Co-op City Times 02/25/17 by Co-op City Times

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

Co-op City’s Top Leaders Meet With Mayor And Key Associates

Vol. 52 No. 8

Saturday, February 25, 2017

Fight Over Management Fees Claimed By MSI Continues In State Supreme Court BY JIM ROBERTS

Attorneys for Riverbay are continuing the battle in state court to overturn a judge’s ruling last year that former managing agent, Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., is entitled to nearly $800,000 in alleged damages caused by the Riverbay Board of Directors’ termination of MSI in November 2014. In court papers filed earlier this month, Riverbay is demanding that the state Department of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) carry out its oversight responsibility and make a final ruling to uphold the Board’s termination of MSI for cause. In addition, the Riverbay attorneys want the court to rule that DCHR’s decision that might allow MSI to recover six months of management fees totaling nearly $800,000 from Riverbay was arbitrary and should be overturned. “Riverbay, acting in accordance with state law, took the necessary steps to protect its existence as an affordable housing corporation,” the Riverbay attorneys stated in the Feb. 2 court filing. “MSI was properly and necessarily suspended by Riverbay in November of 2014 for breach of its

management contract, violation of federal and state employment laws, and non-compliance with DHCR regulations.” In a ruling in a related case last June, State Supreme Court Justice Paul Wooten determined that damages owed to MSI, if any, would be limited to the time period between its November 2014 suspension and the date that DHCR formally terminates MSI’s contract. DHCR has ruled that MSI’s management agreement is considered ended six months following their removal from Co-op City, but Riverbay is suing the state agency to make the termination date effective as of November 2014 to eliminate any payment to MSI for the six-month period following their removal from Co-op City during which they did no work. “DHCR’s failure to complete an investigation of MSI that DHCR was conducting, its deflection of the issue of documented mismanagement, and its determination that the management contract of MSI should be terminated as of May 31, 2015, based on an (Continued on page 10)

ASSEMBLYMAN BENEDETTO’S BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION IN CO-OP CITY SEE PAGES 4 AND 5

BY BILL STUTTIG

Granted access to the top levels of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration, the three highest ranking Riverbay officials were successful at bringing many of the community’s concerns directly to the Mayor and his inner circle last Thursday afternoon at City Hall. Riverbay President Linda Berk, Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer and General Manager Noel Ellison sat down inside City Hall with Mayor de Blasio, First Deputy Mayor Tony Shorris, Commissioner of the city’s Community Affairs unit Marco Carrion, Budget Director Dean Fuleihan and several other key aides from both the Community Affairs Division and the

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Deputy Mayor’s office. Riverbay President Berk said: “I think it was a really important meeting. As Bernie (Cylich) pointed out, he does not remember the Mayor’s office ever meeting with the Board and management of this community.” The three Rivebay officials taking part in the meeting all said that the Mayor attended the meeting for approximately 30 minutes and was fully engaged in the discussions which included seeking relief from the exorbitant costs of the city’s requirements of Riverbay to follow strict air monitoring and asbestos abatement procedures when floor tiles are removed from apartments. (Continued on page 22)

Borough President Diaz Delivers Eighth 'State of the Borough' Address Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. delivered his annual “State of the Borough” address, his eighth since becoming borough president in 2009, at the John F. Kennedy High School Campus in Marble Hill on Thursday, Feb. 23. In his speech, which can be read in full at http:// on.nyc.gov/2lLlgwx, the borough president discussed past successes, as well as new initiatives to bring positive change to the Bronx that could serve as a model for all five boroughs. “For nearly eight years, my office and our partners have developed and executed policies of equity and smart services, making the Bronx an even better place for all its residents,” Borough President Diaz said. “We said we would provide lawyers for tenants

(Continued on page 2)

Bartow Swingers present Black History Celebration More than 100 seniors packed Bartow Senior Center Friday morning for a diversified and informative program celebrating African American history and culture. Voncille Mallory, the leader of the Bartow Swingers, welcomed the gathering and then turned over the festivities to Mistress of Ceremonies Patricia Rasberry. The program had several highlights including the Dancing Gents portraying the original Black Panthers while Joyce Smith narrated the history of the famed Civil Rights pioneers. Barbara Wattley explained the origin of the Black Flag, Yolanda Grant detailed the history of unsung African-American inventors, Tasia Cox explained how people can explore the roots of their ancestors, while Daisy Windley performed a comedic, but thought-provoking, portrayal of the African American western feminist “Stagecoach” Mary Fields. The special guest speaker for the program was Brooklyn City Councilman Jumaane Williams who urged the gathering to strongly resist the policies and programs of the Trump administration, claiming that those policies will be a continuation of privileges for the wealthy and white that have defined American history for the past two centuries. Other highlights included Jenifer Hawkins reciting a poetic homage to Black women, the honoring of the beloved deceased through the Libation Cup, a dance performance by Millie Dent, and last, but not least, a rousing rendition of the Black National Anthem by Caroline Damon. Musical entertainment was provided by The “Kool Klaboratorz” ensemble with dancing by Damen Anthony and Unique Mix. Photo by Bill Stuttig

State of the Borough in court. We did. We said we'd raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. We did. We said we'd bring EBT usage online. We did. We said we'd stop the regres-

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017 (Continued from page 1)

businesses. The borough president also discussed the need to build more affordable and permanent supportive housing as a means to prevent home-

sive bag tax. We did. We said we would lessness, and threw his support behind obtain the funding to rebuild Orchard Queens Assembly Member Andrew Beach. Hevesi’s Home Stability Support plan, As he outlined numerous successes which would give rent subsidies to the Bronx has seen in recent years, those in danger of losing their homes. Borough President Diaz noted consid“Isn’t it cheaper to help someone erable job growth and new attention with their rent, to provide them with from national and international media, the stability of their home, rather than as well as billions of dollars in new put them up in a fancy Times Square investment that has been leveraged to hotel for $600 a night?” asked Borcreate jobs, improve infrastructure and ough President Diaz. “Isn’t that just build thousands of units of affordable common sense?” housing. Nearly 100,000 more BronxDuring his speech, Borough Presiites have jobs today than when the bordent Diaz also focused on the need to ough president took office in May bring new transportation projects to light, such as connecting Brooklyn, 2009, according to statistics from the Queens and the Bronx with the New York State Department of Labor. Regional Plan Association’s “Triboro The borough president also noted Line” subway proposal and expandthe recent infusion of $108 million in state financing by Governor Andrew ing CitiBike to all five boroughs. Cuomo for the redevelopment of the He also called for an end to major Kingsbridge Armory, and called on disparities in the city’s criminal justice, mental health and education systhe developer and City Hall to move tems. In particular, Borough President the project forward. Diaz highlighted his forthcoming task “This project now has the funding it force on gifted education and specialneeds, thanks to the governor’s continued commitment to our borough,” ized high schools with Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, and said Borough President Diaz. “Let’s called on the city to launch a compreget it done!” Despite the borough’s victories, hensive examination of school overcrowding in the five boroughs. however, Borough President Diaz “We cannot continue to see talent pointed out that there is still considerable work left to be done, not only in wasted,” said Borough President Diaz. the Bronx, but across the five boroughs, to make city services and resources more equitable. He said: “We have seen considerable improvement, but life is certainly not perfect in our borough and our city. Homelessness is at a record high, and our public housing is in crisis. Our criminal justice system needs a major overhaul and mental health care in this city is failing our citizens. Our children sit in overcrowded classrooms and large communities of this city are grossly underrepresented in our best high schools.” Continuing, he stated: “Services Photos by Lauretta Jaysura and amenities abundant in other boroughs are lacking here and despite “The time to give our children the education they deserve is now.” having world-class hospitals, our borIn addition, the borough president ough’s health indicators have been called for the Department of Educaslow to improve.” tion and the Department of Health and On housing, Borough President Mental Hygiene to conduct a joint Diaz discussed the future of the Jerome Avenue corridor, and the need to ensure assessment of how mental health servthat the city’s proposed rezoning works ices in our schools can be improved to for local residents and workers at area better reach students in need. “It is a

matter of citywide urgency and importance,” he said. “A holistic approach requires us to meet these challenges with compassion, not force.” Borough President Diaz also spoke about President Donald Trump and the threat his administration presents to our continued success. Specifically, he noted that 40% of all Bronx residents were born in another country, and that the Bronx would never turn its back on its immigrant population, regardless of the actions and rhetoric of the Trump administration. “I will continue to tirelessly advocate for Bronxites and for true equity and prosperity for all New Yorkers. We must stop Washington’s antiimmigrant agenda because most of us are the descendants of immigrants who arrived in this great country for a

new start and opportunity,” said Borough President Diaz. “We will make our voices heard.” Borough President Diaz closed his speech by urging greater civility and cooperation in political discourse, especially during this difficult time, when more and more New Yorkers must be willing to come together to support one another. “We are at our best when we work together. We can disagree, but we must be civil in our disagreement. Our best way forward is to thrive through collaboration, good-spirited competition, and cooperation. We will flourish together. And our success is that of the Bronx and the City,” said Borough President Diaz. (See page 15 for more photos)

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Co-op City Times 2 n d Original Lobby Attendant Retires

Front Pa ge

Says program she helped pioneer important to the community

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

NCNW Youth Celebration Today The National Council of Negro Women, Inc., Co-op City Section, and the Riverbay Fund are cosponsoring the 16th Annual Youth celebration today, 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.” Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. Please come out and support the young people.

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.

JASA Bereavement Support Group The JASA Bereavement Support Group, facilitated by Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, meets in room 13 of the Dreiser Center, 177 Dreiser Loop, every Monday at 1 p.m. If you are mourning the loss of a loved one and in need of support, you are invited to attend. For further information, Dr. Smith may be contacted at (917) 734-4058.

ful, understanding, positive and cheerBY BILL STUTTIG ful. At first, when I was not treated When Karen Booker was hired for Co-op City’s then-experimental courteously or ignored by the sharelobby attendant program back in holders, I would take it personally. April of 2001, the program only But then you begin to realize that nocovered a handful of lobbies and body’s life is easy. People come home tired from a hard day’s work and still there was a lot of misunderstanding have a lot to do once they get home, in the community about the role of take care of their children and their lobby attendants. homes. Today, on most evenings, most “I think in this job, the first responsilobbies are covered and the training bility is to be observant, but you also for each attendant has increased in have to be understanding, compasmany areas, including customer service, first aid and counter terrorsionate, respectful, and remain as ism, said Chief Frank Apollo, who pleasant and positive as you can at all oversees the program under the Karen Booker, center, receives a plaque mark- times,” she added. general umbrella of the Public ing her years of service, from Public Safety Ms. Booker, who will be moving to Safety Department. Chief Frank Apollo and Lobby Attendant Florida soon after her retirement to be Additionally, after the first years Supervisor Yomara Baez. Photo by Bill Stuttig closer to her family, was recognized for her years of service earlier this of the program, the lobby attendants week by Chief Apollo and Lobby Attendant Supervisor were assisted with the installation of call boxes near their Yomara Baez. Ms. Baez said of her long-time colleague: work stations allowing them to instantly call for assistance “She was a pleasure to work with. Karen was always a very when a situation begins to appear suspicious. dependable, hard-working, trustworthy person. She always “The observations of our lobby attendants over the years on numerous occasions have helped us capture violent ofgave one hundred percent no matter what job you gave her.” fenders quickly, prevented crimes from occurring, and even Over the last year, Ms. Booker would assist in running the program and scheduling the attendants to cover the helped in identifying missing or lost small children wandercommunity as completely through vacations, sick time and ing around unattended allowing for a safe return to their days off. “It was challenging, but I liked that part of the job,” homes or needed care,” Chief Apollo said this week. “We Ms. Booker said. cannot overstate the value of this program over the years. In Chief Apollo said of Ms. Booker: “During my eight some cases, lives have been saved by the quick observations and actions of our attendants.” years as chief of the department, I found Karen to always be Ms. Booker, one of the first lobby attendants hired in positive, providing insight into the job and the community. 2001, retired from the job this week. She said: “I have She came to work every day with an upbeat attitude and did the job. She gave sixteen years of service to the community worked in many different lobbies over the years, in all five and her contributions deserve to be recognized. She and sections, most recently in Building 15B. I think it is an imthose original lobby attendants like her laid the groundwork portant program that should continue and grow.” “Many nights it is for the success and growth of this program.” “It is not an easy job,” she continued. lonely. The lobbies can be cold in the winter and while most Lobby attendants provide coverage in lobbies from 2 to people are very nice, some don’t treat you like you should 10 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays and from be treated. But you still have to be professional, be respect4 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Visnauskas replaces Rubin as state DHCR Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas was appointed commissioner of the state Department of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) by Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Feb. 17. DHCR is responsible for oversight of Mitchell-Lama developments in the state, including Co-op City. Visnauskas served as executive deputy commissioner for Housing Development under the previous commissioner, Jamie Rubin, who left DHCR when Cuomo appointed him director of operations for the Executive Chamber on Feb. 10. In that role, Visnauskas was responsible for strategic leadership and oversight of all housing and finance programs for DHCR. Prior to joining DHCR, Visnauskas was managing director of the Housing Advisory Board for the Robin Hood Foundation, New York's largest poverty-fighting organization. The Housing Advisory Board was estab-

lished to fund initiatives to advance the quantity and quality of affordable housing for low-income New Yorkers. Visnauskas held several key positions at the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, including the role of commissioner. Visnauskas, a member of the Bloomberg administration beginning in 2006, served as executive director of large-scale planning before being promoted to assistant commissioner for new construction finance. She also served as deputy commissioner before stepping into the commissioner’s post in 2013 and was replaced when Mayor Bill de Blasio took over in 2014. In another Cuomo appointment at DHCR, Linda Manley was named general counsel. Manley has served as acting general counsel for DHCR since May 2015 and oversees the agency’s legal departments, the Tenant Protection Unit and the Fair and Equitable Housing Office. She joined DHCR as deputy

RuthAnne Visnauskas

general counsel in January 2015. Prior to joining DHCR, she served in several capacities at Lawyers Alliance for New York and previously practiced law at the firms Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue and Weil, Gotschal & Manges and served as a law clerk to Hon. Loretta A. Preska in the Southern District of New York.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Assemblyman Benedetto Sponsors Black History Month Celebration In Co-op City BY LAURETTA JAYSURA

Last Wed., February 15, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto held his first Black History Program in Co-op City.

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto (right) and the honorees.

“…I am bringing back a very popular annual event that was held in Co-op City by Congressman Joseph Crowley to honor the memory of the great Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as highlight the achievements of several people in our own community,” said Assemblyman Benedetto in his Welcome Address, noting that he was proud to honor the memory of the Rev. Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. and acknowledge three people who have con-

tributed to Co-op City’s vitality. The Invocation was delivered by Rev. Deborah Jenkins of Faith @ Work Christian Church. Pastor Jenkins is also a member of the Riverbay Board of Directors. Following the singing of the National Anthem, a beautifully choreographed rendition of the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” was performed by the Mind Builders Dance Troupe. Assemblyman Benedetto said that he first saw this fantastic group perform at the inauguration

of Senator Jamaal Bailey and knew instantly that he wanted them for the Black History program. Also on the program, to the delight of everyone, was delicious food and favorite dance music. Black History greetings from NYS Senator Bailey and City Councilman Andy King got this crowd of several hundred on their feet as they spoke of the real purpose and importance of the event. Senator Bailey quoted, “Ne cede malis,” the Bronx motto: Yield Not to Evil, and reiterated that we, Bronxites, will never yield to evil. The newly elected senator assured everyone that he looks forward to serving his constituents in the senate. City Councilman King, in line with Black History Month, invited everyone to attend “3/5 Clause Awareness Day” on March 5th that he is sponsoring. “Remember who you are,” he emphasized. Assemblyman Benedetto then very proudly introduced the Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker, Carl Heastie, Speaker of the New York State Assembly, who received a standing ovation. Speaker Heastie is a local Bronx man and known to many in the

Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

room. He is also the first Black man to hold the prestigious and top spot in the State of New York as “Speaker”of the Assembly. “I am proud to be from the Bronx,” said Assemblyman Heastie. “There are sixty-two counties in New York, the Bronx is first in my heart.” Moreover, Speaker Heastie spoke of his early days as a student of Truman High School in Education Park (Continued on page 5)

Sincerest Condolences Sadly, another pioneering settler of Building 15A has departed from the homestead. With deep regret and sadness, we acknowledge the passing of James Raymond Glasgow who, with wife Olive, sons Paul and Gregory, in April 1970, moved into the brand new building. Without sidewalks, street lights, a front walk or even a store or another completed building in the area, the Glasgow family forged forward, like all their new neighbors, with settling in. Not too long after, they became not only one of the founding families of the building association, but also a lobby safety patrol. Sometime after, James became an early member of the hardworking building holiday lobby decorating team at 100 Aldrich Street, thereby helping to start up the outstanding annual tradition that still exists, thanks to his participation. The neighbors and friends of the Glasgow family share in their loss and hope they can take comfort in the fact that we are here for them. James Raymond Glasgow will be missed by many and may he rest in peace. —Dorothea Castle

Co-op City Spotlight Co-op City Resident Wins 55-Meter Hurdles In Colgate Women’s Games In a fiercely and keenly contested Colgate Women’s Games held from December 2016 through January 2017 at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, and then the finals held at the New Balance Track and Field Center, New York, NY, with many Olympians and stars present, ten-year old Stephanie Ogunbiyi of the Zodiacs Track Club came in First Place in the semi-finals, and First overall in the finals in the 55-meter hurdles race in the Elementary B category. The competition was held last Saturday, February 18 at the Armory in New York City. Stephanie was cheered on by her team, Stephanie Ogunbiyi coaches, family, friends, and neighbors who were all there to support her to a great success and achievement. Stephanie and her brothers, Steven and Samuel, live with their parents, George and Dorcas in Co-op City’s Building 35. Her parents are natives of Nigeria and have been living in Co-op City about 20 years. Stephanie attends PS 41 in the Bronx, NY where she is a fifth grader. Stephanie’s win earned her a $1,000 education grant. Job well done, Stephanie (OMO OBA). We wish you many, many more successes.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

Black History Month

(Continued from page 4)

gentlemen in the Retirees of Dreiser Loop and the many accomplishments made by them,” said Delores Debnam, president of the Retirees as she presented Mr. Crouch and Mr. Murrel with a gift from the organization. “George Crouch and Lennie Murrell have brought the Retirees a mighty long way and we thank them for their strengths and longevity to keep us moving.” Mr. Crouch, causing a Photos by Lauretta Jaysura laugh, said: “We gave Carl (Heastie) his first job and saw his potential. Now look at where he is. I thank God for living long enough to see a lot of ‘firsts’.” Mr. Crouch added that he has always been an active person going back to his days at City College and the Black student unrest when the SEEK program was started. Mr. Murrell spoke about the 40 years he spent at the MTA and how he distinguished himself there, earning the respect of everyone. All of the honorees thanked Assemblyman Benedetto and the community for their constant support and help in whatever their endeavors. Shareholder Maybell Jenkins said, “The food was great and I learned a lot from the Speaker about the criminal system.” Barbara Rose, another shareholder, said, “Purim is coming and we need to have other programs.” Ms. Thristine Spirez, a resident of Section 5, said that she enjoyed the program and was pleasantly surprised. Shareholder Ms. Joyce Fowler also said she especially liked hearing Speaker “I am proud to call him my speaker,” said Assemblyman Benedetto. In his address, the Speaker said: “I get to decide what to do with $152 million, Heastie and his story. “It was a proud moment for Co-op City and Truman High but I also get to make one appointment to the Capital Budget Commission and School to have him here,” she observed. The Black History Month event was sponsored with the generous support of that appointment has been made. I have appointed Mike Benedetto of the Bronx the Riverbay Corporation, Simone Development Corp., Sanitation Salvage Inc., to that Board.” Municipal Credit Union and Fresh Direct. (See more photos on page 17) Speaker Heastie went on to cite some of his other achievements and the one occasion he was especially proud of when former President Barack Obama came and started his “My Brother’s Keeper” program. “We were the first state to fund this program with $20 million to be part of a program that continues to go on and provide help to young minority men.” In addition, he mentioned that a bill was just passed that will no longer sentence children 16-18 years of age as adults. Their cases will be moved to Family Court and children will not be housed in adult correctional facilities. In addition, the speaker pointed out that the assembly also voted to approve increasing the state minimum wage. Speaker Heastie, a strong supporter of community schools, told of the fiftythree “thank you” cards he keeps in his office from 53 school children outside of the United States for whom he helped secure a trip to this country. He may be known as the first Black Speaker of the NY State Assembly, but Speaker Heastie said that he wants to be known as someone who actually made New York a better place. During the program, other honorees who received the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Service Award were Lori Baker, principal of PS 160; George Crouch, a former educator and Leonard Murrell, a member of Community Board 10, both former presidents of the Retirees of Dreiser Loop. Assemblyman Benedetto said that when he was a young teacher under Principal Baker, he learned very quickly that you could not get away with anything with her. Accepting her award, Ms. Baker thanked her parents for her upbringing and for always stressing education, and to her Co-op City family whom she says embraced her from the beginning as she works to give an opportunity for a better life to the next generation. In introducing the other two honorees, Assemblyman Benedetto said: “I learned very quickly thirteen years ago when I came here who the good ones were and George Crouch and Leonard Murrell were two of the good ones.” “We couldn’t let this event go by without acknowledging the history of these two in Co-op City. “If it wasn’t for those from long ago, I wouldn’t be here,” he said. “I stood on the podium (at his swearing in) with tears and pride… After seventeen years in the assembly, I now stand as the Speaker!” The awesomeness of the job is not lost on those around Assemblyman Heastie as he has been able to gain the respect and support of his former detractors by receiving the necessary votes to be elected to his prestigious post.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Letters to the Editor

Labels are generally unreliable

Town Hall With Congressman Overdue

To the Editor: willingness to engage in ongoing, In response to Ms. Mary Pearson's simultaneous and fruitless wars, is by To the Editor: 'Progressives A Poppin'!' thank you definition, unsustainable. It would be great if all of our for your kind words and support! I am resolved to engage in, and political organizations, churches and I am not one for political labels. support, social and political initiatives Labels are generally unreliable. That to protect and preserve our society, community organizations contacted being said, ‘Progressive,’ not so much; beginning with my own community. our Congressman Eliot Engel. We need a Town Hall meeting. It is years ‘pragmatist,’ maybe. Mary Pearson is to be commended for overdue. Our community never has a I do accept that we can elect to live her willingness to participate and to chance to talk to our congressman our lives to create moral justice, social encourage others to take action, wheroutside of a panel discussion. equality and peaceful co-existence ever they may fall in the spectrum of within our own communities, thereby “progress.” Ms. Pearson, go to “10 All over the country, citizens are transforming our society. It seems to meeting with their congressmen/ Actions 100 days” weekly to help me that our present system of things women except here in Co-op City. keep the movement alive. —Eleanor Donnley which demands unyielding expansion —Linda Collins will, by necessity, decimate our natuComplaints? Compliments? Quality of Life issues? ral environment and deplete our natuWrite a Letter to the Editor! cctimes@riverbaycorp.com ral resources, such as fossil fuels. The

Board of Directors’ Meeting - February 22, 2017 First Reading - Resolution #17-08

First Reading - Resolution #17-10

SUBMITTED BY: Deborah Jenkins SECONDED BY: Evelyn Turner BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, the Procurement Department sent out thirty-six (36) requests for proposals for Bid #3092, Preventive Maintenance of Sanitary and Storm Sewers to vendors selected by HCR, the Blue book and the internet; and WHEREAS, we received two (2) proposals which were sent for review; and WHEREAS, Procurement polled the 34 companies who did not respond and asked the reason(s) they did not bid. Eleven (11) responded with reasons ranging from (i) our heavy workload prevented us from responding, and (ii) we bid in the past and our pricing was not competitive and (iii) we were unable to attend the mandatory pre-bid meeting; and WHEREAS, the two submitted (2) bids were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager, has determined Adriatic Artisan Works, Inc. is the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendations attached); and WHEREAS, this will be a three year contract in which we will pay for the Preventive Maintenance of Sanitary and Storm Sewers (spreadsheet attached). NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract # 3092 with Adriatic Artisan Works, Inc. for the amount of $1,499,632.00 for a period of three (3) year be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

SUBMITTED BY: Junius Williams SECONDED BY: Sonia Feliciano BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, Shareholders annually elect their neighbors to serve on the Board of Directors to establish sound policies to administer the property, management and the business of the cooperation; and WHEREAS, Directors meet generally twice a month for Board meetings and more frequently for committee meetings depending on the needs of the corporation; and WHEREAS, Attendance at Board meetings is a key component of a Board member’s duties; and WHEREAS, Absence at Board meetings is such an impediment to board business that the Riverbay Corporation By-Laws, Article III, Section 3 (o) allows the removal of any director who has three consecutive unexcused absences from regularly scheduled Board meeting or four out of five consecutive unexcused absences from regularly scheduled Board meetings; and WHEREAS, It would be in the shareholder’s interest for the Co-op City Times to publish on page 2 on the second Saturday of each month a list of directors who had unexcused and excused absences the prior month from Board meetings. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Co-op City Times publish on page 2 on the second Saturday of each month the names of those Directors who were/had unexcused and excused absences the prior month from regularly scheduled Board of Director’s meetings and the date of such meeting BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this Resolution shall take effect thirty (30) days after its approval. (See page 9 for more Resolutions)

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Bill Stuttig Associate Editor

Jim Roberts Business Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

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

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

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Public Safety Report

CCPD Offers Illness Prevention Tips For The Start Of The Flu Season

Even though it is late in the season, this year seems to have a high rate of flu and viruses going around. Everyone knows someone who has been affected by one of these illnesses. By taking a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce your risk of exposure to flu and other illnesses. The Department of Public Safety offers these tips to keep you safe during the cold and flu season. If you have never gotten a flu shot, this may be a good year to start. The healthier everyone can be, the better. Not since the big “Swine Flu” epidemic a few years ago has the flu received media attention, but flu is still with us. Every year, there is a different strain of flu with scientists coming up with a current vaccination to combat the current disease. Some years, vaccines are in short supply after the media creates flu awareness. It is always best to get your vaccine before supplies run low or you actually catch a full blown case of the flu. Flu season can last until May or June so if you haven’t had a vaccination yet it can still be useful. If you have ever had the flu, you know it is not something you would like to experience again. Fortunately, the large number of people receiving flu vaccinations and public awareness about flu served to limit the spread of flu and other illnesses. The symptoms and degree of illness caused by the flu virus vary for each individual. Some people will become very ill while others sustain only very minor symptoms. Your general health and other risk factors will determine how the flu virus will affect you. Persons with other underlying health problems can face serious complications in connection with this or any other flu. Risk factors include the elderly, young children, pregnant women, obesity, diabetes, asthma and those with compromised immune systems. Those at high risk of complications should see their doctor and consider being vaccinated against this year’s strain of the flu. Vaccination has proved to be highly effective in preventing flu infection. The single most important step everyone can take to prevent contracting this or any other illness is frequent and thorough hand washing. This is especially important for school age children. Children may sneeze or cough and then come in contact with items other children may touch. Children may then touch their face allowing flu germs to enter the eyes, nose or mouth very easily. By washing your hands frequently and thoroughly with warm water and soap, you minimize the risk from this type of exposure. If soap and water is not available, hand sanitizer should be utilized. Hand sanitizer is available in small containers which can easily be carried in a pocket or purse. Some of these decorative, small containers have cases designed to be clipped onto a lunch bag, backpack or belt loop. If you or any member of your family exhibit flu symptoms be sure to stay home from work or school, get plenty of bed rest and increase fluid consumption. These are very important steps in preventing the spread of the flu virus. This gives the body a chance to rest and recover as rapidly as possible. Any school closings or outbreaks in the New York City schools can be found on the NYC website, www.nyc.gov/flu. Be sure to notify your child’s school if your child becomes ill with the flu or any other contagious illness. Follow the advice of your doctor to determine when it is safe for your child to return to school. Taking the drug “Tamiflu” or “Relenza” greatly

BY LT. PAM APOLLO

decreases the severity of the flu virus if taken within 24 to 48 hours of exposure to the flu virus. See your

doctor, especially if you have other underlying (Continued on page 30)

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 25, 2017

Mayor Invites Board President Berk To City Hall

Director’s Viewpoint

Bernard Cylich First Vice President Mayor Bill de Blasio and his chief-of-staff met with Board President Linda Berk, Riverbay's Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer and General Manager Noel Ellison. I can’t recall any other mayor meeting with Riverbay officials at his office to discuss Co-op City’s finances. De Blasio pledged such a meeting with us some months ago after hearing of our problems at a Town Hall meeting – and he kept his pledge. There are several issues of finance, and of fairness, we wanted to bring before him: 1. Cooperators pay twice for sanitation and police services, once to the city and then again to Riverbay! The central garbage facility and the public safety department, cost us more than $15 million annually. These Riverbay-funded services relieve New York City of considerable costs, but our community receives no tax relief in return. 2. Since 2006, Riverbay has been required to employ certified asbestos abators when removing wood floor tiles. Some 100,000 air samples, however, have turned up not a speck of asbestos fibers. Our numerous appeals for waivers from the expensive, but unnecessary, abatement have been denied. Now the mayor has agreed to review our case. 3. Our water/sewer fees have multiplied horrifically – $5M annually in 2005 to $19M last year. Our water fees now average $100 per month, per family. We believe that the water fees are just backdoor taxes. As a mayoral candidate in 2013, de Blasio agreed with us. Since then, he has introduced a $183 water/sewer credit to homeowners. Unfortunately, a state Supreme Court judge blocked that aid (just as our delegation was meeting in City Hall) to homeowners after legal challenge was brought by the landlord lobby. Under the mayor’s program, Riverbay would have been eligible for approximately $2.5 million in tax credits. 4. Dealing with a financial crisis in 2010, the Metropolitan Transit Authority reduced many services. Among the bus lines affected were the Bx26 and BX28, which were cut by two-thirds, leaving 30,000 Co-op City residents — workers, students, shoppers, patients at hospitals (Kingsbridge Veterans and Montefiore complex among them) – with difficult transportation options. Many riders must take three buses, costing double fare. (Although Co-op City is crisscrossed by 8 bus lines, the former Bx26, and Bx28 routes were the most convenient.) Since 2010, MTA had restored many services and added new ones around the city, but has ignored our appeals – 8,000 signatures on petitions and letters – for restoration of services. The Mayor has now agreed to review our appeal. Fingers crossed! We Are All Immigrants Co-op City is an immigrant community. Some 3,300,000 New Yorkers (40% of the city’s population) are documented immigrants. These immigrants, who make up 46% of the city's labor force, contribute $8 billion a year in income tax to the city treasury and $2 billion in real estate taxes. There are approximately 535,000 undocumented workers in our city. They too work and pay taxes, yet by law they are ineligible for health coverage under the Affordable Care Act, Social Security, Medicare, and other social services. New York, including Co-op City, of course, is truly a city of immigrants. My wife and I are both naturalized citizens who came here as refugees. Fifty-five years ago my wife, Olivia, fled a military coup in Honduras (condoned by Washington). Sixty-eight years ago, my parents, brother and I, Holocaust survivors, sought refuge here from Poland, ravished by Nazi Germany. Except for Native Americans, we are a nation of immigrants. Immigrants came to these shores either by choice or as slaves brought here against their will. These days, it is troubling to watch Donald Trump spouting lies while scapegoating and slandering whole categories of people—immigrants. Trump built his run for the White House by demonizing and dehumanizing the foreign born, especially Latin Americans

and those from the Islamic world. Now, as president, nation’s principles. He disregards the Constitution, he is, supposedly, fulfilling these campaign pledges. laws and regulations, common sense, compassion and What he actually is doing, in my view, is seeking decency as he plans to deport 11 million refugees. political advances based on racist, xenophobia camSome of Trump's supporters are even considering paign rhetoric. repeal of the Constitution’s Fourteenth Amendment, These new refugees, victims of terrorism, wars, and which guarantees citizenship to former slaves and all starvation in the countries of their birth, include tens of American-born children. thousands of children escaping from murderous drug In sharpest terms, the New York Times (2/19/17) gangs. Trump is threatening either to deport these chilcondemned Trump’s irrational, inhumane immigrant dren, to possible death on return to their homeland, or to policies. Its lead editorial beseeches all of us to “exerincarceration in private U.S. prison hellholes and chargcise people power,” resist and protect our immigrants. ing parents with “smuggling or human trafficking.” “If senators and representatives can’t show courage, Many refugees pass beneath the Statue of Liberty, then churches, universities, schools, philanthropies, the Mother of Exiles. Inscribed at Liberty’s feet is a health systems, corporations, farmers and artists can.” mighty call: "Give me your tired, your poor, / Your It is heartening to see that unions, and a host of huddled masses yearning to breathe free. / The athletes and many other well-known Americans are wretched refuse of your teeming shore. / Send these, doing so. And it was also heartening to hear Mayor the homeless, tempest-tossed to me. / I lift my lamp Bill de Blasio vow on Tuesday “not to turn NYPD beside the golden door!" –Emma Lazarus, 1883 officers into immigration agents.” Trump desecrates those words and defiles our They serve as role models for us all.

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Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

First Reading - Resolution #17-06 SUBMITTED BY: Bernard Cylich SECONDED BY: Linda Berk BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, Management has prepared the proposed budget for fiscal 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 for Riverbay Corporation based on maintaining the current level of services for shareholders; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget also includes funding for the Five Year Capital Plan which will provide necessary infrastructure repairs to Co-op City; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget requires one increase in carrying charges of 3.72% (Three and seventy two hundredths of a percent) effective June 1, 2017 and no increase during the second fiscal year (from April 2018 to March 2019) in order to maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2019 all subject to review, analysis and discussion with the HCR; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget also requires one increase in all parking charges of 10.0% (ten percent) effective June 1, 2017 and no increase during the second fiscal year (from April 2018 to March 2019) in order to maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2019 all subject to review, analysis and discussion with the HCR; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget also requires one increase in all laundry room rates of 20.0% (twenty percent) effective June 1, 2017 and no increase during the second fiscal year (from April 2018 to March 2019) in order to maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2019 all subject to review, analysis and discussion with the HCR; and WHEREAS, for the month ended January 2017, the average carrying charges per room per month was $206.97 and this amount includes utilities. This amount became effective June 1, 2015 based on authorization by the HCR in 2015; and WHEREAS, the 3.72% carrying charge increase effective June 1, 2017 will raise the current average carrying charges from $206.97 per room per month to $214.67 per room per month. This increase will enable Riverbay Corporation to meet its obligations; NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE, RESOLVED: that the proposed Riverbay Corporation Budget for the fiscal years 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 is approved and Management and the Board President are authorized to process the necessary application with the NYS HCR for the above stated carrying charge, parking charge increases and laundry room rates. Upon the NYS HCR’s review and approval, Management is authorized to implement the carrying charge, parking charge increases and laundry room rates that the Commissioner of the HCR authorizes.

First Reading - Resolution #17-12 SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright SECONDED BY: Evelyn Turner BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited companies for pricing for Bid #3059, Asbestos Abatement - Flooring; and WHEREAS, Management received and reviewed five (5) proposals and prepared the attached spreadsheet; and WHEREAS, the lowest bidder was disqualified for failing to meet the bid’s requirements; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends K.D. Hercules, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendation attached). NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract 3059 with K.D. Hercules, Inc. for a not to exceed cost of $8,000,000 based on unit pricing for a 3 year period be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

First Reading - Resolution #17-15 SUBMITTED BY: Deborah Jenkins SECONDED BY: Francine Reva Jones BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, the Collective Bargaining Agreement by and between Riverbay Corporation and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (“Local 282”) expired on January 31, 2017; and WHEREAS, the representatives of Riverbay Corporation and of Local 282 did undertake collective bargaining negotiations; and WHEREAS, as a result of these negotiations the parties have agreed, subject to ratification by the Board of Directors, upon a new Collective Bargaining Agreement for a period of five (5) years up to, and including, January 31, 2022; and WHEREAS, Riverbay Management recommends that the Riverbay Board of Directors ratify this Collective Bargaining Agreement. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that the Riverbay Board of Directors ratifies the Collective Bargaining Agreement by and between Riverbay and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 282, for a period of five (5) years commencing on February 1, 2017 and ending January 31, 2022 and authorizes Riverbay’s President to sign the agreement on behalf of the Corporation.

First Reading - Resolution #17-13 SUBMITTED BY: Bernard Cylich SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: February 22, 2017 WHEREAS, the surface condenser of the power plant’s Steam Turbine Generator has become inoperable due to continuous leaks; and WHEREAS, on-line availability of the Steam Turbine Generator is needed during the summer period from June 1st to September 30th to meet Riverbay’s commitment to three electrical programs, which last year generated 3 million dollars in additional revenue; and WHEREAS, repairing the condenser, called re-tubbing, is needed to allow for the Steam Turbine Generator to operate; and WHEREAS, Procurement solicited bids for this re-tubbing work and four (4) bids were received and after review Management determined that Frank Lill & Sons was the lowest qualified bidder to repair the surface condenser within the specified time frame. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract 3139 with Frank Lill & Sons for a total cost of $ 315,726.00 for the re-tubbing of the surface condenser be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Director’s Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Director’s Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

First Reading - Resolution #17-14 SUBMITTED BY: Andrea Leslie SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, Richner Communications, Inc.is performing services of printing of the Co-op City Times under contract 2910; and WHEREAS, Change Order One (1) is being requested for additional money in the amount of $20,000; and WHEREAS, the additional money will pay all invoices through June 2017 when the contract expires and will cover the cost of the addition of special features that was not originally budgeted; and WHEREAS, Procurement has been notified to start the process for a new contract; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager is in agreement with the requested Change Order as indicated in the attached recommendation letter. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order One (1) to Contract 2910 with Richner Communications, Inc. for an additional cost of $20,000 be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #9544 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

Amended Second Reading - Resolution #17-05 SUBMITTED BY: Evelyn Turner SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, Robert J. Stahl is a licensed New York architect preforming, on an as-needed basis, professional services for Co-op City under contract 2838; and WHEREAS, Change Order One (1) is being requested to extend Contract 2838 through May 31st, 2017 with no increase in cost; and WHEREAS, this extension of time will enable Co-op City to retain Architect Stahl, at his existing rates, through May 31st, 2017; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager is in agreement with the requested Change Order as indicated in the attached memorandum dated January 12, 2017. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order One (1) for an extension of Contract 2838 with Robert J. Stahl Architect, PC until May 31st, 2017 with no increase in costs, be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective. YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Peterson, Sampson, Smith, Saunders, Turner NO: Johnson, Williams ABSENT: Graham PASSED (See page 11 for more Resolutions)

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Black History Month Celebration

several years. Speaker Heastie assured me that the bail issue is one of the things he is working to reform. Then, Assemblyman Benedetto presented awards to Francine Reva Jones three honorees. Ms. Lori Baker, Principal of P.S. 160 Secretary in Section 5. Mr. George Crouch, a former educator, member of the School Board and president of the Retirees of Dreiser Loop. And, Mr. Leonard Murrell, a former transit worker, member of Community Board Assemblyman Michael Benedetto sponsored a #10 and president of the Retirees of Dreiser Loop. Black History Month Program on 2/15 that filled the They deserve the beautiful plaques that they received. three Dreiser auditoriums. The program opened Laundry Room Etiquette with the “National Anthem,” the “Black National At the Town Hall Meeting on 2/8, several cooperAnthem,” Invocation rendered by Pastor Deborah ators complained that people leave their laundry in Jenkins, a delicious dinner and the praise dancers the washing machines and dryers and return long from the Mind-Builders Dance Troupe. after the machines have stopped. It was suggested This was followed by comments from NYC that the New Cooperators’ Orientation Meetings Councilman Andy King, who invited everyone to a should be improved to include this topic. As chair of special program regarding the Three-fifths Clause the Commercial Leasing and Residential Sales Awareness on 3/5, 3:00 p.m. at the Schomburg CenCommittee, we have been observing the orientation ter. Next, NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey assured sessions to see if any improvements can be made. us that Black history is American history and that I attended the session on 2/7 and was amazed at we will not yield to the evil in Washington, but that the amount of information imparted, although nothwe will resist and prevail. ing was said about laundry room etiquette. I will conThe evening’s keynote speaker was Assembly tact management ASAP and have this issue covered Speaker Carl E. Heastie, the first African-American to serve as Speaker of the NY State Assembly. at the next New Cooperators’ Orientation meeting. In the meantime, new and old cooperators should Speaker Heastie appeared to be right at home in our monitor their laundry in the washing machines and Dreiser Auditorium as he reminded us that he graddryers. If you need to leave the laundry room, you uated from Truman H.S. He went on to talk about some of the work the NY State Assembly is doing, should return as soon as possible so that you don’t inconvenience your neighbors. Consideration for including increasing the minimum wage; initiating others is an important quality in being a good sharethe family leave program; providing funds for the holder. Please cooperate. Obama “My Brother’s Keeper Program;” raising the The Moors’ Contribution to Civilization age of 16 and 17 year old minors as it pertains to the When the topic of the Moorish influence in criminal justice system, so they won’t be classified Europe is being discussed, one of the first questions as adults. Speaker Heastie informed us of a case that arises is, what race were they? where a young man just under 16 years old was As early as the Middle Ages, “Moors were comcaught selling drugs and, rather than ending up in an monly viewed as being mostly black or very swarthy, adult jail, he was sent to a juvenile center where he and hence the word is often used for negro,” accordreceived counseling and now works for a NYC ing to the Oxford English Dictionary. agency and is pursuing his master’s degree. Speaker Author and historian Chancellor Williams said, Heastie ended by expressing his desire to make “the original Moors, like the original Egyptians, were more changes in the Criminal Justice System. black Africans.” Speaker Heastie was kind enough to respond to my The 16th century Engquestion regarding the exorbitant rate of bail charged to lish playwright William people who are arrested. If they, or their families, canShakespeare used the not afford to pay bail, they must remain incarcerated word Moor as a synonym until they receive a hearing or a trial, which might take

MSI Lawsuit

(Continued from page 1)

unsupported assumption that Riverbay could have selected, recommended, and obtained DHCR, HUD and lender approval of the new managing agent by that date, is the definition of an arbitrary and capricious agency determination,” the Riverbay attorneys stated. Riverbay is also countersuing MSI for more than $7 million in alleged damages. According to the lawsuit, “Riverbay continues to face fiscal issues presented by the ‘legacy contracts’ entered into, or approved under MSI’s stewardship, including without limitation, the purchase of the ‘wrong size’ of elevator [machine] for 135 of Riverbay’s 172 elevators, a parting gift that may cost Riverbay in excess of $40 million to correct, the cost of installing a large High Pressure boiler that doesn’t fit into the building, and the defense of multiple, uninsured personal injury claims from individuals who allege they were exposed to legionella bacteria during the period of time that Riverbay was managed by MSI.” In response, attorneys for MSI have claimed that MSI depended on outside labor counsel to ensure that all Riverbay contracts were legal and that Board approval was not required for insurance contracts.

LOST – Treasured Keepsake!!! After a wonderfully informative and profoundly inspiring day at the 20th Annual Black History Month Black Film Festival, held of February 4, someone lost an irreplaceable keepsake. We are sure that the person who found it realizes that they scooped it up in error. It is a beautiful vintage velvet scarf. The colors: black, burgundy, a bit of dark green with beautiful glistening ornaments and fringed finishing. The person who is without their keepsake shared that their best friend had given them the scarf more than 10 years ago and it is a keepsake of the friend who had survived a terrible disease. The two friends asked that neither of their names or too many details be mentioned about them, hoping that someone will return the beloved scarf to one of the two addresses of the African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475 or 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 15, Bronx, NY 10475, or just drop it off at the Co-op City Security Office. No questions will be asked and no charges or judgments will be made. —Michelle Marbury

for African. His contemporary Christopher Marlowe also used African and Moor interchangeably. Arab writers further buttress the black identity of the Moors. The powerful Moorish Emperor Yusuf ben-Tachfin is described by an Arab chronicler as “a brown man with wooly hair.” Black soldiers, specifically identified as Moors, were actively recruited by Rome, and served in Britain, France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Poland, and Romania. St. Maurice, patron saint of medieval Europe, was only one of many black soldiers and officers under the employ of the Roman Empire. Although generations of Spanish rulers have tried to expunge this era from the historical record, recent archeology and scholarship now shed fresh light on the Moors who flourished in Al-Andalus for more than 700 years – from 711 AD until 1492. The Moorish advances in mathematics, astronomy, art, and agriculture helped propel Europe out of the Dark Ages and into the Renaissance. The Moors brought enormous learning to Spain that over centuries would percolate through the rest of Europe. The intellectual achievements of the Moors in Spain had a lasting effect; education was universal in Moorish Spain, while in Christian Europe, 99 percent of the population was illiterate, and even kings could neither read nor write. At a time when Europe had only two universities, the Moors had seventeen, located in Almeria, Cordova, Granada, Juen, Malaga, Seville, and Toledo. In the 10th and 11th centuries, public libraries in Europe were non-existent, while Moorish Spain could boast of more than 70, including one in Cordova that housed hundreds of thousands of manuscripts. Universities in Paris and Oxford were established after visits by scholars to Moorish Spain. It was this system of education, taken to Europe by the Moors, that seeded the European Renaissance and brought the continent out of the 1,000 years of intellectual and physical gloom of the Middle Ages. Contact: I can be reached at 718-671-5957.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Amended Second Reading Resolution #16-78 SUBMITTED BY: Rod Saunders SECONDED BY: Junius Williams BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, Approximately 1664 move-in/move-out permits are issued annually by the Sales Department; and WHEREAS, ongoing refurbishing of lobbies and elevator upgrades require constant vigilance to avoid expensive problems and unhappy shareholders; and WHEREAS, The Board directs that Management require that anyone moving in or out of a building either post an adequate security deposit or use a licensed and insured mover and that a moving permit only be issued upon proof that the moving company is registered with the New York State Department of Transportation or the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and provides a certificate of insurance satisfactory to Riverbay. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That all shareholders moving in or out must either post an adequate security deposit or use a licensed and insured mover and not a U-Haul or other type of rental van/truck and that moves are to occur Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4:30 pm unless special permission is given by Riverbay. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Sales Department must modify its Move-In/Move-Out Policy to comply with this resolution. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Resolution shall take effect 30 days after Board approval and that Management shall take all necessary action to comply with this resolution. YES: Feliciano, Peterson, Sampson, Smith, Saunders, Williams NO: Jenkins, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Turner ABSTAIN: Berk, Cylich, Jones ABSENT: Graham DEFEATED

Second Reading - Resolution #17-07 SUBMITTED BY: Linda Berk SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, Contract Administration sent out fourteen (14) requests for proposal for Bid P1014, Distribution of the Co-op City Times; and WHEREAS, Contract Administration received two (2) proposals; and WHEREAS, Management has reviewed the bids and has decided that RJB Distribution Corp. is the lowest responsible bidder (see attachments); and WHEREAS, the cost of this contract shall be

$70,200 per year; and WHEREAS, as this will be a 2 year contract the total cost will be $140,400; and WHEREAS, according to Resolution 95-41 all contracts regarding the printing & distribution of the Co-op City Times shall require Board approval. NOW, THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that the proposed Contract P1014 with RJB Distribution Corp. with a cost of $140,400 be approved as submitted by Management and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective. TABLED

Second Reading - Resolution #17-09 SUBMITTED BY: Evelyn Turner SECONDED BY: Deborah Jenkins BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: FEBRUARY 22nd, 2017 WHEREAS, Capri II Pizza Inc. has requested a lease renewal from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 149 Dreiser Loop (1,451.5 sq. ft.) Bronx, New York, to be used for sale of pizza, lotto, breakfast, lunch, dinner and beer for on and off premise consumption; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is ten years with one five year renewal option and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED,

that the lease agreement for the premises at 149 Dreiser, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and Capri II Pizza Inc., Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s management is hereby approved as submitted by management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President of the Corporation is authorized to sign the lease agreement and related documents on behalf of Riverbay Corporation. YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Peterson, Sampson, Smith, Saunders, Turner, Williams ABSENT: Graham PASSED

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Directorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Viewpoint

Get ready for some heavy increases

operate in a manner that's beneficial for us. Plus, lots of cooperators in this community will be able to continue to live here. Elevators and capital projects? Riverbay accepted a bunch of mechanisms that were bad for our elevators. And, now, all of these elevators need to be Several large carrying charge increases are on the replaced. Does that make any sense? Of course not. way that will affect everyone in this community. So, with this established point, do you honestly think Thereafter, it's possible that these increases might that we should pay $40 million to perhaps one company that, um, will win a bid? Do you think that one cause a lot of our cooperators to move out of here. company should perhaps replace all of the elevators About to Get Put Out? You've read about an ambitious 5-year capital plan at the same time? The answers, from my perspective, and a new budget for this community. However, did are no. Personally, I think that a lot of the projects on this you get to see this capital plan or this budget? No? Well, both of these items are filled with some heavy 5-year plan should be implemented over a longer period of time. Therefore, we should fund these projnumbers. Personally, I don't like the way the capital plan and ects with cuts that we make to our departmental the budget were crafted. The theory behind both of expenses. For instance, with just a 10 percent cut we these items is that this community must pay more can save over $11 million a year. And, if we go up a money to fund what Riverbay wants. Thereafter, little bit higher with a 15 percent cut, we can save Riverbay can operate year after year with a bloated over $16 million a year. Thereafter, we can force our budget, high overtime expenses, unchecked inven- managers to operate this company in a far more effitory items, and other costly projects. Then, Riverbay cient manner. Additionally, we will not have to kick can make this community pay for whatever it wants. out good, strong, and positive families that are strugA better approach to this situation would be to cut gling to make ends meet. Political Meeting our departmental budget. However, some of our manManagement has estimated that we need about agers will have you believe that this community will fall apart if one penny is removed from this portion of $140 million to complete various projects throughout the budget. So, trying to have a budget discussion this community. However, we don't have that type of with these managers will be like: "You can't cut this money. So, the board had a big meeting on Saturday, because this will happen. And, you can't cut that February 11, in Bartow with our politicians. One of the major items that we discussed was the because that will happen." And, at the end of the day, you'll see that it's a complete waste of time trying to costly asbestos tests that we have to perform on our floor tiles. Currently, Riverbay renovates about 500get these managers to cut anything. Nevertheless, I think that our current budget 600 apartments a year. And, part of the renovation clearly reveals that we're supporting items that are process includes an unnecessary test for asbestos in not good for this community. First of all, we have 27 the glue of the floor tiles. These tests, ordered by the different departments on our budget. So, do you hon- NYC DEP, cost this community about $4 million a estly believe that we need to have that many depart- year. A representative from the Mayor's office along ments here? Additionally, we're spending $112.6 with our Councilman, Andy King, have promised to million to support these departments. Plus, this look into this matter. Additionally, our water budget states that we should have 1,112 employees and sewer bill has skyworking within them. This is nonsense, in my opinion. So, that's why rocketed to $18 million a this community needs to tell management to cut this year. So, we're trying to budget. Cutting this budget will force management to get some relief from the

Daryl Johnson

city on this matter. But, think, it's fair that we ask for relief because we spend millions of dollars on our own police force, garbage collection, and other items. Also, an aggressive program to modernize our elevators began in 2002. Within one year, allegations surfaced that our elevators were shaking. Thereafter, a consultant alleged that some parts of the elevator mechanisms were not the appropriate size for our elevators. Then, as mentioned before, Riverbay accepted a 25-year warranty on those controversial elevator parts. And, now just 15 years later, Riverbay wants $40 million to replace all of our elevators. Amazing, huh? UPS Lockers UPS is supposed to have their lockers installed at Bartow, Dreiser, and at Einstein. We will get these lockers. Anonymous Worker Complaint Your letter was sent to management and our lawyers. Close Do you really want to receive several large increases over the next few years? Based on the work with the balconies and our malls, how do you think the capital projects will come out after Riverbay receives all of this additional money from this community? 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 doublecheck the spelling of this address if your message bounces back to you.) Also, please call me at 718671-4544 if you don't receive a response from your message. You can also join me on Facebook by typing in: Daryl H. Johnson. Okay, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 25, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Let Us Play

ruption, deception and collusion. Though some may argue that nothing has changed, I am confident in saying in the last 2 years, I have noticed tremendous change. This positive change continues to grow every month. Many people have expressed the changes throughout Co-op City. The employee morale is conAppreciation for solid systemic practices that cre- stantly changing. Although you cannot please everyate an atmosphere of inclusion for those who are like- one all of the time, your goal should be to please all minded individuals are always welcomed. In any of the people all of the time. society where there is public opposition, success is We should always try to look for ways to make never achieved unless there is a compromise or one bad situations better or make good situations even side is defeated. better. We must admit that throughout our lives, we Having this pre-information should compel us to haven’t always made the best decisions. If anyone seek solutions to remedy this flaw prior to the assem- tells you that they have, you had better grow 10 more bly of any group. This is often done in the creation of eyes and keep all eyes on them. We are all human and by-laws for corporations, organizations and clubs. mistakes are part of our growth. When you are a repRiverbay Corporation is no different than any of the resentative of others, the responsibility is even greater. aforementioned. We, as a collective body, choose As a member of the Riverbay Board, I am met representatives to set policy and govern our corpora- with many emotions, personalities, learning curves tion just as our elected officials are commissioned to and so much more. If my intentions can collaborate do for our communities. But neither can function with responsibility and work ethic, I am only at the properly without the acceptance and support of those beginning of a potentially successful representation they serve. We know in the past, Riverbay (like other of those I serve. As shareholders and community parcorporations) has been viewed as a minefield of cor- ticipants, we all have responsibilities to ourselves,

Kevin Lambright

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 noon, 177 Dreiser Community Center, room 15. It is important that two (2) 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 and Kwanzaa celebrations 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. 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

our families and neighbors. For those of us who are not aware, our neighbors are equivalent to business partners. Coming Soon I, like most of you, am looking forward to some fun things coming this year. Just to name a few: Universoul Circus/Hit Gospel Comedy “The First Lady”/ Fashion shows/Annual Spelling Bee/Tunes on Tuesdays/Wicked Wednesdays and so much more. This is proof that so much is happening right here on your property. We must support these events so that we can continue to heighten levels of quality of life here in our community. Keep in Touch These are times when we need to keep an eye on our family, friends and neighbors. There are people who want what we have and look for opportunities to take it. We must protect and defend one another and our property. Remember, this all belongs to us. If you see something that seems suspicious, do not hesitate to call Public Safety. I look forward to your correspondence and feedback. I can be reached at klambright@riverbayboard.com or by phone at 646-7218185.

Building 13 Association Please mark your calendar: The next Building 13 Association meeting will be held on March 2, at 7:00 p.m. Check the building bulletin board for updates regarding the agenda. The association will be collecting annual dues shortly. Annual papers will be notarized free when you become a member of the association. Always check the bulletin board for dates, times and important, helpful information and updates. We have started our meetings for the planning of Summer Fun Family Day scheduled for Saturday, June 17. More information coming soon. During a recent building inspection to identify conditions on the roof, grounds basement and public spaces that need to be addressed, tickets for corrective work have been generated. Of concern to management were door mats in the hall outside your apartment, door stickers and attachments that should not be on the outside of your apartment entrance door. For those shareholders who have entrance doors that are either grey or in severe need of painting, please call for an appointment. Women Keeping It Real – The Red Box returns! Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, March 18, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. @ 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. If you want to join us for the Lobster Fest in July, contact, call now, there are still seats available. 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. We are still accepting deposits, however, final payment is due April 15. We ask that you be prompt with your payment. 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 718320-1370. Our website is www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com. Again, thanks for making our team work. —Leslie Peterson

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 today, Saturday, February 25th, at the Bartow Community Center, room 28, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. We have an immigration lawyer coming to 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 ongoing. 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

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

State of the Borough

(Continued from page 2)

Bronx residents, including many from Co-op City, attended Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.’s 8th State of the Borough Address which was held on Thursday, Feb. 23 at John F. Kennedy High School campus. Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home Makes Donation To UNCF On Tuesday, February 21, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home proudly presented a check in the amount of $10,000 to the United Negro College Fund. (UNCF). This presentation represented a portion of the monies raised at the McCall’s Bronxwood 50th Anniversary Gala celebration that was held on December 10th, 2016 at Eastwood Manor Catering Hall in the Bronx, NY. The fundraising event was attended by more than 350 neighbors, friends, political luminaries and community leaders, who helped make it a resounding success through their purchase of tickets, contributions and purchasing ads in the souvenir journal to benefit the UNCF. This year’s donation is part of the $60,000 commitment to education that McCall’s has made. At Tuesday’s check presentation, Mr. James H. Alston, owner of McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, Inc., once again thanked the community for their contributions which help to reinforce his staunch support of young people striving to achieve their educational goals, as Mr. Alston, a firm believer that education empowers, also believes in the UNCF credo: “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”

(L-R) Sadie Campbell, Jennifer P. Lumley, Florence Payne, Jeffrey Alston, UNCF representative, James Alston, CEO, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home; Patricia Myers, Avril Francis, Joan Battle and Eve-lyn Mallette.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Building 21 Association Sarah Boone – Salute for African American (aka: Black) History Month. Sarah Boone (1832-1904) was an African American inventor who on April 26, 1892, obtained United States patent rights for her improvements to the ironing board. Boone was a rarity during her time; a female African American inventor. In her patent application, she wrote the intent behind her creation was “to make a low-cost, easy, handy and impressive apparatus, specially adapted to be utilized in ironing the sleeves and bodies of women’ garments.” Prior to that time, most folks ironed utilizing a plank of wood rested across a couple of seats or tables. She was living in New Haven, Connecticut, when her patent was given in 1892. What is your contribution to African American history? Are you a member of the African American Association of CO-OP City? Your presence would be great. You can join at the 21 Association general meeting or at Think Tank. (See below). The Race for the $300 Prize still going “21 Strong” Those 21 Association members who wish to earn valuable points and a chance to win $300 have many ways to do so. Note: A member is ANY shareholder who has paid their annual $5 dues to the Building 21 Association. Prize monies are made and saved for that purpose, from activities (i.e., the Ice-cream Social, 50/50 raffles, etc.) Refer back to the following issue of the CO-OP City Times for complete rules of The 21 Association Rewards Points Program, November 26, 2016. New Schedule: Building 21 Monthly Meetings: Here are three 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. THINK TANK at Building 21 is in session every Friday, 8:30-10 p.m. Come, lend your presence and offer your ideas for forward MOVEMENT IN OUR COMMUNITY. We are located in “The Gathering Room” in the rear of 21B. ALL are welcomed. Each one of us divided by ALL OF US, EQUALS A FORCE FOR GOOD. See you around the neighborhood! —Michelle Marbury

Building 9 Association Greetings.

Kudos to our State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto for hosting the 2017 Black History Month celebration at Dreiser Auditorium on February 15th. The music and food were outstanding. The Praise Dancers were delightful. The Award recipients were greatly deserving of the honor. Thank you, Daisy, Janice, Eloise, Shirley Wells and Shirley Johnson, for joining us for the event at our “Reserved” table. So sorry our other invitees were unable to attend. Our monthly meeting was held on Thursday, February 16th at 7 p.m. Our guest speakers were Messrs. Frias and Valenzuela, the new Section 2 Janitorial Services Supervisors. We appreciate their openness while addressing concerns. We held our first Black History Month event on Friday, February 24th. Presentation: Sarah Rector, the first Black child millionaire in U.S. history. In 1912, at the age of 10, Sarah Rector became a millionaire as a result of residual payments for oil found on her land-grant reparation from the U.S.

government to the Native American Creek Tribe and their Black slaves. Our monthly Social Event is Game Night (cards, Dominoes, Pokeno, etc.) scheduled for Saturday, February 25th at 7 p.m. Our 2017 Building 9 Association Membership drive is well underway. Thank you to those who have already joined. We look forward to seeing you at our meetings and events. Thank you to our volunteers: Wanda Randall and Wanda Rodriguez (9A) and Shirley Wells, Barbara Cloud, Janice Warren-Rosario and Shirley Johnson (9B). They have been, and will be, seated in our lobbies over the next few weeks accepting your membership dues. My stated goal is to inform you of quality of life issues that affect our building, our Section, our community, etc.; to advocate for you in matters of regulatory and legislative changes that will preserve, protect and strengthen Mitchell-Lama cooperatives, specifically Co-op City, and to educate you about the success and advantages of residing in Co-op City and how to preserve your complex, your building, and residences and your quality of life going forward. There are media reports of Bronx residents becoming ill and dying from 'ratborne bacteria.' That is just one reason we must oppose any suggestion to return Co-op City to NYC sanitation pick-ups. If you want to go swiftly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. –African Proverb —Linda Collins

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Celebrating Black History Makers

Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Black Barber Shops Matter

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner Thank you, Section 5 association presidents and cooperators who attended a “standing room” only meeting to hear a presentation by “Kenny,” owner of one of only two Black businesses in Section 5. This Black business has served the Co-op community for 25 years in various locations. After the presentation, it was a unanimous decision that Section 5 presidents and cooperators will NOT allow this one of two Black business to be closed down. Based on the pulse of the Section 5 presidents and cooperators, this director is certain that the results will be positive. About Black Hair-Least We Forget A book titled “400 Years Without A Comb,” published in 1966, is a source of inspiration about cutting and styling the Black man’s hair. For the first time in history, a Black barber recorded details and techniques of grooming specifically related to the needs of Black people. The most obvious traits that link the African to the Black American are the curly or kinky hair and the Black skin. It has been documented that the slave’s wooly head provided a handy way for the traders and owners to pull slaves around. During slavery, the natural state of Black hair was rationalized as proof positive that Blacks were not human, and thus should never be freed or tolerated as men. What was unfortunate is how the Anglo-Saxon disdain for Blacks’ natural kinks started a long and bitter war with Black hair. The memory and brainwashing techniques for many men and women who were descendants of famous races of antiquity were erased. After slavery, the Blacks who had learned to cut the master’s hair were among the first to be employed in White barber shops. Many Blacks worked in shoeshine parlors taking care of the customer’s shoes and seeing his clothes were well brushed. Here the

Black’s hair had to be well groomed. First Barber School H. M. Morgan who died in 1964 is best known as having established the first integrated barber school in Texas. He taught White barbers how to cut straight hair and Black barbers how to cut both straight and curly hair. He sponsored the first integrated barber school with four chairs. From this, he expanded at one time to as many as 13 schools in various cities, the largest with 27 chairs. That said, the fact that “Kenny” has operated more than one business is nothing new or unique for a Black man. And as we officially end “Black History Month,” we celebrate his spirit of entrepreneurship and support 100%, with action, his continued service in Section 5. Free Adult Education Programs Kudos to cooperator Errol Alton, Director of Adult Education at Equality School, for designing and making available a FREE ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAM located at the Section 5 PS 160 school building. Participants can enjoy the following FREE: Money Management, GED (HS Diploma) Zumba & Healthy Cooking Class – Basic Computer Skills – Business Workshops – Resume Building Paid - Parking pass at local garage – Delicious refreshments – Rewards for perfect attendance. Call: 718-459-9597, ext. 1112; website:www.tinyurl.com/strong families. Youth Center – Former Bingo Hall A cooperator asked this director, “Why can’t we get money from our elected officials for anything?” Again, this director did ask elected officials and had a written plan in hand for a youth/community center. However, our congressman was unable to convince HUD to allow the 10,000 square foot building to be used as a youth/community center. It is to be used for “commercial” purposes only. However, the Commercial Leasing Department has NOT found a tenant and the building remains EMPTY. We had a top Grant Writer who has moved on obtaining millions for other not-for-profits. The other consultants have also

continued their work in other places. Community Board 10 A graduate intern from the New School was introduced by Martin Prince at the Section 5 building association meeting on Monday, February 20, 2017. A train stop will happen in Co-op City in the very near future in Section 5. Therefore, cooperators should have some input concerning the TRAFFIC & PARKING challenges, as well as quality of life issues with the volume of people, cars, pollution, etc. Reportedly, $300 million has been set-aside in the State budget. Section 5 is appreciative of the Community Board 10 leadership for ensuring that cooperators in Section 5 have input when decisions are made, especially about traffic and parking. We look forward to the intern’s research of Section 5’s concerns. Black History Month Tid-Bits According to Tom Burrell’s indispensable book titled “BRAINWASHED” – Challenging the Myth of Black Inferiority, “Black people are not dark-skinned white people.” They are survivors of the Middle Passage and centuries of humiliation and deprivation, who have excelled against the odds, consistently “making a way out of no way!” According to Burrell, the masterful marketing of Black inferiority is the greatest propaganda campaign of all times. “Burrell suggests that the media constantly preaches the sermon of rugged individualism, while whites and other ethnic groups merge, acquire, form organizations and affiliations to control the economic system that benefit them most.” He also suggests ‘the novelty’ of ‘the first black president,’ has worn off. “Already whites (and blacks) are actively trying to undermine the magic of that historic moment.” A people losing sight of origins are dead, a people deaf to purpose are lost. Under fertile rain, in scorching sunshine there is no difference: their bodies are mere corpses, awaiting final burial. – Ayi Kwei Armah Thanks for your support. I may be reached at: Evelyn M. Turner, evelyntinez@aol.com; 917-324-1033.

National Council Of Negro Women Black History Month – Today, 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 have volunteered to showcase their talents in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc. This year, the theme is “The African American Journey from Slavery to Black Lives Matter.” Come on out and applaud the talented young people in our community! It will be a fun afternoon that will make you feel proud! 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 activi-

ties. 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.” Awardees must have resided in the Bronx during their formative years, attended high school in the Bronx and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must submit a statement from a teacher, coach, etc. as to their excellent achievements. 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 Saturday, March 11. This will be a free afternoon event in room 4, Dreiser Center. Theater Trip – On Saturday, March 11, some

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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 1-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), August 6 – August 8. Stay tuned! Birthdays – Happy birthday to members who celebrate their birthdays in February. Also, Co-op City Section of NCNW was organized on February 14, 1971 so “Happy Birthday” to us!! —Joyce Howard

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Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Building 32 Association

Broun Place Townhouse Association

General Membership Meeting From Broun Place Townhouse Association: Neighbors have been talking, Our meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 21 starting at 7:30 p.m. The meetwe have missed so much African-American history. For the last week in Februing place is our association room, located in 32 B, first floor rear. Our special guest ary, this quote from Nelson Mandela, not an African-American, but an African will be Mr. Rupinder Rana, Director of Operations for Statcare, the urgent and who stands for freedom and justice in the history of the 20th – 21st century: walk in medical care facility for both adults and kids. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Statcare is located in the Bartow Mall, 2063 Bartow Ave., adjacent to AmalgaKeep that quote in mind to teach our youth. Speaking of youth, today is the mated Bank. Mr. Rana will be presenting handouts, checking blood pressures for NCNW Black history event with the focus on youth. It begins at noon in Dreiser those who request it, conducting finger-stick blood glucose testing, and informing Community Center Auditorium. us about this convenient new facility right in our community. The Woodlawn Cemetery, one of the Bronx’s greatest historical cemeteries, We look forward to seeing our new cooperators. Our meetings are generally paid tribute to some of the great Black Americans buried there: Bessye Bearden, ninety (90) minutes long, and occur once every two months. There will be light mother of the collage artist, Romare Bearden. Mrs. Bearden, in her own right a refreshments, a door prize and a fifty-fifty. Everyone is welcome. If you have not civic activist, journalist and part of the New York Urban League. Then there’s paid your $5 annual dues, you can do so at this meeting. renowned band leader and composer Duke Ellington, Madam C. J. Walker, Trip America’s first Black female self-made millionaire, who developed hair care This information will be re-printed for the next few weeks and any changes will products and Ralph Bunche, a U.S. diplomat and the first African–American to be printed in large letters for your convenience. win the Nobel Peace Prize. Finally to mention here, Miles Davis, the great jazz These are TENTATIVE departure times for our trip. The bus will arrive at trumpeter. But there are more and for March 4th, we will add more. Building 32B, opposite Garage 7, at 6:45 a.m. There will be a seating list, so please IMPORTANT, regarding a suspicious mailing, the return address says, wait for your seating assignment prior to boarding. We will leave at 7:00 a.m., “Social Security Guarantee Act Information,” “OFFICIAL BUSINESS, TO BE heading to Asch Loop by the library. Expected arrival time is 7:10, leaving at 7:20 OPENED BY ADRESSEE ONLY, and UNDER PENALTY OF LAW.” This is a.m. We should be at Dreiser Loop by the hardware store at 7:30 a.m., leaving no not a federal mailing! It’s attributed to: “Coalition to Guarantee Social Security, later than 7:45. We will try to be on time and it is expected that you do the same. a project of Christian Seniors Association,” “a division of Traditional Values This should be a marvelous trip. Luncheon at the Golden Corral should be at Coalition.” This is a solicitation. BEWARE! approximately 11:30 a.m. Seating requests will be honored if at all possible. Following up on the renovation of our basketball court adjacent to Garage 6, We will show movies, there is wi-fi on the bus, and we will have a fifty-fifty. the work is under way. Seriously, hope the underground pipes and connections —Lorna Smith 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. Coming up this week, we will attend the Riverbay Board Construction ComHello, Building 10 neighbors, mittee and report on that next week. Please speak to a Broun Place Executive We hope everyone had a wonderful Presidents’ Day holiday and took advanCommittee member if you have an issue. There is “new” information regarding tage of some fantastic bargains. window guards and townhouses. Townhouse residents can purchase them, but Our next General Membership meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14, at 7 the forms are not required to be filled out by townhouse residents. We learned p.m. in the Bldg. 10 association room (rear lobby of Bldg. 10B). The agenda for the this by working with Adler Place Townhouse Association. Also in conjunction meeting is still being formulated, but we do hope to have a guest speaker. We also with Adler Place, more garbage cans have been placed. Thank you to our Buildlook forward to members actively participating in the meeting by bringing conings and Grounds department. structive ideas/suggestions on things we can do to motivate more building residents The Open Board/Town Hall Meeting highlights, at its best, were contained in to attend meetings and actively participate in association activities. We will also be what both Mr. Klehammer and Mr. Ellison delivered. They have divided the available to accept association dues for the current year ($5 per family) from those business of Co-op City into operations and corporate. Clearly, they are working who have not yet paid their dues. As an aside, a special thank you to those residents well together. This is great for Co-op City. Neighbors, you need to participate by who volunteered their time in assisting with the collections earlier this month. attending these meetings. A couple of seats remain available for our bus trip to the Mohegan Sun Casino “If you see something, say something;” call Public Safety: 718-671-3050. which will take place on Saturday, March 11. Cost of the trip is $45 pp with $10 Have a great week! slot play & $15 food voucher. The bus will leave from 140 Debs Place at 8 a.m. —Eva Lazaar sharp. Please call any of the following numbers to reserve a seat: (718) 320-2366, (718) 671-5475 or (646) 334-3739. Members of the Fundraising Team will be available one last time this Monday, February 27th from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Inc. Mailing Bldg. 10 association room to accept FINAL PAYMENT. We always have a fanaddress: P.O. Box 75-3111, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475. President: tastic time on our bus trips so don't miss an opportunity to laugh and enjoy a Jerome L. Rice. Office telephone: (718) 320-3210. Address: 135 Einstein Loop great time with some wonderful people. Community Center, room 36, 2nd floor. Office hours: Monday - Wednesday It was recently reported that on more than one occasion, dog excrement was Friday, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. found in the stairwell landing of one Bldg. 10 section. This is a serious quality Theme: Our Lives Matter - Our Votes Count of life issue and is unacceptable. The pet owner, if caught, will be subject to a VOTER REGISTRATION IS AN ONGOING COMMUNITY ACTIVITY. fine. While we respect the rights of those who require service and emotional supRegistration forms available in the office. Be prepared to VOTE! If you don't port animals, please be mindful of the rules and regulations for all dog owners vote, don't complain. particularly those relative to cleaning up after your dog(s) and keeping them on Branch membership meeting will be held on Sunday, February 26th at 3 p.m. leash when outside your apartment. Please note, these rules apply even when in All welcome - Bring a guest. the lobby and elevator before and after your dog is walked. So, let's all try to get Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest nonpartisan along and respect each other's rights. civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world Birthday greetings to all who are celebrating a birthday, best wishes for a are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. speedy recovery to those who are under the weather and heartfelt condolences to Membership Campaign: Lifeblood of the association. Your membership those who have suffered the loss of a loved one. dollars help to lead the fight for freedom, justice and equality. The communityThanks to everyone for their continued support. Have the best week ever! at-large is invited to join the Co-op City Branch #2210. Become a new member, —Carol Campbell renew, recruit, gift or sponsor an annual membership for self or another. Adult regular membership is $30 and youth membership is $10. We have some exciting and challenging projects planned and we need your help. We look forward to Greetings. Reminder that our next general membership meeting is Monday, working with you to go forward and meet the mandates of the NAACP. February 27, 7:30 p.m., activity room. Our meeting will focus on all building and February is Black History Month: Black History vs. His-Story. When we security issues. Suggestions are welcomed. We need your input on our proposed celebrate or discuss Black History, we seem to adhere to the one-month rule, Building 12 trip. when in reality Black History is everyday (365). The other concern is that we Added to our agenda will be a discussion on the Dog Zero Tolerance policy allow others to tell our story primarily because we haven't taken the time to learn that was recently implemented, getting out the vote, either an ice cream or pizza it on our own. Both the Tell-Lies_Vision and today's social media has misled and party for the kids and Summer Fun Day volunteers. misinform us from the truth by showing our people of color in a negative light. Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Our You can become part of Black History by what you do today for yourself, our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who has suffered a loss or is sick and people and society. We must STOP The Violence and join a peaceful movement shut-in. If you see something, say something. To contact CCPD (Public Safety), for the right to Quality Education, Voting Rights, Raising the Age and Police call 718-671-3050. Reform. With today's administration, your Voice is needed NOW more than ever. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718-379-7841. Join the movement, join the NAACP CO-OP City Branch. Call (718) 320-3210 or email: naacpcclty2210@gmail.com. —Jerome Rice —Sonja Maxwell

Building 10 Association

NAACP Co-op City Branch #2210

Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Maintaining Our Affordability Is A Priority

Director’s Viewpoint

Leslie Peterson “You must never be fearful about what you do when it's right.” –Rosa Parks The responsibility of members per the by-laws states that cooperators will seek and demand the most economical operation of the development in order to obtain the lowest possible carrying charge. The Board must meet this demand without endangering the long term interest of the development, minimizing its essential services or impairing proper maintenance. We are continuing the arduous job of reviewing the budget with management. There are so many things that need to be addressed, however, some are a priority and others are not. Our goal, while addressing items in Co-op City, is to maintain affordability for the community. We all want to keep Co-op City as beautiful as it has always been and continue to make improvements; it just can’t all be done at once or on the backs of shareholders. Some items require taking the time to seek other revenues of support to minimize share-

holder burdens. I do not want to be priced out of a home for someone else to enjoy. In difficult times, the city asks its members to do more with less. If we claim to be as big as a city why can't we? Monitoring staff productivity, prioritizing and evaluating time and motion will assist our efforts. Payroll is one of our largest expenses. The majority of employees are in a union and disciplinary measures must be taken before anyone is let go, so stating “just reduce staff now” is not the answer. We must begin ranking what has to be done and capitalize on our results by reevaluating job descriptions. The payroll can be reduced through . Going forward we might want to realize we are not an employment agency and when negotiating contracts consider what’s best for us economically and what many large companies do to minimize their long term cost. The most important factor to be considered in these conversations about the budget is the safety factor, mainly the elevators. The cost over the next five years to get them corrected will necessitate an increase. Many other items, while cute can be removed from the five year plan now and renegotiated or added back during the next two years. I, like many shareholders, want nice things but at what price and I don’t mean the cost, but the hardship

for many shareholders currently living on fixed incomes. Although a rival newspaper recently wrote an article about a proposed 4.6, nothing is written in stone and we, the Board, have been meeting frequently to minimize the increase without compromising safety. Window Guards – By now, you should have completed and submitted your Window Guard envelope to protect your child from window falls. The deadline for returning the form was February 15, 2017. If you have not done so, submission can be completed by mail using the postage paid envelope, by fax to 646-7553631, by phone 646-392-7233 using the response code and following the prompt or online at www.safebuildingsnyc.com and entering the response code. If you don’t have your code, contact your CSO office. Coming soon, the Spelling Bee. Make sure your youth are involved. Many scholarship opportunities come along with this event in schools. Practice makes perfect. Saturday, March 18, 2017. Check the paper for additional information. I am always interested in hearing your thoughts. I can be reached by mail at: Leslie Peterson, Riverbay Board Director, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bx, NY 10475, Tel. at 718-320-1370, or e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com or daddpeterson@aol.com.

Williamsbridge Club The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs Inc. (NANBPWC), The Williamsbridge Club, is an organization dedicated to the support and promotion of women in business and the professions. The Adult Club meets at Dreiser Center on the second Friday of every month. Women who are in business and professions are invited to join the club. Our theme for this year is “Blazing New Pathways with Creativity and Confidence.” We will use the theme to fulfill our mission of promoting and protecting the interests of African American business and professional women and in advising young people seeking to enter business and the professions to improve the quality of life in our local and global communities and to foster good fellowship. On May 6, the Williamsbridge Club will be celebrating 40 years of service to the community. We will be honoring our sisters and brother in the community for their service. Our Awards are Sojourner Truth, Business, Professional, Community Service, Achievement, Man of the Year, Minister of the Year and, most of all, scholarships that will be awarded to outstanding high school seniors. If you are a business woman/entrepreneur who would like to be a vendor at our event, please call 718.328.2302 or 917.972.7732 or mail a request to The Williamsbridge Club at P.O. Box 6, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Is your business receiving all of the traffic and interest that it should? Comptroller Scott Stringer’s office wants to help by encouraging city agencies to

spend city monies with minority and women-owned businesses. Awareness Alert: We are all concerned about security on the Internet. Let us be aware of the intrusions of our electronic devices, such as extracting information from children, teens and adults. Some examples are the ‘Kayla doll,’ games, traffic lights (red light cameras), cell phones, notebooks and apps. Advice – research what information you are giving – biographical, spending habits, age, products that you purchase or put on a wish list or interests. Hint – practice good electronic hygiene. Be smart, be sensible. Youth, if you are interested in serving an internship or community service project, please contact the club at the address listed. We are looking for

young people who want to increase their skills. If you know of a youth age 13 – 18 who would be interested in joining our youth club, please forward the information to us. Please check this column for ongoing information. Please watch our column in this month for our next scholarship announcement. Information concerning the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC) may be found at www.nanbpwc.org or Facebook: ThewilliamsbridgeBPWC or our mailing address: Williamsbridge Club, P.O. Box 6, Co-op City Station; Bronx, New York 10475. Our phone contacts are 718.328.2302, Joetta Brown, or 917.972.7732, Sandra Hall. —Joetta Brown

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Serving all cultures & faiths

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Retirees of Dreiser Loop For your calendar – The Retirees’ next General Meeting will be on the first Wednesday, March 1st, at 1:30 p.m. in the Dreiser Auditorium. See you there. Travel Events: (price includes transportation/Coach bus - Dreiser Loop opposite H&R Block). • Tues., March 14, to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, NJ. Enjoy luncheon cuisine, full service cocktail bar, onsite lobby bake shop and gift boutique. A few seats available. Price: $75 (deposit $35/full payment/balance $40 due Mon., Feb. 6). Contacts: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-3200500. • Sept. 9-16, (8 day/7 night) Canada & New England cruise on the beautiful Carnival “Sunshine.” $250 deposit per person due immediately to hold reservation. NYC departure/return. NOTE: Preferred Cabin/Category selection goes to earliest bookings. Cabin/Category prices from $929 to $1399 which include your cabin, meals, port charges and taxes. Final payment due by May 19. Travel insurance (additional cost) encouraged. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722. Theatre Committee: Price includes van transportation, Dreiser Loop, opposite rehab center. • June 21st (Wed.). Lunch/showtime: 11 a.m. “MAMMA MIA,” Westchester Broadway Theatre. A musical story

about a young woman about to be married discovers that any one of three men could be her father. She invites all three to the wedding without telling her mother, Donna. Price: $70. Deposit immediately: $35. Balance/ full payment due May 1st. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671 4949. Members and friends, we do require your deposit and/or full payment along with your name and telephone number when signing up for trips and/or shows. First fully paid, confirmed seating. Committee members in Dreiser clubroom 19 (718-3790377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30-5:00 p.m. Good And Welfare: To members and friends, as you rest and heal know that you are thought of warmly and wished a quick recovery. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. If interested in joining us on our next SPA DAY, Wednesday, April 19th, call 718-379-4784/718-671-8449 – leave your name and phone number. FYI - Several interested individuals already signed up for April at our last February General Meeting. If April is filled, your name will be placed on next SPA Day – date to be determined. “February is merely as long as is needed to pass the time until March.” –Dr. J. R. Stockton —Claudette Davis

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

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 917-2095334. Tickets going fast. Call today. Summer Youth Program If you are young person between the ages of 16-24 and you are interested in working with the Black Forum over the summer, please call us, (718) 320-8035. Food Pantry Volunteers Needed Two nights a week from 5-6:30 p.m. beginning in March. Please 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) 3208035. 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 Coop City. Everyone is encouraged to join. Call or visit us, room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center. —Tony Illis

African-American Association We are aware that there are people in our community looking for the opportunity to display their talents and skills. Our fashion show will offer one of those opportunities. If you are looking to showcase your modeling or designer skills, contact us ASAP. We will choose up to 15 models and five designers to showcase their talents. Contact: Deborah C. Nelson at (917) 445-6692. 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. 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. The association sponsors the following ongoing programs and encourages your participation: Acting Classes – Children’s 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 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Cynthia, 917903-7073. Music, Rhythm & Dance – Most Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 15; most Saturdays, 10 a.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Keith, 917-5616211. 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 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: CoopcityAfricanamericanassoc/email us at: aaaccpower@gmail.com. —Kevin Lambright

Cooperators United of Co-op City The next Cooperators United of Co-op City Meeting is Tuesday, February 28, 7 p.m., Bartow, room 31. At our meeting, we will be collecting building/townhouse dues of $20 for 2017. Come and join us. You don’t have to be a member to attend our meetings. Our last meeting was very informative and we are continuing our discussion re: CB 10, and the Section 5 Metro North Station that will impact Section 5. Its impact will be felt throughout Co-op City. Regarding CB10, we agreed that we must attend their municipal meetings and let our voices be heard. Some decisions coming out of CB10 and other community boards impact our community. Added to our agenda are our missing mailboxes. If we have time, let’s discuss Governor Cuomo’s 2017 proposal to modernize voting in NY State and increase participation. This topic is very important because we have a Board of Directors election this year, and we must get involved in getting people out to vote. Getting out the vote also applies to our local elections, city and state. “If you See Something, Say Something.” Congratulations to all who are celebrating a special day this month. Our thoughts and prayers to everyone who is sick and shut-in. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com, 718-379-7841. —Sonja Maxwell

Meeting with Mayor

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017 (Continued from page 1)

When the Mayor held a town hall meeting in November for the north Bronx communities immediately to the west of Co-op City, Riverbay President Berk attended and raised the prohibitive costs of the requirements on the Co-op City residents and the mayor then promised to set up a meeting between his senior team and Riverbay to try to resolve the issue once and for all. President Berk said this week: “As you know, I asked for this meeting when the mayor held his town hall in the Bronx several months ago and he has delivered. He promised us then that he would schedule a meeting and he had his deputy follow up with us and make the appointment. He himself sat in for about 30 minutes of the meeting and gave us his time and attention. He asked pertinent questions which showed he was interested and pointed out where we could work together to resolve issues of concern. He showed he was prepared to make a decision and he was not just meeting to appease us in that he also brought along his director of budget and first deputy mayor to the meeting. “The mayor did tell us, however, that this would be our final appeal with the asbestos concern which has been a burning issue for us since we spend approximately $3M a year on abatement and air monitoring. But I must say that the mayor followed up in a timely manner. He even brought his commissioner of health, DEP and the people who can finally make the decisions. “I have some hope that we can get rid of this issue once and for all, but if not, I am satisfied that the mayor and his administration gave us the opportunity to present our argument to him. I’m also certain that if this is the case, he will do whatever he can to push for us to have a community center and to develop our waterfront in lieu of what we spend on sanitation and public safety services. “I’m really excited because I think these are serious meetings and we are finally getting serious attention from the mayor and his city administration.” While no final resolution was achieved at last week’s meeting regarding the asbestos issue, all three Riverbay officials indicated that progress was made in the form of an agreement to have Riverbay meet with the city’s Department of Environmental Protection scientists and technicians to hear from them the exact reason for the requirements which are exclusive to Co-op City. In turn, Riverbay and it technicians and attorneys will be given the chance to present to DEP its data and findings – including thousands of air monitoring results which have all come back negative, suggesting that the requirements are onerous and unnecessary. Progress was also reported in the area of increasing youth service and programs within the community. Executive GM Klehammer told the Co-op City Times that the mayor was particularly receptive to the idea of a community facility or youth center jointly operated in or on vacant space within the community. Since the forced closure and defunding of the Gloria Wise Boys and Girls Club approximately a decade ago, Co-op City has gone without a community-wide full-service youth program here. The Section 5 Teen Center serves teens, but it is largely limited to teens from Section 5 due to its limited space in the Einstein Community Center. General Manager Ellison added that there was openness to allowing the community’s residents to use the facilities within the schools on a limited basis, possibly including the swimming pool inside Truman. In a related matter, other topics of discussion reported by the Riverbay officials in attendance include long-range plans to work with the Parks Department for using underutilized land along the Hutchinson River as a site for a waterfront park or promenade. Mr. Klehammer described these talks as preliminary as any future project would possibly require approval from other agencies including the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and the Army Corps of Engineers due to the fact that the park would sit adjacent to an active waterway for essential maritime transport and commerce. As he brought up at the recent town hall meeting in Bartow Center, Mr. Klehammer added that Co-op City’s potential qualification for a proposed water bill rebate program was also discussed. New York City Mitchell-Lama developments qualify for the program when and if it is put into effect but not state Mitchell-Lama developments. The Executive GM said he raised the question with the Mayor’s aides that since Co-op City’s refinancing is partially guaranteed by New York City’s finance agencies, does Co-op City qualify for the water cost savings? The proposed discount or rebate program has been temporarily delayed by court challenges, but when and if the rebate program takes effect, the Executive General Manager said that Co-op City’s possible inclusion in it should be explored. The general managers and the Board President also raised the worsening traffic issues in and around Co-op City in light of the increasing development both in Bay Plaza and in surrounding areas. The Co-op City leaders asked to be informed about the details regarding a proposed exit ramp off the Hutchinson River Parkway near the “killer curve” area in Section 5. The leaders said they expressed concern that the proposal would increase traffic in the already congested Section 5 community. The proposal for the exit ramp was announced over a year ago, but no public meetings on the project have been held since that announcement. Another future project that came up in the discussion is the proposed Section 5 Metro North Railroad Station which is likely another five years away from implementation, but still needs to be planned now in terms of how to alleviate what will be a sudden influx of people from throughout the north Bronx to Sec-

Thank You To My Two Angels I am a senior citizens who lives in Building 1A and on Monday, February 13 which was a very windy day, I was let out by Access-A-Ride in front of my building and right in front of a bank of piled up ice left over from the snowstorm the previous week. The wind was so strong, I was afraid to move. I get around with a walker, but the icy underfooting was so slippery, I was afraid I would fall. As I stood there struggling to get myself together and prevent the wind from blowing me into the middle of the very busy Baychester Avenue, a school-aged young lady came to my rescue. Another lady got out of her car and she too came to my assistance. I am so grateful for these two angels. Even though I did not get their names, I hope they read this note of appreciation and know that I am very grateful for what they did that day to help me. —K. Green

tion 5 to take advantage of the quicker transportation to midtown. Assemblyman Mike Benedetto, in announcing his recent appointment to the MTA Capital Program Review Board last week, proposed the construction of a parking facility on the Pelham Bay side of the tracks with a pedestrian bridge to take riders from their cars to the station with minimal impact on Section 5. General Manager Ellison also said that the leaders also requested the help of the Mayor’s office in forging better coordination with city agencies charged with providing services to the community. Mr. Ellison said that subjects that were brought up included better coordination between Riverbay’s snow removal operation and the city Sanitation Department. The Co-op City leaders also brought up better communication in handling emergencies so situations like these could be handled more efficiently with less impact and a quicker return of services to the residents after such emergencies are rectified. Calls and e-mails sent by the Co-op City Times to the Mayor’s Press Office to get the administration’s public views on the meeting and its outcomes were not returned by press time Friday.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Co-op City Sports

Colgate Women's Games On Saturday, February 18, we attended the 43rd Anniversary of the Colgate Women's Games. The games were held at the New Balance Armory's Track & Field Hall of Fame in Manhattan. This is one of the most exciting and competitive track & field event in New York City for girls and young women ages 6-18. The Zodiacs were represented by Stephanie Ogunbiyi, age 10. She was accompanied by mother and father who are both natives of Nigeria and living in Co-op City, as well as her

Zodiacs Track Club brothers Steven & Samuel. The family had an amazing time cheering Stephanie on to victory as she took 1st place in the 55 meter hurdles. In addition, she became the recipient of a $1,000 educational grant. Stephanie is an outstanding athlete. The 55 Meter Hurdles is one of the most difficult events in Track & Field for an athlete. Our Stephanie overcame her fear of falling and developed coordination and focus to leap over the hurdles at top competitive speed. She used her fears as energy to help accomplished her task of winning for herself and the Zodiac team she represents. Congratulations, Stephanie, we are all proud of you!!! The Zodiacs is a non-for-profit organization that is seeking sponsors and donations. If you are interested in being a part of a great team, please contact Thomas Francis, president, at (718) 679-2060. —Arlene Freeman

Velocity Track Club Of New York

Stephanie Ogunbiyi

Co-op City Times Photo Submission Guidelines If you are submitting photos for publication to the Co-op City Times, please adhere to the following guidelines to ensure the best photo quality suitable for publication: 1) Make sure the photo setting on your digital cameras or cell phone cameras is set to the highest possible resolution. The higher the resolution, the better the image quality. 2) Fuzzy or blurry images are difficult to sharpen, so please make sure all images submitted are clear, crisp and brightly lit. 3) Photocopies of photos cannot be used. 4) Printed glossy photos are also recommended. Photo submissions can be sent by email to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com, or dropped off to the Co-op City Times office to be scanned at 2049 Bartow Avenue, room 21, Monday thru Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Velocity Track Club student-athletes sporting their Colgate Women’s Games trophies

Velocity Track Club was blessed with four girls competing in the 43rd Colgate Women’s Games Finals on Saturday, February 18th at the Armory’s New Balance Track & Field Center in Fort Washington, New York. All of the ladies looked fabulous in their Colgate Women’s Games sweat suits. Each athlete also received a trophy and the top three received an education grant for either $1,000, $500 or $250. An athlete traveled from as far as Stone Mountain, GA to compete in this series of races. The VTC girls represented the Bronx well! In the Elementary “A” Division (1st – 3rd grade), Brianna Burrell took 2nd in the finals and finished in 3rd place overall to earn a trophy and educational grant for $250 in the 55 meter dash. Shyenne Blake who is also in the Elementary “A” Division, has only been competing since Sept. 2016. She took 6th place and earned a trophy in the 55 meters dash. Both girls are only 7 years old and in the 2nd grade, therefore, they will be competing in the same division next year. Olyvia Burrell, who is in the Elementary “B” Division (4th & 5th grade) took 5th in the finals, but finished 4th overall with points to earn her trophy in the 55 meters dash. Also in the Elementary “B” Division, Jada Clark finished tied for 5th place with point in the 55 meter hurdles to earn her a trophy. Jada is in the 4th grade, therefore, she can compete in the same division next year. Congratulations to all athletes who competed in the Colgate Women’s Games and thank you, Colgate-Palmolive Company!! Our next meet will be on Sunday, February 26th, the 2017 USATF New York Youth Indoor Track & Field Championship at Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex in Staten Island, New York! Plus, this event serves as the USATF Hershey Indoor National Championship qualifier. 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

If You See Something, SAY SOMETHING!!! Co-op City Public Safety 718-671-3050

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

accept most health insurance plans

• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program • Evening and Saturday appointments

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Open Door Ministries

Newsong Church Fifty Shades of Cray-Part 4 We’ve been talking about dating, love, sex & marriage all month long at Newsong Church. One of the things we’re realizing is that although we’ve stepped outside of the boundaries that God has given us, the ground is level at the foot of the cross! So, what should our response be as the church? Jesus gives us some insight… The teachers of the law and Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group. And said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery.” “In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” –John 8:3-5 (NIV) Self-righteous people love to call out the sin of someone else, while ignoring their own sin. Unfortunately, things haven’t changed much from the time of Jesus. Often the church is seen as self-righteous and accusing, rather than accepting and forgiving. They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go, now and leave your life

of sin.” –John 8:6-11(NIV) (emphasis mine) Notice the posture of Jesus? When He was dealing with the self-righteous people, He straightened up to show His authority and confronted their hypocrisy; But when He was dealing with the sinner, He took the posture of humility and bent down. If you’ve ever felt like you were put on trial and judged by a church, let me be the first to apologize. That’s not a reflection of Jesus. Jesus will confront sin, but with love and compassion, with grace and mercy. Friends, the truth is we’ve all gone astray. Jesus offers us His grace. Only He can set us free from our past and present wrongs. Accept His invitation today! Join us this Sunday, 11 a.m. for week four of 50 Shades of Cray. Our Worship experience is at 177 Dreiser Loop, Audit. B, starting at 11 a.m. Deaf interpretation is available. We have a well-staffed nursery and a children's church called "Kidsong." If you have any questions, contact us: Church office: 140 Alcott Place, Bldg.19. Office hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Phone: 718-708-8385. More info: Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org; email: info@newsongchurchnyc.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/newsongchurchbx Twitter: @newsongchurchBX Instagram: @newsongchurchBX. Our Newsong family is here for you, stop by this Sunday and experience the difference! God bless you! —Pastor Mike Tolone

Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could cause you to receive a community complaint and fine.

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome. Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m. The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the first Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the second Sunday of each month. We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9 a.m. on Sunday, February 26, when we will celebrate the Last Sunday after the Epiphany. Our Supply Priest, Father Simeon Johnson, will be the preacher and celebrant. Calendar of Events: Please note the following 1) Month of February – special services in honor of Black History Month. 2) Annual Cake Sale at the church, Saturday, March 18, noon to sold out. 3) ECW Raffle tickets are now available. First Prize $300, 2nd Prize, $175; and 3rd Prize, $75. The tickets are $1 each and $5 for a book of 6. Drawing takes place on April 29 and winners need not be present. 4) Winery trip – details to be announced. 5) National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC, Saturday, June 3, $100 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 a.m. Enjoy all-you-can-eat luncheon buffet at the Golden Corral. Outreach Program: We continue to collect non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. Please remember to donate. For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718320-0844, or visit our website: www.stjosephsepcbronx.org. “Why are the nations in an uproar? *Why do the peoples mutter empty threats?” –Psalm 2:1 —M. Chambers

Examine me Lord; Psalm 139:23-24 (Full sermon @ opendoorministries.net) There is no bad way to pray and there is no one starting point for prayer. All the great spiritual masters offer only one non-negotiable rule: You have to show up for prayer and you have to show up regularly. Everything else is negotiable and respects your unique circumstances (Ronald Rolheiser). Psalm 139:23-24 (New Living Translation) 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24 (New International Version) 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23-24 (The Message) 23-24 Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Crossexamine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about; See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—then guide me on the road to eternal life. In perhaps the most open prayer in the Bible, David invites God to search him, know his heart, try him, deal with his anxieties, search out his wickedness, and lead him in His everlasting way. He wants to be as different as he can be from God’s enemies who make him so angry. Only repentance and wholehearted faith can produce such a prayer in a child of God. (The Bible Panorama. Copyright © 2005 Day One Publications). Open Door Ministries’ Therapeutic Mentoring/Counseling Program meets Mondays @ 6:30 p.m. in Dreiser Loop, room 9. Sunday services are at 11 a.m. at Bartow Community Center, room 28. Contact Pastor Luis through opendoorministries.net or text 917-334-4407. Blessings in Christ. —Pastor Luis Ramos

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

(718) 671-2233 DR. LOUIS JACOBS, DIRECTOR ALL FOOT CONDITIONS TREATED The in-office surgical correction of BUNIONS • HAMMERTOES • INGROWN TOENAILS PAINFUL CORNS and CALLOUSES The treatment of traumatic foot injuries, heel spurs, bursitis and arthritis of the joints of the feet, toenail and skin infections, as well as other conditions.

Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted. HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted. We participate in Postal Workers, Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Verizon Workers, 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire Plan, Medicare, Travelers, United Health Care and many other union and major medical plans.

A Message from C.S.O. Dept.

Se Habla Español

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

MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Community Protestant Church On behalf of our Pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, 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 a.m. – 8 a.m., and 9 a.m.-11 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 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 Tomorrow, 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 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 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) 671-6122, (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); 4 days/3 nights hotel accommodation; 3 buffet breakfasts; 1 group dinner, 2 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 was due December 3, 2016 (nonrefundable after 5/17/17). 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

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Coop City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. for worship service. Sunday School for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us. The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774. Join us for a mid-week spiritual pick-up 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 Sunday School will present their Black History Program on Saturday, February 25 at 10:00 a.m. Please join us to learn more about and celebrate our history. On Sunday, February 26, we will celebrate Black History Sunday at the 11 a.m. service. The guest speaker will be Rev. Dr. Calvin Kendrick. March is women’s history and on Saturday, March 25, at 10 a.m. the First Lady’s Ministry will be presenting “HerStory.” The theme is “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business. Donation is $15. The guest speaker will be Rev. Liza Coleman. 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 bus will leave at 1 p.m. from Bartow Avenue and Asch Loop. The celebration includes an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch, followed by a 4 p.m. 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). The Gospelfest Concert begins at 6 p.m., 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, 718-862-9243 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 718-320-3774. 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

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 began on Tuesday, Feb. 7th and continues until April 11th in room 5, Dreiser Community Center. You can choose from the two class schedules which are 1 p.m. – 3 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 201-8620847 or S. Lochansky at 718-379-1049 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

DIVORCE - BANKRUPTCY • ABSOLUTE LOWEST FEES • FREE CONSULTATION • EVENING APPTS. AVAILABLE• FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS • IMMEDIATE FILING

“COURTEOUS AND PROMPT SERVICE AT AN AFFORDABLE FEE”

633 Lydig Ave • Bronx, NY 1 block from Pelham Parkway & White Plains Road Accessible by #2 & #5 trains • #12, #22 & #39 buses

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

Fri., Mar. 3

Thurs., Mar. 2

Wed., Mar. 1

Tues., Feb. 28

Mon., Feb. 27

Co-op City Times / February 25, 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

Non-Kosher Kosher Crochet & Knitting: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: Orange juice 9:30-10:30 a.m. Beef stew Stay Well Exercise: 10-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Chicken meatballs Color Your Stress Away: 11 a.m., Rm. 4 (Spanish style) Mashed sweet potatoes, Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 White rice Diabetes Support Group: 1 p.m. – Last Steamed red or green Monday of the month Steamed green Bereavement Counseling: Rm. 13, 1 p.m. cabbage, Whole wheat beans Gentle Yoga: 1:15-2 p.m., Rm. 2 bread, Applesauce Basic Cell Phone & iPad: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Alt: Egg salad Intermediate Yoga: 2-3 p.m. Apple juice Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Veggie burger patty Session: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Walking Club: 10:30 a.m. BBQ pork chops Tai Chi: 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Chickpea salad Alert & Alive: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Bingo: 12:30-2:00 p.m. Braised collard Cultural Dance: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Pita halves greens Caregiver Support Group: Aud. B Matinee Movie: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Garden salad 1:00 p.m., 1st & 3rd Tues Sweet baked yams Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Whole wheat bread Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Karaoke by Steven: 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Zumba: 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Fresh fruit Dominoes: 2:30 p.m. Room 45 Afternoon Movie: 1 p.m. Alt: Chicken salad Blood Pressure: Every 1st & 3rd Wed., Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: Walk Group: 9:30 a.m., Rm. 40 Orange pineapple juice 9-10 a.m. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Games: 9:30-11:00 a.m. Shepherd’s pie w/beef Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Sewing: 9:30 -11:30 a.m. Hawaiian chicken Stay Well Exercise: 10 - 11 a.m. & turkey Line Dancing: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Tai Chi: 11 a.m.- 12 p.m. Rice pilaf Spelling Bee: 10 a.m. Bingo: 1-2 p.m. Steamed peas & carrots Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Italian blend Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Spanish Practice Class: 10:30 a.m., African Brazilian Dance: 1 p.m., Rm. 2 Whole wheat bread vegetables Dominoes: 2:30 p.m. Art Class: 1-3 p.m. Fruit cocktail Smartphone Class: Beginner – 12:30– Computer Lab 1:30 p.m.; Intermediate – 1:30–2:30 Yoga: 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2 Zumba: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Alt: Tuna salad p.m., Bartow office Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Orange juice Library: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 9:30-10:30am Breaded Sole fish fillet Grandparent Connection: 1st Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Baked Flounder Blood Pressure: 10-11:30 a.m., 1st & Yellow rice Thursday, Rm. 35, 10:30 Baby carrots 3rd Thursday, Rm. 8 Chat Session: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. California blend w/parsley Arthritis Exercise: 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Line Dancing: 10-11 a.m., Aud. A vegetables, Whole Bingo: 1- 2 p.m. Baked potatoes Spelling Bee: 11 a.m. Piano Sing Along: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. wheat bread, Fresh fruit Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Word Search: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Alt: Salisbury steak Dominoes: 2:30 p.m. w/mushroom gravy Karaoke by Steven: 1 p.m., Rm. 45 Drama Club: 1:30-4 p.m. Word Games: 9:30-11 a.m. Library: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Weight Management: Bartow Center – 10 am Arthritis Exercises: 11 a.m.-noon Bingo: 1-2 p.m. Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Library: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Line Dancing: 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Around The Lunch Table: 11:30 a.m. Word Search: 11 am. -12 p.m. Bingo: 1:00-3:00 p.m., Rm. 35 Diabetes Support Group: 2nd Monday - 1 p.m. Pokeno: 3-4 p.m. Dominoes: 10 a.m.

Men’s Line Dancing: 9 -10 a.m. Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Women’s Line Dancing: 10-11:30 a.m. Chat Session: 10 a.m. Bingo: 1 -2 p.m. Piano Sing-along: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Card Games: 2-4 p.m. Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

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

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 Roasted chicken Spinach noodle pudding Green beans Fresh fruit Alt: Gefilte fish

Arroz con pollo (chicken & rice) Baby spinach salad

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 – Fr., 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 718-320-2066 for information.

St. Mary’s Recreation Center Pool – Mar. 3rd & 24th, $3. Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m.–12 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. RidgeHill Mall – Thurs., Mar. 2nd, $7. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m. Fairway/BJ’s – $3. Fri., Mar. 3rd; 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. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Wal-Mart – Thurs., Mar. 9th, $15. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 9 a.m. Whole Foods – Fri., Mar. 10th, $2. 575 Boston Post Rd., Port Chester, NY; Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:30 a.m. Palisades Mall – Mon., Mar. 13th, $12. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m. Louis Armstrong Museum – Wed., Mar. 15th, $10. Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. and Dreiser, 9:30 a.m. Tour starts at 11:30 a.m. Muse Paintbar in Ridgehill Mall – Thurs., Mar. 16th, $20. (No checks, cash only). Come paint & eat with JASA Dreiser. Hot lunch will be provided at the venue: Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:30 a.m. Shoprite – Mon., Mar. 27th, $3. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & 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: 11:30–3:30. Pick-ups: (time change) Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 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. Fashion Institute of Technology – Thurs., April 20th, $3. Bartow, 10 a.m.; Einstein, 10:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 10:30 a.m. Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament – 149 Polito Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ. Wed., May 3rd, $42. Bartow, 8 a.m.; Einstein, 8:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 8:30 a.m. Showtime is 11 a.m. Intrepid Museum – Thurs., June 1st, $40. Visit includes general admission, the Space Shuttle Pavilion, Submarine Growler & topping off with lunch. Arrival time is 11:30 a.m.– 12:30 p.m., lunch in mess deck; Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:30 a.m.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

AARP Chapter #4997

Scheduling Activities Calendar C

2/27/2017 – 3/5/2017 Organizations

Function Type

Date & Time

African-American Association

Yoga & Pilates Belly Dancing Line Dancing Zumba & Yoga

Tuesday, 2/28 – 7:15 pm Wednesday, 3/1 – 6:30 pm Thursday, 3/2 – 7:00 pm Saturday, 3/4 – 9:00 am

Exercise & Dance

Saturday, 3/4 – 10:00 am

Dreiser Rm # 9

Black Forum of Co-op City

Cardio Zumba Body Conditioning

Monday, 2/27 – 7:30 pm Wednesday, 3/1 – 7:30 pm Thursday, 3/2 – 8:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. C

Circle of Christ Church

Bible Study

Sunday, 3/5– 10:00 am

Dreiser Loop Room # 2

Cooperator’s United

Meeting

Tuesday, 2/28 – 7:00 pm

Bartow Avenue Room # 31

Deeper Life Church

Bible Study

Tuesday, 2/28 – 5:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 1

Duplicate Bridge Club

Card Playing

Wednesday, 3/1 – 12:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Rm. 9

Earhart Lane Townhouse Association

Meeting

Wednesday, 3/1 – 7:00 pm

Einstein Loop Room # 35

Girl Scouts

Meeting

Friday, 3/3 – 5:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. A, Rooms # 1, 2, 4, 9, 10

Harvest Restoration Ministries

Bible Study

Sunday, 3/5- 12:00 pm

Einstein Loop Room # 38

Iglesia Marcos

Children’s Bible Study

Sunday – 3/5– 9:00 am

Einstein Loop Room # 35

Islamic Cultural Center

Worship

Friday, 3/3 – 11:00 am

Dreiser Loop Room # 9

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

Bible Study

Tuesday, 2/28 – 5:30 pm

Dreiser Loop Rm # 8

Pelham Brotherhood lodge # 616

Meeting

Friday, 3/3 – 7:30 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 8

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Meeting

Wednesday, 3/1 – 1:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. A

Toastmasters of Co-op City

Meeting

Thursday, 3/2 – 7:00 pm

Bartow Room # 28

NewSong Church

Teen Worship Worship

Friday, 3/3 – 6:00 pm Sunday, 3/5– 11:00 am

Bartow Room # 28 Dreiser Aud. B, 1, 9, 10

Counseling

Monday, 2/27 & Thursday, 3/2 5:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 9

Counseling/Worship

Sunday, 3/5 – 10:00 am

Bartow Rm. # 28

Weight Watchers

Meeting

Tuesday, 2/28 – 5:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room #4

Zodiac Track Team

Practice

Tuesday, 2/28 – 6:00 pm Thursday, 3/2 – 6:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. A,B,C

Open Door Ministries

Room Dreiser Room # 2

Goose Island Seniors Bingo – Sunday, February 26th at 1:30 p.m. with Stephen and Jeanne, room 39. All are welcome. Admission: $5 includes 12 games and jackpot round. Extra cards are 25¢. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Bingo – Wednesday, March 1st, at 1:30 p.m., with Stephen and Jeanne, in our club room 39. Members only. Admission, $5 includes 12 games and jackpot round. Extra cards are 25¢. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Sands Casino, PA – Tuesday, March 28th. Price is $33. Rebate: $20 for play and $5 toward food. Pickup time is 8:30 a.m. at our usual bus stops: Einstein Loop - Asch Loop (by library) and Dreiser Loop (by hardware store). All money must be paid by March 7th. 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 7 at Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford, NY. Come and enjoy 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 12, at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, NJ. 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-licious. Price is $79 for show, lunch and transportation. A deposit will hold your reservation. All money must be paid by September 21st. 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 2:30 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

FYI: AARP New York participated in the New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators, Inc. It was a 3-day weekend that brought together the most influential African-American, Hispanic, Caribbean and Asian leaders from every corner of the Empire State and beyond. There was information on local discounts, special events and programs to learn more about AARP advocacy efforts. There was a petition on protecting Medicare and to create a state-facilitated work plan for retirement savings options for the millions of private sector employees in NY who lack access to pensions or 401(k) at their jobs. Get-well wishes to Rosalie Menefee, Beatrice Chaderton and Annette Harrison. 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 (DC) – round-trip transportation via Deluxe Motor coach, w/3 breakfast buffet, 2 dinner buffet – including a seafood buffet; a professional guided tour of Washington, DC; 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. September 18 -21: 4-day/3-night trip to Cape Cod – Motor coach transportation, 3 full breakfast, 2 dinners, 1 Lobster dinner; Foxwood Casino (w/bonus); guided escort to African American tour of Martha’s Vineyard site; Hyannis, John F. Kennedy Memorial; Provincetown along scenic route 6A; Cape Cod National Seashore Visitors Center; admission to Zion Union Heritage Museum and more. $599/person – double; $739 – single… $50 deposit due immediately; 2nd payment of $150 due 3/20; 3rd payment of $200 due by 5/15; final payment due 6/30; trip insurance is available. Contact Hannah, 718-379-7962. —Delores Debnam

Einstein Cancer Fund Wishing everyone a happy birthday to all celebrating in the month of March in good health. Tuesday, March 7, General membership meeting, room 38 at 1:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served. Thursday, March 16, Resorts Casino. Cost per person: $35. Casino bonus: $25. Time of departure starting at Einstein at 8 a.m., followed by Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop. Remember your casino card. 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 Holiday. 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

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Reflections by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue Wisdom comes from knowledge of your limitations. Happiness comes with cheerful acceptance of those limitations. To accept yourself with all your imperfections and all your limitations is the first step toward happiness. You have to be yourself and no one else. You have to be true to what you are and not whip yourself into a frenzy because you aren't someone else or aren't keeping up with someone else or conforming to their pet ideas. In the great orchestra of life, each one has a part to play and an obligation to play it well. This you do by accepting yourself as you are and by making the best of what you can become.

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.

Circle of Christ Church The Circle of Christ Church family extends a warm welcome to you and your family and invites you to come and worship with us at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level (located in the Dreiser Community Center). La familia de la Iglesia Circulo de Cristo les extiende una cálida invitación a usted y su familia para que vengan a alabar a Dios junto con nosotros. Nos encontramos en el 147 de Dreiser Loop, al nivel del patio (localizado en el centro Comunal de Dreiser). We are a multicultural church that embraces God’s love for all. Family unity is very important to us. We have a wonderful children ministry focus on learning God’s word. Our youth ministry is very active and dynamic. The youth are involved in music, retreats, concerts, debates, conferences, drama, counseling among many other activities. Somos una Iglesia multicultural que recibe y da del amor the Dios para todos. La unidad de la familia es muy importante para nosotros.Tenemos un ministerio para los jóvenes que es muy dinámico. Los jóvenes disfrutan de música, retiros, conciertos, debates, conferencias, dramas , consejería, y mucho mas. We also have a food pantry for those in need in our community. Our phone number is 347-945-1992. In case there is no one in the office, please feel free to leave a message, we will call you back. Suplimos comida a aquellos en nuestra comunidad que lo necesitan. Nuestro teléfono es 347-945-1992 de no haber nadie en la oficina sientancen libres de dejar un mensaje, le devolveremos su llamada. Thought for the week: Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” –Hebrews 15:5 Life is like a journey, if we are going to enjoy our life journey we need to be happy with what God has given us. Our Lord will always provide what we need. Reflexion para la semana: Manténganse libres del amor al dinero, y conténtense con lo que tienen, porque Dios ha dicho: «Nunca te dejaré; jamás te abandonaré.» –Hebreos 15:5 La vida es como un viaje, si la vamos a disfrutar tenemos que aprender a estar contentos con lo que Dios nos a dado. Nuestro Señor siempre nos proveerá lo que necesitamos. English services Wednesday, 7 to 9 p.m., Prayer & Bible Study. Friday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Youth Night Sunday, 11:00 a.m. Worship and the Word Children Church, 5 years old to 12 years old Little lamb nursery. Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m., Prayer and the Word Thursday, 5:00 p.m., Boys and Girls Club Horario de Servicios en Español Domingo, 9 a 10:30 a.m., Alabanzas y Predicación Jueves, 12:00 p.m., Oración y Estudio Bíblico All are welcome. —Rev. Sam Colon

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, February 25, at 6:24 p.m. Candle lighting for Friday, March 3, at 5:32 The synagogue has Services Saturday morning at 9 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush. We need a 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 & 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. Please note that Sunday, March 12, we change the time on our watches and clocks one hour ahead to Daylight Saving Time. 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, including a mini Bingo for only $20. The food will be coming from Eden Wok of New Rochelle. For a reservation, call the synagogue, 718-3796920, 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. Please don’t wait to the last minute for a reservation. We need to know if you’ll be attending, so we can order enough food. 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 19, which is only three weeks away 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 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 Coop 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

Be courteous to your neighbors. Clean up after your dog.

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

Church of the New Vision Pastors Kenneth Hodge and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us. Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God's people. Serving the community for over 44 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian Love. All are welcome. Order of Services: Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Adult and Youth Sunday School: 9:45-10:45 a.m. Mid-day Bible Study: Tuesdays,

12:00-1:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Women Bible Study: 2nd Saturday of each month, 11:00 a.m. -1:30 p.m. Youth Ministry: Fridays, 6:30- 9:30 p.m. Saturday, February 25th, the Journey from Generation to Generation Women's Conference 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Donation: $20. Though life grants us plenty of roadblocks, we can trust in God to bring us through. Join the Women of New Vision as we encourage one another through

workshops and discussions. Lunch will be served. For further information, please contact Sis. Loretta Scott at (718) 671-2623. Sunday, March nth at the 11:00 service, we will celebrate the anniversary of our Pastor Kenneth Hodge. Rev. Anne L. Palmore will be our speaker. Dinner will be served after the service. All are welcome. The trip to the Holy Land Experience and Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, all reserved airline seats and hotel rooms have been filled and the final payment is due March 7th.

For additional information, please contact the church at (718) 671-8746, Sis. Sadie James at (718) 652-8943, or Sis. Hermena Smith, travel agent at (718) 708-5035. Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone, (718) 6718746 or (203) 374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, NY 10475. Visit our Facebook page: Church of the New Vision, concerning upcoming events and trips, or call the church. —Carol Haque

Pentecostal Tabernacle Worship with us at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A. Tel. 718-3240334 or 718-320-4218/ Sunday School for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship service starts at 11:45 a.m. Prayer and fasting service is held Wednesday morning at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bible study and Prayer meeting every Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m. Fridays: Youth service will start at 7:30 p.m. Man’s life is full of struggles, therefore, let us encourage one another to press on and fight the good of faith. Victor belongs to one who endures to the end.

Romans 7:14-25 states: For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not, but what I hate that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing; for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not; but the evil which that I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I

Faith in God Church & Bible Institute Rev. Dr. Gladys R. Little, Apostle, and Pastor & Evangelist Vernon Little greet everyone in the name of Jesus, that name which is above every name. We want you to know that you are welcome in this house of the Lord! It is His house by ownership: it is our house by stewardship: and it can be your house by membership; so come on in and join with us. May God bless you in this house! The good news of Jesus' birth is a source of joy for all people. Let's look at Luke 2:8-14. It says: 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you:

Let us know…

You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Invitations Sweet Hour of Prayer is today at 3 p.m. Sunday School is tomorrow at 10 a.m. Our Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 11 a.m. Every 3rd Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion. If you’re into gospel rap/holy hiphop, go to www.reverbnation.com/ vernonlittle and download music from Vernon Little free of charge. He also has videos on YouTube. You will be blessed, encouraged, and inspired. We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone # is (347) 276-4925. Jesus loves you, and so do we! —Apostle Gladys R. Little

If you have news about a personal accomplishment, acceptance into college, graduation, anniversary, promotion at work, a special achievement/honor received, or a death announcement you’d like to share with your neighbors in Co-op City, please let us know. Photos are also welcomed. Submissions may be sent to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com, faxed to (718) 320-2595 or mailed or dropped off at the Co-op City Times, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Rm. 21, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Not sure about what can be featured? Please call us at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375/6.

delight in the law of God after the inward man; but I see another law in my members, warning against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ Our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. Paul explains in Romans ch:7 the inability of the Law of Moses or of the flesh to give power over sin. The terminology that has puzzled many. Paul asserted his continuing struggle with his temptation, even though he had been delivered from slavery to the sin

nature. His candid revelations offers hope, if he could find release from the condemnation resulting from failure consistently to do the right thing, all believers can. (see Romans 8:1) In Romans 7:1 Paul addressed the first Jewish readers of this letter, using an example from the Law of Moses. When the Law of Moses was in effect, the only way a Jewish person could find relief from its demands was death. The Law governed every minute detail of the life of the Jewish people, from birth to death.The death of Jesus Christ terminated the era of the Law’s dominion.(Romans 10:4) For Christ is the end of the Law for righteousness to everyone that believeth. —Rev. R. Sibblies

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

CCPD

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Opportunities

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medical conditions or health risks. Don’t always expect a doctor to prescribe antibiotics for every illness. In many cases, antibiotics do nothing but make illnesses resistant to antibiotics. It is still a good idea to rule out illnesses such as strep or flu. The Center for Disease Control no longer recommends taking flu medication for exposure to flu. It is only recommended for persons who actually exhibit flu symptoms. Check their website for more information at www.cdc.gov/flu. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety website will also contain a flu hotline check for updated information and important links www.ccpd.us. Do not allow media attention to create panic in regards to the flu virus. This year’s strain of the flu virus is no more serious than previous strains of flu. By taking precautions, you can minimize your risk of exposure to the flu virus. Your health goes hand in hand with your well being and safety. February is known as Boost-Your-Self-Esteem-Month, Children’s Dental Health Month and Heart and Stroke Month. February 20th is known as World Day of Social Justice (Recognized by the United Nations). Take this opportunity to learn about various medical conditions so you can help yourself or a friend with a disability or medical condition. Smile and say hello to a neighbor when you pass them in the street or the hallway. Always remember not to drive if you consume alcoholic beverages. Even one drink is too many if you are going to drive. Also, be sure to buckle your seatbelt, obey speed limits and avoid distractions when driving. School’s open, drive safely. Never pass a stopped school bus for either direction when it has the red lights flashing or the stop sign out. 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. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained. Visit CCPD on Twitter @CCPDnyc to see what is happening here in Co-op City.

IMCR offers free mediation services to Co-op City residents BY ROZAAN BOONE

The Institute for Mediation and Conflict Resolution (IMCR) offers its services free of charge to the residents of Co-op City every week day and also on Saturdays with day time and evening availability. IMCR established the first Community Dispute Resolution Center in New York City in 1975 to examine whether certain cases of a criminal nature could be more effectively handled and resolved by diverting them from the normal court litigation process to local panels of community volunteer mediators who include attorneys and professionals with experience in alternative dispute settings. “Even the best of neighbors may at times have disputes,” said Michael Munns, Senior Attorney, Riverbay Legal Department. “When you can’t resolve those problems yourself, IMCR offers free mediation service. In most cases, the IMCR mediator is able to guide the parties to a satisfactory solution, even though I should point out that the mediator has no authority to order any person to do anything that they do not want to do. Cooperators are, however, fortunate that IMCR Mediation Service is available free on-site every week for those

who would like to utilize the service. It’s one of the best kept secrets of Co-op City.” IMCR facilitates resolution of minor criminal allegations and civil disputes which are typically referred by the police, the DA’s office, and other local agencies. Here at Riverbay, CSO personnel also refer cooperators to the center for resolution of neighbor-to-neighbor disputes, family peers and consumer disputes. IMCR also handles conflicts in several other areas, for instance, aggravated assault, aggravated harassment, animal complaint, assault, breach of contract, burglary, visitation, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, harassment, housing dispute, menacing, petit larceny, theft of services, and many others. In addition, the center offers sessions on truancy, falling behind in school, communicating with a substitute, distribution of household chores, running away, early sexual activity, inappropriate friends and curfew negotiations, as well as discussing parental fears. Titus Rich, Jr., Director of Mediation at IMCR, said: “Quite often when people have conflicts, they may not be comfortable talking to each other, but when they

come to mediation, they will oftentimes open up and say things that if they did normally, they would probably end up in a fight about. In mediation when they are clear about their thoughts, they are able to express those thoughts and that gives the other party the opportunity to know what and how the other is thinking.” Rich explained there are no judges or lawyers at the mediation sessions, only the IMCR assigned mediator and the parties involved sitting down in a safe, neutral place which makes it a bit easier for them to open up and express their thoughts and feelings. This is especially important for children, he said, who, in the neutral setting of mediation, may feel comfortable enough to openly express to their parents, grandparents or any other person, what they do not feel they can say when they are home. Rich added that IMCR is involved with a lot of youth related disputes to help curb youth violence all across the Bronx. In addition to parties being referred to IMCR’s services, IMCR also reaches out to parties who may have been referred to the agency as possibly needing their conflict resolution services. According to Rich, IMCR has approx-

imately 1,010 mediators on call on a consistent basis. They act as impartial “referees” during the mediation sessions, and all information and conversations are confidential. Resolution can result in no agreement, or verbal or written agreement, which both parties sign and agree to although the mediators cannot demand that an agreement is signed since this is a voluntary process. Whatever the outcome, IMCR reports the status of the session to Riverbay’s Legal Department although nothing discussed inside of the session is divulged. IMCR’s mission is to promote peaceful human relations by offering mediation and conflict resolution services and training in non-violent principles and skills which empower individuals to respond constructively to conflict. The coordinator assigned to Co-op City is Pedro Garcia. He can be reached at (718) 585-1190 to arrange an appointment with a mediator. “We believe this is a very good tool that anybody can use to deal with everyday issues when conflict arises,” said Rich. “It is a way for people to resolve outstanding issues so they can go back to their normal lives.”

Co-op City Times / February 25, 2017

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