is the head of HUD and I Democratic enclave as evidenced by will knock on the door to get help the electeds in attendance to this with the federal government. unprecedented gathering last Satur“Co-op City is very fortunate to day: Congressman Eliot Engel, himhave a great team of elected officials self a former resident of Co-op City; who operate together as one to improve freshman NYS Senator Jamaal Bailey, the quality of life issues facing the Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Bronx,” Congressman Engel added. Councilman Andy King, Bronx Dem- “I have worked closely with State Senocratic County Committee Chair Marator Bailey, Assemblyman Benedetto cos Crespo, who also represents the and Council Member King on a wide 85th District in the New York State array of issues ranging from improvassembly; representatives from the ing and expanding our bus service to offices of the Mayor, Comptroller and replacing the missing mailboxes that the Bronx Borough President. In addihave plagued our community. I am tion, Female District Leader Shirley also committed to improving our Saunders and Male District Leader transportation infrastructure—includGeorge Clark, committee members ing finding ways to alleviate traffic Martin Prince, Joe Bioko, Annette concerns around the Mall at Bay Newman and Sandy Krasnove, as well Plaza and the Metro North project— as a majority of the Riverbay Board in a way that ensures a great deal of members were also present. input from Co-op City residents. These Participating on behalf of Riverbay improvements are vital to our neighCorporation were Executive General borhood, but must be done in a careful Manager Bob Klehammer, General manner that limits the impact on the Manager Noel Ellison, Riverbay Gencommunity. I will continue to chameral Counsel Jeff Buss and Assistant pion these and other important causes General Manager Warren Mitchell. while working with my colleagues to On the table for discussion were strengthen Co-op City.” six specific issues: elevators, asbestos Ms. Alexis Walters of the Mayor’s abatement, rising water costs, changes Office reported that Mayor de Blasio ordered by the Public Service Comis aware of the asbestos issue and a mission (PSC), public safety/sanitation, meeting had already been scheduled and municipal service/MTA. Each for Feb. 16 with the First Deputy item was preceded by a very comMayor and Riverbay. pelling synopsis from management. Senator Bailey and Assemblyman Addressing the issue of the PSC, Mr. Benedetto agreed to work together to Buss said that the commission, without help resolve issues with the MTA. providing any data from any analysis Assemblyman Benedetto reminded or study that has been performed, has everyone that the MTA is auto-nomous essentially moved up the heat changeand their 5-year capital budget plan over date and this, in turn, will have a may have already been submitted, significant negative impact on the effihowever, he is in talks with the MTA cient and cost effective operation of the pertinent to Co-op City’s needs. Riverbay cogeneration plant and possiAssemblyman Benedetto revealed bly similar facilities across the state as that he was recently appointed to the well. Mr. Buss said that the power MTA Capital Program Review Board plant provides many benefits not only and talked about his ongoing efforts to to Co-op City, but to the entire city. He make sure that the needs of Co-op City also pointed out that Co-op City gets are better met particularly regarding no subsidies although the community plans for the new Metro North station pays for their own public safety and to begin serving Co-op City a few collect their own garbage which adds years from now. So that the new staup to millions in cost. tion would have as little impact as pos“Our system is actually a mini grid sible on the already congested comand we should be offered more in munity, Benedetto said he is lobbying terms of refunds,” said Mr. Buss. “We for a parking facility to serve the staare looking at a petition to ask the PSC tion built on the Pelham Bay side of to reconsider the heat change-over date. the tracks with a pedestrian bridge for We have even asked for a hearing.” riders to access the station without

inconveniencing Co-op City. He also mentioned the possibility of a free shuttle to bring Co-op City residents to the station from the four northern sections of the community. “The legislative round table was a great way to tackle many of the issues affecting Co-op City, such as concerns with the elevators and other quality of life issues,” stated Senator Bailey. “I look forward to working with the residents of Co-op City, the Riverbay board, and my colleagues in government. I will always fight for solutions to solve problems for the families in Co-op City.” Councilman King offered several significant suggestions and said that it is time “to change the paradigm” for Co-op City, reiterating his commitment to the community. “The city must find ways to partner with Co-op City because of the energy grid support that Co-op City offers,” said Councilmember King. “The federal government, state and city cannot view Co-op City as a cash cow. I am committed to advocating for needed reforms that empower Co-op City and Riverbay, such as ending the unfair and exorbitant charges for asbestos testing currently required. I have listened to the concerns of the Co-op City Board and look forward to continuing to work together to fight for reasonable policies towards this unique community of over 50,000 New Yorkers.” General Manager Ellison asked

that Riverbay be given a “seat at the table” when agencies are planning and making decisions that affect this community. To date that has not happened, he pointed out, adding that “it is an insult” to the community to not be invited to these type of meetings that affect our daily lives and potentially add to our budget. Board President Berk reminded the elected officials that Co-op City saves New York City millions of dollars annually in police and sanitation costs and is not getting anything in return. She also addressed the urgent, real time need for a youth or community center and asked the elected representatives for their support. In closing, Director Saunders thanked all for coming and supporting the community. “This event was held on behalf of our shareholders. Right now, I believe that we are at the foundation stages, and I sincerely hope that subsequent meetings after Saturday’s will transcend into our continuation of building a stronger, and respectful relationship for both sides, and that those of us who were there, will point to Saturday’s meeting as one of the catalysts that helped to put Co-op City, and our elected representatives, on the same page at the right time so that we accomplish goals that are mutually beneficial.” At the conclusion of the discussion, invitees were served a warm brunch, before heading off to their other engagements.

Legislative Round Table Brings Issues To Forefront Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

All of Riverbayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elected representatives, including Congressman Eliot Engel, State Senator Jamaal Bailey, State Assemblyman Mike Benedetto and City Councilman Andy King, met with Riverbay Board Directors and top management officials last Saturday morning to hear firsthand the issues facing the community now and in the near future and offer their feedback on what their offices can do to assist the community. (See full story beginning on page 1) Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Letters to the Editor

Progressives A-Poppin’! To the Editor: How wonderful to read letters by two more progressives in last week’s edition. Linda Collins writes of the importance of protecting our affordable homes from the scourge of the new administration's appointments and policies. Ms. Collins mentions the ongoing strategies arranged by the organizers of the Women’s March on Washington which can be found by Googling “10

Actions in 100 Days.” Last week’s action focused on brain storming with like-minded progressives for future actions via a “huddle.” I would be interested in joining or hosting such events (mpjazz@optonline.net). The other writer, John Rose, thinks activism will not work on Trump and I agree. However, it might just work on other elected officials: enhearten the progressives and make the rest of them grow a backbone. Something

that might interest Mr. Rose can be found at SwingLeft.org. SwingLeft guides you to the geographically closest 2018 race in which to invest your time, energy and money. In the meantime, don’t forget to go to "Keith for DNC" and do what you can to send the most qualified and the most progressive person to the head of the Democratic National Committee. That’s not just activism, that’s action. —Mary Pearson

Clarifying My Position To the Editor: I am writing to correct a mischaracterization of my comments at the town hall meeting in the Co-op City Times’ article on the event. I did not complain about Riverbay Corporation spending money on the bus trip to the Women’s March on Washington. That was another shareholder’s position — support the march, oppose Riverbay paying for it. I told the Board of Directors I

opposed the march itself. I believe there is an important principle at stake here involving freedom of political speech, and the circumstances under which Riverbay Corporation has the power to coerce speech from its shareholders in the form of forced donations to political causes. That’s why I would ask for a refund of the portion of my carrying charges that paid for the event. That’s a narrower

Caregiver support group rescheduled Due to last Thursday’s snow storm, the monthly meeting of the Support Group for Caregivers of the Mentally Ill was postponed and rescheduled for this Tuesday, February 21st at 7 p.m. in room 49 of the Einstein Community Center. Dr. Eric Padol, a psychologist and a Co-op City resident, will be the guest speaker. Following this meeting, the support group’s regular monthly schedule will resume the second Thursday of each month in Einstein’s room 35. The group is co-led by Riverbay Board Director Marie Smith. For information about participating, you can contact her at the Riverbay board office, 718-320-3300, extension 3400.

Holiday Retrievals From Elevator Pits Cooperators requesting a key or other retrievals from an elevator pit on the holiday, Presidents’ Day, which will be observed on Monday, February 20, will be subject to holiday mechanic rates. Charges will be billed to shareholders at the rate of $320. We, therefore, recommend that any retrievals be held off until the next business day when charges will return to the regular, nonholiday rate of $25. Thank you for your attention. —Riverbay Management

issue than under what circumstances Riverbay can or should exercise its own political speech by spending money on political causes, an issue about which I have not epressed an opinion. Thank you. —Jorge Sierra Complaints? Compliments? Quality of Life issues? Write a Letter to the Editor! cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Riverbay Holiday closing and Co-op City Times deadline notice Riverbay’s administrative offices will be closed on Monday, February 20, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Shareholders may contact the Emergency Maintenance Desk at (718) 3203300 (option 3) for service emergencies and the Co-op City Public Safety Department at (718) 671-3050, and 9-1-1 for all other emergencies. Because of the holiday shortened work week, all Directors’ viewpoints and club articles must be submitted by 9 a.m. on Tuesday, February 21. Material received after this time will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, February 22nd issue of the Co-op City Times. Please note that this deadline will be strictly enforced to ensure the paper meets its production schedule. Articles and viewpoints may be submitted electronically by emailing 24/7 to cctimes @riverbaycorp.com or by faxing to (718) 3202595. Material may also be slipped under the door of room 21 in the Bartow Community Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. We wish our readers a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 32 Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

Building 32

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr. Expiration Date

Building 32 A&B 4180 & 4160 Hutchinson River Parkway

May 31, 2017

May 31, 2020

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

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

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

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Public Safety Report

CCPD offers SAFE DRIVING and WALKING tips for WINTER WEATHER

The end of 2016 and the beginning of 2017 have been quite a mixed bag as far as weather is concerned. We have had record high temperatures followed by massive snowfalls. Large snowfalls, followed by icy rain and low temperatures, create extremely unsafe conditions. Snowfalls with the frigid temperatures can have quite an impact on walking and driving. Cooperators need to use extreme caution when walking or driving. We have come to learn that there is nothing predictable about weather in the New York area. During severe winter weather, it becomes even more important to be sure to drive safely and obey traffic rules. Snow, ice and freezing rain present an increase in hazards for drivers and pedestrians alike. By allowing extra time for travel and avoiding unnecessary travel, readers can stay safe during adverse weather conditions. When there are hazardous conditions residents should try to stay home, if possible. Walking or driving in bad weather increases your chance of getting injured. The elderly and those with mobility issues should definitely stay home and enlist the help of a friend or neighbor. Many local restaurants and establishments offer free delivery service. There are supermarkets that offer food delivery that you can order from your home. Driving in extreme weather should be avoided at all costs. New York City Department of Sanitation is prepared to step up plowing and salting efforts. However, roads will not be clear until several hours after snow finishes falling. Salt used for melting snow is no longer effective when temperatures plummet below 20 degrees. Snowy weather days are excellent times to catch up on reading, movie watching and TV viewing. When it snows, replace road trips with family game night, break out those good old fashioned board games and enjoy quality family time. Extreme weather makes it even more important to be sure your car is in optimum condition with good tires. It is also important that all drivers and passengers BUCKLE UP for safety. Children should be secured in the proper restraint system for their age and weight, always in the rear seat of the vehicle. Never put a rear facing infant seat in the front seat of an auto that has a passenger side airbag. The airbag can propel the car seat into the seat back with enough force to seriously injure or kill the child. Never hold a child on your lap while driving or while seated in the front seat. The force of the airbag throwing the child against you could be fatal. You should never take a child out of a car seat if they are fussing. Car seat in the rear seat is always the way to go, never regard not sitting in a car seat or sitting in the front seat as a reward. Children need to be buckled up in the rear seat of the vehicle properly restrained. Children aged 8 or over, weighing 100 pounds or more or taller than 4 feet, 9 inches may use a seat belt. Children between 4 and 8, 40 to 100 pounds should use a booster seat. There are even booster seats to accommodate children that exceed one hundred pounds, but are still shorter than 4’9” and younger than 8. Children 1 to 4 years of age should be in a child safety seat with a five point harness. Children younger than 1 should be placed in a rear facing infant seat in the back seat of the auto. Never use a car seat that has been in an accident, it may have sustained damage that is not visible. Car seat installation can seem difficult at first. It is very important that you carefully read the owner’s manual for both the car seat and for your auto. The LATCH system is an attempt to simplify car seat installation and make it universal from one car to another. The acronym LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and

BY LT. PAM APOLLO

Tethers for CHildren. It includes Lower Anchorage points and top tether straps to fasten car seats. All vehi-

cles manufactured after 2003 must have at least two (Continued on page 11)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbay corp.com; and Barbara Penn at Bpenn@riverbaycorp.com. Please note that emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see bottom of the employment listings for specific directions. CONTRACT SUMMARY Contract 3137, Asphalt Paving for One Year (as Bids Due: March 8 at 5:00 p.m. needed) Bonding: Bonding not required Pre-Bid Meeting: February 13, 2017 at 11 a.m. at 98 Insurance: is required from winning bidder Co-op City Blvd., Green Construction Trailers Bids Due: February 27 at 5 p.m. Contract 3122, Garage (1-8) Concrete T-Beam Bonding: Bonding is not required Project: Removal and or repair of the T-Beams on Insurance: is required from winning bidder. the Garage Roofs. Pre-bid Meeting: March 1, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. Contract 3138, Replacement and Repair of Side- Bids Due: March 16, 2017 by the end of the business walks at various locations day (4:00 p.m.) Pre-Bid Meeting: February 22, 2017 at 11 a.m. at Bonding: Bonding is required 98 Co-op City Blvd., Green Construction Trailers Insurance: Insurance is required

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

(More Opportunities on page 30)

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Francine Reva Jones Secretary The Board of Directors has had several meetings to discuss a budget in an effort to maintain our community in the most efficient manner possible. Last year, the Legislative Committee held a Legislative Brunch honoring our elected officials and to initiate a better, more effective relationship. That is how we can work together in order for them to assist us in relieving some of the unfair financial burden so that we can look forward to a more reasonable economic future. Last Saturday’s Legislative Roundtable was the second such gatherings that the Legislative Committee presented under the chairmanship of Rod Saunders. The meeting included US Congressman Eliot Engel, NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Assemblymember Michael Benedetto, Assemblymember and Bronx Committee Chairman Marcos A. Crespo and NYC Councilman Andy King. Also present were representatives from the offices of NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio, NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. Riverbay’s management and attorney presented our community concerns well when speaking on the assistance we need regarding elevators, asbestos abatement, water and sewer taxes, sanitation, Public Service Commission, Public Safety, and the potential Metro North parking issue. Our Board President Linda Berk and First Vice President Bernard Cylich presented the issues regarding our need for a youth facility, waterfront development and restoration of the bus service that existed prior to the MTA cuts in 2010. Thanks to the legislative chairperson Rod Saunders and his assistants for hosting such an important forum. The Board members look forward to our elected officials honoring their commitments to us and we intend to follow-up. This forum was recorded for all shareholders to view and I trust that you will do so. On Wednesday, February 8th, our Board President Linda Berk called a Town Hall Meeting that was open to the community in order to discuss anything they desired. The entire evening was devoted to listening and responding to cooperators’ ques-

Maintaining Our Community tions and comments. For those who could not be present, the following is a summary. The Executive General Manager of Douglas Elliman began with discussion about the expenses and improvements in the areas of our water treatment facility, basketball courts, technology, corporate reorganizing and restructuring departments, new risk management director, forgoing prepaying federal taxes, UPS kiosks, CCPD body cams and staff accountability. He ended by stating that it has been an interesting seven months; that this is the place he wants to be, and that we should let him know if he is doing a good or bad job. Seventeen cooperators signed up to speak. However, two of them received answers from the management team that was stationed outside of room 31 from 6:007:00 p.m. for that purpose. Some of the comments were: More cooperators should show up at these meetings; his approval to spend money on the Women’s March on Washington was not given and wanted a refund; will there be a carrying charge increase?; Building #5 curbside signage for Access-A-Ride; quality of new cooperators and improving new cooperator orientation; we need a trained plumber; smoking marijuana; when will Cablevision contract expire?; wants management assessment made available to cooperators; old and used Jersey barriers were installed at Killer Curve; CCPD should train NYPD; Co-op City Times should be delivered door-to-door and not dropped at the elevators; we should discuss what it means to be a shareholder; proud that buses were sent to March on Washington; NYC government is hiring and visit www.NYC.gov; dog barking all day; apartment sublets; questioned how Board committees and members are formed; the Board is doing a good job. For more information, read the Feb. 11th edition of the Co-op City Times. The Board president thanked everyone for coming and all enjoyed refreshments. Mailbox Update Although this matter did not come up at the Town Hall meeting, I spoke with the Chairman Martin Prince from Community Board #10, and a Riverbay staff member involved with this matter, who stated that all of the mail boxes should not have been taken from the community at once. Also,

Engel Renews Push to Keep Seniors Out of Poverty Reintroduces Guaranteed 3% COLA for Seniors Act Congressman Eliot L. Engel renewed his push to save seniors from poverty by reintroducing a bill that would guarantee every senior a reasonable Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) annually. Last year, the Social Security Administration announced that seniors’ Social Security benefits would increase just 0.3% in 2017, a bump of about $5 per month for the average senior citizen. Engel’s bill, the Guaranteed 3% COLA for Seniors Act (H.R.991), would set a floor of 3% to ensure that every senior citizen receives at least a 3% COLA each year. The bill would also update the formula that the government uses to determine seniors’ yearly COLA to one that better reflects the costs seniors typically face. “This year’s measly cost-of-living increase would be laughable if it weren’t for the very real dangers it poses for seniors,” Congressman Engel said. “Seniors’ Social Security benefits have not gone up more than 1.7% since 2012. These tiny bumps fail to account for the living costs seniors face and could force many to do without necessities, like medication – a choice no senior should be forced to make. “This problem is made worse by Republicans’ assaults on the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Thanks to the ACA, seniors in the so-called Medicare ‘donut hole’ have saved more than $23.5 billion on their prescription drugs. If the GOP repeals the law, seniors will have to pay more for services the ACA guarantees without copays like prescription drugs and preventive doctors’ visits, and those costs could be catastrophic for them. “America’s seniors shouldn’t be forced to the brink of poverty because of an archaic formula and Republican apathy. I will continue to push for passage of the Guaranteed 3% COLA for Seniors Act and finally afford seniors the protections they deserve.” The Guaranteed 3% COLA for Seniors Act is supported by the Seniors Coalition and the Senior Citizens League. Congressman Steve Cohen (TN09) and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke (NY-09) are original cosponsors of the bill.

some of them would not be replaced, but that he will push to have them all returned. I will be following any progress made and will keep the community informed. W.E.B. Du Bois for Black History Month William Edward Burghardt “W.E.B.” Du Bois (1868-1963), born in Great Barrington, MA, became a leading African-American sociologist, writer and activist. Educated at Harvard University and other top schools, Du Bois studied with some of the most important social thinkers of his time. He earned fame for the publication of such works as “Souls of Black Folk” (1903), and was a founding officer of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and editor of its magazine. Du Bois also taught at Wilberforce University and Atlanta University, and chaired the Peace Information Center. Shortly before his death, Du Bois settled in Ghana to work on the Encyclopedia Africana. Educated at Fisk University (1885-1888), Harvard University (18881896), and the University of Berlin (1892-1894), Du Bois studied with some of the most important social thinkers of his time and then embarked upon a seventy-year career that combined scholarship and teaching with lifelong activism in liberation struggles. During Du Bois’ prolific career, he published nineteen books, edited four magazines, coedited a magazine for children, and produced scores of articles and speeches. He clashed on occasion with other black leaders over appropriate strategies for Black advancement, notably Booker T. Washington and Marcus Garvey. Above all, Du Bois sought to place African-American experience in its world-historical context. Out of this mix evolved his dual projects of building an African socialism and publishing a unifying work of scholarship on the African diaspora, which is his legacy. Contact Please attend your building association meetings. If you wish to share your ideas, write or call me at: Francine Jones, Board of Directors, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; 718671-5957. Enjoy and celebrate Black History Month.

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Jefferson Offensive Coordinator, Liam Coen. Maine’s head coach Joe Harasymiak and Assistant Coach Jared Keyte were also heavily involved in the recruiting process each personally reaching out to Coach Williams and Truman Head Coach John Shepherd to inquire about the star runner. Williams added that Truman’s coaches and administrators remained involved in the process to make sure that everything was completed in compliance with NCA regulations and all deadlines were met to allow Ramon to have his dreams of playing college football a reality. According to Coach Williams, Truman counselors and administrators who had a hand in the process included Andrea Joubert, Katharine Mourino, and Rosellina Maher. “The recruiting is fun and involves the business of building good relationships with parents, and building their trust that a

(Cont’d from page 3)

great educational experience awaits their son,” said Coach Williams. “The process was an experience but Ramon has the character that the coaches were looking for with room to grow in mind, body and spirit. We feel that the University of Maine’s attention to detail will help him develop in those three areas and also provide strong academic support for success throughout his undergraduate studies and beyond.” “In speaking for all the coaches, winning games is secondary to what we do,” Coach Williams added. “It’s all about the kids and what we as coaches can do to help them be good people in life.” The actual signing ceremony on National Signing Day, February 1, took place at Truman and was attended by Ramon, his father Wayne, Principal Alfano, Head Coach Shepherd, Coach Williams, Coach Kevin Lawes and Coach L. Mitchell.

Happy 17th Birthday , Amanda Marie!

Amanda, as you continue on your life's journey, you are like a bright shining star for all to see. Your academic achievements and your spiritual faithfulness are sure to give you success in whatever you endeavor to accomplish. Continue to work hard and stay focused. We love you and are here for you. —Grandpa Ted & Scottie, Grandma Dorothy, Mom, Troy, Uncle Jermaine, Jermaine Jr., Alyssa and Aaliyah

Estranged husband arrested in the murder of a Building 16A resident last November BY BILL STUTTIG

A 36-year-old man, Andre Curtis, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with the murder of his estranged wife, Sophia Lamb, in her Co-op City home last November 26th. According to multiple sources, Curtis was declared a person of interest in the case immediately after Ms. Lamb was found stabbed to death. Numerous sources said that in the days soon after the murder, Curtis was discovered unconscious near his vehicle parked on Jerome Avenue and was rushed to Montefiore Medical Center in critical condition in a coma due to a blood clot. In the last week, detectives were finally able to communicate with him. He was arrested and charged with the murder and related offenses Tuesday. According to the Bronx DA’s office, Curtis had not yet been arraigned on the charges as of our press deadline on Friday afternoon. Ms. Lamb’s stabbing death sent shockwaves through this community last November, as family, neighbors, friends and co-workers came to the home to mourn the tragedy immediately after hearing the news on November 26th. Those close to Ms. Lamb reported to media outlets then that she had asked her husband to leave her home weeks before November 26th which he did.

Happy Birthday , Kaelyn Amber Dross!

Kaelyn, you are celebrating another year. God’s blessings to you in all your school activities as you look to God for His blessings. Stay focused on your school. Put God first in all you do. Wishing you many, many more. —Mom, Dad, Grandma, Uncle, Sister and family

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Raising Our Level Of Political Sophistication

Director’s Viewpoint

The agenda topics selected were the following: Elevators, asbestos abatement, water use fees, the Public Service Commission (Power Plant Operations); Public Safety, Co-op City’s Sanitation initiaAssistant Secretary tive in lieu of equivalent Municipal Services, and the current MTA bus service. Riverbay Corporation’s Executive General Manager This past Saturday, February 11th, the Riverbay Bob Klehammer, followed by the Board’s legal counBoard of Directors’ Legislative Committee, which I selor Jeff Buss, General Manager Noel Ellison, co-chair chair, coordinated the first ever Legislative Round Bernie Cylich and Board President Linda Berk were all Table. The committee is co-chaired by First Vice excellent in their presentations of the agenda. President Bernie Cylich. The event was hosted at the Serious and thoughtful discussion ensued after each Bartow Community Center in room 31. topic, including plausible actions which could result in Invited and attending the meeting were: Congress- a favorable outcome for Co-op City shareholders. man Eliot L. Engel (16th CD); NY State Assemblyman Congressman Eliot Engel was a little late to arrive & Bronx Democratic County Leader Marcos Crespo due to air traffic congestion. After making a brief (85th AD); NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey (83rd AD); statement, he assured those in attendance that he will NY State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto (82nd continue to support Co-op City in any way he can AD); NYC Councilman Andy King (12th Council Dis- going forward. He’s up-to-date regarding our elevatrict); Democratic Female District Leader Shirley J. tors, and that he will join with us in whatever way Saunders (82nd AD) and Democratic Male District that is most beneficial for our community. Leader George Clark (82nd AD). Assemblyman/Bronx County Chair Marcos Crespo Representing invitees who could not be in atten- represents the 85th Assembly District, however, he dance were: Alexis Walters, representing the Mayor came to the legislative round table to listen to our conof the City of New York; Mariel De La Cruz, repre- cerns. During the presentations, he asked several quessenting the Comptroller of the City of New York, and tions of our management/legal team, made several supMatthew D. Shuffler, representing the Bronx Bor- porting comments which let those in attendance know ough President’s office. that he will be taking many of our concerns under serious Our Riverbay Board of Directors in attendance: Pres- consideration, and that he will be advocating on behalf of ident Linda Berk; First Vice President Bernie Cylich; our community wherever he can be most effective. Second Vice President Claudia Sampson; Treasurer State Senator Jamaal Bailey expressed his conDeborah Jenkins; Assistant Treasurer Sonia Feliciano; cerns with our elevator issues, and the ongoing Board Secretary Francine Reva Jones; Directors Andrea asbestos abatement spending that Co-op City has had Leslie, Junius Williams, Leslie Peterson, Daryl Johnson, to endure even though we have tested negative in Kevin Lambright, Evelyn Turner and Leah Graham. more than 40,000 tests. He is firmly with us. From October, the Legislative Committee disAssemblyman Michael Benedetto, chair of the Comcussed and planned to invite our elected officials rep- mittee on Cities, made several comments during the resenting Co-op City and presenting to them specific presentations, and made strategic suggestions to manareas where our community can use their help and agement and the Board. Assemblyman Benedetto advocacy with important, if not critical, issues. expressed interest in helping Co-op City to negotiate Once the committee and the full Riverbay Board had credit for some of the services that we provide sharevoted in agreement on the specific agenda topics we felt holders because the city’s contribution does not adegermane to the Co-op City community, I had the go- quately provide for our community, the traffic flow, and ahead to coordinate with management the dynamics of the proposals for the changes to the Hutchinson River the presentations to our elected representatives. Parkway on Bartow Ave. at the curve under the bridge.

Rod Saunders

Coalition To Save Affordable Housing Coalition’s Mardi Gras Dance The Coalition to Save Affordable Housing (CTSAH) would like to invite you to join us to dance the night away to the music from back in the days to today’s artists. Come one, come all to celebrate Mardi Gras in style at 177 Dreiser Loop, Dreiser Center, Auditorium A, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. today, February 18. We’re throwing a huge party today in our very own backyard with our own DJ spinning oldies but goodies, Latin, R&B, Reggae and much more. We will have set-ups available for you, BYOBB. The best mask competition will take place later in the evening. There will be door prizes available. Everybody likes a good party. That’s why we’ve invited you to come to celebrate Mardi Gras in mask this Saturday, February 18, from 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. at 177 Dreiser Loop, Dreiser Center Auditorium A. Tickets are $30 in advance, and $30 at the door. For tickets, call Bernie, 646-522-5498; Bruce, 718-869-6375; Stewart, 718671-0142; Andrea, 917-821-2418; Yolanda, 347-837-3806; or Sebastian, 646-261-4486. So get your tickets now! Laissez les bons temps rouler! Let the good times roll! General Meetings for membership and community Meetings are held every second Monday of the month. Our next meeting we be held on March 13, at 7:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be available. Please visit us on Facebook @coalition to save affordable housing of Coop City. Thank you. —Sebastian Ulanga

Please be courteous to your neighbors.

Curb your dog.

He was very outspoken on the MTA’s bus routes that were implemented here in Co-op City several years ago. NY City Councilman Andy King alluded to the City of New York seeing Co-op City as a collection of revenue source, rather than a budgeted expenditure, and that the bottom line is we pay out millions more in expenses than we receive. Councilman King is ready to advocate for real relief because we provide the city of New York with assistance with garbage collection and the patrolling of our community by our 100 CCPD police force. To summarize, every elected representative who has Co-op City as part of their districts – our congressman, state senator, state assemblyman and our NYC councilman were here to offer their ideas and support for the Co-op City community. Having the Bronx County Chair, Assemblyman Crespo here, was an immeasurable plus. A summary package will be sent out to each participant’s office so that everything that was presented here on Saturday will be there as a reminder of the issues and the important facts surrounding the issues. As part of the president’s closing remarks, Linda Berk made a very strong case for the development of our waterfront property along the Hutchinson River and for grant monies for a proposed Youth Center facility. This round table event can be called a benchmark moment for Co-op City, and can also be the foundation of the return of Co-op City as the strong, politically-based community. Clearly, we must stand together, engage, be ready to mobilize and raise our level of expectations, as well as raise our level of political sophistication with everything that affects this community. Aligning political calendars, and then assuring their availability for any specific day an election season is a daunting task. Undeterred, and under the leadership of Board liaisons Jessica Felice, Sharan White and our newest addition, intern liaison Tyreck Green, did an outstanding job at orchestrating everything that made this inaugural legislative round table event very successful. They were admirably assisted on Saturday morning by Ms. Tamira King who is always there to provide logistical help whenever/wherever she is needed, and to each of them, on behalf of the Legislative Committee, you have my sincerest and heartfelt “thank you!”

African-American Association Wikipedia defines African American (also referred to as Black Americans) as: An ethnic group of Americans with total or partial ancestry from any of the black racial groups of Africa. The term may also be used to include only those individuals who are descended from enslaved Africans. African –American history starts in the 16th century, with peoples from West Africa forcibly taken as slaves to Spanish America, and in the 17th century with West African slaves taken to English colonies in North America. How do you define it? Come join us and let us know. We will be putting together a fashion show in the spring. If you are interested in participating, come to our next general meeting for details. Meca Talent has a play coming up April 7th. “The First Lady” is a Gospel Comedy that will have only 250 tickets for sale due to only one performance in Co-op City before it launches its city tour. Be sure to get your tickets before it’s too late. Contact Meca Talent at the number below for info. The association sponsors the following ongoing programs and encourages your participation: Acting Classes – Children and adult classes are available. Contact: Meca Talent; for more information, call us at: 646-373-4122. Belly Dance Classes – Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. For more information, call Xonia, 646-301-9438. Children’s Programs – For information about the early morning school drop-off program, contact: Ms. Hines at 347-283-3809 and for the after school program, call 718-379-5555. Evening Line Dance Classes – Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Cynthia, 917-903-7073. Music, Rhythm & Dance – Most Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 15; most Saturdays, 10:00 a.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Keith, 917-561-6211. Yoga & Pilates Mat Classes – Classes on Tuesday, 7:15 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 2. Lose weight, tone and strengthen your muscles with exercises that reduce stress through breathing techniques. For more information, call 718-671-8364. Zumba and Yoga – Classes on Saturday start at 9:30 in Dreiser Center, room #2. General Membership Meeting – The next meeting will be Tuesday, March 14, at 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser Community Center, room #15. If you are unable to attend the meeting, please read our weekly column for updates. Also, if you wish to join or update your membership, please send a check or money order (DO NOT MAIL CASH) of $15 for a single membership or $25 for families to: African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Donations are welcomed. Like us on Facebook: Coopcity Africanamericanassoc. Email us at: aaaccpower@gmail.com. —Kevin Lambright

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Public Safety Report

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LATCH points in the rear seat. Seat belts can still be used to install car seats. This is an option for a third seat or if installation in the center seat is desired. Information regarding the LATCH system and the installation of car seats may be found at the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration at 1 (888) DASH2DOT or on their website at www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ Certified child passenger safety technicians are available at various locations to check for the proper installation of car seats. To find out about car seat check locations, call 1(866) SEAT CHECK or at their website at www.seatcheck.org. Every person riding in an automobile should wear a seatbelt. Seatbelts save lives. Airbags are not a substitute for seatbelts and are designed to be used in connection with seatbelts. An airbag comes out of the steering wheel or dashboard at a speed of 250 miles per hour. Without a seatbelt, the force of an airbag can cause serious injuries to the front seat passenger and driver. Wearing a seatbelt in a vehicle equipped with airbags will minimize injuries in otherwise life threatening collisions. Seatbelts will prevent the wearer from being thrown from the automobile in the case of a collision. Today’s automobiles are designed to keep the passenger compartment intact in the event of a collision. Without a seatbelt, you will not remain within that safety zone. Unsecured persons in a vehicle continue to travel at the vehicle’s speed until they strike a solid object within or outside the vehicle. Internal organs of the unbelted person then collide with the skeletal system causing serious internal injuries. An unbelted person also serves as a projectile and can cause injuries to other persons in the vehicle. A person properly restrained stays

within the vehicle’s safety zone and comes to a slower stop thereby minimizing injuries. Any snowfall presents a unique driving challenge. Share the road safely with cyclists and pedestrians. Bicyclists should give pedestrians the same level of courtesy they expect from motorists. You may think because it is winter, no one will be riding a bicycle, but there are some die-hard cyclists who are out on the roads year round. The snow only makes it worse by making less space for cyclists to ride, as well as making a slippery surface. Both cyclists and pedestrians may be observed straying into areas that would normally be traffic lanes due to large mounds of snow and cars parked into bike lanes and even roadways. This area is usually very icy and can result in slips and falls. Parked cars may be further from the curb, impinging on the buffer zone between cyclists and drivers. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians need to alert at all times. Changing weather conditions create new hazards on the roadways. Drivers should use the garages when possible. School is open, DRIVE CAREFULLY. If consuming alcoholic beverages is a part of your winter fun, be sure to designate a driver that will not drink. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State. Hazardous road conditions require drivers to be at a heightened state of alertness. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

Public Safety Blotter January 30 – Bartow and Baychester Avenues CCPD was alerted by a passerby of an apparent intoxicated male who was yelling and cursing in the middle of the street. Upon arrival, officers found the male in an agitated state. The man was taken into protective custody. The male was later transferred to the custody of the NYPD. January 30 – 120 Dreiser Loop One male was arrested and charged with trespass after entering the building without authority or permission. January 30 – 140 DeKruif Place A cooperator reported that an unknown female apparently rang her door bell requesting she opens the door after telling her if she did, she would get a free $25 gift certificate. The woman did not open the door and the female left the area. January 31 – 100 Erdman Place Multiple CCPD and NYPD units responded to a report of shots fired in this area. The area was checked and officers found no evidence. February 16 – 100 Debs Place CCPD units responded to this location for a report of a domestic assault. Upon arrival, officers found a female that had apparently been assaulted by a male still on the scene. The male was arrested and charged with domestic assault. February 16 - 140 Asch Loop CCPD officers received a call of an altercation between a resident and non-resident. Upon arrival, officers learned that a male entered the building by piggy backing off a cooperator who confronted the male in regards. The cooperator was punched in the chest, but not injured. Armed with a description of the perpetrator, the male was located within the building and charged with criminal trespass. February 16 – 140 Elgar Place CCPD officers responding to a report of loud noise encountered a male who apparently was banging on an apartment door. When questioned as to what was going on, the male became belligerent and confrontational with the officers. The male had also broken out a stairway door window. The male refused to cooperate with officers and put up a fight. The male was subdued and arrested and faces numerous charges as a result.

Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana • Limited to 20 people • Flight Leaves JFK August 8, 2018; 14 days. • Starting from $8980.00 dbl, including estimated air, NYC. • Passport must be valid up to 6 months upon return to United States. • 23 meals: 12 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches and 7 Dinners.

Highlights Revised... • Cape Town • Table Mountain • Stellenbosch • Entabeni Conservancy • Victoria Falls • Chobe National Park • 7 Wildlife Safaris - in search of the BIG FIVE

ALTOUR

1270 Avenue of the Americas, NY, NY 10020

TO CONTACT MONICA - PLEASE CALL 212-497-7674 or cell 646-515-8702

First Meeting and Presentation Saturday, Feb. 18, 11 a.m. St. Michael’s Church. Refreshments served.

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Deborah Jenkins Treasurer Affordability, Care And Concern For Neighbors, Budget And Elected Officials Anyone who knows me knows that I am a loyalist to my faith and the well-being of people. I tend to seek out those of like-mind in order to ensure the best outcomes for those in need. Having said that, in 2015, I ran for the Board of Directors with the Coalition to Save Affordable Housing slate because I supported the stated agenda, but more importantly, because the name of the organization speaks to the desires of each of us residing here in Co-op City. To this end, I have kept gaze on maintaining the affordability of our community. There are some truths that we must all face, like it or not. We have just come out of a brutal national election that has the potential to harm our city. The president is threatening to withhold federal funding from cities which consider themselves "sanctuary cities" and NYC is one such city. We could lose upwards of $9B in federal funding if he makes good on his promise. This would be detrimental to the economy and quality of life in our city. Social Security recipients received a very small increase recently, one which in most cases, will not keep up with the rising cost of living. Most salaries are stagnant. If ever there was a time when this community needs stability it's now. We are quite fortunate and I would say blessed to be one of the most affordable communities within the city. Let’s keep it that way! Proposed Budget: Much has been written and shared about the proposed two-year budget as presented by management, under the leadership of Douglas Elliman (DE) Management Company. It is a forward-looking budget which includes a 5-Year Capital Funding Plan. I applaud the Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer for having a progressive look at

Making It Plain the needs of our community and possible ways to fund those needs. However, there are a few things to consider. A 5-Year Capital Plan must be funded, this is a fact. To fund it fully will require an increase in carrying charges. The two-year budget, which is a requirement of HCR, must also be funded and I am happy to say that for our current operating budget, we have a surplus. I am pleased with the level of professionalism that DE has brought to Riverbay in the last 7 months. A tenure of less than a year does not compel this Board to proceed with forcing an increase in carrying charges on the community at this time. The nation is literally in daily flux and frankly we are not certain what the long-term ramifications will have on our community. To be sure, there will need to be an increase sometime in the near future as I have written time and time again about the urgent need to overhaul our elevators. This, in my mind and according to our elevator consultant who has 38 years of experience, should be priority number one. I support Mr. Klehammer continuing his process of turning this huge ship with many inefficiencies around, reviewing his progress at the oneyear mark and proceeding from there. Elected Officials: This past Saturday, the Legislative Committee, under the leadership of Director Rod Saunders, hosted our elected officials in a Legislative Roundtable. Congressman Eliot Engel, State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Councilman Andy King and Assemblyman Marcos Crespo (Bronx Democratic Chair) were all present and representatives from both the mayor’s and borough president's offices were in attendance. A myriad of issues were addressed, chiefly our elevator issue as presented by our corporation counsel, Jeffrey Buss. I was quite impressed with our state senator who quickly zeroed in on two very important issues. Of the two, he stressed that while he values the support of the 15 member Board in having him to take our issue to the State Legislature, he feels that it's even more important if we are able to galvanize the community in support

Window Guard Forms Overdue

of him seeking to have his colleagues prioritize our issue. I greatly appreciate this call because we are all in this together and your voices are important. Mr. Klehammer made an excellent presentation of the need for our community to receive asbestos abatement from the City of New York. He chronicled the issue which dates back to 2005 when a sample was taken of the glue used in our flooring process and the sample was found to have a type of chrysotile asbestos and therefore the testing requirements were imposed. Approximately 90,000 samples later and not one incidence of asbestos has been found. Mr. Klehammer implored our Councilman King and the mayor's office to provide relief for our community which averages $3.5M annually in the testing requirements to be in line with what the state has already given. Councilman King agreed to do whatever he can, and in conjunction with the mayor's office, to provide relief from the burden of these unfair requirements. Kudos to Mr. Klehammer! Assemblyman Benedetto after hearing First Vice President Bernie Cylich's presentation on the need to restore stops on the Bx26/28 buses agreed to use his authority to strongly urge the MTA to do just that. Congressman Engel gave assurance of support in engaging HUD on behalf of Riverbay when Dr. Carson and his staff are in place and to facilitate and/or host any meetings that we may need to have in Washington, D.C. with HUD. Finally, we are continuing to meet every two weeks at Faith @ Work Christian Church, 120 DeKruif Place to plan our actions against any injustice and inequality we believe must be addressed at the national level. We invite all who are concerned about ICE Raids, the ACA, Education, Gun Violence, Civil Rights and many other liberties that might be under attack, to join us on February 26, at 12:30 p.m. I can be reached about any and all that I have written at (718) 644-0951 or via email at djenkins@riverbayboard.com.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist — Foot Specialist

Shareholders, your 2017 Window Guard Form was due on Wednesday, February 15. If you have not yet filled out and returned your form, please contact your respective CSO and request the response code which is specific to your building and apartment. You will then be able to respond by phone or online at www.safebuildingsnyc.com. —CSO

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

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Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Together We Can Do

the Board of Directors at the time which we are paying for today. Who was watching? How was this allowed? The estimate that was brought to us by way of a fix is $41 million? This is a pretty steep price to Assistant Treasurer pay. We spend $3 million a year on our own sanitation services, a service that the community pays for yet we have not gotten our fair share of credits. We Dear fellow shareholders: spend $3 million a year in asbestos abatement, yet, The Legislative Roundtable held on Saturday, Febin 60,000 test samples conducted, we have had zero ruary 11, 2017 created an atmosphere of “together we airborne asbestos in the renovation of our vacant can do,” focusing and clearly defining issues that are permeating our community right now. Present at the apartments. Why do we continue to pay? We conmeeting were: Andy King – New York City Council tinue to pay skyrocketing rates for water and sewer, Member for the Bronx District 12, Michael Benedetto approximately $20 millions. We have our own Pub– NY State Assembly District 82, Jamaal Bailey – lic Safety Department with a $12 million budget, yet State Senator, 36th District, Marcos Crespo – NY we don’t get our fair share of credits from the city. State Assembly District 85, Elliot Engel – Congress- We have a traffic situation that connects Bartow man, members of our Executive Management team: Avenue, the Hutchinson River Parkway with Bay Bob Klehammer, Noel Ellison, Warren Mitchell, Joe Plaza and could potentially get worse if a proposed Boiko; our Legal Counsel, Jeff Buss; members of the mall on Gun Hill Road is built. Concerns with the Riverbay Board of Directors and invited guests. opening of an exit to the Hutchinson River Parkway Our chairperson, Rod Saunders, opened the dis- off the killer curve, and the proposed Metro North cussion with crucial issues facing Co-op City today. Train in the absence of adequate parking is a real As our management company carries out a 5-year concern for the residents of this community. While I am deeply troubled with the challenges capital projects plan, we are seeking relief from our elected officials by way of solutions, and collabora- we face as a community, the presence of our elected officials provides a critical role in identifying real tive efforts on the current situation we are facing. Some of the topics discussed were: 160+ eleva- solutions that will serve the needs of the community tors that need replacement of the motors as they are now and in future years to come. I encourage you to view the video tapes of the the wrong size. One can say that when the elevators were modernized in 2002, no one seemed to notice event that will be provided to you shortly. This will that the motors were too small. There was a clear allow you to see first-hand the issues which we are disconnect between the management company and seeking positive outcomes for. Many contractors have

Sonia Feliciano

come here to enrich themselves off of us with some leaving us with the spoils we have today. We are not anybody’s cash cow. We will continue to fight for what we rightly deserve. As a firm believer of building a sustainable community where we can live safely, continue to invest in affordable housing, and be financially stable, it is up to us to become engaged in legislative advocacy where we can clearly communicate as one voice to ensure that our challenges can turn into opportunities for all of us as a community. A special thanks to Rod Saunders, chairperson of the Legislative Committee, for organizing this important event. I am optimistic about our future and I firmly believe that this meeting is the start that will help position us to be the great community I know we are. Announcements The Spanish American Club is holding their “Recordar Es Vivir,” celebrating “Mardi Gras” on Saturday, February 18, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Dreiser Loop Community Center, room 4. There will be a live band and music by DJ Salsero. Members are free and non-members, $10. The Coalition to Save Affordable Housing is having their annual “Mardi Gras” event on Saturday, February 18 from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Dreiser Loop Community Center. Music by DJ Giovani. Tickets are $30. If you have any concerns that you want addressed, you can always reach me at 917-992-7311 or write me at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and the interests of our community. Shareholders first, because we matter!

Coalition Of African-American Churches & Community Organizations The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. wishes to thank everyone for their support. We appreciate you for sharing your time and energy to attend, assist and entertain. It is the involvement of individuals of your caliber and conviction that will positively influence our community and society. Please inform the coalition of any suggestions that you may have. Ms. Virgina Stewart is the president of the coalition. Phone number, (718) 671-4506. We were in recess the months of January and February. The next general membership meeting will be on Tuesday, March 7, at 12 p.m., 177 Dreiser Community Center, room 15. It is important that two representatives should be sent from each organization to attend all coalition meetings. We will have a guest speaker Mr. Noel Ellison, general manager of Riverbay Corporation. The coalition is a non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life of cooperators while providing educational and culturally enriching programs for the community. We also act as one voice for all coalition members where there are issues of common concern and human rights. We also sponsor Friends & Family Day celebrations, and Kwanzaa free for the community. Members of the coalition include the following: African-American Association; Co-op City Baptist Church; Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; NAACP, Co-op City Branch; St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church and Zodiacs Track Club.

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Please support our efforts by sending us a tax deductible contribution made payable to Coalition of African-American Churches and Community Organization of Co-op City, Inc., P.O. Box 619, Bronx, NY 10475. Churches and organizations that desire to join the coalition may apply for membership by either writing or calling (718) 671-4506 or (718) 671-5957 for a membership application, which should be returned with a letter on your church/organization’s letterhead and signed by the minister/president. Read the coalition’s weekly column for information about events and issues. Remember the coalition’s motto is “Coming together is the Beginning, Keeping together is Progress and Working together is Success.” —Harman T. Leacock

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Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Broun Place Townhouse Association From Broun Place Townhouse Association: Hope a lovely Valentine’ Day was had by all. Coming up, enjoy President’s Day Weekend. Do you remember its true meaning? Quote from Frederick Douglass 1818-1895: "The whole of humanity…Is ever greater than a part. Men only know themselves by knowing others, and contact is essential to this knowledge…All are needed to temper, modify, round, and complete the whole man and the whole nation." Broun Place Townhouse Association honors Black History Month and recognizes AfricanAmericans in history. We have several celebrations going on in Co-op City. The NCNW has a special community event on, Saturday, February 25th, check the Co-op City Times. Important: Regarding a suspicious mailing, the return address says, Social Security Guarantee Act Information,” “OFFICIAL BUSINESS, TO BE OPENED BY ADDRESSEE ONLY, UNDER PENALTY OF LAW.” This is not a federal mailing! Read the small print, “Coalition to Guarantee Social Security is a project of Christian Seniors Association,” a division of Traditional Values Coalition.” Their material is full of half and totally untrue statements. They are soliciting. BEWARE! Following up on the renovation of our basketball court adjacent to Garage 6, the work is underway. Seriously, hope the underground pipes and connections are not disturbed and the work is successful so the courts are back as projected. It is our understanding that the trees will be replanted once the work is completed. Mr. Salazar called to ask, how our dumpster pad signage and concrete reno-

vation was doing? Broun Place is delighted at how nice it looks and is being maintained. We attended the “Open Board Meeting” and “Buildings and Grounds.” The “Buildings and Grounds Committee” heard issues about laundry rooms, “Cooperator Orientation,” mailboxes, purchasing of light bulbs and fixtures, foyers in the high rises. Please speak to a Broun Place Executive Committee member if you have an issue. There is “new” information regarding window guards and town houses. Townhouse residents can purchase them, but the forms are not required to be filled out by town house residents. The Open Board/Town Hall Meeting highlights, at its best, were contained in what both Mr. Klehammer and Mr. Ellison delivered. They have divided the business of Co-op City into operations and corporate. They are clearly working well together. This is great for Co-op City. Neighbors you need to participate by attending these meetings. The “Cooperators United” meeting two weeks ago addressed the proposed “Baychester Square/Gun Hill Mall.” Mr. Martin Prince from the Community Planning Board discussed that and the AMTRAK stop planned for Co-op City and its ramifications. Mr. Michael Sanchez from JASA enumerated JASA’s services. A new program “PEARLS,” “Program to Encourage Active Rewarding Lives,” teaches you skills to manage unpleasant feelings and improve your quality of life. Contact JASA for more information. “If you see something, say something.” Call Public Safety: 718-6713050. Have a great week! —Eva Lazaar

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invites you to join us tomorrow at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. for worship service. Sunday School for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us. The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718320-3774. Join us for a mid-week spiritual pickup at our mid-week worship service which is held on Wednesdays at noon. Bible study is held on Wednesdays at 1:00 and 7:30 p.m. Bible study will also be held on Wednesday, February 15 at 5:00 p.m. Prayer Service is held on Fridays at noon and 7:30 p.m. The First Lady’s Ministry will celebrate their 21st anniversary on Sunday, February 17 at the 11 a.m. service. The theme is “Grow in Grace” 2 Peter 3:18. The guest speaker will be Minister Johnnie Simmons, from Crossway Christian Church, Bronx, NY. Everyone is invited to attend this celebratory service. The Sunday School will present their Black History Program on Saturday, February 25 at 10. Please join us to learn more about and celebrate our history. On Sunday, February 26, we will celebrate Black History Sunday at the 11:00 a.m. service. The guest speaker will be Rev. Dr. Calvin Kendrick.

The Building Fund Ministry is having a Pre-Mother’s Day celebration going to the McDonald’s Gospelfest on Saturday, May 13 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The celebration includes an all-you-eat buffet lunch, talent competition including rising gospel stars of all colors, ages and cultures competing in a variety of categories (soloists, youth choirs, adult choirs, praise dancers, steppers, gospel poets, and gospel rappers) and the Gospelfest featuring Israel Houghton, Erica Campbell, Bishop Paul Morton and others. The cost is $175 per person with a $50 nonrefundable deposit due immediately. For further information, please call 646-418-7102, 718-8629243 or the church at 718-320 -3774. Save the Date!!! On March 12 to 20, 2018, the church will be going to the Holy Land Pilgrimage (Israel). Join us and worship sailing on the Sea of Galilee, be baptized in the Jordan River; share in communion in the Garden Tomb. All where Jesus walked!! For additional information, call the church at 718-3203774. The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry. —Hattie L. Lucas

Building 10 Association Greetings to all Building 10 residents. Building association dues were recently collected for the current year. Each family that paid its dues, $5 per family, was given a sturdy canvas tote bag. The bags were not purchased with association funds, but were donated to us by the Citizens Committee for NYC. Many who received a bag commented on the quality of the item and expressed gratitude for "the gift." Please note, although a large number of shareholders paid their dues, a larger segment of residents did not. Perhaps the scheduled collection dates/times were not convenient for this group of neighbors. However, it's never too late. If you missed us and wish to pay your dues, you can see any board member or you may bring your dues to our next General Membership Meeting in March, 2017 (date & time of meeting will be announced shortly). Fun & Games Night will take place on Friday, February 24th from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Bldg. 10 Association Room (rear lobby of Bldg. 10B). We look forward to seeing all card, board & dominoes game players at this event. If you have your own game, please bring it with you. Hors d'oeuvres and finger food will be served. You are also welcome to contribute a food or drink item to the "menu." Flyers will soon be posted with all the particulars. This will be another great opportunity for you to come out, relax and engage your neighbors and friends in some good clean fun and conversation. Feel free to bring a friend. Our March 11th bus trip to Mohegan Sun Casino is a “go.” We're down from "a few" to "a couple" of open seats. The cost of the trip is $45 pp with $10 slot play & $15 food voucher. The bus will leave from 140 Debs Place at 8 a.m. sharp. Please call any of the following numbers to make your reservation: (718) 320-2366, (718) 671-5475 or (646) 334-3739. Members of the Fundraising team will be available one last time to accept full payment on February 27th from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Bldg. 10 association room. As previously mentioned, our next General Membership Meeting will be held some time in March. While it's nice to see and be supported by our "regulars," we know that there are a number of new neighbors in residence. We would love to see and welcome these new faces. So, please encourage your neighbors, both old and new, to attend meetings and to share their thoughts on ways the association can better serve us all. A happy, stress-free week is wished to everyone. —Carol Campbell

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Topic: We need some beneficial financial plans for this community Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson Two big meetings were held in Bartow this week. The details from the first meeting with the community will be covered in today's article. Thereafter, my article for next week will cover the details from the second meeting with our politicians. That First Meeting The board had a town hall meeting with the community on Wednesday, February 8, in Bartow. Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer gave a presentation on a few things that are happening in our community. The Dreiser mall was one of the first projects that he mentioned. "This project will be finished by March," he said. Really? This mall is a mess. So, what's going to be finished by March? Will it be the $3 million worth of payments that we made to just one company that won two bids to do the work at Dreiser and Bartow? Truthfully, Klehammer wasn't responsible for this nonsense. Look, so many people have complained to me that the work at Dreiser was one of the worst projects that they have ever seen in this community. "This mall looks like a war zone. Everything is boarded up. We've never seen this place look so bad," according to comments from several cooperators. The basketball courts on Bellamy Loop were brought up next. Klehammer said that there were drainage issues in this area. So, those drainage issues will be fixed and the basketball courts should be ready in about 5-6 months. The basketball courts and this park should look nice when everything is done. However, we have a few problems that management must address. First, there has been drug activity in this park. So, our Public Safety Department needs to set up a plan to take control of this park. Also, some people that use this park will run to other locations—like, under the portico of a building—to

relieve themselves. So, this type of activity creates several problems for other buildings. To solve this problem, management should consider installing public restrooms and water fountains inside of this park. Next, within 12-18 months, improvements will be made to our website. So, work orders and other documents will be available to our cooperators. Additionally, our cooperators will be able to go online and enter their maintenance issues. UPS and our Public Safety force were also discussed. We will make about $9,000 from the UPS lockers in our 3 malls. Also, in about 3-4 months, all of our Public Safety officers will use body cameras. Now, everything was somewhat okay up to this point. But, now, it's time to get to the real deal, the 5year capital plan. The 5-Year Capital Plan Let me start off by stating that our board does not want us directors to release details about our new budget at this time. But, the limited information for this section was mentioned at this first meeting by Executive GM Klehammer. So, this information can be reported to this entire community. Klehammer talked about our aging infrastructure. Also, he stated that he created a 5-year capital plan to deal with our elevators and a lot of other big costly items here. Then, he stated that an increase in our carrying charges will be needed to deal with these items. Okay, enough said. Shortly, we should be finished reviewing our new budget. Thereafter, I'm going to write a big article about our budget and the effect that this capital plan is going to have on our carrying charges. Wait until you read this article. Laundry Room Confrontations Our laundry rooms are supposed to operate by residents paying money to use our laundry machines for specific time periods. Thereafter, we're supposed to remove our clothing and let other residents use the machines. Easy, right? Not necessarily. Some residents will unfortunately use our laundry machines and reappear whenever they want. And, that's when big problems can occur. In some cases, all of the laundry machines were

busy. So, someone decided to remove the previous user's clothing. Thereafter, the previous user arrived and then a near-fight almost occurred. So, during this meeting, I suggested that warning signs be placed throughout our laundry rooms about retrieving clothing on time and the issuance of community complaints to residents that arrive late. Therefore, residents that are waiting for a machine should call Public Safety to remove those clothes. Then, an officer that's not too busy can arrive after a few moments and place those clothes into a bag with the time, date, and the specific laundry machine number and store those clothes into a basement room. When the resident arrives to retrieve their clothes, the officer can issue a reasonably-priced community complaint to them. Rough, right? Yes. But, please, let's see if we can avoid this situation by being considerate of our neighbors. Thank you. Response to an Anonymous Email An anonymous email was sent to some of our directors about some shenanigans that have allegedly occurred in one of our departments. Thereafter, this email was sent to me by a director because it's possible that the sender typed a wrong email address for me. Anyway, this email was forwarded to our managers and to our counsel for review. Thank you. Close This community must learn about the new budget, the 5-year capital plan, and the carrying charge increases. So, I will cover these items in an upcoming article. Thank you. Questions or comments? Please send a letter to: Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, please send a message to me at darylhjohnson@optonline.net (There are absolutely no problems with this email address. So, please double-check the spelling of this address if your message bounces back to you.) Also, please call me at 718-671-4544 if you don't receive a response from your message. You can also join me on Facebook by typing in: Daryl H. Johnson. 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 18, 2017

Building 32 Association

Building 21 Association

Meeting Our next General Membership meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 21 at 7:30 p.m. in our association room, located in 32B, first floor rear. Our guest speaker will be announced in the next weeks. Dues collection of $5 per year, per family is ongoing; look for association members in your lobby. Trip Detailed information about pick-up times for our trip to the African-American Museum will be published next month. In addition, we are planning a trip to the Westchester Dinner Theatre in the fall. A Broadway theater trip in also being contemplated. If there is a place you want to go, let us know. —Lorna Smith

21 Spotlights Linda Berk The recent town hall meeting was a major topic of interest in last week’s Think Tank discussion. The conversation included everything from the Riverbay Election, serving on committees, stabilizing the rate of maintenance increases, cable TV charges, regulating the power plant and host of other important issues we face as shareholders. When we analyzed the event and recent events of importance, we could not leave out the importance of the decision that Riverbay President Linda Berk made in deciding that CO-OP City would play an integral part in the Women’s March On Washington. Making such a decision took a lot of courage. The outcome could have gone either way. The stakes were high, but President Berk stepped out on faith, called on outside sources and resources and even acquired funds that offset costs to the participant shareholders. She organized a magnificent rally and all of her efforts culminated in this community taking part in one of the most momentous acts of unity this country and neighboring countries has ever seen. The Women’s March on Washington will be remembered as such for generations to come. You share something in common with Ms. Berk. You are a shareholder just like she is. Ms. Berk made a decision, and now it is your turn to continue the spirit and power of unity, and like Linda Berk, make a decision to protect, support and preserve your community for said generations. THINK TANK at Building 21 is in session every Friday, 8:30 -10 p.m. What is your decision? Will you come and bring your ideas? Be present for forward MOVEMENT IN OUR COMMUNITY. We are located in “The Gathering Room” in the rear of 21B. ALL are welcomed. New Schedule: Building 21 Monthly Meetings Here are 3 ways of gaining information about the 21 Association. Monthly meetings are now held every 3rd Friday in “The Gathering Room” in the rear of the B-section at 7 p.m. Email: 21association@gmail.com; phone: 347.504.1821. Josephine Baker – Salute for African American (aka: Black) History Month. Recognized as a much loved entertainer, we often forget about her contributions in her capacity as a civil rights activist and campaigner. Here is a quote from Ms. Baker aka Chez Josephine: “I have walked in the palaces of Kings and Queens and in the houses of Presidents. But I could not walk into a hotel in America and get a cup of coffee, and that made me mad. And when I get mad, you know, I open my big mouth. And then you know, look out, ‘cos when Josephine opens her big mouth they hear it all over the world. I am not a young woman now, friends. My life is behind me. There is too much fire burning inside me. Before it goes out I want you to use what is left to light the fire inside of you…” Each one of us divided by ALL OF US, EQUALS A FORCE FOR GOOD. See you around the neighborhood! —Michelle Marbury

Building 27 Association Greetings, neighbors. We are finally feeling the cold of winter. Well the snow just came in abruptly, after a sunny day and left the next day and once again returned to being a sunny day. Amazing, and man had absolutely nothing to do with it or about it. Our Matriarch of the building association, Ms. Bea Chaderton, was blessed to see another birthday, 95 years young on January 27, 2017. At our association board meeting, we serenaded her and celebrated her milestone with a birthday cake. Guess what? She is officially our assistant treasurer after stepping down from treasurer. Still being of service to her building and community. Ms. Bea was here and involved from the inception of the building association. Thank you, Ms. Bea, for being you, a kind woman of few words. Black History Month –This month, February, there will be plenty of activities in recognition of the contributions of African Americans. Keep an eye out for all that is going on in Co-op City in celebration of Black History Month. Reminder – To check if your smoke detector is working properly, use something with a long handle and press the button in the center and the alarm should beep with a red light. Window Guard form – An annual application to be filled out and returned back to Riverbay via the self envelope by February 15. If you miss the date, send it in anyway because Riverbay will follow up if you fail to return the application. Happy birthday to all in this month. Please share with the Sunshine Committee, Ms. Lydia Rondon, by calling her at (718) 583-3040. If a neighbor in our building is ill, homebound, celebrating birthdays or experiencing bereavement, Ms. Rondon will respond on behalf of the association. Remember to stay alert; when in doubt, find out, before responding to sporadic alerts via the internet, mail and phone calls. Please keep our Board and community in prayer that the Board will make the right decisions. There is truly unrest in our world. Rather than criticize, pray as we have been instructed to do by our Creator, PRAY FOR THE LEADER of this nation and leaders everywhere. —H. Overman

Building 13 Association If you want to join us for the Lobster Fest in July, the deposit deadline is today. Contact or e-mail us. This event is scheduled for Saturday, July 15, at the Nordic Lodge. It’s an all-you-can-eat Lobster Fest. The trip includes a 4-hour casino stay at Foxwoods (includes bonus to be determined by the casino) and outlet shopping at the Tangers Mall. Don’t like lobster, don’t worry; it also includes other fantastic dishes, including shrimps, crab cakes, steak, soups, pasta dishes and loads of delightful desserts. We will leave from 100 Casals Place at 7:30 a.m. and depart for home at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $160 per person. First payment of $80 due by February 18, to secure your seat. Due to the deposit that must be paid, we ask that you be prompt with your deposit or pay in full. Our next building meeting will be on March 2 in the association room. We will bring you up-to-date on recent activities and anticipated events. Soon, we will be collecting the annual dues for our association. Please check the bulletin board for dates, times and updates. We have started our meetings for the planning of Summer Fun Family Day scheduled for Saturday, June 17. More information will follow. Women Keeping It Real – conversation was very interesting, enlightening and diverse. Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, March 18, from 6:308:30 p.m. at 100 Casals Place (Bldg. 13) association room. Women Keeping It Real is an inspiring, insightful and informative social gathering of women of all ages. We welcome new participants. Remember! You must be 18 and over to participate. Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc., Inc. and mailed to 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. For information re: the Nordic Lodge Lobster feast, contact Sherrie Hernandez at 914-837-5970, Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370. Our website is www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com. Again, thanks for making our team work. —Leslie Peterson

Co-op City Working Families Party Forward Ever As a political party, Working Families' goal is to elect the most progressive candidates possible. Before we can work toward a more progressive legislative body in 2018—on local, state and federal levels—a less public vote will be taking place, the vote for the Chair of the Democratic National Committee. The workings of the Democratic National Committee are quite intricate. When a party is in power, the president all but picks who he wants to run the DNC. When the party is NOT in power, it’s a horse race. Since there is no clear leader of the Democratic Party right now—Sanders, Clinton, Biden, Warren, Obama?—everything is up for grabs. There are 447 voting members of the DNC. Obama is not one, nor are the other democrats listed above, even Ellison isn’t a voting member! It’s an odd assortment of party insiders and big donors. Every organization tends toward the status quo, but the old governing techniques have obviously failed the Democratic Party. A dramatic change is necessary. Holding the Democratic Party’s figurative feet to the fire, to make that radical change, is a task for WFP. WFP supports Keith Ellison for DNC chair. Congressman Ellison is in what appears to be a two-contender race. Former Obama Secretary of Labor Tom Perez is the other front runner, but Keith Ellison is the man for the job for many reasons. First, he could actually DO the job of winning elections because he’s the only one who actually HAS done so. Next — what a message to send to xenophobic, racist Trump electing a Muslim African-American to the DNC chair. Third, Ellison has the endorsement of 38 sitting U.S. Members of the House, 11 U.S. Senators, one former vice president, 26 various state and local politicians,15 DNC members and dozens and dozens of noteworthy individuals, local and state leaders, advocacy and labor groups, and progressive organizations. But still, it might not be enough. Four years of resistance may be in our future, but this month we can gather to help Congressman Keith Ellison become the next chair of the DNC. Go to Keith for DNC, https://keithfordnc.org/howyoucanhelp, and then come, to the next WFP meeting. Please join us at this Tuesday’s meeting of the Co-op City Chapter of the Working Families Party, February 21, at 7:30 p.m., room 35, Section 5. We meet on the third Tuesday of each month and all progressives are welcome. For more information, email: canzoneri.kelly@gmail.com. —Kelly Canzoneri

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Junius Williams In my opinion, the dog debacle was mishandled from its inception starting with Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., up to the present. Last year, 2016, as security chair, I was asked by then-President Cleve Taylor and then-Vice President Linda Berk to address our dog problem as it pertains to enforcement of our rules and regulations. Now, I'm in the process, along with my two cochairs and my security committee of taking care of this "daunting" task. Legal And CCPD I informed Legal that I was tired of them being fixated on what we couldn't do and to instruct CCPD to focus on the rules and regulations which can be enforced. I informed them that I expect better collaboration/coordination between Legal, the CSO's and CCPD. I've also instructed "LEGAL" to revamp the rules and distribute them to the "LEGAL" dog owners. I've put in place some of the rules and regulations you, as LEGAL dog owners, should be following. I've instructed Legal and CCPD to start enforcing them with a "Zero Tolerance" policy. Here are three of the policies that will immediately be implemented and a Community Complaint will be issued immediately. No initial warning will be given to the violator per Chief Apollo's directive:

Dogs ("ZERO TOLERANCE") 1. "ZERO TOLERANCE" for dogs being off the leash. 2. "ZERO TOLERANCE" for dog owner who doesn't pick-up after their dog. 3. "ZERO TOLERANCE" for dogs that exhibit aggressive behavior that is a danger to others (e.g., biting). There will also be a following-up of the rules to all cooperators in our local paper. To The Legal Dog Owners Just as you want and demand us (people without dogs) to have empathy/consideration for you, we also demand the same respect and consideration. Picking Up After Your Dogs By the way, do you know that one of the rules states that no one is allowed to let their dog defecate/urinate on the grass? Our officers will soon be given directives to combat these infractions. To those of you who are not picking up after your dogs, it can also be a health hazard for our children playing on the grass and cooperators using the greenway during different functions. Do you think kids are going to stop playing and properly wash themselves? I don't think so. They are probably just going to wipe themselves on their clothes and keep on playing. What if they touch their face, hair or other children? Disgusting, right? But remember, these are just kids. They can become sick and you have no clue why they became ill. For obvious reasons, I’ve had management add to the tot lot signage, No DOGS ALLOWED. Stop Complaining! If anyone knows or suspects a cooperator of har-

Building 11 Association Magdalen Lewis led the meeting by wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2017. We jumpstarted the new year in January by hosting a lovely holiday buffet celebration dinner for Carver Loop cooperators which gave everyone a chance to eat and fellowship. We would be remiss in not thanking the many volunteers who during the holidays helped decorate our building lobbies. It definitely made it festive and put us all in the holiday spirit. We also gave a special thank you to our building president, Deborah Henry, for her years of dedication and tireless efforts to always help in making our community and particularly our building a better place to live. Being our voice for concerns as they affect us, working behind the scenes following up on issues within the building and being an advocate for our concerns/issues. Magdalen Lewis, our vice president, led the meeting covering the following topics: • Announcement of our new Executive CSO, Vanessa Aldea. We will be reaching out to her requesting she attends our building meeting to give an update of her role/responsibilities. She also informed us of another management change - Javier Valenzuela is now our building supervisor replacing Omar De Los Angeles. • Also covered, new procedures regarding noise complaints. Now when a noise complaint is made, Public Safety will come to the cooperator’s apartment who made the complaint to verify the disturbance before proceeding. • All were encouraged to attend the

upcoming town hall meeting. • Important reminder for all tenants to fill out and return Fire Safety/Lead Paint/Window Guard notice forms everyone should have received in the mail. This year, it was a new form/format and many people may have disregarded it as junk mail. If you haven't, call 646392-7233 to receive another form. • New guidelines for SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) and Disability Rent Increase Exemptions. Forms were made available. • JASA offers many services available to cooperators who are elderly, alone and in need of assistance. Will be following up with representatives to ask they attend our meeting for an update of services available. • Will be having our annual building association collection the following dates: Bldg. A: 2/20, 2/27; Bld B: 2/21, 2/28; Bldg. C: 2/22, 3/1 • There were also questions regarding replacement of Building 11 mail box in front of the building and smoke detectors – how to check if they are properly working. They were encouraged to call the CSO office. There was also discussions about the vote for dishwasher. In closing the meeting, wished all January and February birthday celebrants a happy birthday! We extend condolences to anyone who may have experienced a loss and we keep our sick and shut-ins in our prayers. We welcome any and all to participate in our next meeting that will take place on Monday, March 6th 7:30 p.m. —Toni Thomas

boring an illegal dog, contact Public Safety, your CSO or me. If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem. Closing Please, remember not all disabilities are visible. Just be respectful and report if you see someone breaking the rules or if an officer is not enforcing them. If possible, get their name or the time of the infraction. I can be contacted at 718-594-3859 or e-mail: jwilliams@riverbayboard.com. P.S. Very shortly, all officers will be equipped with body cameras.

Building 16 Association Greetings, everyone. Our association is planning a trip to the National Museum in Washington, DC on July 15. The bus is leaving from 600 Baychester Ave., which is Bldg. 16. The cost is $125 for adults and $85 for children. We will have lunch at Golden Corral. For more information, please contact Teri Ann Garcia, president, at 718-671-2606. The first payment of $50 is due now to hold your seat. To my neighbors who continue to throw garbage out of the windows, shame on you. Also, putting furniture, bowling balls, lamps, trash on the floors and wet bags of garbage on the floors of the compactor room is totally unacceptable. We are still collecting dues, which is still only $5 a year. See you at the next meeting. Peace. —Teri Ann Garcia

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Co-op City Sports

Velocity Track Club Of New York

On Saturday, February 11th, Velocity Track Club New York were able to showcase our talents in front of a sellout, celebratory crowd of 5,000 at the Armory’s New Balance Track and Field Center at an action-packed 110th edition of the NYRR Millrose Games. Events were shown on NBC-TV. We had seven student athletes advance to the NYRR Millrose Games by competing in the trials. We advanced one youth boys 4 x 200 meter team, one girl in the youth 400 meters race and two girls in a 55 meter Fastest Kid on the Block Race. With all of the media cameras and 5,000 spectators, there was a possibility that our young athletes may not perform their best, but they were ready mentally and physically. Medals were awarded to the top three athletes in their event. We were blessed with six medals! Hannah Gadpaille started the medal count by running her personal best (1:03) in the 12 years & under 400 meters race to earn a Bronze medal. Then our 4x200 boy’s team of (Julian Caldwell, Dontae Lindo, Ethan Mohan & Kabir Gaydarik) ran their personal best to earn Bronze medals! Then the 8 years & under Fastest Kid on the Block 55 meter dash. Brianna Burrell and Shyenne Blake ran their personal best, with Brianna earning the title “Fastest Kid on the Block!” Shyenne took 7th place, which is awesome for someone who has only been training for five months. The coaches are truly proud of the performance versus the medals. Any time an athlete breaks their personal record at the right time, it is a testament of the training. Congratulation, VTC!!! Then we traveled to the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center in Boston, Massachusetts for the Northeast Indoor Classic. The meet director noted that this was the largest signup in their meet history. Most of the best teams north of New York City were in attendance. Trophies were given to all 1st place finishers and medals for 2nd to 8th place, except the 5 & 6 years division, who received ribbons. Team trophies were awarded to the top teams. I’m pleased that we won approximately 11 trophies, over 40 medals, plus our 6 & under children racked up a bunch of ribbons! We were also awarded a team trophy for 3rd place. To take 3rd among all of the teams in attendance was the highlight of the day! Awesome job,

Zodiacs Track Club

First Place: Girl's 4×200m relay team.

Let me start by giving thanks to the Most High for the blessing He gives us. The Zodiacs experienced some hard times, starting with the splitting of the team, to the death of one of our Zodiacs children, Ms. Beverly Seignious. Ms. Beverly died on December 21, 2016. As coach, I speak for all volunteers, the reward we get to watch our athletes grow into productive, healthy adults is wonderful. It is devastating and heart breaking that one should leave this earth before us. What has always been my motivation are the Zodiacs kids. On that note, Saturday, February 11, the Zodiacs competed in the Milrose Games which is a very prestigious track event held at the famous New Balance Track & Field. The girl's 4×200m relay took first place. The team that lead us to the win was Edith Marpoli, Katara Grandberry, Raine Samuel, to the last leg, Ashley Rose. Congratulations to our athletes and a special thanks to staff members: George Cherry, Mrs. Wilson aka Aliyah, Ms. Shaun Smeuels, Mrs. Des, L. Larence aka L, and Arlene Freeman, Felicia Anderson, Alice Charles and the Zodiac family. Thank for support in my saddest part of my life. —Arlene Freeman

Velocity Track Club sporting their team trophy.

VTC, and congratulations to Metropolis Track Club for their 1st place finish. Our next meet will be Saturday, February 18th, the Colgate Women Games Finals at the New Balance Track & Field Center at the Armory on Fort Washington Avenue, New York. Velocity Track Club New York is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit. One hundred percent of your donation will go to help our children. For additional information, you can go to our website Velocitytrack.org or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins, at 914-441-6196 or email me at watclt@aol.com. —Winston Dinkins

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner This director was contacted by a cooperator who has lived in Co-op City for 37 years. A concern was the same one heard before from a cooperator who relocated out of state and had problems with “fees” charged by the corporation for “moving.” According to the cooperator, an application was submitted to transfer from a 2 to 3 bedroom apartment. After the process of selecting an apartment, the next step is the closing. He says he was told he could use the equity already with the corporation from the purchase of the 2-bedroom apartment. However, an additional $27,000 was required to make the purchase. Then, according to the cooperator, the “boom shell was dropped on him and his family; the corporation requested another three months of carrying charges for the apartment he was leaving in addition to the higher carrying charge for the 3-bedroom apartment. According to the cooperator, “It’s not my fault that they have thousands on a waiting list of prospective shareholders in the housing pipeline and are unable to get them into units in a timely manner.” The cooperator further states that it is not his fault and why is he being punished. He stated that he is aware that he will be evicted if he fails to find the funds to pay for the family’s 3bedroom apartment and the 2-bedroom empty apartment simultaneously during restoration and re-sell. A Policy Made By Individuals HCR’s Regulation 9 NYCRR Section 1627-1.3 requires every HCR regulated Mitchell-Lama cooperative, not just Co-op City, to charge outgoing shareholders carrying charges for three (3) months or until the apartment is resold, whichever occurs first. Riverbay management and board, as of to date, have not been successful in getting HCR to change this law. Until HCR revises or eliminates Regulation 16271.3, outgoing shareholders will have to pay carrying charges for three (3) months or until their apartment is

When You Move You Lose sold, whichever occurs first. Under current transfer policy, no transferring shareholder would be subject to eviction for charges attributably to their former apartment. So while the equity refund from the former apartment may be reduced for such charges, the transferring shareholder will not be evicted from their new apartment due to charges from the former apartment. However, the outgoing shareholder will be subject to collection actions for any unpaid charges from their former apartment. Needless to say, this particular cooperator is ready to advocate. Other Co-ops This director lived in and moved from Amalgamated Houses (predominately Jewish at the time). No such policy existed. The costs of minor repairs were deducted and the balance of equity was received. Same policy in a “Private Co-op” in New Rochelle, New York. Why Co-op City? In my opinion, the policy makers understand how to generate money from “middle income” citizens. Most recently, low income citizens will get well deserved “free” legal services to prevent evictions and homelessness. If you are “middle income,” you pay your own fees. If you are retired, children are grown and gone and you want to transfer, it will cost you. Will this policy ever change? This director has HOPE. However, it takes just one cooperator to stand and fight for change. It was a lone individual, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, who began her activist work ALONE at the age of 22 against lynching in this country. She also successfully sued the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad Company after being forced from the first-class seat, in favor of a white man and moved to the “Jim Crow” car. Wells-Barnett said, “I felt that one had better die fighting against injustice than to die like a dog or a rat in a trap.” The relentless spirit of Wells-Barnett has to be continued by cooperators who don’t like a policy and want change. Homelessness is not an option for some and as such, this director welcomes the fighting spirit of a cooperator who demands change.

Building 24 Association At our last meeting on January 19th after the minutes of the previous meeting and the Treasurer's Report were read and seconded, we were pleased to hear from our guest speaker, Building and Grounds Supervisor, Jesus Maldonado. Mr. Maldonado updated us on improvements being made in and around our building on problems we had previously brought to his attention. Inside the building, work has been done in the laundry room’s toilet which has had plastering and painting done and has a new soap dispenser and will have a new towel dispenser soon. In the building's rear exit hallway, the wall molding near the floor has been repaired and is no longer hanging loose. We now have some new mats in the elevators instead of the cardboard we had last year at this time and our garbage barrel next to the bus stop at the rear of the building has been replaced after going missing and another one has been placed just outside the building's front entrance near the benches. One cooperator, Carol Eldridge, spoke about the awful condition the lot across the street from our rear entrance is in. Aside from the Christmas trees that are haphazardly discarded there for future use after chipping, there are large slabs of concrete and metal work strewn about and piles of gardening materials that should be bagged and neatly stacked. Chaos, rather than order, seems to be the rule there. Ms. Eldridge rightfully called the lot an eye-sore which ruins the otherwise beautiful view from her window. Mr. Maldonado promised to address this with his supervisor and we also spoke to Joe Boiko at Riverbay who called and

spoke with Grounds Director Plumber about it. We'll keep an eye on the situation to see if anything is done to improve management of the lot. The fact that the mailbox that was on the corner of Benchley and Bellamy Loop is gone was also brought up. Cooperators were encouraged to contact Board members requesting that it be replaced. Having a game night in the community room, starting a petition to have a bookstore in the Bronx to make up for the unfortunate loss of the Barnes & Noble that closed and having separate space for parking motorcycles were also discussed. We also took up a collection to help offset the cost to Riverbay for the buses that took cooperators to Washington, DC for the Women's March. Thanks to Flora Keitt and other cooperators who contributed we raised $100 which we gave to Director Sonia Feliciano. Last, but not least, we want to remind everyone that pets should not be brought into the laundry room for sanitary reasons and that dog owners must always clean after their pets. We would also suggest walking them off the building grounds. The grassy area on the other side of Co-op City Blvd. is a suggested alternative. We have some new, beautiful membership cards and building association dues are still only $5.00/year. We hope that everyone will feel that Cooperative Spirit and support our Building Association. Our next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 23rd when Joe Boiko will be our guest speaker. Joe is very knowledgeable and should be able to answer any questions anyone may have. I can be reached at 718-869-6375 if you have any questions. —Bruce Silberman

Legislative Roundtable Thanks to staff and chairman Rod Saunders for bringing our elected officials to hear mostly verbal presentations of Co-op City’s needs. Hopefully, written follow-up will be provided by all who shared the microphone. One officials suggested we provide more written “talking points” to assist them with advocating for Co-op City. Traffic – Bay Plaza An encouraging update was provided by our assemblyman, Michael Benedetto. He has been in discussions with the State DOT about Co-op City and will intervene with the MTA Board. Our assemblyman shared that eventually, we will get a Metro-North train station in Co-op City. However, the east side access has to be completed (no room for trains at Penn Station). They are looking at a FREE SHUTTLE BUS throughout Co-op to assist in getting all cooperators to train. The idea of a parking lot on the other side of the tracks is being considered; an exit going to Section 5 and I-95, etc. It was suggested that management and others “need to sit down and talk things through. It was apparent that we (management & board) have not been as involved and in the know as we should be with the “traffic” situation. Our assemblyman has a new chairmanship in Albany and our best interest at heart! Many thanks to all elected official who attended and the message is that we (management & board) are ready to roll up our sleeves and get things done. Our congressman, state senator and city councilman all expressed verbal support of Co-op City’s challenges and extreme financial needs. Community Participations We continue to seek creative ideas to get more cooperators and building associations involved, and get cooperators to read the CC Times. Attendance at the last meeting was dismal and the meeting was not televised. A cooperator was concerned with how Board members invite cooperators to be a part of the different committees. Suggestions are always welcomed and most board members share contact information. “Raise America up” – Fannie Lou Hamer Contact: Evelyn M. Turner – evelyntinez@aol.com, 917-324-103. Thanks for your support.

Donizetti Building 4 Association Meeting Our general meetings are scheduled for the 2nd Thursday of each month, unless otherwise advised. We meet in the association meeting room in rear of Building 4B at 7:30 p.m. Our next meeting will be March 9. The attendance at our meeting held on February 9th was better than expected due to the snow storm. Our guest speaker was Mr. Ray Cooper, one of our building supervisors from the Building Maintenance Department. In lieu of the weather, he was able to spend a few minutes to update us on the staffing for Bldg. 4, the responsibilities of each employee and their current assignment. Mr. Cooper invited the cooperatives to feel free to contact him on any issues they may have concerning the building and/or maintenance staff. Afterwards, we had a few minutes for Q&A’s. We, the cooperatives did not totally agree with some of the answers to our questions. As a triple-core building, we have 25 floors to each building. We were told that the A and C sections have one permanent porter and no permanent porter is assigned to the B section to clean, buff and do what is needed. Currently, the two assigned porters share the responsibility of the B section. Our plan is to follow-up with our need for a permanently assigned porter to the B section.

Game Night Today starting at 5 p.m., we will be holding our 1st Saturday game night of the year in our association room in rear of Building 4B. Come and enjoy refreshments games and laughter with your neighbors. Bring a friend, all are welcomed. Casino Fundraiser Event Come join us on a fundraiser bus ride on March 25, to the Mohegan Sun Casino in Wilkes-Barre, PA. The cost is $40 with a bonus slot play of at $25 and a $5 food voucher. The bus will leave 9 a.m. from Donizetti Pl. There are still seats available and monies must be paid for by March 5. Early payment is recommended. For further information, contact Yvonne at (718) 671-6922, Diane at (347) 275-7565 or Mary at (718) 671-0425. Building Membership Dues We will begin to collect dues February 23 in each lobby. Dues are still $5 per household. Times will be posted in each lobby. Thank you for your continued support. The cold weather is upon us so take the time to check on your elderly neighbors who may live alone. We extend get well wishes to the sick and shut-in. Stay focused and be alert of people and your surroundings when entering your building and elevators. Remember, this is our home. “IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.” —Yvonne Burrus (DW)

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Retirees Of Dreiser Loop Travel Events: (price includes transportation/ Theatre Committee: (price includes van transCoach bus, Dreiser Loop opposite H&R Block). portation – Dreiser Loop opposite rehab center). • Tues., March 14, to Hunterdon Hills Play• June 21st (Wed.), lunch/showtime: 11 a.m., house, NJ. Enjoy luncheon cuisine, full service “MAMMA MIA,” Westchester Broadway Theatre. cocktail bar, on-site lobby bake shop and gift bouA musical story about a young woman about to be tique. A few seats available. Price: $75 (deposit: married discovers that any one of three men could $35/full payment/balance $40 due Mon., Feb. 6). be her father. She invites all three to the wedding Contacts: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., without telling her mother, Donna. Price: $70. 718-320-0500. Deposit immediately: $35. Balance/full payment • Sept. 9-16 (8 day/7 night) Canada & New Engdue May 1st. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718land cruise on the beautiful Carnival “Sunshine.” 671-4949. Members and friends, we do require your $250 deposit per person due immediately to hold deposit and/or full payment, along with your name reservation. NYC departure/return. NOTE: Preand telephone number when signing up for trips ferred cabin/category selection goes to earliest and/or shows. First fully paid, confirmed seating. bookings. Committee members in Dreiser clubroom #19 Prices from $929 to $1399 which include your (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, cabin, meals, port charges and taxes. Final payment 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. due by May 19. Travel insurance (additional cost) Good And Welfare: We send our condolences to encouraged. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722.

Olive Glasgow whose loving husband, James, recently passed away. May James rest in peace. To members and friends, as you rest and heal, know that you are thought of warmly and wished a quick recovery. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-3200539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. We have two spaces left on the Wednesday, February 22, SPA Day. If you are ready for a little fun and pampering, now come join us on the 22nd. Call 718-379-4784/718-671-8449 – leave your name and phone number. However, our next SPA DAY will be Wednesday, April 19th. Several interested individuals signed up at our last February 1st General Meeting and we have a few spaces left (waiting for you). Call us and let us know what preferred services you want. “February is merely as long as is needed to pass the time until March.” –Dr. J. R. Stockton —Claudette Davis

Spanish-American Community Club Please join us on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 8:00 p.m. in room 16 of the Dreiser Community Center. Our next general membership meeting will take place on March 9th. Everyone is welcome! ‘Recordar Es Vivir,’ hosted by the Cultural Committee, is planned for Saturday, February 18th. The theme will be ‘Mardi Gras.’ Donations for the pot luck will be greatly appreciated. Entertainment will be provided by Trio Ideal with music by DJ Salsero. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. in room #4 of the Dreiser Community Center. Members enjoy free

admission; non-members will be asked to donate $10. February’s ‘Social Friday’ will take place on the 24th at 7:00 p.m. Members will be admitted free. Save the Dates: Nomination of Club Officers and Elections are coming in March. On March 9th, nominations will take place. We will also be raffling off two tickets to the Installation Dinner. Everyone present at nominations will have a chance to participate, but the winner must be present on Election Night, March 16th, in order to receive the prize. Members: Please plan to attend.

The Installation of Officers Dinner and Dance is scheduled for Friday, April 28th at Maestro’s. More information will be available soon. Membership renewal payments are past due. Renewal dues are now $48 per household. Additional information for all of our upcoming club events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website: http://spanamcccc.synthasite.com or our new Facebook page. You may also contact the club at (718) 379-7017 or email us at SpanAmCCCC@gmail.com. —Carmen Rodriguez

Ghanaian Association 2017 Program & Activities: Planning of the 2017 programs and activities is still ongoing. During our last general meeting in January, we had great ideas and discussions on activities for this year and plans for the coming years. Please continue to share your wonderful ideas either through phone calls or on WhatsApp. February General Meeting: The next general meeting is on next Saturday, February 25th, at the Bartow Community Center, room 28, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. We will have an immigration lawyer discuss the implications of President Trump’s Immigration Executive Order, deportations and other current immigration issues. Free Annual Registration: As agreed to by the general members last year, there will be a yearly registration of all association members to enable up-todate membership records. The annual registration for this year is currently on going. Please make sure to fill your registration form by the end of March 2017! Call 347-773-3499 if you have any question. About Us: The Ghanaian Association of Co-op City (GACC) is a not-for-profit organization with the purpose of promoting the general welfare of the Ghanaian community in Co-op City. The objectives

of the association include providing educational programs to members, building a capacity for greater involvement in the activities of the community, and providing a platform to address issues of common concern to members and the Co-op City community. Dues: Members are reminded to pay your dues. You can now pay your dues using a credit card or debit card. T-Shirts: If you don’t have the association t-

shirt yet, please get yours for only $15! You may get additional t-shirts for family and friends. Please Join Us: We need your support. Please join us. We invite you to come to our next general meeting. Call 347-773-3499. UNITY IS STRENGTH! JOIN US TODAY! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! Coop Ghanama OR http://www.facebook.com/gacc2013 —Seth Osei-Fosu

Family Owned and Operated • Large Chapel on premises

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www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.

Serving all cultures & faiths

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Community Protestant Church On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone: (718) 862-9172. Regular Church Schedule Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. Worship Service - 11:00 a.m. Communion Service - Every first and third Sundays Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. The following programs are at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) Morning Prayer Services - Tuesday, 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Extension of Prayer and Worship Service – Every first, second and third Fridays at 7:00 p.m. Sunday School at Community Protestant Church Begins at 9:00 a.m. In Sunday School, in a nurturing Christian education environment, an opportunity is provided for children to learn about the Bible, to grow in grace, to show love and respect for one another and to live more abundant lives. Children attending Sunday School are served breakfast. We encourage you to bring your child, children or grandchildren to Sunday School and we look forward to seeing you. Other Scheduled Events Sunday, February 26th – GO RED SUNDAY. The Nurses’ Ministry requests that everyone wear Red this Sunday in support of the American Heart Association’s effort to raise awareness of Women’s Heart Disease.

Saturday, May 6th, 4:00 p.m. – BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! The Hospitality Ministry invites you to join us in A PRE-MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION, featuring the Master of Entertainment, internationally renowned MR. HUNTER HAYES. A jazz legend and Emmy Award winner, Mr. Hayes has performed with such great artists as James Brown, Miles Davis and Lonnie Youngblood. It will be held in room 31, Bartow Shopping Center, Co-op City, 2049 Bartow Avenue, lower level. Admission: $35 for adults; $15 for children 15 and under. For tickets and/or additional information, contact: (718) 6716122, (718) 671-0425 or (718) 671-3181. September 12–15 – The Missionary Ministry sponsors a trip to THE HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA, the only entertainment park that celebrates the Biblical Word of the Christian Faith. Package includes: Round trip airfare; round trip airport transportation from Bartow Ave. (Co-op City, Bronx); four days/3 nights hotel accommodation; three buffet breakfasts; one group dinner, two-day admissions to the Holy Land Experience; Lunch-to-go at the Holy Land Experience; transportation from the hotel to the Holy Land and Travel Insurance. $1,013 per person double occupancy; $961 per person triple; $1,253 single. $113 deposit due December 3, (non-refundable after 5/17). For reservation and/or additional information, call (718) 671-0425 or (718) 379-8514. The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing. —Evan G. Mitchell

Faith @ Work Christian Church 120 DeKruif Place (street level). Praise and Worship begins at 9:30 a.m. Church telephone: (347) 346-5790; email: fatwcc@aol.com. Weekly Worship Experiences: Tuesday Prayer Service, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study, 6:30 p.m. Sunday Morning Worship, 9:30 a.m. Teen Church, 10:00 a.m., 2nd Sundays; Children’s Church, 3rd Sundays (K-3); Older Children’s Church, 4th Sundays (4th7th). Church Motto: “We are Christ-centered, familyfocused with power and authority.” Church Mission: To empower, educate and motivate men, women, boys and girls to reach their full potential and live abundant lives through preaching and teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Come worship with us—where we honor tradition, but are not bound by it! All are welcome to join us any and every Sunday because our goal is to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, in LOVE, through teaching and preaching the Word of God from the Bible. Bible Study is under way and we’re excited! Join us for a Mid-Day Study, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., as well as our regular 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study. Please join us as we journey through the book of Revelation. Finally, we are continuing to meet every two weeks at Faith @ Work Christian Church, 120 DeKruif Place to plan our actions against any injustice and inequality we believe must be addressed at the national level. We invite all who are concerned about ICE Raids, the ACA, Education, Gun Violence, Civil Rights and many other liberties that might be under attack, to join us on February 26, at 12:30 p.m. All are welcome! Lite refreshments will be served. Remember, it’s never about us, but always about the goodness of the Lord. —Pastor Deborah D. Jenkins

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Church Of The New Vision

Newsong Church

50 Shades of “Cray” Part 3 Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us. We live in a culture where very few (emphasis added) Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s Instead of talking about reasons for people. Serving the community for over 44 years, we offer a warm, friendly, people are committed to lasting relationships. I googled the words “Cheap divorce, Jesus was saying marriage is spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian Love. All are welcome. Divorce in NYC” and found page after God’s idea. He’s the one who estabOrder of Services: Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. page of divorce attorneys and step-bylished it, He’s the one who blesses it, Adult and Youth Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. step instructions on how to quickly and He’s the one who wants you to Mid-day Bible Study: Tuesdays, 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. “end your marriage” in New York State. stick with it! It’s crazy to have a conWednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. It seems that our culture places a high tract mentality for your marriage. It’s Women Bible Study: 2nd Saturday of each month; 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. view on “rights” and a low view on time to stop fighting with your spouse, Youth Ministry: Fridays, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. and start fighting for your spouse! Saturday, February 18 – Men’s Fellowship Breakfast, 9:00 a.m. Donation $15. marriage. That’s fifty shades of cray! Believe it or not, it was no different in Why not give God’s plan a try? All are welcome. Jesus’ time! When it comes to intimacy, marriage, Saturday, February 25—The Journey from Generation to Generation “Some Pharisees came to him sex and dating, your life doesn’t need Women’s Conference, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Donation: $20. Though life grants (Jesus) to test him. They asked, “Is it to be any shade gray! Join us this Sunus plenty of roadblocks, we can trust in God to bring us through. Join the Women day at 11 a.m. for week three of 50 of New Vision as we encourage one another through workshops and discussions. lawful for a man to divorce his wife Shades of Cray. Lunch will be served. A donation of $20 will go towards the building fund. For “for any and every reason? (emphasis added) –Matthew 19:3 (NIV) Please Note: If you’re dealing with further information, please contact Sis. Loretta Scott at (718) 671-2623. Just like in our world today, people pain related to any of these topics, and Save the Date! Please join us on our trip to Orlando, Florida July 17th to July wanted to get out of their marriage. would like more information on get20th, going to The Holyland Experience and Walt Disney World Magic KingMarriage was more of a contract ting help, please call our church office dom via non-stop Delta flight and three night accommodations at the Holiday between consenting parties rather than and make an appointment. We want to Inn Resort, Lake Buena Vista. Prices for adults range from $740- $855 per pera sacred covenant before God. Conhelp you move forward! son depending on your package choice. Youth stay free at the resort through age tracts are based on “if you agree to do Our Worship Experience is located 19 with double adult occupancy. Youth, $400-$500 (prices include air and park this”…“then I will agree do this…” at 177 Dreiser Loop Auditorium B. ticket). A payment plan is available. Final payment is due May 7th. For addiService starts at 11 a.m. Deaf interAs soon as one person fails to uphold tional information, please contact the church at (718) 671-8746, Sis. Sadie James pretation is available during our adult at (718) 652-8943, or Sis. Hermena Smith, travel agent at (718) 708-5035. their end of the deal, the contract is worship experience. We have a wellbroken. A covenant, however, has the Transportation will be provided to and from the airport for an additional $35 per staffed nursery and a children’s other person in mind; “I promise to person, leaving from the church at 5:00 a.m. church called “Kidsong.” If you have Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. love you and support you through the any questions you can contact us: Telephone: 718-671-8746 or 203-374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 753037, good times and the bad times, in sickness and in health, for richer or for church office: 140 Alcott Place, Bldg. Bronx, NY 10475. Visit our Facebook page: Church of the New Vision, concernpoorer.” This kind of marriage isn’t 19. Office hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 ing upcoming events and trips or call the church. easy, but it’s godly. Listen to Jesus’ a.m.–4 p.m. Phone: 718-708-8385. —Carol Haque reply: “Haven’t you read,” he replied, More info: website: www.newsong “that at the beginning the Creator made churchnyc.org; email: info@newsong them male and female. For this reason, churchnyc.org The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to a man will leave his father and mother Facebook:www.facebook.com/new and be united to his wife and the two worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome. songchurchbx will become one flesh? So they are no Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School Twitter: @newsongchurchBX longer two, but one. Therefore what are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lesInstagram: @newsongchurchBX God has joined together, let man not sons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. God bless you! separate” –Matthew 19:4-6 (NIV) Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m. —Pastor Mike Tolone The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the 2nd Sunday of each month. We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 19, when we will celebrate the Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany. Our Supply Priest, Father Simeon Johnson, will be the preacher and celebrant. Calendar of Events: Please note the following: • Month of February – special services in honor of Black History Month. • Annual Cake Sale at the church, Saturday March 18, noon to sold out. Tristate Interriors s • ECW Raffle tickets are now available. 1st prize, 2925 Westchester Ave $300; 2nd prize, $175; and 3rd prize, $75. The tickM-F: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm ets are $1 each and $5 for a book of 6. Drawing takes Sun: Closed 718-823-3400 place on April 29 and winners need not be present. www.trristateinterriorr.com w • Winery trip – details to be announced. **UP TO 20% OFF ALL WINDOW TREA ATMENTS** • National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC, Saturday, June 3, $100 **EXCLUDES RESTRICTED PRODUCTS** p.p. Non-refundable deposit of $50 required to save seat. Balance due by March 26. Deluxe Motor coach transportation departing from Dreiser Loop at 7:00 a.m. Enjoy all-you-can-eat luncheon buffet at the Golden Corral. * Outreach Program: We continue to collect nonperishable food for the feeding program at Grace ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES OF HUNTER DOUGLAS WINDOW FA ASHIONS Episcopal Church in West Farms. Please remember to donate. For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718-320-0844, or visit our *Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 1/14/17–4/10/17 from participatingg dealers in the U.S. only. For certain rebate-eligible products, the purchase website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org. of multiple units of such product is required to receive a rebate. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid aid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds “Make me go in the path of your commandments, * do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 6 months hs after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2017 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks rademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective for that is my desire.” – Psalm 119:35 owners 17Q1NPDUCW2 owners.17Q1NPDUCW2 —M. Chambers

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

$100

REBAT TE

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

Activities in Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Activities in Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Activities in Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Tues., Feb. 21

Blood Pressure: Every 1st & 3rd Wed., 9-10 a.m. Games: 9:30-11:00 a.m. Stay Well Exercise: 10 - 11 a.m. Line Dancing: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Bingo: 1-2 p.m. Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Dominoes: 2:30 p.m. Smartphone Class: Beginner – 12:30– 1:30 p.m.; Intermediate – 1:30–2:30 p.m., Bartow office

Library: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Chat Session: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Bingo: 1- 2 p.m. Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Fri., Feb. 24

Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Walking Club: 10:30 a.m. Bingo: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Caregiver Support Group: 1:00 p.m., 1st & 3rd Tues Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Wed., Feb. 22

JASA Closed in Observance of Presidents’ Day

Thurs., Feb. 23

Mon., Feb. 20

Black History Event No Activities

Kosher

Non-Kosher

JASA Closed in Observance of Presidents’ Day

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Alert & Alive: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Cultural Dance: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Aud. B Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Zumba: 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Afternoon Movie: 1 p.m. w/popcorn

Orange juice, Grilled Caribbean chicken breast, Toasted barley w/onions Vegetable mix Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Egg salad

Meat sauce w/chunky peppers in tomato sauce Spaghetti Sautéed spinach

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Sewing: 9:30 -11:30 a.m. Tai Chi: 11 a.m.- 12 p.m. Spelling Bee: 10 a.m. Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Spanish Practice Class: 10:30 a.m., African Brazilian Dance: 1 p.m., Rm. 2 Computer Lab Art Class: 1-3 p.m. Yoga: 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2 Zumba: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Orange pineapple juice Beef brisket w/tomatoes & onions Mashed potatoes Steamed carrots Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Tuna salad

BBQ chicken Rice & beans Steamed kale

Orange juice Salmon salad Tricolor pasta salad Green bean salad Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit Alt: Grilled Caribbean chicken breast

Salisbury steak w/mushroom gravy California blend vegetables Smashed red potatoes

JASA Closed in Observance of Presidents’ Day

Dominoes: 10 a.m. Tai Chi: 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Matinee Movie: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Karaoke by Steven: 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Room 45 Walk Group: 9:30 a.m., Rm. 40

Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Grandparent Connection: 1st Thursday, Rm. 35, 10:30 Arthritis Exercise: 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee: 11 a.m. Word Search: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Karaoke by Steven: 1 p.m., Rm. 45 Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Art: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Bingo: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Pokeno: 2-4 p.m., Rm. 35 Blood Pressure: 2nd & 4th Friday, 10 a.m. -11:30 a.m., Rm. 45

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

Black History Event No Activities

Crochet & Knitting: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10 a.m., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Meditative Moments: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 8 Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Bingo: 1-3 p.m. Card Games, Dominoes: 2-4 p.m.

(Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Apple juice Italian Roast chicken Pork stir-fry w/ Cabbage w/shredded vegetables carrots Pita halves Three bean salad Marinated beet salad Fresh fruit Yuca Alt: Gefilte fish

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk *Menu subject to change without notice. Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (718) 320-2066, Ext. 2010 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

Upcoming Events/Trips JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Trip registration policy: No refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation! All trips must be paid in advance – No exceptions! Payments can be made at all three centers. You can register for all trips starting the Monday after it has been published in the newspaper. JASA will not accept checks under $5. (FREE) LiveOn NY-SCRIE Application & SNAP (food stamps) Assistance – Fri., Feb. 24th; Mar. 10th & 24th, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. First come, first served! JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. Free Tax Preparation & E-File – Sponsored by AARP Foundation Tax Aide for taxpayers with low–moderate incomes; with special attention to those age 50 or older; JASA Einstein Office, 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 35, Tues. & Weds., 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Clients will be seen in order of appearance. Sign-in (sheet) begins

before 10 a.m. Service may be limited to first 20-25 on line. Call 718-3202066 for information. St. Mary’s Recreation Center Pool – Fri., Feb. 24th and Mar. 17th, $3. Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m.– 2 p.m.; Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m. (14 seats available). We were just informed that there is a $25 yearly fee to use the facility. If you wish to become a member, please come into the JASA Bartow office and fill out an application. Membership is non-refundable. Membership is not only for the senior aerobics, it’s for any activity in the center and can be used with other city park centers. Proper attire requested, swim cap, sturdy lock, no valuables & if needed medicine in a bag to be held on deck by instructor. Notary begins Wed., Feb. 22, Jeanette Graves will be in the Bartow office every Wed. from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Central Avenue – 2 hours Christmas Tree Store, 2 hours Trader Joe’s,

1 hr. Amazing Savings; Mon., Feb. 27th, $13. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall - $15, Mon., Feb. 27th; Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 8:45 a.m. and Einstein, 9 a.m. Wait list. Transit Museum – Tues., Feb. 28th, $10. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10:45 a.m.; Einstein, 11 a.m. and Dreiser, 11:15 a.m. RidgeHill Mall – Thurs., Mar. 2nd, $7. Pick-ups: Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m. Empire – Mon., Mar. 6th and Wed., Mar. 8th and Mon., Mar. 20th, $5. Pick-ups: Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m. Palisades Mall – Mon., Mar. 13th, $12. Pick-ups: Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 10 a.m. Louis Armstrong Museum – Wed., Mar. 15th; $10. Pick-ups: Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m. ACE in the Hole @ Royal Manor,

Garfield, NJ – Thurs., Mar. 30th, $50. Family-style lunch served, two comp. drinks during Happy Hour “Tribute to Natalie Cole.” Also starring comedian Melvin George, Thurs., Mar. 30th. Show starts 11:30 – 3:30 p.m. Pickups: (Time change) Bartow from 9:15 to 9 a.m.; Einstein from 9:30 to 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser from 10 to 9:30 a.m. (wait list). National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC – Sat., April 8; Wed., April 19th and Tues., April 25th, all wait list. Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament, Lyndhurst, NJ – Wed., May 3rd, $42. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8 a.m.; Einstein, 8:15 a.m. and Dreiser, 8:30 a.m.

Please remember

to curb

your dog!

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Scheduling Activities Calendar

AARP Chapter #4997 FYI: AARP launched a comprehensive campaign to protect Medicare, in the face of proposals by some in Congress, that would hurt hardworking New Yorkers who have paid into the program their entire working lives. AARP’s Public Policy Institute also has put out a new, detailed analysis about Medicare, including state fact sheets and premium support that impact Medicare beneficiaries. The report notes that “premium” support could force people with fewer financial resources to leave traditional medicine and enroll in less expensive plans with more limited benefits and restrictive plan networks. Additional information available at www.aarp.org/states. Heartfelt condolences to Olive Glasgow on the loss of her husband, James “Raymond” Glasgow. Please contact our Good & Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, about any of our members we have not heard from or seen in a few months. We want them to know that they are in our thoughts and prayers. Also, if you have a family member who has passed, please contact Frances. 2017 Tour Activities March 17 – 24: 7-night Cruise to Cuba…SOLD OUT, wait-list available. Fly to Montego Bay, Jamaica; board Celestyal Cruise Ship to Santiago de Cuba; Havana, Mariola Gorde, Cienfuigo. Roundtrip airfare, tours, food, drinks, taxes and port fees all included. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370. July 7 - 9: Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History & Culture, Washington, D.C. – round-trip transportation via Deluxe Motor coach, w/3 breakfast buffet, 2 dinner buffet – including a seafood buffet; a professional guided tour of Washington, D.C.; one full day at the Smithsonian African-American Museum; and full day shopping at Arundel Mill mall, including the Maryland Live Casino before traveling home; $515/person, single; $415/person, double; $385/person, triple and $365/person, quad. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370. —Delores Debnam

Einstein Cancer Fund Arrangements have been made at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, April 26, for the luncheon show of the hilarious comedy of “Born Yesterday” which was a huge hit of a film starring Judy Holliday. The cost per person is $79 which can be paid off by April 1st. A small deposit of $5 or more will hold your reservation. You will be issued receipts for your deposits. For all of the above trips, please call Lydia at 718-671-3005 or Annie Eutsey at 718-320-1874 for dues and a memorial card. As always, remember to give a call to the homebound and those in nursing homes. Your calls will cheer them up and they will know they are always in your thoughts and prayers. Good health and healings are wished to all. —Lydia Ruas

Goose Island Seniors We hope everyone is enjoying the Presidents’ Day weekend. We had good Presidents, we had not so good Presidents, but America is still great and standing strong. God bless America. Bingo—Wednesday, February 22nd at l:30 p.m., with Stephen and Jeanne, in our club room 39. Members only. Admission is $1.25 for 3 cards and $3 for 12 games. Extra cards are 25¢ each. Win $4 to $7 each game and the full card is $15. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Sands Casino, PA—Tuesday, March 28th. Price is $33. Rebate: $20 for play and $5 toward food. Pick-up time is 8:30 a.m. at our usual bus stops: Einstein Loop-Asch Loop (by library) and Dreiser Loop (by the hardware store). Spring Indoor Picnic—Saturday, May 20th at 12:30 p.m. Members only in our club room 39. Admission: $5 for food and entertainment. Come and enjoy yourself. Bring your dancing shoes.

“Mamma Mia”—Wednesday, June 7th at Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford, NY. Come and enjoy a day with a delicious lunch and a terrific show. You will have a wonderful time. Price is $79, includes a show, luncheon, and transportation with Craig, a very safe driver. Pick-up at 9 a.m. All money must be paid by May 15th. See Ann, Mary or Stephen. “Come Blow Your Horn”—Thursday, October 12th at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, N.J. It’s a very funny play by Neil Simon. Also, you will enjoy a scrumptious lunch and all the desserts you can eat; they are de-li-cious. Price is $79 for show, lunch and transportation. Movie will be shown, on the bus, on the way home. A deposit will hold your reservation. See Ann, Mary or Stephen. Happy birthday and happy anniversary to all our members who celebrate their day in the month of February: Dorothy Gilliard, Denise Reid, George Vasquez, Hilda Carazo, Joyce Chaney, Lucila Correa,

Aida Gonzalez, Lucille Jones and Sidney Brown. To all members: Don’t forget your yearly dues for 2017. $15 per year. See Ann, Mary or Stephen. Our Lounge–Come sit and relax, read or rent a book from our large library, play cards every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Play Bingo every Wednesday and last Sunday of each month for only $15 per year. Also, come with us on great trips. We still have items from our Garage Sale for a very good price. Come up and look around. We are open Monday—Thursday from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Note: Call Ann, Mary, or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613, or visit us Monday—Thursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39. You can also call Mary at 718-379-4899 and she will return your call. Leave a message and your phone number. Feel free to call Stephen, 347-847-1941. Good health to all. —Mary Pilla

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Reflections by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue

The snow covered the ground and three young boys were having fun. A man approached them and said, “Would you like to try a new type of race? I will give the winner $5.” The boys quickly agreed and the man told them that his race would require skill. He explained: “I will go to the other side of the field and when I give the signal you will start to run toward me. The one whose footsteps are the straightest in the snow will be the winner.” The race began; the first boy kept looking at his feet to see if his steps were straight. Because he kept looking down, he became disoriented and wandered off in a different direction. The second fellow kept looking at his companions to see their progress, so he wandered all over the place. But the third boy just ran with his eyes steadfastly fixed on the man across the field. His footsteps were straight in the snow. He had kept his eyes firmly on his goal. Our “goal” should be to enrich our lives with religion, making us better human beings, trying to live our lives in a moral, decent and responsible manner.

Young Israel of Co-op City Young Israel of Co-op City (lower level of the Dreiser Loop shopping center) is a house of worship that opens its doors every morning from 6 until 7 a.m. Anyone who wishes to start the daily routine with prayers, during which our spiritual leader, Rabbi Solomon I. Berl, offers a brief Bible teaching is welcome. On Friday evening, Sabbath services begin at 10 minutes after the candlelighting time. Saturday morning services start at 9 a.m. Rabbi Berl delivers his sermon at 10:30 a.m. The Rabbi’s class on the Torah reading of the week begins one hour before sunset every Saturday afternoon. For office hours or any information you may seek, feel free to call (718) 6712300 and leave your name, phone number and a brief message on the synagogue’s answering machine and your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Baychester Visual Arts Association Our 2016-2017 season portends to be one of the most exciting in our history – with art classes, art shows, lecture/demonstrations and workshops, free and open to the public. BVA’s next class sessions begins on Tuesday, Feb. 7th and continues until April 11th in room 5, Dreiser Community Center. You can choose from the 2 class schedules which are 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The fees are as follows: Annual membership is $35 a year and a session of 10 classes is $60. This is the best bargain in the Bronx – maybe even the city – given the quality of instruction offered. Stop by our permanent workshop in room 5 in the Dreiser community center and see beautiful artwork done by students and our instructor displayed throughout our studio. Mr. Moses Groves, BVA’s own art instructor, will be the artistic guide for these classes. Mr. Groves is an accomplished artist who has studied at the Art Students League and NYU. He has exhibited work in the New York and New Jersey area and has won awards for his artwork. You can call M. Groves at 201-862-0847 or S. Lochansky at 718379-1049 for more information. You can register in room 5 on Tuesdays at the Dreiser community center and check out the art work on display in our studio or by mail indicating the class time desired. Tuition can be sent to Baychester Visual Arts, P. O. Box 678, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. BVA is a non-profit, self-supporting organization that needs your support to continue offering high level art instruction at these bargain prices. So come join BVA on this fabulous artistic trek, take a class, make a tax deductible donation and feel the satisfaction of being a creator and/or patron of the arts. All checks should be made out as indicated above. Science is for the body and art is for the soul. —Sylvia Lochansky

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of Building 27B. Phone # 718-379-6920. Note: Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. If no one is in the office, leave a message and we will get back as soon as possible. Shabbat ends today, February18, at 6:16 p.m. Candle lighting for Friday, February 24, at 5:24 p.m. The synagogue has services Saturday morning at 9 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush. We need few Jewish men. If you can give two hours Saturday between 10 a.m. and noon, we need your help to make a minyan. Sometimes, we are short one or two men. Everybody, please try your best to come to services during the winter months. The Synagogue now has a Facebook page. Look under Facebook Traditional Synagogue. This Saturday, Cantor Daniel Sayani will conduct services. Good And Welfare: We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel Tov to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing all a speedy recovery. Wishing my wife, Debbie Schwartz, a happy birthday on February 18th, have a special day. Sorry to report the death of Anita Abel. She was our former secretary and long time member of the Synagogue. Wishing her daughters, Marsha and Sharon, no more sorrow. It would be nice if you can donate a tree in Anita’s memory. Purim Holiday Luncheon: Sunday, March 12, we will celebrate the Purim Holiday. The rabbi will read The Megilla at 11 a.m., followed by the Chinese luncheon and mini Bingo, only $20. For a reservation, call the Synagogue, 718379-6920, or Marilyn, 347-449-5005. Send the check to the Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place Lobby, Bronx, NY 10475; Attention: Marilyn, We are planning to serve vegetable egg rolls, chicken wings, chicken lo mein, chicken fried rice, chicken with vegetables, pepper steak. Also, soda, tea and Traditional Purim hamantashens. Your support of the Traditional Synagogue and Men’s Club is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace, good health. —Gary Schwartz

Men’s Club of Traditional Synagogue Try your luck with the Men’s Club Our first trip of the year is Sunday, March 19th to the Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City. The cost of the trip is $35 per person. You will receive $25 slot play. Also enjoy the boardwalk, visit the outlet stores and the other casinos. Payment for the trip is due by Friday, March 17th. Everyone in the community can attend our trips. You need a Tropicana Casino card, or government picture ID, passport, non- or driver’s license to receive the bonus. If you don’t have a Tropicana card, with proper ID, the casino will issue you a card. On the bus, we provide a drink, snack, play Bingo and a 50/50 raffle. On the way home, we show a movie. We keep you entertained and the ride goes fast. The bus stops and returns to all three shopping centers. We leave Einstein Loop at 8:00 a.m. by the Supermarket, Asch Loop by the back of the library at 8:15 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 8:25 a.m. by the hardware store. We will return to Co-op City around 8:30 p.m. depending on the traffic. For reservations, call Gary at 718-671-8424 or Bruce, 718-320-2234. Please make out check or money order to Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place, Lobby, Building 27B, Bronx, New York 10475. Hope to see you on the trip. Wishing everyone peace and good health. —Gary Schwartz

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

Greater Love Refuge Ministries “Behold, I send you out as sheep in for God our Heavenly Father and the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise Jesus Christ our Savior. All things as serpents and harmless as doves.” considered, the Holy Spirit reserves Spiritual Food for Thought: It is the right to have His way. imperative that you walk in the light. Greater Love is conveniently located As you exercise honesty and integrity, at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg. 2A), on the ground level, Bronx, N.Y., 10475; you will be able to see through main entrance – red button. Free parkschemes and treachery. Be alert and ing is available in Garage #1 on Darrow sensitive to unusual intrusions into Place – parking passes will be validated your life and circumstances. Jesus at the church. will give you the wisdom and ability Five Loaves & Two Fish Food to deal with whatever comes your Pantry: reopens today, February way. Do not be afraid. 18th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Senior Pastor Boyce Landrum and Donations of non-perishables, frozen Pastor Carol Landrum and the foods & toiletries are needed. Greater Love family welcome you to worship with us on Sunday mornings Hold the Date: The MOSAIC at 11:30 a.m. Greater Love is a Women’s Ministry invites you to Church of God for all people bound attend our next fellowship on Saturday, together with Christ who is the head February 25th, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The of the church. Our corporate worship topic is Intimate Partner Violence… means gathering with people of all “Love Shouldn’t Hurt.” Domestic abuse ages and cultures to express our love is not only physical but mental, verbal

or non-verbal, sexual, economic/financial and spiritual. A special guest speaker from the Mayor’s Task Force on Domestic Violence will join us. This is a free event (free-will offerings welcome). RSVP by leaving a message on the church phone and someone will call you back to confirm! SWAG (Spiritual Wisdom & Guidance) Youth Group: Meets the 1st, 2nd & 4th Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sessions include Bible study, choir rehearsal, training for service, and learning how to exercise gifts and talents to the glory of God. Please join us for our Youth Service on Sunday, February 26th at 11:30 a.m. Weekly Schedule Church phone: 347-920-5607 Sunday Morning Prayer & Meditation: 9:30 a.m. Adult & Children Bible School 10:00 a.m.

Foundational Scripture Teaching (Salvation): Every first Sunday at 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship: 11:30 a.m. Holy Communion – First Sunday Adult Bible Study/Discipleship Class: Tuesday evenings: 7:00 p.m. Mid-Week Prayer: Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. Deacon Training: Alternate Thursday Evenings at 7 p.m. Food Pantry: 4th Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Mosaic Women’s Ministry Mighty Men of God: Men’s Ministry Family Movie/Game Nite: 3rd Friday, 7 p.m. SWAG Youth Ministry: Friday evenings at 7:00 p.m. Peace & blessings. —Pastor Carol Landrum

Pentecostal Tabernacle The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to worship service every Sunday morning at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, N.Y. 10475; tel.s 718-324-0334 or 646345-6707. Sunday School for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m. Midday service starts at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday morning fasting and prayer service will be held at 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Regular prayer meeting & Bible study will also be held every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. Youth service will be held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. Focus: The new spirit-filled believers set a daily pattern of truth, unity, fellowship, praise, and prayer. Knowing the truth is vital to believers, but knowledge without application or practice is of little, if any, value. Practice is what gives value to Apostolic doctrine. To know what is right but fail to do what is right is sin. James 4:17 states: Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin As we consider the things that brought unity to the early church, we will be observing the same thing that bring unity to the church today. Truth

never changes, and these core principles establish unity among believers as we, like the disciples of the first century, commit ourselves to live by them. It is important that we maintain fellowship with one another, (1 John1:7) states: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His son, cleanseth us from all sin. We should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as he see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:25 As we continue to praise God and maintain a prayerful life, we will be able to grow stronger in God. Prayer will help us overcome temptation. Jesus said that men ought always to pray and not to faint. It is important for believers to pray together and worship together. Doing so builds strong bones of unit, enhances and furthers the corporate work of the church and strengthens every individual believer. The newly baptized believers at Pentecost went forth spreading the life changing gospel of Jesus Christ everywhere. Acts 2:38-40 states: Then Peter said unto them, Repent,

Notice of non-delivery of the Co-op City Times The Co-op City Times is the official newspaper of the residents of Co-op City. It is distributed to every residential building and townhouse cluster on Saturdays. If you do not receive the paper, it is imperative that you call the distributor between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at (347) 439-5632. You should also contact the Co-op City Times office at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375, or email us at cctimes@riverbaycorp.com, to notify us so that we can follow-up with the distributor to ensure that the situation is rectified. Please note that the Co-op City Times or its distributor is not responsible for the package of circulars. Thank you for your attention.

and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying Save your-

selves from this untoward generation. May the truths and blessings of the church ever continue through the mercy of the one who purchased our redemption with his own blood –Jesus Christ. Let us build a strong foundation that will stand firm. And not like the man in St. Luke 6:49. —Rev. R. Sibblies

CO-OP CITY FOOT CARE CENTER SECTION 5 • BUILDING 29C 4240 HUTCHINSON RIVER PARKWAY EAST

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Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

National Council Of Negro Women Black History Month – As we celebrate Black History Month, let us not forget those who marched before us and endured much while fighting for voter rights, equal rights, civil rights and justice. On Saturday, February 25, we will have our 16th Annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. This free event will take place in Dreiser Auditorium B from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Youth groups and young adults interested in volunteering to showcase their talents in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc. please call the NCNW Youth Committee at 917-399-2643. This year, the theme is “The African American Journey from Slavery to Black Lives Matter.” Women’s Celebration Program – On Saturday, April 1, we will be celebrating young women in our community, 16-18 (high school students) and 17-29 years of age who are enrolled in college or have graduated and have excelled in other extracurricular activities. We are calling this program “Bronx Scholars Represent.” Young women will be honored with Certificates of Achievement for their outstanding academics and will be highlighted in a booklet “Young Bronx Women of Excellence.” High school students must have parental permission to participate. For more information, please contact first vice president and chairperson for our women’s event, Camille Worrell at sistasonamission@aol.com. She will forward to you an application form and letter that must be returned to her by February 25th. This will be an afternoon free event in room 4, Dreiser Center. Bethune Height Recognition Program – Plans are under way for our 43rd Annual Bethune Height Recognition Program that will take place on Saturday, May 20, at the Astoria World Manor. This is a celebration in which all NCNW sections in New York State come together to support and live the legacy of NCNW’s founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Dorothy I Height, chair/president emerita. Theater Trip – On Saturday, March 11, some members of NCNW will be attending the off-Broadway play, “Everybody” at the Signature Theater on 42nd Street. We have a limited number of tickets for $30. If you are interested, call 347-602-5600. Save the Dates – (1) In early May, we will have a Pre-Mothers’ Day Luncheon Spirit Cruise in New York harbor! Delicious cuisine, music and dancing from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Stay tuned! (2) Have you seen the new Smithsonian Museum in Washington and realized that one day was not nearly enough time? We are taking a 3-day trip (with returning side trips in Baltimore for half-day shopping and casino) on August 6 – August 8. Stay tuned! Condolences – to our Charter Member and Life Member Olive Glasgow on the loss of her husband, James. Our hearts go out to her on her loss. —Joyce Howard

Opportunities

(Continued from page 7)

Black Forum Next Defensive Driving Class The next Black Forum defensive driving course will be on Saturday, March 11, 8:50 a.m.–3 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 1. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to 4 points from your driver’s license. Please make your check in the amount of $35, payable to “the Black Forum of Co-op City,” and mail to P.O. Box 563, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least 1½ weeks before the class, or you can walk in on the day of the class, but you must have $35 in cash to pay for the course. Please also bring your current driver’s license and a pen. Call (718) 320-8035. Trip To Sugarhouse Casino Come join the Black Forum to Philadelphia, Pa. at the Sugarhouse Casino on Sat., April 22; bus leaving from 3 sections – Dreiser Center, Asch Loop and Section 5. Casino rebate: $20. Donation: $45. No refunds. Final payment due April 14. For more information 718-320-0033 or 917-209-5334. Tickets going fast. Call today. Sound Off Starting February 21 The Black Forum’s Sound Off! will begin on Tuesday, February 21, 7 p.m. in room 38 of the Einstein Center. Sorry for the inconvenience. If you have any concerns, that’s where you come to sound off. Call (718) 320-8035. Black Forum Aerobics and Zumba It’s time to get in shape, get healthy and feel healthy. Body by Andrea’s aerobics classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays, and Zumba on Thursday. Classes are in the Dreiser Aud., 7:30 p.m. To register, please call (718) 320-8035. Nominal fee for each class. Food Distribution Sites On Thursdays, residents of Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Likewise, residents of Buildings 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursdays to pick up food. Residents of all other buildings and townhouses can pick up at Dreiser Center, room 20. For information, please call (718) 320-8035. Emergency Food Program We are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., rm. 20 in Dreiser Center. Also, due to budget constraints and shortage of available food, you must live within zip code 10475 to participate in this program. You must also have your card with you and bring two clean plastic shopping bags. Please also have your current photo ID, such as a non- or driver’s license or any photo ID card with proof of address. You will then be issued a card in order to pick up food in the future. We Need You - Join Us Today Membership is $5 per year/person. Call (718) 320-8035 or write to Black Forum, P.O. Box 563, Bronx, NY 10475; email: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com or tonyshome10475@gmail.com. Help us keep independent community organizations alive in Co-op City. Everyone is encouraged to join. Call or visit us, room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center. —Tony Illis

Co-op City Times / February 18, 2017

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