Co-op City Times 02/25/2023

Celebrate

City Council Passes Legislation to Phase Out #4 Fuel Oil Usage

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The New York City Council voted on and passed legislation last week designed to phase out the usage of #4 fuel oil in all buildings.

The bill, called Introduction 470-A and sponsored all city-operated buildings to stop using #4 fuel oil completely by July 1, 2025. Then, that requirement will extend to all city buildings, requiring them to stop using #4 fuel oil by July 1, 2027.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration explains on their website that #4 fuel oil is “used extensively in industrial plants and in commercial burner installations that are not equipped with preheating facilities.”

(Continued on page 2)

February is National Heart Health Month!

Mayor Signs Bills to Address City Worker Pay Disparities and Accessibility Inequities

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City Mayor Eric Adams held a press conference on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 to announce the signing of two bill packages that address pay disparities for municipal workers and accessibility inequities across the city.

In total, the two packages included eight bills. The following is a summary of those bills that were passed and what each piece of legislation will do, according to the Mayor’s press release:

Intro 515-A (sponsored by City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams) – This law requires city agencies to include their efforts “to address pay disparities within their workforce” as well as disclose compensation data in their annual employment plans.

Intro 527-A (sponsored by City Councilmember

(Continued on page 4)

City Comptroller Urges New Yorkers to Report Language Access Problems in City Government

New York City Comptroller Brad Lander has issues encountered by New Yorkers when dealing with City agencies.

Per local laws, New York City agencies are required to provide public and emergency services information in 10 different languages: Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Bengali, Haitian Creole, Korean, Arabic, French, Urdu, and Polish.

The law also requires City agencies to provide free signage, posters, and websites directed to members of the public available in the 10 languages.

“New York City is the most diverse city in the world, and it is critical that the City of New York can serve all New Yorkers,” said City Comptrol-

in language procurement services and disparities among translations that we are working to address.

tion to improve their language accessibility and ability to serve New Yorkers in their preferred language.”

Anyone who has experienced a problem receiving services or documents in their preferred language is encouraged to complete the form, which is available on the City Comptroller’s website, https://comptroller.nyc.gov, click on “Services” and select “Report a Language Access Problem” from the menu on the

low up on issues New Yorkers identify with the relevant agencies, and track patterns and problem areas to inform future language accessibility audits.

CCPD: Person of Interest

Administrative Fee Schedule

The following is a list of administrative fees for violations of the rules of Riverbay Corporation.

A. Hanging bedding and/or clothing, rugs etc., over terraces or out of windows $25

B. Improperly disposing of garbage refuse or litter in compactor rooms, hallways, public areas or outside of designated basement areas $50

C. Bike riding in prohibited areas $25

D. Ball playing in prohibited areas $25

E. Loitering $100

F. Noise, causing a disturbance to neighbors $100

G. Smoking in indoor public areas such as lobbies, stairwells, elevators and shopping centers $300

H. Walking on grass in prohibited areas $25

I. Driving or parking a motor vehicle on Riverbay property without authorization $100

J. Throwing or dropping objects from windows, terrace or any portion of the building $200

K. Anti-social (Any act on Riverbay property that results in an arrest by police or Public Safety)* $300

L. Abuse of equipment on premises and/or landscaping $125

M. Unauthorized Move-in/Move-out without a Riverbay Permit $300

N. Unreasonable detaining of an available elevator $50

O. Unauthorized posting or distributing advertising material within Co-op City $100

P. Deliver or cause to delivered unsolicited materials throughout Co-op City $25

Q. Willingly providing access into buildings to unauthorized persons $50

R. Over age 7 using play facilities in toddler park $50

S. Removing a laundry basket from the laundry room $75

T. Feeding pigeons, geese or other stray animals on Co-op City property $100

U. Improperly placing recyclable materials in areas other than those designated for recycling $25

V. Unauthorized appliance within apartment $150

W. Defacing/destroying Riverbay properly, including, but not limited to, marking/spraying property $300

X. Refusing inspection of an apartment after receiving written notice of hazardous or damaging condition or of possible presence of a prohibited appliance $250

Y. Unapproved alterations, additions or improvements to terraces $125

Z. Keeping or harboring dogs or any animals deemed potentially harmful to the health and safety of others. $200

AA. Vehicle alarms (garage) that sound for more than 5 minutes $25 BB. Unauthorized access to roof $200 CC. Unauthorized satellite dish monthly surcharge)

EE. Failure to submit proof of mandatory coop insurance $150

FF. Poor Housekeeping/Hoarding $125

GG. Violation of a Riverbay-issued move-in/ move-out permit $125

CCPD requests shareholders’ assistance in identifying and apprehending the person of interest depicted in the photos above who was stealing packages in Building 8 on Wednesday, February 22. Anyone with information, or if this individual and/or any other suspicious persons are observed in your building who you do not

Photos courtesy CCPD

Co-op Creatives: Doreen E. Mathis and Samuel R. Hopkins

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

The artist statements of Doreen E. Mathis and her husband, Samuel R. Hopkins, extend far beyond their variety of skills and mediums. The words “painter,” partner, parent, and educator. They have lived together in Co-op for more than twenty years. “We’re singular, yet together,” says Ms. Hopkins, explaining their ability to thrive both individually and as a unit.

Doreen’s impressionist paintings capture the dynamic moments of life, such as a knowing glance or a sleeping spirit, and communicate them with energetic line work. Though she never went to formal art school, both of her parents were artists, and this is a tradition that she passes down to her sons. As a strong artist herself, she is able to work with her husband on projects like their upcoming poetry collection. “We sat up here writing so many poems, it wasn’t funny!” she said.

Like his wife, Mr. Hopkins ascends from an artistic family background. His parents were both artists, with his mother, a nurse, being particularly interested in anatomical models. Teaching from kindergarten up to Lehman College, he injected creativity into his lesson plans, whether in the kindergarten classroom or Lehman lecture halls. His work lies on the intersection of impressionism and realism, building landscapes which represent the world outside the window.

Both Doreen and Samuel sit at the center of a creative family, including painters, photographers, and performers. “I think it’s in our DNA,” says Doreen, who has traced their familial connections to entertainers like David Rufencourages young artists to keep pursuing their dreams for “the pleasure, not for the job.” Samuel added that you “find whatever motivates you in the medium” which you are interested in.

Are you an Artist interested in being featured in the Co-op City Times? We encourage Coop City artists to submit their best pieces (Paintings. Poems. Photos), regardless of age or technical skill for this month’s presentation. Email your best work to PMcCoyCampbell@ riverbaycorp.com with “Co-op Creatives” in the subject line. Along with your artwork, please send a picture of yourself, your section of Co-op, a short personal bio including your pronouns, and an explanation of your piece/pieces. If you are selected, you will be featured in the Co-op City Times.

If you’re not selected for this month, don’t worry; there is always next month! We can’t wait to share all the very talented artists from Co-op City with our community!

Deepest Condolences

We are saddened to announce the passing of the mother of Riverbay’s Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto. Please join us in keeping Anthony and his family in prayer as they mourn their loved one.

Fuel Oil ––– (Continued from page 1)

#4 fuel oil is also the “most polluting fuel oil still being used in the city,” according to the City Council press release. That reality is a problem when considering how pollution from burning fuel oil can “produce high levels of particulate matter, exposure to which is linked to asthma, obesity, developmental delays, and other health problems,” according to Columbia University’s public health website.

Additionally, a large number of the buildings that still use #4 fuel oil are concentrated in areas categorized as environmental justice communities.

By reducing the amount of #4 fuel oil pollution in the air, the City Council estimated that the new legislation will help “prevent an estimated 16 premature deaths and save approximately $130 million in citywide health spending per year,” as detailed in the City Council press release.

New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams discussed the reasoning behind the new legislation in a recent Council statement.

She said: “As our city takes steps to protect our environment, we must en-

cant and meaningful step that will save lives and protect the health of residents in communities of color. As a Council, we will continue to enact smart, green policies that support all New Yorkers, particularly those who have historically borne the brunt of environmental hazards.”

City’s Power Plant would be unaffected by this legislation because the Power Plant does not use #4 fuel oil.

With the legislation passing in the City Council, the next step for the bill toduced on June 2, 2022.

COMBING

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

Assemblyman’s Lobby Visit

Co-op City Times Black History Month Celebrated at PS 160

BY MARIA NIX-MILLER

Educators at P.S.160 Walt Disney Magnet STEAM School have collaborated with their scholars and their families to celebrate Black History Month in a variety of ways. Scholars participated in a Black History Month Spirit Week which prompted

Assemblyman Mike Benedetto will host his next Co-op City Lobby Visit on Thurs., March 2, at 600 Baychester Ave. (Bldg. 16B)

Lobby visits run from 5:15 p.m. -7 p.m. These visits allow shareholders to interact with the assemblyman in a one-on-one setting and discuss a wide range of topics.

Baychester Library Virtual Events

Baychester Library is temporarily closed for renovations. Please visit www.nypl.org/locations/baychester for information on upcoming virtual events for children and adults. Holds can be picked up at Eastchester Library, 1385 E. Gun Hill Rd., Bronx, NY.

The Baychester library is expected to reopen soon. visit: nypl.org/locations.

Test & Treat Mobile Van in Co-op City

NYC Test & Treat Corps’ Mobile Test to Treat unit is available daily on a rotating schedule at the three shopping centers, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. as follows next week:

Mon., Tues.: 135 Einstein Loop

Wed./Thurs.: 2049 Bartow Ave.

Fri./Sat./Sun.: 177 Dreiser Loop.

Locations are approximate depending on parking availability.

The mobile van offers PCR, Rapid, Flu and RSV testing.

Anyone who tests positive at the van can speak with an onsite clinician, and, if eligible, receive free Paxlovid anti-viral medication.

Appointments not required. Bring ID and insurance card, if available. Insurance is not necessary; service is open to everyone.

We wish our Readers a blessed Lenten season.

P.S.160 scholars and their families also had the opportunity to engage in a series of the engineering and design process to build a rocket ship in honor of Mae Jamison create their own versions of artwork inspired by African American artists like Jaccob allows students to not only research individuals connected to the 2023 Black History researched. These events and activities have created space and opportunity for all

Above (top-bottom): Drummer at Musical; HBCU Future grad; Chips.

Photos by Maria Nix-Miller

Above (L-R): Alice Fargas, 3rd Grader;

Photos by Alice Fargas and Maria Nix-Miller

Photo by Veronica Doherty

Inequities ––– (Continued from page 1)

Carmen De La Rosa) – This law will require the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) to analyze their efforts to “provide equal opportunity for a diverse universe of applicants for municipal employment.”

Intro. 541-A (sponsored by City Councilmember Farah N. Louis) – This law updates the Pay Equity Law and requires the DCAS to provide additional data to the NYC City Council on pay equity with the goal of identifying pay disparities across the municipal workforce.

Intro. 92-A (sponsored by City Councilmember Diana Ayala) – This law establishes an “accessibility board” designed to advise the mayor, City Council and city agencies on solutions to improve the accessibility of city shelters.

Intro. 141-A (sponsored by City Councilmember Diana Ayala) – In buildings required to have “power-operated or power-assisted and low-energy doors,” this law requires those buildings to have proper signage at each entrance and exit indicating where those doors are located.

Intro. 375-A (sponsored by City Councilmember Diana Ayala) – This law requires the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) to report every three years on the amount of available affordable housing units designated for people with disabilities. Additionally, this law requires HPD to provide information on the exact number of housing units rented to individuals living with a disability.

Intro. 676-A (sponsored by City Councilmember Crystal Hudson) –to create and establish a list of universal design principles centered around accessibility. Secondly, the law requires all developers receiving city funding to implement those universal design principles in “all dwelling units in new housing development projects.”

Intro. 421-A (sponsored by City Councilmember Kevin Riley) – Under this law, the New York City Department of Homeless Services is required to establish a quarterly report on data involving families withilies in each type of shelter, their average length of stay, how many exit for permanent housing, and metrics on school enrollment and attendance.”

In a statement included with the press release, Mayor Adams discussed the reasoning behind the two packages of bills and his hopes for what those pieces of legislation will accomplish.

within our city workforce, so every worker is paid fairly,” Mayor Adams said. “This second package will bolster our efforts to support New Yorkers with disabilities. Our city must be accessible for everyone, and these bills will make our buildings, shelters, and affordable housing spaces more accessible, welcoming, and livable for all.”

The New York City Council announced the signing of the bill with an online press release that included statements from the various Councilmembers involved in developing the new legislation.

Councilmember Kevin Riley, who is also the co-chair of the Council’s Black, Latino and Asian Caucus, touched on the importance of his legislation, Intro 421-A, and how he hopes the new law will impact New York families living in homeless shelters.

“My bill, Intro. 421-A, requires further insight to address the needs of families with children in our NYC shelter system. By mandating the Department of Homeless Services to provide monthly reporting on the total number of families with children living in the shelter system, their average length of stay, how many families have transitioned to permanent housing and data related to school enrollment, we can further develop data transparency and empower the City to provide comprehensive support and services that uplift vulnerable New York families facing homelessness,” Councilmember Riley said. “It is a priority of this historic City Council to pass legislation that aims for a true means of equity and inclusion. I am looking forward to continuing the collaborative work with my colleagues to serve and protect all New Yorkers.”

of pay difference among the city’s municipal workforce, based on race, ethnicity, gender and other protected classes among city workers, in response to Local Law 18 of 2019. A few of the key take-aways from the report are: Gender – A male city employee’s median salary is $21,600 more than a female city employee.

However, closer examination between a female employee with the same civil service title, serving in the same city agency, and who has the same demographic characteristics as a male employee, show that the female can expect to make 99.6% of the salary of her male colleague.

Race – The median salary of a white municipal city employee is $27,800 higher than the median salary of a Black or African American employee and $22,2000 higher than the median salary of an Hispanic or Latino employee, considering only differences in salary based on race/ethnicity.

However, a Black or African American employee with the same civil service title, serving in the same agency, and who has the same demographic characteristics as a white employee, can expect to make 98.6% of the salary of a white colleague.

Similarly, an Hispanic or Latino employee with the same civil service title, working in the same city agency, and who has the same demographic characteristics as a non-Hispanic or Latino white employee can expect to make 98.9% of the salary of a non-Hispanic or Latino white colleague.

After adjusting for job title and other variables that may affect salaries,ries of non-white municipal employees, especially among non-white female employees – Black or African American female municipal employees, and Hispanic or Latino female municipal employees, are expected to make 1.9% and 1.5% less, respectively, than white male colleagues. Black or African American male municipal employees are expected to earn 1.2% less than their male colleagues.

Canvassing Co-op: Lauren K. Lassiter

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

“I have to pay it forward, I live here,” said Lauren K. Lassiter, who, on January 13th, while assisting at the Riverbay Winter Coat Give-away held in the Dreiser Auditorium, discussed her time giving back to the community. She is one of the many volunteers who accompany Riverbay’s director of Community Relations, Michelle Sajous, on a nearly weekly basis at events.

Lauren explained that she does everything from breaking down palettes to taking names at food pantries. Why? Because

she says, explaining that whatever you put out into the world comes back to you “tenfold.”

Though Lauren has been volunteering with Riverbay for about three years, she has spent most of her adult life giving back in various ways. She said, “I’ve volunteered in the city with the homeless shelter, serving food in Harlem for Thanksgiving [and] Christmas, also in the kitchen in Saint Luke’s Church on 222 Street.” All of this is possible because, she adds, “public service is basically embedded in [my] family.”

Co-op always needs more volunteers whether for events or at JASA. If you would like to dedicate some of your time to helping your fellow shareholders, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Lauren K. Lassiter

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, verify the authenticity of the authors. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times

Opposition to First Read Reso. #23-09

This resolution deals with water problems with our convectors. I believe there are two types of problem with our convectors:

1) the coil in our convector will cause water damage in the shareholder’s apartment.

2) This occurs only in the summer when hot, humid air driven by the fan in the convector hits the cold coil and the humidity in the air is turned into water which is supposed apartment.

Each problem has a different solution:

1) A break in a convector coil should cause a drop in water returning from feeding all convectors in that line in the building. I believe that a sensor installed in the basement – one per line of convectors – could reduce damage in an apartment, if it could close the value that feeds cold water to that line of convectors. An additional suggestion is to also allow it to open a second value to drain the line.

2) The damage caused by blockages in the drain require and do the following: Turn off the fan in that convector. Sound an alarm to indicate that there is a problem with the convector.

most of the damage. told. It still required an immediate way of turning off waof the problem. If the solution to problem two was done,

The second problem happens more often in shareholders’ apartments. In the past, shareholders were instructed to turn

CCTimes Co-op City Times

Questions about Board Resolutions

On reading last week’s CCTimes questions regarding two of the resolutions. I hope someone derstand the cost saving aspect of having a key to cooperavault.” What secure place will it be located, who will have access to it and any liability if the cooperator (not home at the time of the entry) reports something missing?

quiring a licensed, insured mover to protect the lobbies and elevators still doesn’t cover those who move during the night.

Also, where is the lobby and elevator protection for the workmen renovating empty apartments?

Fobs

It’s always good to see building association articles addressing issues (new, and unfortunately, old chronic ones as well) that we need to deal with here in Co-op City. (That’s right. There’s no capital O in “Co-op.” For me, that’s a topten annoying and never-ending issue.)

key fobs?”

And if so, how are the fobs working out?

If the fob is specially programmed for a person with a disability, one swipe of the fob unlocks, unlatches, and automatically opens the door. If programmed for the general resident, one swipe of the fob only unlocks and unlatches the door. Then the resident has the option of manually pushing open the door or pressing the stainless steel push plate – also called the actuator, the automatic door button, the handicap push plate, or the push-to-open-activation-switch

for the door to open automatically.

In the past, I wondered (and argued) why the other three push plates near our lobby and exit doors activate easily but the security door’s push plate was seemingly there merely as decoration!

Turns out, the fobs, programmed either way – standard or handicapped – were needed for that last step of convenience. – now works as it should on the front door.

curity door’s push plate is still a work in progress.

If there is a woman in your life you’d like to salute Co-op City Times welcomes your submission.

Submissions should include your relationship to the subject, how they have impacted your life, or the reason(s) she is special to you. You may also submit a photo to accompany the acknowledgement. be edited depending on space availability. Please also publication) and a working phone number in case there is a need to contact you.

Submissions should be emailed to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com tional information, you may send an email to the address

Communication is still a work in progress, too, I’m afraid. department heads write what’s new and how to articles to be printed in the Co-op City Times on a rotating basis. Could we revisit that suggestion so we can all be on the same page, please? Thanks.

Admin. Fees –––– (Continued from page 1)

For each additional or subsequent violation of these rules, the administrative fee shall be double the amount of

holders with multiple violations be reviewed for eviction. ti-social behavior as any act that results in an arrest by the al or adjudication resulting in a ‘not guilty’ verdict.

LETTERS TO

We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which ity and residency of the writer can be Thank you for your cooperation.

Public Safety Report

CCPD Offers Tips For Auto Crime Prevention

This article will provide some tips that will expand your awareness and help reduce your chance of becoming a victim of auto crime.

one step ahead of the criminals and taking proper precautions, you can do your part to decrease your chance of becoming a victim of auto crime, wherever your travels take you. Never, ever leave your car running with the keys in the ignition.

of

Grand Larceny Auto is when thieves take the entire vehicle. In many cases, this can be prevented by not leaving your car unlocked. You also should not leave your car running with the keys inside the vehicle when you are not inside of your vehicle. Thefts of specific auto parts has shown an increase nationwide and Co-op City is no exception. Some incidents of concern in our community include thefts of catalytic convertors, air bags, and wheels. There have also been reported incidents of vehicles being entered and ransacked by thieves with items being taken. In some cases, windows or locks are broken; in other cases, doors have been reported to have been left open.

Auto break-ins are frequently crimes of opportunity when a criminal surveys a vehicle, and observes valuables in plain sight. This holds true anywhere you may travel. Wheel, airbag, and catalytic converter thefts usually involve organized crew of criminals who identify vehicles off the beaten path that they can vandalize with minimal chance of being detected because they are parked in areas that do not get a lot of vehicle or pedestrian traffic. These crews have been known to use look-outs to spot approaching law enforcement vehicles.

Auto crime tends to increase during challenging economic times. By staying

Public Safety Blotter

February 12 – February 18, 2023

February 12 – 129 Elgar Place

CCPD units responded for individuals in the stairwell. Several individuals were issued Community Complaints for loitering

February 13 –

4180 Hutchinson River Pkwy.

A cooperator reported her package missing from in front of the apartment door.

120 Benchley Pl.

CCPD responded for a barking dog. The cooperator was issued a community complaint for the unauthorized dog.

170 Dreiser Loop

A cooperator reported a package missing from in front of her door.

100 Donizetti Pl.

A cooperator reported items removed from his storage locker in the basement.

120 DeKruif Pl.

CCPD ESU responded for a cooperator suffering mental distress.

FDNY EMS evaluated the cooperator and allowed him to refuse any further medical attention.

February 14 –

4120 Hutchinson River Pkwy.

A cooperator reported a delivered package missing.

100 Erdman Pl.

CCPD issued a community complaint for an unauthorized dog

99 Einstein Loop

A cooperator reported the catalytic converter removed from her vehicle.

140 Casals Pl.

Riverbay CSO issued a community complaint for unauthorized washing machine within an apartment.

99 Einstein Loop

A cooperator reported the catalytic converter removed from her vehicle.

120 Elgar Pl.

CCPD responded for individuals in the stairwell. Two individuals were issued community complaints for loitering.

February 15 –

900 Baychester Ave.

CCPD responded for a cooperator in mental distress.

4180 Hutchinson River Pkwy.

A cooperator reported a missing package.

February 16 –

100 Bellamy Loop

One male was arrested for violating an order of protection.

120 DeKruif Pl.

CCPD responded for a verbal dispute. Both neighbors returned to their apartment. Report was prepared.

4160 Hutchinson River Pkwy.

CCPD responded for a verbal dispute. A cooperator reported the dispute involved an ex-partner.

99 Asch Loop

A cooperator reported damage to her vehicle window.

100 Erskine Pl.

CCPD issued a community complaint for noise.

2085 Bartow Ave.

Store owner reported unknown individuals burglarized his establishment.

900 Baychester Ave.

CCPD officers observed an individual pulling on several car door handles. Officers detained the individual for further investigation, then subsequently placed him under arrest.

February 17 –

2021 Bartow Ave.

CCPD officers observed an adolescent walking around alone after midnight. Officers asked the adolescent if he needed assistance. After further investigation, it was discovered that a missing child report had been generated with NYPD earlier. Officers escorted the child to the precinct of record where the child was reunited with a parent.

2440 Hunter Ave.

CCPD responded for a toddler riding the elevators alone. Upon arrival, officers observed the child in the lobby. After further investigation, the child was returned home safely.

BLOTTER BONUS: Shareholders and friends are reminded to check and lock your car doors. Some advanced fobs lock it for you automatically as you walk away but most do not. CCPD arrested an individual who stole items after gaining access from an unlocked car door. This arrest was a great joint effort of community and CCPD. But the best crime fighter…is crime prevention. So if you want to protect what’s yours…lock them doors.

Co-op City’s garages are private property. The Public Safety Department and the New York City Police Department have the right to question any persons believed to be trespassing within the garages. Any person found in the garage without a vehicle parked inside is subject to arrest for trespassing. Never let anyone you do not know into the locked garage door behind you. It may seem rude, but you can be giving access to an auto thief. The same practice should also apply to the Co-op City buildings.

Never leave personal identification or your house keys inside your vehicle. Do not give an auto thief the extra bonus of the opportunity to burglarize your home. Never leave packages or other valuables visible within your vehicle. Never, ever leave a purse or other type of bag or backpack visible in your vehicle. This can lead to a smashed window and a stolen item no matter how safe you believe the area to be.

It is essential to the fight against auto crime that residents notify 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 when they first notice any type of suspicious activity. Information received from cooperators is helpful in the fight against auto crime. Immediately report any persons lurking in the garages or near parked cars. 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. The dispatcher will ask you for your information when you call. You have the option to remain anonymous but remember this information is useful to us and will not be provided to the offending party.

Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions (especially texting and other cell phone usage) and excess speed when driving; these are the leading causes of collisions within New York State. All of these risk factors are magnified for young or new drivers and older drivers.

Schools are open; DRIVE CAREFULLY. Never pass a stopped school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Cyclists must be alert to pedestrians. This includes electric bicycles and scooters, including the ones for rent throughout Co-op City and the rest of New York City. Rental bicycles and scooters should never be brought into Co-op City buildings. Charging any type of large lithium ion batteries indoors creates a risk of fire and should not be done inside of Co-op City apartments.

Riverbay Corporation has lifted the mask mandate throughout the community. It is still important to be proactive in preventing the spread of Covid-19, the flu and other contagious illnesses. Hand washing, the use of hand sanitizer and not touching your face are other strategies to help prevent the spread of a wide variety of illnesses. Please follow the latest guidance provided by the CDC and the New York City Department of Health regarding illness trends and recommended vaccinations. Also, remember that Co-op City has people with many different types of health conditions, spanning a large spectrum of age ranges. These people may continue to wear masks. Please respect their choice and do your best to maintain social distance, especially indoors. Do not forget to stay home if you are sick. Stay safe and stay healthy.

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

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

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please search “Riverbay Corporation” at the following sites:

www.Indeed.com

www.Glassdoor.com

Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply directly at either site

Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department.

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Director’s Viewpoint – Daryl Johnson Board Meeting Review, 2/15/2023

Wednesday, February 15, 2023.

Our board had a meeting on Wednesday, February 15, 2023. And, we discussed some community issues and some controversial resolutions. But, first, we need to review some bad crimes that have occurred in our garages.

Thieves Going Crazy in Our Garages

To start, let’s review some catalytic converter crimes with some Honda vehicles that occurred just during February 2023. On Sunday, February 5, some thieves went into garage 8 in section 5 and removed a catalytic converter from a Honda vehicle. Additionally, some thieves went into garage 6 (not too far from the baseball fields on Co-op City Boulevard) and removed a catalytic converter from a Honda vehicle. So, two catalytic converters were stolen from Honda vehicles in our garages in just one day.

On Friday, February 10, a guy went into garage 2 (near the Dreiser supermarket) and removed a catalytic converter from a Honda vehicle. However, someone alerted our Co-op City police about this crime. So, our police officers went to the garage and saw the guy. The guy then saw our officers, dropped his tools, and the catalytic converter.

Thereafter, the guy took off as fast as possible down a stairwell. Now, STOP! This case gets worse because this guy had a vehicle and a driver waiting for him outside. So, the guy then jumped right into the vehicle and the driver zoomed away from that garage. Thereafter, our officers were able to recover the catalytic converter and a bag that contained that guy’s tools.

On Tuesday, February 14, 2023, a thief went into garage 8 and removed a catalytic converter from a Honda vehicle. Additionally, on this same day, our officers “did observe a suspect trying door handles on numerous cars parked near 900 Baychester Avenue.” (Near the yellow school building.)

And, it turned out that the guy had a warrant for an auto crime. Therefore, he was arrested.

Bottom line: The purchase and installation of a new catalytic converter can cost thousands of dollars. So, I

want to encourage everyone to consider taking some good security measures to protect their catalytic converter along with their vehicle. Also, please understand that thieves have stolen catalytic converters from lots of vehicles. Thereafter, in a few cases, some people have unsuccessfully tried to retaliate.

For instance, two guys in Houston allegedly tried to remove a catalytic converter from a truck. Then, four men ran up on the two guys and took their saw. So, the guy pulled out a gun, chased the four men, and fired several shots until they dropped his saw. Therefore, please call our Public Safety department at 718671-3050 if you see a crime here.

Resolution 23-06

Occasionally, we have some organizations and groups that conduct business with Riverbay. So, we discussed resolution #23-06: “the Community Relations department may not authorize in-kind services valued in excess of $2,500 to any organization or group in a single calendar year.” Now, was an organization or group “getting over” or playing games? Maybe! Therefore, my opinion is that Riverbay should have stopped doing business with them.

Anyway, my idea was that some no-nonsense organizations and groups might want to co-sponsor some educational and entertaining events with Riverbay. So, will these events need to have some food, music, play objects, police officers, other employees, and other items present? Yes! Therefore, is it possible that this one event might cost more than $2,500? Absolutely!

So, either we believe in good, no-nonsense organizations and groups or we don’t believe in them. Period! If the answer is yes, then let’s be reasonable and support them. Anyway, our board couldn’t resolve this matter. Therefore, this resolution was tabled. (A tabled resolution means that it was postponed.)

Resolution 23-01

Resolution 23-01 states: “there has been an average of 815 move-ins/move-outs per year requiring the use of Riverbay elevators.” Continuing, the resolution states: “all shareholders moving in or out must use a licensed and insured mover. …” Really?

Here are my own questions that I would like for everyone to consider: What do you think that some moving companies are going to do when they find out that no one can move in or out of here unless a moving company gets hired? Do you think that some moving companies already know about this resolution? When do you think that some of these moving companies might jack up their prices just to deal with Co-op City?

What are we going to do if they say that their starting price to even go to Co-op City is, say, $1,000? Additionally, what are we going to do when these moving companies make excuses and say that we have to pay more money for everything because they have to deal with Co-op City? So, do you see some major problems here?

Bottom line: Do our co-op apartment insurance policies cover incidents that occur inside of our apartments and some areas of our building? If yes, then how can this resolution be justified? Moreover, we were supposed to get scratch-proof wall panels for our new $40 million elevators. In fact, I used a key to try to scratch a wall panel during a demonstration with some vendors. Result? Nothing! Therefore, what happened to those wall panels?

Personally, I think that this is one of the worst resolutions in the history of Co-op City. But, think, a community complaint for an improper move-in or moveout is only $300. So, do you actually think that our cooperators are going to deal with this resolution? No! Close

My next viewpoint will review some really bad upcoming resolutions for our community.

Thank you.

Contact Information

Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@riverbayboard.com.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Completed Window Guard Forms Now Overdue

All forms must be completed and returned

erbay CSO in an effort to collect the information which is required by law. After all avenues have been exhausted, the names of non-respondents will be forwarded to the NYC Department of Health for further action.

Completed Window Guard forms may be returned by mail to SiteCompli, Safety Notice Processing, P.O. Box 20240, Greeley Square Station, New York, NY 10001-9998; by fax to 646-7553632 (no cover page necessary); or online at www. safebuildingsnyc.com, enter your response code and

follow the prompts provided in the mailing. Completed forms can also be deposited in the drop boxes at the Dreiser CSO on the lower level plaza, at the reception area in the Riverbay administration office at Bartow Center or at the Einstein CSO.

For assistance completing the 2023 Window Guard form, call CSO at (718) 320-3300, select option #4. You will need to provide the specific code on the Window Guard form mailed to your unit. Those who have misplaced the form, should also contact CSO for assistance.

The 2023 Annual Window Guard form is now overdue and shareholders are urged to return the completed form as soon as possible.

The deadline was Wednesday, Feb. 15.

This is an annual requirement that must be completed by shareholders who live in high-rise buildings where children age 10 years and younger reside or visit. Townhouse residents do not receive the annual mailing but can request window guards if they’d like them installed.

All questions on the window guard form must be answered, and the form must be signed, dated by a shareholder of record, and a working contact phone number provided in case follow-up is necessary.

Please note that regardless of whether shareholders are requesting or already have window guards installed in their apartment, this form must be completed and returned.

Those who have not yet complied will receive continuous phone calls from SiteCompli and/or Riv-

Black History Month Spotlight

The Harlem Renaissance

BY JOYCE DUNCAN

The Harlem Renaissance was known as an intellectual and cultural revival of African American excellence. It expanded through music, dance, fashion, art, literature, politics and theatre.

The Harlem Renaissance was a period of time when Blacks felt a new freedom to explore and celebrate their heritage.

From the late 1890’s through the 1930’s, many Blacks migrated north and settled in Harlem, New York. It was considered the largest Black community in the United States. By the 1920’s, Harlem was bursting with artistic, political and racial pride. This time came to be known as the “New Negro Movement.”

Many musicians brought their music with them from the south. Musicians like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong; singers Marian Anderson and Paul Robeson, all nurtured their talents during this time period and became known worldwide.

There were great writers as well. Writers like Langston Hughes, Zora Neal Hurston, and Claude McKay. Together, their writings encouraged and uplifted the Black community.

The Harlem Renaissance allowed many artists and entertainers to thrive and in doing so, Black people enjoyed the rights and privileges that had long been denied them.

The joyousness of the Harlem Renaissance was felt for a long time until the Great Depression of 1929. This was a dark time for the entire nation and many struggled to survive. Despite the struggles, the Harlem Renaissance left a lasting impression on American culture.

Restroom Alert

Patrons of the restrooms in the garages and three community centers can now use their cell phones to send a text alert to supervisors in the Riverbay Parking & Leasing Department when the facilities need attention.

Utilizing the Restroom Alert management system, each plaque, such as the one depicted here, has a unique “code” used to identify the listed on the plaque for text messages to be directed to, patrons can submit comments or compliments.

Assemblyman Benedetto Provides Free Income Tax Prep for Seniors

Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto, in conjunction with the Iona College Accounting Department, is once again offering free income tax preparation for seniors 62 years of age or older who reside within the boundaries of his district (Co-op City, Throggs Neck, Morris Park, Pelham Bay, and City Island).

March 10, and is limited to seniors who meet the following criteria:

• • Complete copies of 2022 federal and state returns must be included

• Name, Social Security number, and date of birth of all people claimed on the return as taxpayers and dependents

• Adjusted gross income (AGI) for 2022 must be under $50,000

• You must provide us with a telephone or cellphone number at which you can be reached during normal business hours and on Saturdays

• You must provide a photo ID so a copy can be included with your tax paperwork

• Include a cancelled check to facilitate the timely deposit of the refund into your checking account

Let us know if there have been any changes in taxpayers or dependents from your 2022 return, such as birth or death of a taxpayer or dependent.

Seniors are encouraged to bring all their tax documents to Assemblyman p.m., Monday through Friday. (The tax preparer will collect documentation only until Friday, March 10, and no more taxes will be done after that date. All participants will be contacted when the forms are completed.)

returns are prepared by student volunteers from Iona College as a service to the community. All returns will indicate that they were prepared by a non-preparer.

soap.” Similar messages can be sent for replacement of hand towels, toilet paper, Parking & Leasing supervisors will then send staff out to address the request. Similarly, compliments can be sent to supervisors to provide feedback on the quality of services being provided.

The system is currently being tested by the Parking & Leasing Department in bathrooms in the three community centers and all eight garages, with the goal of eventually making the system more widely available in other areas of the department’s operation.

Restroom Alert does not disclose the sender’s name or phone number so comments/compliments are completely anonymous. Once a text is sent, the system generates an automatic acknowledgement and apology to the sender. In addition, the system sends a separate text to Parking & Leasing staff and a timer is started with periodic reminders until the issue is resolved. If the condition is not resolved in a timely manner, there is an option to escalate the reminders and warnings up to supervisors. The Restroom Alert system also allows for actionable metrics that helps to hold staff accountable and provides supervisors with up-to-date data to ensure requests are handled in a timely manner.

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section Youth Committee –

Hi, neighbors.

Building 18 Association

NCNW National –

hope is that our collective effort will advance inclusive technology product and policy development industry-wide, ensuring that the interests of underrepre-

arships will be open to undergraduate and graduate students of any discipline with each scholarship

supporting documents must be submitted by March ply can be found at ncnw.org and on dorothyireneheight.org. Applicants will be informed of a deciHealth Committee – Do you want or need to a.m. meeting via Zoom.

gmail.com

Women Represent! – Our annual celebration

are hoping that members of our Youth Section will sure to announce that the chairman of this commitlished author in our Section.

Social Media –

Facebook: Twitter: @ Instagram:

––Joyce Howard

Important Notice to clubs, and religious and community organizations

Please remember that the deadline for submission of articles from clubs, religious institutions and community organizations is 3 p.m. each MONDAY. Articles that are received afdeadline for Directors’ viewpoints is 5 p.m. on MONDAYS

Submissions must be emailed to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

––Gertie Brown

Riverbay Website Address is: www.coopcity.com

A new heart gave Jessica another shot.

Thanks to Monte ore Einstein, she’s undefeated.

When Jessica’s heart was pumping at just 5% capacity her survival was measured in weeks, not months. She turned to Montefiore Einstein who saved her with a bridge to a new heart.

See Jessica’s story at montefiore.org/Jessica

Building 9 Association

Greeting, Building 9 family and friends.

Thank you to those who came out in support of our February general membership meeting. We appreciate your time and your participation.

At the time of this writing, our scheduled guest speaker is Ms. Lois English, CSO Manager. Ms. English intends to provide an overview of the CSO, then take shareholders’ questions. Also, at the time of this writing, we are scheduled to celebrate our 2023 Black History Month event this evening. Please join us for a robust discussion centered on Black History.

On February 22, we attended a Black History event at the Bronx Botanical Garden hosted by Councilmember Kevin Riley.

On February 23, we attended a Black History commemoration hosted by NYS Assemblyman Michael Benedetto in the Dreiser Auditorium.

Black History

James Weldon Johnson, (1871–1938), chair of the Florida Baptist Academy in Jacksonville, Florida, and a member of the Florida NAACP, sought to write a poem in commemoration of President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. However, amid the ongoing struggles of the civil rights movement, Mr. Johnson decided to write a poem which was themed around the struggles of African-Americans following the 1900 by a group of 500 students at a segregated school in Jacksonville, Florida. His brother, J. Rosamund Johnson (1873–1954), would later set the poem to music.

The poem was written from the context of African-Americans in the late 19th century, the hymn is a prayer of thanksgiving as well as a prayer for faithfulness and freedom, with imagery from slavery to the freedom of the “promised land.” The lyrics include allusions to the transatlantic slave trade, the Jim Crow system, as well as the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

In the years that followed, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” was sung within Black communities nationwide; Johnson wrote that “school children of Jacksonville kept singing it; they went off to other schools and sang it; they became teachers and taught it to their students.” Within twenty years, it was being sung throughout the Black community. The NAACP began to promote the hymn as a “Negro National Anthem” in 1917. The term “Black National Anthem” replaced that designation in more recent times. It continues to be communally sung within Black American churches, educational institutions, social organizations, etc.

In 1919, 12 years before “The Star Spangled Banner” was adopted as “The National Anthem,” the NAACP dubbed “Lift Every Voice and Sing” the “Negro National Anthem.” The song carries a rich legacy rooted in freedom, unity, and equality, holding a powerful place in American history.

––Linda Collins

Building 13 Association

If you would like to be a member of Community Board 10, the time to apply is now. NYC community boards are local advisory boards that routinely meeton local matters. The application deadline is March 3. To join or get more information: www.bronxboropres.nyc.gov or https://bit.ly/NAB1222.

A discussion was held at our building meeting regarding continuing the completion of arrangements to have Amazon bins available to hold shareholder packpackage is too heavy, will be delivered to your apartment. Provided all arrangements are acceptable, the installation will begin with the Triple Core Buildings shortly. Again, thank you to Elena Marrero for presiding over the meeting and Director of Janitorial Services Joshua Blake and Supervisor Omar DeLosAngeles for attending, answering questions and addressing concerns immediately.

Notices were placed in the buildings reminding all shareholders of the importance of disposing of their garbage properly in the compactor rooms and in the basement. Fines will be imposed for the offenders. If you drop it, pick it up!

For Black History Month, the NAACP Co-op City Branch will be a co-sponsor of NYC Comptroller Brad Lander’s Black History Month Celebration. This year’s theme is Economic Impact of Black Empowerment. The event will be held at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Building (163 West 125th -

their Facebook page at Co-op City NAACP.

The Window Guard surveys were required to be submitted by February 15. If you have not yet done so, or have not received the envelope with the docusend an email to Ms. Lois English at lenglish@riverbaycorp.com, or call 718320-3300, extension 3458.

Save the Dates: Rivers Run Community Garden is preparing for Earth Day taking place on April 22. Section 2 buildings are gearing up for Summer Fun Day on June 24 from noon to 5:00 p.m.

Scholarships: NY Urban League’s Whitney M. Young Jr. Scholarship 2023 application deadline is March 11. One-time scholarships ranging from $1500$10,000 are awarded to college-bound students starting in fall 2023. Questions can be emailed to the Scholarship Committee at collegeready@nyul.org.

The Mall at Bay Plaza welcomes applicants for the 2023 Bronx Entrepreneurship Scholarship Foundation Scholarship (awarded on an annual basis, $3,000 not to exceed $12,000 over four consecutive years). Application submission date is April 1; email applicatios to Apply@BronxESFC.com

Visit our Facebook page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City

Our website is bldg13assoc.com or email us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370; or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Leslie Peterson

African-American Association of Co-op City

Quotes from the ancestors: Celebrate Black History

“Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.” –Booker T. Washington

Paying Tribute to Fredi Washington

Actress, activist and journalist. Born Fredericka Carolyn Washington in Savannah, Georgia in 1903. Nicknamed “Fredi,” Ms. Washington began her career as a dancer at the Cotton Club in short Black and Tan, featuring Duke Ellington and his orchestra in 1929, and went on to a career in motion pictures. Her most famous role was of Peola in Imitation of Life (1934). Peola, a light-skinned young African-American woman, chooses to pass as white to escape racial discrimination.

Like Peola, Fredi experienced limited opportunities because of her race, but unlike Peola, she never denied her African-American heritage. Ms. Washington was co-founder of the Negro Actors Guild of America in 1937 and served as Entertainment Editor of the People’s Voice, established in 1942 by Adam Clayton Powell Jr., who married Fredi’s sister.

She played opposite the great African-American actor Paul Robeson on The Emperor Jones in 1933, and in a 1926 production of Black Boy at the Stamford Theater.

bonist in Duke Ellington’s orchestra. After they divorced in 1951, she married a Stamford dentist, Hugh Anthony Bell, and moved to suburban Greenwich Bell died in 1970. In 1975, Fredi was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame; in 1979, she received a CIRCA Award for lifetime achievement in the performing arts. She was 90 years old when she died in 1994. (Excerpts taken from connecticuthistory.org)

Join the African-American Association of Co-op City

Remember: Membership is only $15/year for a single membership and only $25/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call 929-4303255 The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

Upcoming AAACC Meeting and Events

Sunday, March 19: General Meeting via Zoom

Saturday, April 15: Holistic Health and Wellness Fair

Saturday, May 20: Co-op City Spelling Bee

The AAACC sponsors the following programs for your participation: Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact Xonia, 646-301-9438.

Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact Cynthia, 917903-7073.

Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact Keith 917-561-6211.

Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact Meena at 917863-1507.

Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” w/ Joyce Smith – Contact Joyce, 718-320-0714.

We wish everyone a prosperous Black History Month; encourage you to take part in Black History Celebrations and to be of service to your community.

Enjoy and engage in Black History Month! Every month!

––Michelle Marbury

Fredi Washington and her sister, Isabel, 1930s. Courtesy: Connecticut Historical Society

Fredi Washington and her husband, Dr. Hugh Anthony Bell, 1950s. Courtesy: Connecticut Historical Society

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. We hope all is well and 2023 will be better and healthy for us all. We are still not out of the woods yet. Keep the masks on around gatherings. Believe it or not, people are still being infected with Covid-19, however upon taking the vaccine/booster shots, they are able to stay home and doctor themselves.

Window Guards – The deadline has passed. Every cooperator of an apartment must comply by mail, phone or online. One must respond yes or no to children.

SCRIE – A session took place on February 16 in the Bldg. 27 Association Room and 12 participants attended. Mary Pearson gave the session and she will explain the details of how the session went.

New Shareholders – It appears there were many moving in. The tax season is upon us and our Assemblyman Michael Benedetto is again offering free income tax preparation for seniors 62 years of age or older. For those who now

718-320-2220 if you need clarity on what to bring. We are grateful that this free service is offered within our community.

Black History Month – Why is this month so important? It is the time African–Americans celebrate and acknowledge those past and present. It is an opportunity to spotlight and celebrate the achievements that African–Americans have accomplished in this country, despite the history of racism and oppression. We should be proud of our intelligent younger adults with the mind expressing adults rising to the occasion to take on the baton to keep Co-op City affordable and a decent place to live for the present and their children’s future. Kudos to them and to those to follow. When we walk in integrity, it compels one to do the right thing and make good and wise decisions.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. We continue to offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the families that lost loved ones. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she sharing good will. Also, notify her of any illness, or if a neighbor has deceased or transferred to a nursing home.

“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” ––Margaret Wheatley

––H. Overman

Building 33 Association

Good day, neighbors.

The Building 33 Association would like to wish Noel Ellison a happy retirement. He used to call this building president “sassy.” I am guessing it was a kind word used for someone calling him constantly complaining about one thing or another. He always took my calls though, was very kind, and helped me as much as he could. He will be missed. Hopefully, his replacement will also be open to hear shareholders’ questions, complaints, suggestions and challenges. We will see.

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto will host his next Co-op City Lobby Visit on March 2 in Building 16B at 600 Baychester Avenue from 5:15-7 p.m. These visits allow shareholders to interact with him in a more intimate setting. Mr. Benedetto has been involved with Co-op City for many years working in P.S.160. We must be more vocal to what is happening in our community. The rally in the Bartow Mall for police reform had around 20 people in attendance. In a community with 15,000 apartments? We have to do better.

A little knowledge for Black History Month. Are you aware of the magnitude of inventions many of us use everyday that were invented by Black Americans? using a camera that slid into four peepholes in her door. The camera’s view would then appear on a monitor in her home. She added other features, a microphone to talk, a button to unlock the door and a button to contact police. Sounds much like a Ring camera, right? In 1923, Garret Morgan, after witnessing a severe

Frederick McKinley Jones invented a roof-mounted cooling system on trucks. Thomas Edison invented the light bulb, but in 1881 it was Lewis Lattimore that created the innovation used to make the bulb last longer. In the 1980s, Mark PC. In 1999, he also helped develop the gigahertz processor. The massive chip would allow for higher processing rates at faster speeds within PCs, paving the

If you would like the building association to include something you feel is important in the weekly article, contact me at amayo14033@gmail.com. Let us discuss it.

On behalf of the Building 33 Association, our hearts go out to families going strength for today and hope for tomorrow. Also, remember, change can only happen if we are all on the same page.

Take care now and walk good.

––Andrea D. Mayo

Building 5 Association

Greetings, Building 5 family and friends.

Our building association membership drive began on February 20. Postings will be placed in all three buildings with the date and time of collections. We encourage all cooperators to be engaged and to pay their building dues. It is $7 per family, per year.

Game night was held yesterday, February 24, at 7 p.m. Your host was Joyce Duncan.

Fiber-optic cable wiring is being installed in all three buildings. The system will not be fully operational until the completion of work in all buildings. If you notify your Maintenance supervisor.

STAR Credit – Many cooperators expressed that their Star Credit was not told that Star credit will be sent separately to those who qualify for it. It was unclear as to when this would actually happen.

We want to wish all those cooperators born in the month of February a wonContinue to celebrate Black excellence and the Black experience. Happy Black History Month.

––Joyce L. Duncan

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

New Cooperators – Welcome, all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next general membership meeting.

Successful Aging Workshop – Today, February 25, from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. in the Building 10 Association Room, a workshop will be held on Successful Aging. The workshop will be hosted by our very own Karina Williams, BSN Health

Building 10 Association Dues – The collection of building association dues for 2023 has begun. Building Association dues are $10 per apartment. You can bring your dues to the building association meeting or give to any executive board member. Please note, the money collected is used for association-related

Fundraising Committee – The Building 10 Association is looking for volunteers for the Fundraising Committee. The Fundraising Committee will collaborate and bring ideas to the association to raise money for the events we would like to have throughout the year, for example: back to school supplies, ice cream socials, and pizza parties, etc.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-879-6311. Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help in NYC is 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355) or text “WELL” to 65173. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number is 988, you can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day. Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Facebook the happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born in February an incredibly happy birthday. Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy anniversary!

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

To all who have lost a loved one recently, we offer our deepest condolences. Have a great week.

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Building 21 Association

Celebrate Black History Month – Quotes from the Ancestors

“Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated.” –

Coretta Scott King

“Every Floor” of every building should have assigned Floor Captains. If you enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows:

1. Contact Numbersbers and distribute to each neighbor

2. Co-op City Times – Place them at each apartment door (delivered on Saturdays)

3. Elevator Notices – Read them and talk to your neighbors about them

4. Promote – Meetings, clubs and gatherings

5. Encourage Your Neighbors to:

• Vote – Vote – Vote! In the Riverbay election

320-3300

6. That’s all! That’s it!

If you have questions regarding the 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information. Email: 21association@gmail.com. Call: 347-504-1821. Attend the monthly general meetings via Zoom video conference on the fourth Thursday of every month. Everyone from all buildings, plan to come and join us at Building 21. Bring a friend.

“Each one of us multiplied by all of us equals a force for good.”

––Michelle Marbury

To review information about Co-op City coopcity.com and click on the menu options.

Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. Known as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), it profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and the course of 20th Century American History.

February General Meeting: Zoom on Sunday, February 26, at 3:00 p.m. Meeting ID: 634 997 4384, Passcode: 323380, Dial-In: 646-931-3860.

Apply for Local Community Board: NYC Community Boards are local advisory boards that

NAACP

Building 20 Association

community issues and give recommendations on local matters. The application deadline is March 3. To join or get more information, visit www.bronxboropres.nyc.gov or https://bit.ly/NAB1222.

Save the Date: The Honorable Hazel N. Dukes, President of the NAACP New York State Conference, cordially invites you to attend a ceremonial street renaming, celebrating the accomplishments and birthday of President Dukes on Saturday, March 18. After three decades of integrating this commurecognizing her advocacy in Nassau County with a street renaming at Edwards Street, Roslyn Heights,

NY 11577.

54th NAACP Image Awards – Saturday, February 25, at 8:00 p.m. on BET

Black History Month Event : The NAACP Co-op City Branch will be a co-sponsor of NYC Comptroller Brad Lander’s Black History Month Celebration. This year’s theme is Economic Impact of Black Empowerment. The event will be held at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Building (163 West 125th Street, NY) on Tuesday, February 28,bers can attend also. Go to our Facebook page at Co-op City NAACP.

Get Your Kids Involved – The NAACP Youth, Education and Economic Development Committee presents workshops on civil rights, mentoring, date: Saturday, March 23, at 3:00 p.m. at Einstein Community Center, Room 36. To register, contact: naacpcoopbb@yahoo.com, or call 718-320-3210.

The Co-op City Branch was established in July 1973. In recognition, we have a 50th Anniversary Commemorative Pin. Purchase yours now for $20 each. To order, send payment to the address.

Scholarships: NY Urban League’s Whitney M. Young Jr. Scholarship 2023 application deadline is Saturday, March 11. One-time scholarships ranging from $1500- $10,000 are awarded to college-bound students starting in fall 2023. Questions can be emailed to the Scholarship Committee at collegeready@nyul.org.

The Mall at Bay Plaza welcomes applications for the 2023 Bronx Entrepreneurship Scholarship Foundation Scholarship (awarded on an annual basis, $3,000 not to exceed $12,000 over four consecutive years). The application submission deadline date is April 1, email applications to Apply@ BronxESFC.com.

Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP. Become a member or gift a membership: Adults: $30, Youths: $10, make checks/ money orders payable to: NAACP Co-op City #2210, and mail to: N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City, Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

––Brenda Brown

Building 20 Association celebrated Black History Month with storytelling and arts and crafts for children.

Photos courtesy Francine Reva Jones

Our next gathering will take place on Friday, March 24, at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom

We must all (in every section and every building) show up for our Building Associations and committees. We may be on Zoom or Webex or other modes of video conferencing, but that is no excuse not to show up. It is even more of a reason to attend because you do not even have to leave your home. You cannot beat that commute. We all owe it to our shared community. Think about this and make a silent pledge to get involved this year.

shirts make a great gift any time of the year. If you do not have one, make sure you get one, or two! Many buildings are celebrating 50 years of existence, making up the largest cooperative in the country. The shirts are beautiful and on sale now with the Section 4 Partnership logo on the back. You will be proud to wear it. If you would like one or two, contact us byemailing: section4partnership@ gmail.com or phone: 347-915-4939.

The Section 4 Partnership’s purpose is to promote a community of more than just neighbors, but as one family of many cultures that proactively embraces greatness, and promotes neighborhood interaction. The goal of the organization is to offer solutions that will educate, elevate, inspire, and mobilize our community in unity, to sustain affordability and growth in order to remain environmentally sound and vibrant for generations to come.

Quotes from The Ancestors:

“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.”–Desmond Tutu

All of us divided by each one of us equals a force for good.

Emergency Food Pantry (Free) – 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pick up or after. It is a 30/31 day rotation, on average. Black Forum will text registered guests if items outside of regular distribution become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive shopping cart. Please do not bring black shopping bags because black ink can transfer to the food, posing a health hazard. We require masks and physical distancing.

Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11:00 Now open. Sections 1-4 guests will register or recertify at the 920 Baychester location, while Section 5 guests go to the Co-op City United Methodist Church. Required documentation is as follows: NY State Driver’s license, NY State Non-Driver’s or NYC I.D (zip code 10475). Passports, Medicaid Cards, Medirequired for all 2022 registered guests wanting to continue visiting the pantry in 2023. These guests must also show the required documentation listed above. Guests should apply by the end of April 2023 even if they do not plan to pick up food until later in the year.

All occupants within a household must be present at the time of registration/

Black Forum has used orange bags to pack monthly packages for distribution. The cost of the bags has tripled, so the pantry will pack the canned goods directly in bags you provide. Thus, four to six sturdy and clean (non-black) bags are a must on your visit. Please note that we reserve the right to not provide certain items if we believe cross contamination may occur. This is for your safety. Please help us by bringing enough bags.

Black Forum is not sponsoring in-person defensive driving classes at this time, but an online version of the course is available at the Empire Safety Council website: https://www.empiresafetycouncil.com/.

Contact Us: Reach out to us at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

––D. Illis

I hope everyone had a great Presidents’ Day weekend.

Assemblyman Benedetto is providing Free Income Tax Prep for Seniors at 177 Dreiser Loop in Room 12.

We have an outstanding Maintenance supervisor, Brandon, who works hard to keep our building looking good. We have a hard-working Maintenance worker, Rodney, making our lobby look good and always there to help when needed in the building. Maintenance worker Johnathon working on the high side of the building is working hard and doing a great job, too.

Many people are complaining about all the holes and missing paint in the hallways near the apartment from workers putting in the new cable wire. They and paint. There has been a lot of complaints about people still not cleaning up after their dogs in the building.

We will be talking about building dues that go for holiday decorations, other things for the building, and food and refreshment for building meetings. You must pay your building dues to run for any of the board positions of the building association.

Dreiser Auditorium with live music, performances and refreshments.

We need people to volunteer in the building this year for holiday collections and other stuff needed in the building.

We canceled our meeting Thursday because our special guest from Management needed more time so it’s scheduled for another day in March.

Wishing everyone a safe and healthy 2023.

Association will represent your building. Make sure concerns are made known with your building association. There should be a point of contact listed on each building’s bulletin boards.

Representatives of the newly reorganized Section 5 Association, under the leadership of Nelson Sweeting, seek to build a stronger, more informed, involved, and better representation within our Co-op City community.

Reminder: To all building cooperators, the deadline has passed for complying owners of multiple dwellings three apartments or more in New York City to provide, install and maintain window guards when a child or children ten years old or younger live in a home. Each apartment must respond yes or no to whether you have children. Shareholders, if you have misplaced your form, kindly go to in Section 5. Riverbay Management is required to follow up and take further older, our Assemblyman Michael Benedetto is again offering free income tax

320-2220 to get clarity of exactly what documents to bring if you are not sure.

To better understand the construction affecting our area, please go to YouTube email mpjazz@optonline.net for a link.

To obtain the maximum quality of life for all shareholders residing in Section 5.

* To act as a liaison between Management and the building associations and townhouse associations in all problem areas.

a strong and vibrant organization representing the ten high-risers plus a cluster of townhouses in Section 5 within our beautiful community. We will strive to make all those who started this organization for the betterment of our community very

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” –Henry Ford.

Donizetti Building 4 Association

Cooperators, Donizetti Place Building 4 Association would like to report

ings were held on February 12 in the lobby of 120 Donizetti Place. The lucky winners are:

Second prize – Flo Wilder

Third prize – Roslyn Finney

Consolation prize – Nelly Horne

During this event, a great time was had by all.

On Thursday, April 6, our association will be sponsoring a bus ride to Resorts International Casino in Atlantic City.

Price:

Departure time: 9:00 a.m. sharp.

Location: 120 Donizetti Pl., Bronx, NY 10475.

Ticket purchases can be made by contacting anyone of the association board members listed below:

Dawn Mitchell: 347-570 -9638 Diane Windley: 646-271 -7377

Evelyn Lamont: 917-626 -3612 Yvonne Burrus: 718-671-6922

Please contact us as soon as possible. Tickets are limited.

A reminder to all cooperators: Co-op City is our home. Please continue to treat it like the treasure that it is. If you see something, say something. Everyone must do their part to maintain our quality of life.

––Dawn Mitchell

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Good day, neighbors. We hope you are doing well and starting to prepare 2022 tax documents. Commercial establishments have created a shopper’s holiday out of Presidents’ Day weekend. How was yours? Share your activity with us. We look forward to hearing from you.

Let us familiarize ourselves with the bios of the two presidents recognized sixteenth president who was assassinated on April 15, 1865. President George Washington, a founding father participating in the Continental Congress, wasruary and are the reason this weekend is recognized as Presidents’ Day. George Washington was born February 22, 1732 and died 1799, and yes, he was a slave owner by inheritance. He had no biological children. Abraham Lincoln, a self-educated Kentucky born politician and statesman, served in the Kentucky House before being elected president. Though he signed the Emancipation Proclamation, he was not known as an abolitionist. The Emancipation Proclamation changed the legal status of slaves to “free.” He fathered four sons, only the eldest survived to adulthood. Both are respected historically and recognized as leaders in their time.

We send sincere condolences to the families of those recently injured or killed by gun-toting criminals and to those accidentally killed or injured by others with mental illness. The arrest and pursuit of illegal guns, criminals and those anti-social people using them must be supported to maintain civil law and an environment we can all live in together in peace. An association newsletter for all with your tidings and shout-outs is my goal. Please share your news with us.

Soon, the next Riverbay Board of Directors election will be headlining the Co-op City Times. Candidates will be asking for your signature to get on the ballot, and then the campaigns are underway. Voting is your cooperator responsibility, so prepare to do it.

Heads up, we received a border line scam letter titled, “Home Warranty Division Immediate Response is Requested.” It included a customer ID and response deadline of March 1, 2023. It threatened that your Home Warranty has expired and must be renewed. It said: “Final Attempt.” Neighbors, this is a hook to get you to buy something, do not do it!

Reviewing garbage procedures: please dispose of clothes in the bins at Garage #6. As for dumpster pad bins, the white bin is for paper, while green and blue are for all other house garbage. Mattresses are required to be covered. Use pedestrian bins and pails for masks. Do not leave bags of clothes on dumpster pads. 877-VAX-4NYC, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine. Seniors, register with the Riverbay “RUOK” emergency contact program. This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic sickness. Seniors, get involved with JASA.

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Be careful and ask to see Employee ID

If you are having work done in your apartment, shareholders – especially those who are elderly and/or who live alone – are reminded that all personal items should be secured in a safe location. This is for your own peace of mind, as well as the protection of the Riverbay workers/ contractors coming into your home.

do the various Riverbay-approved contractors seeking access to your home. before allowing anyone to enter your apartment. If you are unsure, you should contact your local CSO at (718) 320-3300 (follow prompts), or Public Safety at (718) 671-3050.

Building 22 A&B Association

Hello, Building 22AB cooperators. February is a short month, but full of events. To all who celebrated Black History Month, Presidents’ Day and Valentine’s Day, I hope you had a wonderful time.

Please remember the Window Guard forms were due February 15. Please call CSO at 718-320-3300 and select option four if you did not get your window guard forms.

Optimum/Altice has replaced the wiring in our halls and the holes are being

I want to congratulate all the cooperators for helping to maintain our buildings. Check our bulletin board for future information about the association room.

We received a letter from CSO saying cooperators are unhappy about the conLaundry Room Etiquette: Continue being considerate of your neighbors. Follow the instructions on the board in the laundry room.

Happy birthday to all this month. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones. Please check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. Also, check on cooperators with pets. Have a good day.

––Betty Leak

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

General Meeting

On Wednesday, February 15, the Coalition held its regularly scheduled monthly meeting with most member organizations in attendance. As usual, at Dr. Toba LaCrown. He welcomed all the representatives with the new member, Dorothea Heath, who will be the second representative for the St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church. The president pointed out that there was a major issue that the Coalition needs to address as it relates to in-kind service offered by the Riverbay Corporation, which affects most registered organizations in Co-op City. Dr. Toba explained to the members present that a study of the old rates by Riverbay compared to the new rates without consideration to the inkind service rate is unacceptable. Thus, the Coalition decided to reach out to the Riverbay Board of Directors for consideration.

Riverbay In-Kind Service

There was discussion about the fact that Riverbay Management has increased the rental room and auditorium rates but did not raise the in-kind services for community-based organizations. We discussed that the in-kind service contributions should be raised as well to correspond with the new fees. Some did not know that they were entitled to in-kind services. Thereafter, it was proposed that the president write a letter to the Riverbay Board directors informing them of our opinion. The Board of Directors met on February 15, and the letter should be written and emailed as soon as possible. There was unanimous agreement with this decision. The following organizations were present to vote “Yea” so that the letter could be submitted to the Board. This included, but not limited to African American Association, American Legion, Co-op City Baptist Church, Retirees of Dreiser Loop, and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church. Outreach -

ing of the Covid-19 mandates, the president suggested that we should do more in-person meetings. More so, he proposed a trip to the National African American Museum in Washington, DC. The president had given weekend bus trips because based on his experience of organizing the same trip through another organization, it was successful. The past trips included the museum, the mall -

trip take place on Mother’s Day weekend (May 12-14). This was discussed and all agreed. The president will make the arrangements with a bus company and report back to us. In the meantime, we will inform the members of our groups.

––Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba

outdoors.

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, Retirees and friends.

Birthday CelebrationTrip Committee -

Nominating Committeepositions are open for election including chaplain.

Scholarship Committee – Scholarship appli-high school seniors scheduled to graduate in June -

Entertainment CommitteeMembership -

Happy Birthday

Condolences

Good and Welfare

General Meeting

––Georgianna Rodriguez

AARP Chapter #4997

––Ann Purnell.

Goose

Island Seniors

Wind Creek Casino

Game Day

To all members

“Moses” Sight and Sound Theater

Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard

Carnival Cruise 2023

Notary Bingo

Family

Sick and Shut-in goose. island@optonline.net

—Stephen Roberts, Sr.

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Amid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home is closely monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment.

Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities

JASA Co-op City Older Adult centers is looking for a driver with CDL. This position is available for immediate employment. Please contact Ann Moncrieffe at amoncrieffe@jasa.org or call 929-399-1387 for further information.

The Brownstone, Patterson, NJ – Wed., May 10; $139. Deluxe Motor coach transportation. Enjoy Latin Day with your favorite Latin Music, Spanish-style luncheon: garden salad, corn chowder soup, Lomo saltado, chicken/gondolas, Spanish rice and beans, rolls, dessert, coffee/tea. Gratuities included. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 8:45 a.m.; Einstein, 9 a.m.

Steel Drum classes – Wednesdays, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.,

Free Financial Counseling Services and Free Tax Services from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., by appointment only, in collaboration with Ariva. Income limit: single: $32,000, and with dependents, $60,000. Please call 718-320-2066 to make your appointment.

Medicare Information w/Alex Wu from the Dept. of the Aging, every Thursday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., rear of

Bereavement Support Group w/Dr. Smith –Mon., 1 p.m. Dial-in number: 929-205- 6099, Meeting ID: 839 6918 9974, Passcode: 520396.

Painting Class w/Dmitriy – Mondays, 1-3 p.m.

Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 846 0511 1606, Passcode: 585936.

Notary, appointment only – Call 718-320-2066. Available at –Tues., 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.; Weds. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. EinThurs., 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Painting Classes – Every Wed., 9-11 a.m. Zoom meeting. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057.

Technology class w/Ralph Lucenti – (Smart devices and computer) Thurs., 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

Line Dancing with Bartow Swingers – Mon., 12-1 p.m., Bartow Center, Room 31; and Wed. & Fri., 12-1 p.m., Dreiser Center.

Knitting w/Betty and Lynne – Fridays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Room 31, starting March 10.

Computer Class w/Steve – Starting Thurs., April 13, 1-2 p.m. Please register in person in Room 31 w/Carolin.

Casa Blanca, Oak Ridge, NJ – Tues., June 20; Deluxe Motor Coach transportation. Spectacular show, “Magic Moments;” family-style luncheon, $125. Deadline for payment: May 19. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 8:45 a.m.; Einstein, 9 a.m.

Spirit of New York “White Party” – Wed., July 12,

deluxe Motor Coach transportation, enjoy a spectacular cruise aboard the Spirit of New York with a buffet-style luncheon, $145. Deadline for payment: June 9. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 8:45 a.m.; Einstein, 9 a.m.

Aldi – Wed., March 7, $4. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m.; Einstein, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered with JASA.

Target – Wed., Mar. 15, $6. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m.; Einstein, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered with JASA. BJ’s and Shoprite – Fri., Mar. 17, $6. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m.; Einstein, 10:30 a.m. ONLY 10 seats available. Participants MUST be registered with JASA.

Costco – Fri., Mar. 31, $6. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m.; Einstein, 10:30 a.m. ONLY 10 seats available. Participants MUST be registered with JASA. Please call Einstein OAC – 718-671-5161 to schedule appointment for: 1st & 3rd Wed., 9-11 a.m. Braids, haircuts, shape-up, twist, ponytails, curls and more. Mon., 1-3 p.m.

JASA Einstein Public Notary – Tues., 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and Thurs., 2-4 p.m. Please call 718-671-5161.

JASA Einstein Older Adult Center Pop-up Vaccination Clinic – Please call 718-671-5161 to sign up for Mon., March 6, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 (Schedule subject to change without notice)

Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. only

Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

MENU Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice.

White Rice, Toss Salad w/ Dressing, Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit and Juice

(Roasted Pork Shoulder)

Steamed Peas, Sweet Baked Yams

Chicken, Roasted Potatoes Moroccan Vegetables, Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Chicken, Yellow Rice Sauteed Green Beans

Mashed Potato w/Gravy Steamed Carrots, Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit

Cous cous, Roasted Eggplant Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Crusted Fish, Cooked Cabbage w/Carrots, Home Fries w/Peppers and Onions

Chicken, Brown Stew, White Rice, Steamed Spinach

Bartow Center (929) 399-1394. Events held in Room 31, unless otherwise noted.

Kasha w/Noodle, Steamed Cabbage, Challah Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Chicken, Mashed Potatoes Steamed Carrots and Green Beans

Einstein Center (718) 671-5161. Events held in Room 49, unless otherwise noted.

Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345. Events held in Room 7, unless otherwise noted.

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler 10-11 a.m. Zoom only for now. 1-646-876-9923, Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173,

Passcode: 855423

Stay Well Exercise w/Denise 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Room 2

Piano Sing Along Class, In person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.,

Smartphone and tablet

literacy w/Julesa, In person, 1:15-2:15 p.m.

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Rm. 2. Computer Learning w/Ralph Zoom only:

Dial-in #: 347-893-2966, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040,

Passcode: 259554.

Blood Pressure, 1st & 3rd Tues. 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Art, In-person, 11

Church of God’s Children

Saturday/Sabbath blessings to you. May the peace of our Lord be with you. We are located at 127 Dreiser Loop, patio level. Our Bishops are Angelo and Nancy Rosario. We welcome you to share in worship and fellowship with us or any of the Houses of Worship within the community; be comfortable praising our Lord wherever you are. We are a Word-teaching house of prayer.

ThisSunday, February 26, our worship service will be at 4:00 p.m., a special Elevation/Ordination service for four of our leaders. You are invited to attend. Monday morning Bible Studies with Min. Steve at 9:30 a.m. Youth/ young adult Bible Studies with Min. Chinyeri via Zoom on Fridays at 8:00 p.m. Zoom meeting ID: 89225952943, Access Code: 125685. Thursday night Intercessory prayer group by phone at 7:30 p.m. For information, call 718-790-9120. Visit our Fundraising Ministry shop at 163 Dreiser Loop for a variety of items, fellowship and prayer with Sis. Inez. During March, we will be celebrating Women’s History Month, commemorating faithful women.

“Don’t be afraid, the prophet answered. Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” (2 Kings 6:16) It is called tunnel vision—focusing on what is right in front of us, and not being able to get a broader perspective. Elisha knew quite a few people with that problem, people who reacted in foolish ways because they just could not see the whole picture.

The king of Aram could not see beyond his security breach to realize that someone bigger than a spy was involved. Elisha’s servant could not see beyond the army of Syria to the armies of the Lord. The king of Israel could not see beyond a captured enemy to know how to respond peacefully. Their blindness leaves us wondering if we are as blind. Is there anything we are not seeing? What Elisha sees is a world run not by rulers and armies, but by the Lord. A prophet sees that this world is under the authority of God and that God’s power, the only power grounded in love, is what really protects us. To see with the eyes of faith is to see that God is at work not only in our daily life but also possible circumstances we face, we can look beyond our short-sighted fears to see those who are with us and to rest in the certainty that the God who is with us is far greater than anyone who is against us (Romans 8:31-39). “Open our eyes, Lord, so that we can see you. Give us the vision to see your power at work in our lives and in our world.” Amen.

At your service,

––Bishop Nancy Rosario

Traditional Synagogue

The Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City Purim service (Megillah Reading) will be held on March 7 between 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Kiddush to follow. Coffee, assorted salads and, of course, Hamantaschen. Cost: $10 per person. All are welcome to attend the services and meet our new Rabbi, Avranham Eliyahu Parks. Details to follow.For any questions, call Marilyn, 347-449-5005. Entrance to our synagogue for Saturday services is on the side door of building 27B.

The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate.

The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Saturday morning services will start at 10 a.m.

General Information

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the

Iglesia Evangélica MU de Co-op City Co-op City UMC

Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds

Come & Visit Us – You’re always welcome in God’s House, your House! ety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multicultural and bilingual congregation, all are welcome! Services are held at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across from Building 30. Parking is available. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta. Telephone number:(718) 320-3795; email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com

Come and Receive a Blessing:

First Sunday of the month: Bilingual Service, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. English Service:10 a.m.; Spanish Service:11:30 a.m.

Thursday: Bilingual Prayer Service in-person & via Zoom: 9:30-10:45 a.m

FoodPantry: Thursdays,11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com

—Marta Medina

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo De Cristo

147 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 (lower level).

Come As You Are…

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1 If you are looking for a place of worship in the local area aimed at teaching the transforming word of God, Circle of Christ Church invites you to fellowship with us. We are a non-denominational, multicultural, and loving church that accepts you just the way you are. Our senior pastor, Elisamuel Colón, and the body of Christ are committed to loving people into a life-changing-liberating relationship with God. The English service has a Bible-centered children’s church for ages 5 to 12. We have a food pantry that serves the community; moreover, we offer family counseling based on need. If interested, please contact us at (347) 945-1992 or on Facebook @Circle of Christ Church. See the schedule below and follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and on our website, circleofchristchurch.com.

Tuesday: Bible Study on YouTube Live, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Thursday: Nonperishable foods distributed to the community from 12-2 p.m. Prayer Group from 10:00-11:30 a.m., & Prayer Group from 6:45-8:00 p.m.

Friday: In-person Spanish Bible Study Class from 12:00-2:00 p.m. Youth Service (Operation Grace), 6:30-9:00 p.m.

Saturday:

Women’s Fellowship every second Sat. of the month, 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Young Adults, every third Saturday of the month, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Men’s Fellowship, every other month Couples Fellowship, every other month

Sunday Services: Spanish, 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. & English Service, 11:30 a.m-1:30 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier for screening at the door.

To register for the English Services, call or text 929-599-5488.

Servicios en Español

Servicios: En persona, en YouTube y Facebook Live Servicios dominicales: Español, 9:00-11:00 a.m., & Servicio en Inglés, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Martes: Estudio Bíblico en YouTube Live, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Jueves: Grupo de oración de 10-11:30 a.m. y Grupo de oracion de 6:45-8 p.m.

Viernes: Estudio Bíblico en Español (en persona), 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Operation Grace Youth Service, 7:00-9:00 p.m. (en persona)

Cada primer sábadodel mes: F.A.I.T.H. Alcance para las personas sin hogar.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue. The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, March 4, at 6:42 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, March 10, at 5:36 p.m.

Good and Welfare –one. The cost is only $15 per tree (if you want to buy a tree, call 347 449-5005). Mazel Tov, to all having simchas. If you are ill, we wish you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To all Members – Happy birthday, Debbie Schwartz, Mark Caetaie, Pauline Clair and to all our members who will be celebrating their birthday or anniversary in February. Please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games – After services and Kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

––Bruce Gitelson

Cada segundo sábado del mes: Ministerio de mujeres, 12-3 p.m. (en persona)

Cada tercer sábadodel mes: Adultos jóvenes, 12-3 p.m. (en persona)

Para registrarse para los servicios en español, comuníquese al 347-773-2809.

Pastor

Elisamuel Colón

RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by the following methods:

Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Send an e-mail to reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Church of the New Vision St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475.

Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic and related repairs to our space, St. Joseph’s Church has made some adjustment to our schedule of services until further notice. We are gradually getting back to normal.

Father Johnson will conduct worship service in-person at the church this Sunday, February 26, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference. The usual teleconference weekday prayers at noon will also continue.

Upcoming Events:

Episcopal Bishop Visitation – March 19 at 9:00 a.m. (The Rt. Rev. Mary D. Glasspool)

Palm Sunday – April 2 at 9:00 a.m.

Good Friday – April 7 at noon.

Easter Sunday (Hat Sunday) – April 9 at 9:00 a.m.

To participate by teleconference, please dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women are having the following Fundraising Events:

• Cake Sale at the church on Saturday, March 25, starting at noon. Please come down and join us for this event. Buy and take home some of our delicious baked goodies!

• in celebration of St. Joseph’s Day. Tickets are now available. Donation of $5 for a book of six tickets. Please contact Valrie Payne at 1-347200-5850. First prize: $300, second prize: $150, and third prize: $75. Drawing will take place at the church on Saturday, May 27, at noon and winners need not be present.

Grace and Peace!

––M. Chambers

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle is located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475. We invite everyone to worship service on the following days:

Sunday Worship service begins at 11:00 a.m.

Prayer and fasting service will be held every Wednesday morning from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. In the sanctuary, however, all night services will be held online.

Prayer meeting and Bible study will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Worship service and Bible study held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.

To join online, call 720-740-9746, Access Code: 8876631.

Focus: The power of the incorruptible Word of God can lead souls to a new experience and the eternal life.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time? For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vein conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot; Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him do believe in God that raised him up from the dead and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently. Being born again, not of corruptible seed but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.” (1 Peter 1: 3-5, 18-23)

“A new commandment I give unto you that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have loved one to another.” (John 13:34-35)

In St. John chapter 13 Jesus speaks of love while experiencing betrayal which would lead him to the cross, where he sufferers pain and insult from the ones he loved the most. Abandonment from his close disciples while his enemies closing in on him, yet he was teaching them love and forgiveness.

One great example is (1 John 3:16) “Hereby perceive we the love of God because he laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” (I John 3:1)

God loves us with an everlasting love; therefore, we should love one another. For further information, call 718-324-0334.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

(718)

If you SEE something, SAY something!

Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Church of the New Vision and Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge welcome you to worship with us at 115 Einstein Loop North, Bronx, NY 10475. Church phone: 718671-8746, and Pastor’s phone: 914-522-5039.

Our scripture verse for 2023 is: (Luke 10:27) “And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.”

Sunday service will be at 11 a.m. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken.

Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study starts at 7:00 p.m. The Conference Line Number: 646-769-9900, Access Code: 3099388.

All are welcomed to join our 40-day journey of fasting and prayer, using the devotional titled “Joy” (Hebrews 4:16).

Sunday, February 19, Worship Service: “The Keeper of the Kings Oil”

Scripture: (1 Chronicles 27:25-34) “And over the olive trees and the sycamore trees that were in the low plains was Baalhanan the Gederite: and over the cellars of the oil was Joash.”

Black History Month Spotlight on Ruby Bridges: Ruby Nell Bridges is American 6-year-old student to desegregate the all-White William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana. Ruby was escorted to school by four marshals and taught by a single teacher during the New Orleans school desegregation crisis on November 14, 1960.

Ruby Nell Bridges, founder and chair of the Ruby Bridges Foundation, promotes the tolerance, respect and appreciation of all differences. Enjoy reading “Ruby Bridges Goes to School” and “Through My Eyes” by Ruby Bridges.

Save The Date: Thursday, August 10. Join us for a bus trip to see Moses at the Sight and Sound Theatre with lunch at Golden Corral prior to the 3:00 p.m. show. Adults: $190, and Youth: $150. Deposit $30 to reserve your seat. Final payment due July 15. Contacts: Sadie James, 917-667-4227; or Hermena Smith, 718-708-5035; or email: info@churchnewvisionbx.org.

Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you.

––Brenda Brown

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow in-person at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Masks are required. The 11:00 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web. zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: 646-568-7788, or Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#.

Rev. Williams asks everyone to call into the Sunday Worship service or Wednesday Bible class using Zoom through your computer or dialing in using the Zoom information shown above.

Tomorrow, February 26, at the 11 a.m. service we will celebrate Black History Sunday. All are invited to join us for this celebratory service.

The Scholarship Ministry will offer a second trip to Sight and Sound to see Moses in May if enough people are interested. Contact Sis. Brenda Robinson at 718- 671-1271 or Sister Claudette Cutler Day at 718-379-0541 for information.

The Scholarship Ministry invites all to join them on a trip on June 26 for six nights lodging and eight meals, Soul of Motown show and guided tour of the Smoky Mountain National Park and much more. The cost of the trip is $765 per person based on double occupancy. Payment is due on March 5. To make a reservation or for additional information, call Sis Brenda Robinson at 718-6711271 or Sister Claudette Cutler Day at 718-379-0541.

Adult Sunday School classes are held on Sundays at 9:15 a.m., in-person. Classes are also available on The Free Call Conference.com Line, dial-in number: 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

Young Teens Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 701-8025240, Access Code: 2528913. Teens Class is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 702-843-2644, Access Code: 2676710, and Juniors Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 737-774-8306, Access Code: Juniors.

Mid-Week Bible Study will be held on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m.

Prayer Warriors Prayer service is held on Thursdays at noon. Prayer Service is also held on Fridays at 10 a.m.

Friday Evening Prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

All Prayer services can be joined using the Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number shown above.

The church has a free app available on your app store by searching “Co Op CBC.”

Please keep each other in prayer and be wise in your decisions. Please continue to mask-up, practice social distancing and stay safe!

“God will strengthen us as we continue to travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

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

––Hattie L. Lucas

Serious offers.

Contact Number – 718-862-0005.

“Notice of Formation of From Hip Hop 2 Hallelujah, LLC. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process

we were created to be different and set apart. The purpose of From Hip Hop 2 Hallelujah is to help others recognize their inner power and uniqueness bearing the image and likeness of the creator of all things. As well as helping them to also realize they are the church, and that the building resides within them. Withtheir purpose for being in the physical building is to strengthen their vertical and horizontal relationship with God through Christ who is the model for us to emulate. Because we were not created to conform but to mirror Christ. We ought to be radical in our thinking, revolutionary in our approach, transparent in our engagement, and transformative in our delivery. 3/11

Feel a “Sense of Community Care” in Section 5’s Pantry/Fridge Fresh Saturday Produce Days

Despite wintery weather on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 shareholders/neighbors “showed up” and received a warm welcome as well as received fresh fruits and vegetables. Section 5’s pantry/fridge is accessible 24/7 throughout the week to all our neighbors in Co-op City. See you there!

If You See Something, Say Something!

Working Together To Keep Co-op City Safe!

• Report any unusual or suspicious persons or activity to CCPD.

• Do not allow strangers access to your building by holding the door.

• Be aware of work being done in your building and when contractors are allowed to be on the premises.

• Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked.

• Do not leave packages or electronics in your car where they are visible.

• Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD.

Emergency: 718-671-3050 or 9-1-1

• Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc

MetroCard Bus

month. The bus only makes one stop in Co-op City: between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. by the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Boulevard.

Some services offered by the bus are:

• Help with any MetroCard-related issues

For more MetroCard information, please visit new.mta.info/fares.

What You Can Do To Deter

Package Theft

Utilizing a combination of the following tips can reduce the likelihood of thieves stealing your packages:

Always track your shipment online.

Choose a shipping option that requires a signature for delivery.

Schedule packages to arrive when you are home or arrange to ship your packages to a location where a friend, relative, trusted neighbor, or building super can accept them on your behalf.

Ship packages to your place of employment.

Request the delivery service hold your package for pick-up at their facility.

Utilize deliveries to retailer provided lockers or carrier provided alternate drop points where you can go to pick up your item.

Utilize free services that track packages, redirect packages to convenient locations for pick-up, and request vacation holds.

Some shipping companies utilize tracking services which can include features such as shipping status noti cations and delivery scheduling. Check to see if these services are available in your area.

Where applicable, consider installing:

Wi-Fi enabled cameras that provide alerts.

Motion-sensor lighting.

Package lock-boxes.

Report suspicious persons to the police.

Photos by Yolanda Ramirez