Co-op City Times 03/05/2022

Vol. 57 No. 10

Saturday, March 5, 2022

Riverbay Board, Elected Officials Protest HRP North Exit Ramp in Co-op City

$1.25

Annual Income Affidavit Notice

BY AVERIL JAMES-BONNETTE, DIRECTOR, FINANCE DEPARTMENT

BY ROZAAN BOONE

April 30, 2022.

July 1, 2022

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CDC Details New Framework for Monitoring Covid-19 Levels Riverbay Board President Bernard Cylich (second right, front row) addresses attendees at the Feb. 26th rally held in Section 5. State Assemblyman Mike Benedetto (left, front row) and State Senator Jamaal Bailey (second left, front row) joined Riverbay Board members and cooperators to call on Gov. Hochul to stop the building of the northbound Hutch exit ramp.

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Photo by Rozaan Boone

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Co-op City Senior Volunteers Honored at Black History Celebration

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NYC Loosens Masking Restrictions for Schools and Key2NYC

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

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Co-op City’s outstanding senior volunteers were saluted at Councilmember Kevin Riley’s Black History Month celebration for their unwavering volunteerism and commitment to community service. The celebratory luncheon took place on Wednesday, Feb. 23, at the Mall at Bay Plaza.

All of the honorees are volunteers who assist with food distribution and other programs sponsored by the Riverbay Community Relations department, directed by Michelle Sajous. They are Grace Acquah, Jessie Bah, Lillian Bonilla Ortiz, Candido Cruz, Edgar Dottin, Willa Edwards, Helen Granger-Atkins, Colette Hamilton, Brenda Henry, Louise (Cookie) Hernandez, Debra Jones, Lauren Lassiter, Thomas Mavins, Elizabeth Opoku-Yeboah, Twanna Parker, David Sanquiche, Percival Simpson, Karen Townes, Sophia Waring, Judy Washington, Cheryl Weller, Elizabeth Williams and Patsy Willis. Congressman Jamaal Bowman, NYS Senator Jamaal Bailey and NYS Assemblyman Michael Benedetto gave Welcome Remarks, and Councilman Riley officiated the awards presentation. The honorees were treated to a musical selection performed by Diana Arroyo, Director of Community Relations at Amber Court of Pelham Gardens, and photos with the elected officials.

Photo courtesy of Councilman Riley’s Office

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“The fatalities that will occur as a result of the barrier’s removal after more than 40 years will be inexcusable and avoidable and our governor, Kathy Hochul, must take immediate action to stop this d--n exit ramp,” declared Board President Cylich.

At Saturday’s rally, Mr. Cylich reiterated his concern about removal of the barriers. “When my family moved here 51 years ago, there were no barriers,” he said.

“At that time, periodically, there were major fatalities, there were collisions, head-on collisions, deaths. Finally, DOT set up these barriers. Ever since then, there have

here. It’s not great. When you put all of the things I said together, and what I believe to be the real reason they put that exit there, all it is, is to serve everybody else who don’t live here with the Metro-North coming.”

Director Mary Pearson, said: “I went to a couple of these meetings and the guy was saying this will you get home to Section 5, you won’t have to make the little curvy curvy when you are on the Hutch. Well, we know how to get home to Section 5. We get off 95 at exit 9… . So that’s not a reason. It is not a reason to help us get home, it is only helping the mall. It is an easier way for people to not have to wiggle

Other speakers at Saturday’s ramp rally included (L-R) Board Director Rod Saunders, Director Mary Pearson, Director Leslie Peterson, Director Francine Reva Jones and shareholder Nelson Sweeting.

Photos by John Crow and Rozaan Boone

separate. And now, suddenly, due to the genius of the Department of Transportation, New York State decided to build a ramp and eliminate all those barriers, the entire barrier from Bartow Avenue right to Einstein. What will happen? You bet your life there’s going to be major accidents here.”

Board President Cylich assured the community that the Board will not stop with Saturday’s protest.

“We are sending a message to our governor; she has to use her power to stop this to protest, to demand some honesty, decency, and some rationale. If need be, I am proposing that we go ahead and send a delegation to Albany to visit with our governor to demand that she uses her authority and power to stop this nonsense, this insanity.

If need be, we may need to do some physical civil disobedience and physically stop the removal of those barriers. So, this is just the opening.”

New York State Assemblyman Mike Benedetto and State Senator Jamaal Bailey Both attended Saturday’s rally and reiterated their support.

“We are here today, and I thank you all for being out here, because we are infuriated with the Governor, with the Department of Transportation, because they’re not listening to us,” said Assemblyman Benedetto, adding, “One of the things I’m interested in is how come when we were talking with the Department of Transportation years ago about having an exit coming out of Bay Plaza going south onto the Hutch, they told us, well we can’t do that, we can’t do that because it’s wetlands.

Ok, we’ll buy that, but now they want an exit coming off. How come wetlands don’t come into it anymore? “… How come the Department of Transportation that I’ve been asking to meet with on this and they said we are going to get back to you, they never did; and how come when they come up with this idea of beginning to do something out here, it comes out on a Friday before a three-day weekend and it’s mailed out at 5 o’clock in

Bartow, and that will help the mall. It’s not for us. It is a useless project, it is a $30M going to be a year of destruction, disruption and construction.”

“This was a terrible decision and we did respond to them so I don’t know why they are just ignoring us,” Director Francine Reva Jones said. “We have to come out and protest in large numbers in order to get this changed. I remember the transportation problem we had, where they were going to cut our service and a group of cooperators got together for many weeks and probably months and responded and they listened, but we have to do it in large numbers, we have to come out and support what we (Continued on page 4)

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist – Foot Specialist • Practicing in Co-op City since 1975 • Board Certified in Foot Surgery

Why the secrecy, why the no-discussion that’s been going on and why ignore the just concerns of the Co-op City people? I want to know, intelligent people want to know and suspicion happens when you do what they are doing and we’re not going to stand for that. We are going to protest and we are hopefully going to stop this exit coming.”

The next speaker at the rally, Riverbay Board Director Rod Saunders said there

• ALL conditions of the foot treated

create an impossible bottleneck here that I don’t think anybody has seen before excouldn’t move here and there was no accident; this was just the number of cars

• Evening and Saturday appointments

Retirement Community and we’ve got an awful lot of children. Pollution affects the young and the old alike. We don’t need that.”

-

• Most health insurance plans accepted Now Accepting:

Fidelis • Health First • MVP • Community Health it’s a Stop sign,” he pointed out. “Once you have a situation where vehicles come together, in an accident, they are going to bottleneck that place forever.”

Director Saunders pointed out: “They did an environmental impact. The environarea. It talks about the old buildings that are here toward Pelham Parkway. You know what the environmental impact did not talk about?” he asked the attendees. “It did not talk about people! It did not talk about the residents of Co-op City. Oh, and you did a comment last year, 12 months ago, they asked you to send in your comments.

How many heard back from them except the little bit of a reply that said thank you for responding with your comment. For all we know, 10,000 people here said we don’t want it [the ramp], but you know what? They don’t care because it’s engineers looking at a piece of paper and they say, this looks great, except for they don’t live

Se Habla Español

Call:

718.671.7226

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

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Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Co-op City Times 2nd COMBING

Front Page

Riverbay Corp. Dir. of Community Relations Honored at NYBG Black History Celebration

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

Summer Youth Employment Applications Available Applications for the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development’s (DYCD) Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), the nation’s largest summer youth employment initiative, is now open.

SYEP provides young people with paid opportunities to explore potential career interests and pathways, allowing participants to engage in learning experiences that help develop their professional, social, civic, and leadership skills.

Research shows summer jobs save lives, cut crime, and strengthen communities..

Programming is available through various service options: New York City teens aged 14 and 15 learn about career opportunities and make a difference in their communities through paid project-based activities.

Young people aged 16 to 24 improve their work readiness skills and explore career pathways through paid summer jobs in a variety of industries throughout New York City.

The 2022 program will include two six-week cohorts beginning July 5 and running through August 20. Applications can be completed online or at a participating community-based organization during the application period, which runs through Friday, April 22, 2022. For more information, New Yorkers can call 311 or DYCD Community Connect at 1-800-246-4646.

Riverbay’s Director of Community Relations Michelle Sajous was among the honorees at the New York Botanical Garden’s Black History Month celebration held in collaboration with New York City Councilman Kevin Riley on Thursday, Feb. 24, at the Gardens.

The other Honorees were Sherman Browne, founder and Chief Endowment Officer of AIMHIGH Empowerment Institute, and Madaha Kinsey-Lamb, Executive Director of Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center. Ms. Sajous is photographed above holding the Proclamation she was presented (left), and, at right, seated with Riverbay Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer (center) and Riverbay General Manager Noel Ellison (left).

The program commenced with Greetings by NYBG Board member Dianne Renwick, followed by Welcome Remarks from Jennifer Bernstein, CEO & The William C. Steere Sr. President at the NYBG. New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie was the Keynote Speaker of the event. There were also dance and music performances by Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center.

Attendees were able to visit the Gardens’ Orchid Show. In addition to her award, Ms. Sajous was also presented with a beautiful white Orchid.

Photos by Jewel Webber

MTA Announces Plan to Make Subway Platforms Safer

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Operations Improvements:

Mobile Covid Testing Van NYC Health & Hospitals’ Test & Trace Corps operates a Mobile Covid-19 testing unit daily in Co-op City from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. on a rotating basis, as follows: Mon. & Tues. – 177 Dreiser Loop Wed. & Thurs. – 135 Einstein Loop Fri., Sat. & Sun. – 2049 Bartow Ave. Appointments are not required.

Walk-ups are welcome.

Scan the QR code on the side of paperwork, or a health care professional can assist you on board.

Dreiser Testing Center The Dreiser testing site located at 105 Dreiser Loop offers free Covid Rapid Testing from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Appointments are not required.

Customer Communication Improvements:

Capital Improvements:

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want in our lives; this is ridiculous.”

Shareholder Nelson Sweeting has been a Section Five shareholder since 1982.

He is former President and current member of the Section Five Association, and President of the Building 27 Association.

Speaking about the pedestrian island placed in front of PS 160, Mr. Sweeting said: “Most of us did not know about it. I came out one day and found out they were digging in the street. I had no clue so I called the community board – they ‘Oh, we’re not sure but we’ll check it out.’ … . So they came over.” He noted that because of the pedestrian island, the BxM7 Express bus “was eliminated

by Einstein for over a year and it had nothing to do with us. We live here; they changed this without our knowledge so once they did that, we could not get the Express bus, we have to go to the Hutch to get the Express bus.

Tell me how that helps Section 5 residents? Then they gave the people tickets that would park along the side without putting up a sign— made no sense.”

Mr. Sweeting said the ramp will impact local streets and especially those in Section 5 when school lets out. “We have the school buses school buses during the summer time, it’s going to be chaos, and then we have a lot of seniors trying to cross the street, and so it’s really going to affect us as a whole, not just Section 5, even the people who live in the other sections will be affected,” said Mr. Sweeting.

Board Director Leslie Peterson focused attention on Co-op City’s underground utility pipes. “One of the things that I want to make sure you understand is that if you look right behind you, you’ll see markings all over the place and up underneath there are pipes. And when they start and if they damage something, my understanding is that we, Riverbay Corporation, because of the easement, will be responsible for making the repair and so that will be a cost to us. How you can sit by and allow them to do something like that? Not only as I heard people talk about the traf-

DOT wants to bring a ramp this way, city DOT want to put barriers over by the school, state MTA wants to put a train station over there, all these things together make sense if they talk to each other but it makes more sense if they talk to us. We are management, we want to hear what’s going on, we want to know what’s going on. We stand ready to help or stop as our intelligence tells us it will affect this particular community. We stand together. As Shirley said, this was a quick call, so we don’t have everybody here but once everybody knows what can possibly happen, you will hear from us. Years ago, people would say, if we were that community back then, they wouldn’t do that to us. What I say to you today, Co-op City, as your manager, is we are that community and we are

At left, State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and State Senator Jamaal Bailey called on all Co-op City shareholders to unite to stop the building of the Hutch exit ramp, noting that it is a community issue, not just a Section 5 issue. Shareholder Shirley Saunders (R), Female Democratic District Leader of the 82nd AD, also spoke at the rally.

Photos by Rozaan Boone and John Crow

need to make sure that you tell your neighbors and your friends that they need to come out whenever, whenever, we are having a rally because this should not be a one-time thing. This is our lifeline, this is our home and people need to start listening to what we have to say; it is our community.”

Expanding on the sentiments expressed by Director Peterson, state Senator Bailey expressed that the concerns being aired about the exit ramp would not only affect Section Five residents but all residents of the community and beyond. “Even if you don’t live in Co-op City, if you live outside of Co-op City, it’s going to affect you as well,” he said, “because anything that happens to one of us and this is not just theoretical conversation, the societal impact, yes, we all know what happens to one, happens to another. But I’m talking about the

to affect me in Williamsbridge, it’s going to affect all of us so if you’re doing these things, that could potentially have an injurious harm to one community, it’s going to have an overwhelming effect on the other side.

“The societal perspective is also important too,” Senator Bailey went on.

“You can’t just show up when it’s convenient, you can’t just show up when it’s a barbecue, you can’t just show up when it’s a fun time. You should show up when it’s the fun time – I’m not saying not to, but in times like this, this is where the power and the collective of the community comes together. Assemblymember Benedetto and I, we stand with you but we need to hear more voices and when tions with the state DOT as we have been having, and we have these discussions that have been ongoing, as the assemblymember has said, that we know it’s not just two people with an echo. …They need to hear it. They need to hear you.”

Senator Bailey encourages shareholders to visit the state capitol once it reopens to visitors but in the meantime, he said: “Make phone calls, call the secstanding up for you because quite frankly that’s what you elected us to do. And so, you should know that we stand with you 100% in this regard, this will continue to be communicated. I want you to know this is not something we haven’t been aware of and we haven’t been communicating on your behalf but our presence here, I hope it shows that we are serious and that we mean business and I know that you mean business as well.”

“People are sick and tired of being sick and tired. We have been taken advantage of for much too long,” said shareholder Shirley Saunders, Female Democratic District Leader of the 82nd AD, Part A. “And now we are faced with emissions poisoning us. We’ve got the buses, we’ve got the cars and we’re getting more cars. We have children in this community, we have aging seniors in this community., Everything we need is here. Now, somebody wants to open [exit ramp] to not come and we’ll do everything we can. We need the whole Co-op City community. This was put together in a quick amount of time but for the next one, we will have more time to organize and at the next one, the have to work together with everybody. Are you with me?”

“My job as a manager is to keep services going, and it is not helpful when individuals come and don’t teach us what they plan to do so we could input our ideas of why the services may be disrupted,” stated Riverbay General Manager Noel Ellison. “We expect our government agencies to work together. State

known we vote, we support, we pay attention, and we expect to be respected.”

During the rally, Board President Cylich circulated a petition for residents’ signature to be submitted to Governor Hochul. It was also a sign-up for those interested in going to Albany to lobby the governor to stop the ramp.

Cylich. “You will hear from us and if you’d like to join us in Albany, sign the petition.”

In the meantime, shareholders are encouraged to inundate the governor’s ofFollowing the rally, residents were vocal in their opposition to the northbound exit ramp from the Hutchinson River Parkway into Bartow Avenue.

Former Riverbay Board President Linda Berk stated: “I’m really disappointed that the electeds did not let us know this was happening. This [Killer Curve], historically has been a bad location for us and when you talk about all the things that are coming to this particular section of Co-op City, it’s going to be a serious problem that is risky for life and safety and we’re going to push, we’re not going to let go no matter what they do. We’re going to keep pushing to stop this from happening. Our lives are worth the effort.”

are other ways to get into the community right now, we don’t need another way to enter the community,” he said. “So I am opposed to it, most of the people in Section 5 are opposed to it. I think if the Department of Transportation is building the ramp, they should have come in and sat down and talked to people in the community before they went ahead with the plans that they have now. I don’t think they have respected the feelings of the people in the community.” surmountable to the neighborhood,” said Laura Sagastiverza of Building 29A, a 26-year shareholder of Co-op City. “I’m really concerned about the excessive pollution we will have. This is a problem as it is. At certain times of the year, I always have to make sure that I never come in this direction because of the have to be careful, we still have a big population of seniors and sometimes they may not see well or be able to walk, they have walkers, so we have to be conthat’s going to increase to this small area with only one-lane going both ways.”

“I am a concerned shareholder and they had no right to do this without us being aware of this ahead of time,” said Lori Melton, a long-time shareholder of Section Five. “This will affect our community. We’ve been here for 50 years and we are a tight community with a community setting and we do not need ad5, but in other sections as well. The expense will trickle down to us also. Some age, Co-op City is going to have to pay for it and if Co-op City has to pay for this, our maintenance increases so we should be very concerned. So, it’s not just a Section Five issue, it’s a Co-op City issue. It’s an issue when your family and friends come to visit, it’s a parking issue, it’s a health issue, it’s an issue of many factors so we must stop this from happening in our community.”

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Masks –––––––––––––––––

Sprout Sackiel –– A Co-op Creative

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Sprout Sackiel is an artist from Section 5 who integrates digital and traditional art styles into pieces which employ natural and animal themes. She is consistently working on developing her own creative style, which aims to achieve a lighthearted tone using pastel colors and rounded edges. Her family comes from the Caribbean islands, but she was born and raised in New York City. In her free time, she focuses on healing herself, and learning new skills such as computer science and growing as a self-taught artist. You can support her art on Instagram @studio.sprouts where you can see more images like these.

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been some of the safest places,” Mayor Adams said during his announcement on Friday.

“As of this week, the school’s positivity rate is 0.18%. So I am announcing today that we are lifting the indoor mask requirement for DOE schools between K-12 starting Monday, March 7,” the Mayor went on to say.

Mayor Adams also emphasized that Covid-19 was not going anywhere; and that the city will continue monitoring virus levels going forward and adjust to any spikes if necessary.

Mayor Adams’ decision to lift indoor masking requirements in schools came after Governor Hochul announced last week that she was lifting the statewide indoor mask mandate for schools beginning March 2. Individual counties and cities still have the option to enforce masking rules at their discretion, also according to the Governor.

“With more New Yorkers getting vaccinated, and the steady decline over the past several weeks in cases and hospitalizations from Omicron, we are now entering a new phase of the pandemic. Because New Yorkers have stepped up, Governor Hochul said during her announcement last week.

Both Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams’ moves were driven by current Covid-19 infection and hospitalization rates, both of which declined dramatically since the Omicron surge. In fact, New York State’s Covid-19 cases have dropped by roughly 98% since the Omicron peak and continue trending downward, according to NYS Department of Health data.

In New York City, masking rules will still remain in effect regardless of a person’s vaccination status for certain settings such as: public transportation, taxis, healthcare facilities, nursing homes, correctional facilities, homeless shelters and daycare centers.

The city’s private sector vaccine mandate, one that requires all municipal

Artists of Co-op City, this is your chance to be featured in the Co-op City Times! February’s showcase was a great success in our presentation of the talent that our community holds. We will once again be collecting pieces (Paintings.

Poems. Photos.) from artists of all ages in the community for March’s artist presentation. Email some of 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.

will still remain in effect, according to Mayor Adams.

“All other vaccine mandates in New York City will remain in place at this time as they are, and have been, vital to protecting New Yorkers,” Mayor Adams said earlier this week.

Locally in Co-op City, Riverbay still requires all individuals to wear face coverings in all common areas of residential buildings, garages and community Board Resolution #21-04.

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Co-op City Times /

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the authors.

Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, – •Co-op • –by 3Letters they should be typed. All letters must be in the City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Letters to the Editor

Co-op City Times The newspaper said it was because Section 5 would have convectors, rusted pipes, streets that are never repaved properly, uneven and sloping sidewalks, and a mini garbage dump around the Section 5 curve for years.

To my fellow cooperators, we must, along with paying our Maintenance fees, care about our surroundings.

If you spill something, wipe it up; if you drop something, pick it up; if your dog poops, clean it up. I don’t believe anyone wants to slip, trip over or track waste matter into their homes. At least, I would like to believe that.

Also becoming more active in your community – po-

this area in the 1960s to allow for the construction of the exit access into Co-op City, given the loss of access to I-95 from

ramp will cause to Section 5: 1. In the short term, i.e., during the construction phase, there will be a reduction in parking spaces between Bartow

the space we share. following: Co-op City Times

Co-op City will turn left leaving the exit, thus reducing the b. Cars wanting to go to Section 5 in Co-op City will turn right leaving the exit. drants in our community. This illegal parking is a clear now reside here. There is no reason or excuse for anyone for any period of time.

There are individuals in this community who habitunight, not concerned that their vehicle could delay the Fire a life is hanging in the balance. It is just a matter of time before something devastating occurs.

When there are projects that affect the shareholders of Section 5, I believe Riverbay should hold a public meeting in Section 5 to allow shareholders on either side of the issue to present their position.

I understand that there are concerns about the vital underground pipes that serve Section 5. I hope Riverbay will assign personnel to ensure that the construction does not do damage to those pipes.

Safety each and every time we observe unattended vehicles

Co-op City Times

reported this condition, thank you and please continue to do so. A collective effort will make a difference and we can resolve this problem in our community.

Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

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risk in an area primarily from case numbers and positivity rate.

“This new framework moves beyond just looking at tal capacity, and helps to determine whether the level of Covid-19 and severe disease are low, medium, or high in a reporters at the press conference last week. “This updated approach focuses on directing our prevention efforts towards protecting people at high risk for severe illness and preventing hospitals and healthcare systems from being overwhelmed.”

Means the virus severity levels in a certain area are low and not currently impacting the healthcare system. Individuals do not need to wear face coverings in low level risk areas should they choose to do so.

Means more individuals are experiencing severe disease caused by Covid-19 and, as a result, the healthcare system is starting to feel that impact in a risk of developing severe disease from Covid-19 consider wearing a mask and discuss other precautions with their respective healthcare provider.

Means a high number of people are experiencing severe disease caused by Covid-19 and there is a strong chance for healthcare system strains in a given recommended to wear a mask indoors and in public, ac-

Co-op City Times Times

Co-op City

Individuals looking for the best protection should con-

and they provide high protection to the wearer. There are other options as well, including using a surgical mask or a told reporters last week. your-health/covid-by-county.html. The tool, called Covid-19 Community Levels, can determine if an area is low level risk, medium level risk or high level risk. Indito get the virus risk details of a certain area.

The Bronx is currently considered a low-level risk area,

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.

Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The Co-op City Times does not publish anonymous material.

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which ity and residency of the writer can be

ment of Health data.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

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CCPD Takes Action Against Persons Caught Throwing Objects Out of Windows

Public Safety Report

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Throwing objects out of the windows of Co-op City apartments is a violation of the lease and is illegal.

Public Safety takes complaints of this nature very seriously. Throwing objects out of a window creates a substantial risk of serious injury or death. Persons caught throwing objects out of the windows of Co-op City buildings are subject to penalties. Fireworks thrown from windows or terraces are extremely hazardous and enforcement is heightened.

Co-op City has several new construction projects, which require scaffolding. Scaffolding, also known as sidewalk sheds, create an additional risk as it pertains to objects out the window. It is illegal to throw anything on top of construction scaffolding as it creates a fire hazard. There have been incidents of lit cigarettes igniting rubbish thrown on the top of scaffolding. Shareholders are criminally or financially liable for damage or injuries caused by throwing items on top of construction scaffolding.

A person identified as throwing an object out of a window is subject to arrest for Reckless Endangerment. Reckless Endangerment occurs when a person engages

Public Safety Blotter

February 20 - February 26, 2022 February 20 – 140 Asch Loop CCPD responded to a call for loitering. Upon arrival, CCPD observed a male who was the guest of a shareholder laying down asleep on the steps of the staircase. The shareholder was issued a Community Complaint for their guest loitering.

February 21 – 2063 Bartow Avenue CCPD responded to the establishment for a female removing items and not paying for them. Upon CCPD’s arrival, an employee noted that once the female saw CCPD present, she returned the items and left the store.

2035 Bartow Avenue Two unidentified males entered Dunkin Donuts in the Bartow Mall, went behind the counter and threatened the use of force while removing money from the register. The males exited the store and fled in a vehicle. CCPD responded and NYPD was notified and present on scene. This investigation is continuing.

2061 Bartow Avenue CCPD arrested a male for larceny at the Food Universe in the Bartow Mall.

Investigation revealed that the suspect was observed removing items without paying. The male, who is a shareholder of Co-op City, was apprehended and placed under arrest. He was also issued a Community Complaint.

February 22 – 4100 Hutchinson Parkway A shareholder refused to open the lobby door for an unknown male. A verbal dispute ensued between the shareholder and unknown male with no physical contact.

2440 Hunter Avenue A shareholder reported a package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual. The merchant confirmed delivery. The shareholder was advised to notify NYPD for insurance purposes.

February 23 – 100 Carver Loop A shareholder reports that upon returning to her vehicle parked on the street, she observed that the catalytic converter had been removed. CCPD and NYPD were notified and are investigating.

February 25 – 131 Einstein Loop A customer who is believed to be a shareholder initiated a dispute with a store employee in the Paradise Deli within the Einstein Mall. The customer became irate over the method of payment the store would accept and struck tion. This investigation is ongoing by the CCPD Detective Unit.

120 Benchley Place Upon returning to her vehicle parked on the street, a shareholder observed the air bag removed from the steering wheel. CCPD and NYPD responded and an investigation is underway.

2063 Bartow Avenue Three males entered the RiteAid drug store at the Bartow Mall. They collected an undetermined amount of merchandise and fled the store, entering a vehicle and driving away. During the suspects’ flight from the location, in their haste, they dropped approximately $562 of merchandise that was recovered and returned to the store. CCPD and NYPD responded and are investigating.

February 26 – 120 Benchley Place CCPD responded to a smoke condition in the 5th floor compactor room.

FDNY was present on scene and reported that matches were left burning on the 4th floor staircase causing the floor to be scorched.

Cooper Place Upon returning to his vehicle parked on the street, a shareholder observed his vehicle’s door lock broken and the air bag was removed from the steering wheel. CCPD and NYPD responded.

in conduct which creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury to another person. If there is an injury, the person that threw the object out of the window can be charged with Assault. Reckless Endangerment and Assault are serious charges with severe penalties. As in all cases where a Co-op City resident is arrested for actions within the confines of Co-op City, a Community Complaint is also issued.

The Community Complaint carries a monetary fine and is attached to the monthly carrying charges. Repeated violations may result in eviction.

Public Safety can take action against the shareholder of the apartment when an object is observed being thrown from the window of their apartment. Even if the specific person throwing the object out of the window cannot be identified, Public Safety can still take action. Throwing objects out of windows is a lease violation, therefore, the shareholder of record can receive a Community Complaint when their apartment is identified as the location an object came from. The shareholder is responsible for the actions of all family members and guests therefore the Community Complaint can be issued without the need to identify the specific offender. The Co-op City Community Complaint offers our department an extra level of enforcement in eliminating this very dangerous activity. Repeated violations result in escalating fines and can lead to eviction.

It is important that parents instruct children and teens that throwing objects out the windows is a serious matter. Parents need to make certain that young children and toddlers do not have access to open windows. Toddlers can be fascinated by throwing objects out windows and have been known to empty an entire toy box. This creates a very dangerous situation for which the parent will be held responsible. Be certain that window guards are installed in any apartment where children under 10 years of age live or visit. Call Riverbay Corporation at (718) 320-3300 if you would like to have window guards installed. Smaller items can still fit out windows with window guards in place, so young children should not be left unsupervised near windows that are even open just a little bit.

This is another situation where the Public Safety Department asks for the help of the public in identifying violators. Try to pinpoint the exact apartment and notify the Department of Public Safety if you observe objects coming from a window. Use a specific colored curtain or shade as a landmark. The responding Public Safety Officer can use a floor plan map and identify the exact apartment.

Public Safety will not reveal your information to the violator. Even if you cannot specifically identify the exact apartment, it is still a good idea to call Public Safety for informational purposes. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050.

Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

If consuming alcoholic beverages is in your plans, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink. Phone a friend or a ride share service if necessary. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed any amount of alcoholic beverages.

Buzzed driving counts as drunk driving. The consequences of drunk driving are extremely severe. Legislation in New York State increases the charges and penalties for driving while intoxicated if there is a child in the vehicle.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity. Your actions are a helpful step in the arrest process and enforcement of quality of life violations.

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@ .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.

8

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

The Ramp and the Rally The state is pushing through an expensive, useless, unwanted Hutchinson River Parkway North exit ramp into Section 5. We’d stopped and almost no one gave it a second thought.

Surprise! says the New York State Department We started preliminary work on it yesterday, better move your cars. last year telling them “Nix it! to happen, you have to make [the politicians] make it happen. No one, not even a president, can move heaven and earth, want something or want to stop something, it takes more than two to tango. A lot more.

No ground has yet been broken so it is not past time to demonstrate and be irate. And it’s not too rally last Saturday. have tuned in to NEWS12

“You’re going to increase carcinogens [pollution

Keep listening. Don’t press any number yet. Next, merous elderly residents. leave the Hutchinson River Parkway alone. There’s no That’s mostly true, but it would Mall’s bottom line. Helping a private enterprise has ect decision that uses taxpayer money. That’s why they must come up with reasons like easy access for people traveling from outside our community to the coming-soon Metro North Station or don’t you want

go wrong.

Why so many people are so opposed to this project: Unintended consequences the underground utilities leading into Section 5. At the protest rally, Director Leslie Peterson reminded everyone that those underground water conduits and communications and electric lines are our “lifelines.”

Building 21 Association The next Building 21 Association general session gathering Zoom;

biggest argument against the Death Ramp to Killer Call to Action… Again:

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

Promote: Meetings, clubs and gatherings.

5. Encourage your neighbors to:

6. That is all! That is it!

If you have questions regarding the 21 Association

She won’t take

BRUCKNER EXPWY-HUTCHINSON PKWY MOBILITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, BRONX CO., NYC Project ID No. X73127 To leave an email comment, Google it in its entirety. the correct project site, scroll down to the Feedback button.

it into eight separate chunks. They’re gonna love me!

Ramp Rally and both have promised to try to stop this useless

thirty million dollars, it will only bound travelers on their way to said Mall or to the

Section 5 residents. their support.

Kathy Hochul.

Having trouble complaining to the Governor?

or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

National Council of Negro Women NCNW National –

described how healthy and tasty it is as she shared

tion’s judiciary.

Black History Month – Last Saturday was our

ued support and partnership.

International Women’s Day –

program centered on health and wellness. Fatima

Women Represent – program will be by Zoom on Saturday, April 2, our Youth Section, recited the Langston Hughes NCNW Co-op City Section – bership meeting will be on Sunday, March 13, at Zoom Zoom

ings via Zoom

––Michelle Marbury

want. They’ll warn you when your time is running short and then they’ll give you a bit more time.

So many ways to complain: You could also try

necessary alteration.

ing.

All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows: 1. Contact Numbers all emergency contact numbers and distribute to each neighbor.

2. Co-op City Times:

Eventually you’ll hear, “For more options, Press 3.”

Press 3, you will be told to Press 1 to leave a message or Press 2 to speak to someone. That someone will most likely know nothing about the project whatsoever.

Y

ments, compile them, and pass them on appropriately.

Bronxnews12ramp

.

Whether the project is scrapped or whether it

Dial 518- 474-8390.

tion connecting our minds and our breathing to help

contact us at ncnwcoopcity@gmail.com.

––Joyce Howard

9

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Building 25 Association

Building 27 Association

During our last building monthly meeting, our treasurer, Carol Eilets, read

Charter School – Serenity and Peace –

Our Community –

–Albert Schweitzer ––Wanda Bailey (Continued from page 1)

In cases where there are two shareholders of an apartment, and if one of the shareholders has permanently vacated the apartment, it is important that the remaining shareholder submit documentation to Riverbay Corporation as to where the vacating shareholder currently resides. Acceptable documentation could be: (1) Driver’s license with current address, (2) copy of the apartment lease, (3) utility bill with current address. If this documenbe returned as incomplete and a 50% surcharge will be assessed each month until the documentation is submitted. The shareholder will be liable for all surcharges assessed, no credits will be issued for surcharges already assessed.

“There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.” –Woodrow T. Wilson.

––H. Overman

Celebrate Women’s History Month from March 1- March 31. Commemorate the contributions women have made to the United States over the course of American history!

10

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

Thousands of People Face Eviction A lot of people didn’t pay their rent last year for a variety of reasons. And, now, landlords eviction cases.

Outrageous Number of Eviction Cases

to see how these cases are processed.

Cybercrimes – Get Ready

ware attack.

Close

Contact Information .

Building 9 Association

Free Income Tax Prep Assistance for Seniors tion for This service is seniors • Simple tax returns only!

Zoom Women’s History Month

––Linda Collins

11

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Rivers Run Community Garden Today is a workday and I cannot wait to see all of you who come. We will reveal our new bed frame that will be installed in the first row. Yep, we are working to enhance our curb appeal. We will also collect annual dues and money for sweatshirts. So, bring a friend or two.

Please tell your friends and family about this amazing place where we not only grow fruits and vegetables, but we grow knowledge and friendships.

Rivers Run Community Garden is a movement towards improved mental and physical health. We provide all types of workshops including nutrition, meditation, edible and medicinal wilds identification, planting, construction, and crafting. We are the outdoor classroom for the local schools, daycares as well as residents and neighbors. We are a place of beauty and peace. Visit. Stay. Experience us.

Event Dates (all are welcome): March 5 – Workday at the garden (weather permitting) from 11 a.m. until dark Membership Requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome.

If you would like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982, or me, Gail Sharbaan, at 718-6713801. Mailing address for dues (checks only): 100 Casals Pl. #32K, Bronx, NY 10475.

––Gail Sharbaan

Section 4 Partnership Wednesday Offerings Wednesdays from 4-6 p.m., the African-American Association and the Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City presents: Pop-up Food Distribution (pictured). First come, first served! Location: The Section 4 Partnership at 120 Bellamy Loop, Building 21B, by the rear entrance gathering room suite. Please use the side entrances to line up on both sides of the building. The food will be handed out from the door of the room.

Masks are a must. No exceptions. One person allowed at a time in the room. No food handed out before 4 p.m. The line will form outside of the room until all is distributed. Food is extremely limited, so one bag per household.

We are also offering a Homework Help Program to anyone who wants it for their children via the same cooperation and agreement. See the flyers that will be hanging in the rear entrance hall with a barcode for you to scan for all of the information needed.

Calling all Building Association Presidents, Vice Presidents and Staff The next gathering of the S4P is on Friday, March 18, at 7:00 p.m. 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, and for that reason, we should all show up. 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 coming year. We will email you the link to join the meeting. If we do not have your email address, see below and contact us.

S4P Mission Statement 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.

50thAnniversary T-Shirts!

These 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. We have 50th Anniversary t-shirts. 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 by emailing: section4partnership@gmail.com or phone: 347-915-4939.

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

––Michelle Marbury

12

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Consumer Alert: Div. of Consumer Protection Warns NYers About Brushing Scams Beware of Receiving Packages you Did Not Order found the recipient’s address online.

New York State Division of Consumer Successful delivery of the item then Protection (DCP) is warning about a scam that is becoming popular nationwide in online marketplaces. The scammer uses the which consumers receive a package they didn’t order in the mail. false positive review of a product online and This practice, also known as a brushing scam, targets a recipient and turns them into uct advertised has received more positive pose of writing fake positive online reviews ratings than it has. Since the merchandise of merchandise in the recipient’s name. actually received is another product that is These fake reviews fraudulently boost or cheaper to ship, the scammers perceive this bers, which scammers hope results in an promise your personal information with this illicit practice. ies offer scammers the opportunity to use your personal information for unscrupulous Robert J. Rodriguez. “Receiving packages you did not order at your front steps does not mean it is your lucky day, but most likely, it

To avoid being victims of brushing scams, the Division of Consumer Protection offers the following tips: 1. You don’t have to pay for it. Federal law may allow recipients to keep items they received but did not order. Recipients are under no obligation to pay for unsolicited merchandise and can consider it a gift. If you don’t want the item, you can donate it or simply dispose of it and do not have to return it. ganic (seeds, plants or food), report it to the

fall for the brushing scams that are using you as a bait to boost their online ratings with not be planted as they may be invasive plants, noxious weeds or carry diseases How the Scam Works that could cause damage to economically important crops. Seeds may be sent to the items which were not ordered or requested address below for destruction. Please ensure by the recipient. While the package may be the seed package is sealed tightly and mail addressed to the recipient, there is no return address, or the return address could be that tact information, and any additional details, of a retailer. The sender of the item is usually to:

Frozen Sights in Section 5

Office of the State Plant Health Director of New York c/o Christopher Zaloga 500 New Karner Road stance, contact the local authorities.

3. Notify the retailer. If the package to them and ask them to remove any reviews under your name. mised. Often scammers obtain personal information through nefarious means and scams and other illicit activities in the future.

Examine your online shopping accounts and credit card bills for signs of unusual activity and check your credit report. Consumers can currently obtain free credit reports weekly annualcreditreport.com.

5. Change your password. If you have package, change your account password with the retailer.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection educates, assists, and empowers the State’s consumers. For more consumer protection information, call the visit the DCP website at www.dos.ny.gov/ consumerprotection.

Shareholders did not only wake up last Friday, Feb. 25, to a very light snowfall in Section 5 but to many magical frozen shapes, coverings and mini ice sculptures around Section 5’s Einstein Loop area. Hope you were able to spot some on your strolls on Friday morning.

Photos by Yolanda Ramirez

13

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

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14

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Velocity Track Club Velocity Track Club’s blessings continued on Sunday, February 27, at the 2022 USATF New York Youth Championship at the Ocean Breeze Recreational athletes were in attendance. Medals were awarded to the top six athletes in each event. The following events were contested: 55-meter run, 55-meter hurdles, 200, 400, 800, 1500 and 3000-meter run, 4x200 and 4x400 meter relay, race walk, shot put, long jump, triple jump, weight throw, pole vault and high jump.

Velocity was blessed with 55 medals: 18 gold, 17 silver, nine bronze, four 4th place, four 5th place and three 6th place medals. Plus, we had many athletes break their indoor personal record, Velocity Track Club athletes sporting their medals at according to Athletic.net. the USATF New York Championship.

We accomplished this in many events, such as high jump, long jump, shot put, hurdles and running events from the 55-meter to the 1500-meter run. This shows that our coaching staff is knowledgeable and effective in many events.

The following athletes earned medals: Chase (three gold medals); Steven (three gold medals); Xoan (two gold and one silver); Jada (two gold and one silver); Brianna (four medals); Bryce (two medals); Zuriel (three medals); Saniah (two medals); Aiden, Dallis, Cameron, Justin, Romel (three medals); Pierce (three medals); Mason, Lyon (three medals); Ryan (two medals); Madison T. and Rakae (two medals); Savannah M. (two medals); Candice (two medals); Tiarra (two medals); Karly, Adonijah, Khloe, Talia, Savannah B. and Shyenne (two medals). Awesome job by everyone!

Our next meet will be on Sunday, March 5, at the Armory Youth Championship sponsored by NYRR at the Armory. dred percent of your donation will go towards helping our children. Support our youth so they can continue to do wonderful things! For additional information, please go to our website: Velocitytrack.org, or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins, at 914-441-6196 or email me WATCLT@aol.com.

––Winston Dinkins

15

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Coalition to Save Affordable Housing

Building 22A and 22B Association

The Coalition to Save Affordable Housing (CTSAH) of Co-op City was founded in March 2002 to ensure that the largest Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) not only remained an affordable, but also safe, environment for working families and retirees. This year, the Coalition is proud to launch a series of informative workshops and inclusive events for members, families and friends. Here’s what’s on our CTSAH calendar of events for this month: On Monday, March 7, CTSAH will combine its regularly scheduled Executive Leadership meeting with that of the General Membership which typically falls on the second Monday of every month. The Zoom meeting will start promptly at 7:30 p.m. Please send us an email at: ctsah10475@gmail.com and we’ll send you the Zoom link for the meeting. Otherwise, we will send out a meeting no-

Black History Month honored the African-Americans who fought for change.

President Biden honored our nation by nominating Ketanji Brown Jackson to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Our prayers are with the Ukrainian people during this attack by Russia.

Covid-19 infection numbers are down, so look out for information on mask mandate changes in the Co-op City Times.

Lobby Doors: report the issue to Maintenance.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Please continue to work with your neighbors by being on time to remove your clothes.

Compactor Room: Because of Covid-19, we are receiving more packages.

Large boxes are to be taken to the basement. Do not leave raw or cooked food

the organization. To join the March 7th Zoom, enter this information: Meeting ID: 841 5731 0500, Passcode: 103006.

Next, on Monday, March 14, we will be presenting a Budgeting Workshop featuring Sharon Joseph, a Wall Street executive. Sharon, who is a Columbia Business School alumna, and former owner of Harlem Lanes, will focus on

Our prayers go out to all who lost loved ones. Check on the elderly, the sick and shut-ins. Happy birthday to all. Bundle up, it is cold out there. If you see something, say something. Thank you.

––Betty Leak

promptly at 7:30 p.m. and provide ample time to answer your questions. Here’s the Zoom information for this exciting workshop: Meeting ID: 895 4246 4672, Passcode: kpJ3Xk. Please be sure to help us update your contact information including your preferred mailing address, email and phone number(s) so that you can receive Finally, if you haven’t yet renewed your 2021-2022 annual membership, please do so. Dues are $20 (individuals) and $30 (households). Make checks or money orders payable to CTSAH, P.O. Box 64, Bronx, NY 10475. You can also visit our website for more information about the Coalition: https://www. ctsah.org.

Stay safe and thanks for your continued support.

––Claudia Sampson

Broun Place Townhouse Association Hi, Broun Place neighbors. Thank you to our Grounds staff as they once again had to clean up after a storm. This time, it was last week’s ice storm that blew pedestrian garbage can lids across the walkway. Plus, thank you to our emergency Maintenance staff. The nightmare of a toilet leak was our fate a few Saturdays ago, but Riverbay Maintenance came to the rescue by identifying the plumber came after two hours. We are very pleased at how the process worked.

Follow the weekly Co-op City Times pertinent to you.

We hope you did not miss the annual cinema salute to Black History sponsored by the African-American Association. Compliments to Ms. Michelle Marbury on her writing and keeping up with three community organization articles.

Wanda Bailey from Building 25 has also submitted great association articles.

Did you see the information on Window Guard forms that ran in the Co-op City Times? If you live in a townhouse like Broun or Adler Place, you did not get these forms. If you want window guards and live in a townhouse, you have to go to CSO and inquire.

Be alert! Scam attempt stories are out there. We were targeted with an early morning call claiming that our son was hurt, in jail and needed $9500 in cash for bail. We realized what was going on. The criminals missed their bullseye.

Broun Place residents, stop throwing your kitchen garbage bags over the fence and leaving it around the site. Stop leaving bags of used bottles on the community, and please stop littering. Also, inform deliverers not to drive up on the pedestrian brickwork. Instruct them that they must park in the cul-de-sac.

Read the Co-op City Times for the most recent information on Covid-19 mask mandates. Please recognize that many kinds of vaccines are required. They protheir recipe, but we know to trust them. The data shows the Covid-19 vaccine works too. Neighbors, encourage getting boosters. Believe and trust the science.

We must stop mixing politics and good sense. Check vaccine availability using: Also, seniors, register with the Riverbay “RUOK” Emergency contact programs.

This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic ailment. And remember, never give your personal information to anyone before thoroughly checking them out. Find the Co-op City Times online at: http://issuu.com/cctimes.

Sincere condolences to the family of Ms. Judith Powell, who passed away recently. We send sincere get-well wishes to all neighbors suffering from illness and physical problems. Hoping for strong recoveries for all. Do not forget to check on your neighbors. Use the Broun Place article to announce your important events.

Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever!

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry – 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 food. Remember to bring at least four clean shopping bags with a handle and a shopping cart. We require masks and physical distancing. New registrants can receive food the same day they register. Please show a valid ID NYC card, a Non-Driver’s, or Driver’s license with a 10475 address to register.

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 Registration is open at this location for Section 5 residents. on January 4. You must recertify in order to pick up groceries in 2022. No exceptions. 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, Medicare Cards, Job I.D.s and Access-A-Ride I.D.s are not acceptable.

Restaurant Meal Distribution (Revised Dates) – Black Forum of Co-op City will again partner with a local restaurant to provide prepared meals for pantry guests. Distributions are on Fridays in March: 3/4, 3/11 and 3/18. Meals will not be distributed on March 25. The goal is to distribute high quality fresh meals while supporting local restaurants during the Covid-19 pandemic. Dishes are straight from restaurant menus and individually packaged. The meals will rotate each week, but their names will not be published beforehand. Vegan and vegetarian options will not be offered. Guests registered with the pantry should bring their pantry cards. Please bring sturdy/clean shopping bags. Guests can pick up their monthly food package, if applicable. We would love to continue the program, but that is contingent upon all of us doing our part. Please do not leave any food in the lobbies or laundry rooms.

Defensive Driving Class – An online version of the course is available at the Empire Safety Council website: https://www.empiresafetycouncil.com/. Use the promo code “WRIGHT” to receive a discount. We will inform the public when we resume in-person classes.

––D. Illis

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16

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Francine Reva Jones

Co-op City Activists Respond It was an urgent call for action to the Co-op City community by our Board President Bernard Cylich for a “protest and rally” on Saturday, Feb. 26, to object to the construction of a ramp from the Hutchinson River Parkway onto Bartow Avenue. Approximately 60 people gathered, including Board members, politicians, cooperators and the media, on the grass in the area across from Building 29. Following an introduction

by Board President Cylich, some of the others spoke about the reasons for the protest, including that: • the construction of this ramp would negatively inconvenient to travel on this one-lane roadway and major congestion going in and out of Section 5, especially during rush hours and holidays; • there were concerns regarding the maintenance and repair of underground utility pipes that service Section 5 and any access to this underground space would be at the expense of the shareholders. was a good objective of the NY State Department of Transportation (DOT), it should not be at the detriment of the Co-op City residents. It is my understanding that the proposed plan by the DOT was rejected sometime in April of 2019. Thereafter, at a January 17, 2021 Bronx Community Board #10 meeting, the DOT unveiled its plan to move forward with the construction of this ramp. At some point during this time, the plans should have been redesigned so that a safer plan could be developed and approved along with the involvement of the Co-op City community members.

The location of the new construction is a site that residents call “Killer Curve”because of its twists in the roadway as well as the number of accidents at this site. There were so many head-on collisions on this one-lane roadway that barricades were placed down the center of the street so that the directions would be clearly distinguished. Currently, if a vehicle stalls in

getting through. Adding another negative element (a

Board Directors are dedicated and hard-working

their time to serve our community. They are good peobig mistake. ple who need your support. Remember, they represent I was pleased to see the cooperators who came out you and make decisions on your behalf. last Saturday and I trust that the next time, there will Over the past few years, resident-voter apathy has be more. We might need to take this protest to Albany. required the Election Committee to extend the election for two weeks due to failure to reach the required 1/3 we will retain our quality of life that all cooperators deserve. If you have not already done so, please con- show you care about your community by making a pledge to vote in this year’s Board election. The Election Committee generally offers voting incentives. I number: (518) 474-8390 or visit: www.governor. think offering prize money to vote is a waste of your ny.gov. money. Cooperators should be ready and willing to Women’s History Month vote. However, it is an enticement.

Shirley Chisholm (11/30/1924-1/1/2005) is one of As chairperson of this year’s Election Committee, my heroines. She was a politician, educator and author. I hope this year will be different and 100% of our eligible shareholders will vote. Cooperators’ care and the U.S. Congress, representing the 12th congressio- participation are necessary for a community to remain nal district in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY. In Building Associations a major party’s nomination for President of the U.S. Please attend your building association meetings.

Shunned by the political establishment and the media, Many building association presidents are currently she sought the support of people of color, women, gays conducting virtual meetings, due to the Covid-19 and young people newly empowered to vote at the age pandemic and variants. At these meetings, you will of 18. Her motto was “Unbought and Unbossed.” In obtain important information about your building and 2015, Chisholm was posthumously awarded the Pres- the community, as well as meet and greet your neighidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award bors. Show that you care. of the U.S. Health and Wellness Please teach your children, grandchildren and great The mask mandate has been lifted in NY State. grandchildren about the dynamic Shirley Chisholm. However, Riverbay Management requires its staff to At a time when Critical Race Theory is attempting to continue wearing a mask. All persons are required to erase the true history of Black people in America, it is wear a mask/face covering while in the common areas the time when we must teach them ourselves. of any apartment building, community center or garage Participate in Board Elections Similar to electing your city, state and national rep- Resolution 21-04 is rescinded. resentatives, you should also vote in your local RiverClosing bay Board Directors elections. The annual Riverbay Our lives begin to end the day we become silent Board of Directors elections takes place in May of about things that matter. (By Rev. Dr. Martin Luther each year. The shareholders of each unit are expected King, Jr.) Thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be vote getters will serve a three-year term on the Board. reached at: FJones@riverbayboard.com.

African-American Association of Co-op City 250,000 Signatures: We Can With Your Help!

(AAACC/Blue Horseshoe Foundation Jobs Training) The African-American Association is working with Blue Horseshoe Foundation to bring a “Ready to Work” jobs training program to Co-op City. Our Congressman, Jamaal Bowman, has already issued a letter of support to the Foundation’s application for federal funding for the program, which in-

people accountable for wrongdoing and yet at the same time remain in touch with their humanity enough to believe in their capacity to be transformed? What we do is more important than what we say or what we say we believe.” – bell hooks Gloria Jean Watkins, who was also know by her pen name “bell hooks,” was a cultural critic, feminist theorist and writer. Celebrated as one of our nation’s leading public intellectuals by The Atlantic Monthly, as well as one of

structure, information technology, and transportation. The programs, based in Co-op City, will serve the 16th Congressional District through a virtual platform

her time among teaching, writing and lecturing around the world. A professor in the English departments at Yale University and Oberlin College, hooks was also a Distinguished Professor of English at City College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. She was the author of more than 34 books. She lived in New York City and transitioned on December 15, 2021.

––Michelle Marbury

our community. However, we need your help to guarantee funding success. We ask you to sign the change.org online petition at https://chng.it/WthSZ6G694.

Our goal is 250,000 signatures. Tell your family and friends to sign to ensure the program’s success.

Success and Rebroadcast! night. Thank you again to all vendors who participated in our Zoom presentation.

For a complete list and contact information of our esteemed proprietors, email the AAACC at aaaccpower@gmail.com.

Be a card-carrying member of the AAACC – Membership is $15/year for a single membership and $25/year per household. Email: aaaccpower@gmail. com, or call: 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Kindly send a check or money order only. Sunday, March 20, will be our next general meeting via Zoom.

The African American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: (Contact respective instructor indicated for updates) 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 917-863-1507.

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

The AAACC wishes you and yours a prosperous Women’s History Month.

We leave you with this in celebration: “For me, forgiveness and compassion are always linked: how do we hold

17

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

AARP Chapter #4997

Hello, Retirees!

Welcome to March, everyone! We hope this month has gotten off to a good start for everyone. Daylight Saving time is right around the corner. It will begin at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 13. Be prepared to spring forward one hour.

The downside is we will have to adjust to losing one hour of sleep. The upside, however, is we will get to enjoy longer days of sunlight.

General Meeting – A RODL general meeting was held via Zoom on Wed., March 2. We thank all the RODL members who were able to join in virtually or by phone. Your attendance made the meeting a success. Please mark your calendars and plan to join in our next general meeting on Wednesday, April 6.

Trip Committee day, April 30, is sold out. We are now accepting your payment for this trip; the cost of tickets is $129. You will be required to provide proof of your Covid-19 vaccination when you pay for your ticket. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Serita at (347) 564-5722 or Virginia at (718) 671-4506.

50th Anniversary Celebration – The RODL are planning to celebrate our 50th anniversary at a luncheon at the Marina del Rey on June 15. Details regarding this event will be provided to you soon.

Journal Committee Volunteers Needed – We are seeking volunteers to work on a Journal Committee to compile a journal for our organization’s momentous 50th anniversary. Please contact Virginia at (718) 671-4506 if you would like to volunteer for this committee.

Membership – We are still collecting 2022 membership dues. The amount of the membership dues is $25. Please make your check payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and mail it to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 19, Bronx, NY 10475. We welcome new members with open arms.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Joann at (718) 710-9082 or Eleanor at (646) 234-2498.

Condolences – We extend our heartfelt sympathy to all who have recently lost loved ones. Please know that we continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Sick and Shut In – To those who are sick and shut-in, we pray that you will soon see brighter days ahead.

Happy Birthday – To all our March RODL member birthday celebrants, we wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year.

Please continue to stay safe and stay well until we can meet again at our next general meeting on Wednesday, April 6.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

From the Desk of President Mickens: As we say goodbye to February and hello to March 2022, we are seeing an attack by the Russian government like we have not seen in nearly 70 years. Russia has invaded Ukraine and its people!

The rest of the world is watching and praying for the citizens of Ukraine. We must stand in unity for those people affected by this tragedy.

In New York City and State, the restrictions are continuing to be reduced for the people and businesses. Students can now go without masks outside of the school building but must wear a mask in the school building. Individual businesses can enforce their own rules, as always, and we must adhere to them.

Masks are still required in public places, on transportation, hospitals and gov-

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. In New York City on Feb. 12, 1909, a group that included African-Americans leaders founded, established and announced the formation of a new organization. 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.

Special thanks to our Sunday, February 27th meeting guest speakers: Dr. Cheryl Mensah, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell School of Medicine, Assistant Attending Physician at New York Presbyterian Hospital; and Maureen Licursi, NP/Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation at New York Presbyterian/Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital. They provided slide presentations called, “Be Well with Sickle Cell,” explanation, education and information was shared on Sickle Cell, and how to live well with the genetic disease, which is a life-long, day to day journey for the patient and family. We also discussed the importance of early detection, early screening, prevention and protection. It was a great meeting.

Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, NAACP National Board of Director and NYC State Conference President was an honoree at the Black History Month Celebration, which was sponsored by Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. During our general membership meeting, an interview of President Hazel Dukes, host of the talk show, “In Focus with Cheryl Wills,” and pictures of the Black History

Month award presentation were viewed.

“The NAACP applauds President Biden’s nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court. This is a historic moment for our nation and our community in particular. President Biden has met this moment

Riverbay Corporation has stated their own rules for employees and shareholders to follow. protect and strengthen Social Security, Medicare, reduce costs of prescription drugs and provide a tax credit for family care workers. Write to your elected defeat the TRUST Act. We must not allow this country to be pushed backwards.

Our Chapter #4997 is continuing to address our new memberships and renewals for 2022. Ms. Baker, our membership contact: 781-379-2088, can accept registration dues and enroll new members. Our annual dues is $20. Please give her a call to support our Chapter during these times. Our trip to Ocean City, trip is scheduled for May 15-18, for four days and three nights. The per person cost is $599 and the single cost is $759. You can also purchase cancellation insurance for $49, if you are concerned about changes in the traveling rules. This trip would be the beginning of a bright new summer for all of us. Contact Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962, to get more information and make your reservations.

We continue to send prayers and good wishes to our sick and shut-in family and friends who are continuing to improve from the ailments that had slowed them down. Contact Mrs. Wilson, Good and Welfare, 718-671-5493, if you want to share information on your family.

Our next general membership meeting is March 14 by Zoom. Please feel free to contact me at 917-385-5840 for any concerns and updates.

Be safe, informed, educated and healthy.

––Ann Purnell

NAACP

impeccable background,” Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO, said in a statement. During our general membership meeting, we watched a video highlighting her accomplishments and encouraged those who wish her success to visit NAACP.org and sign a petition of support.

53rd NAACP Image Awards: Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, received the prestigious NAACP President’s Award which recognizes “special achievement and distinguished public service.”

113th NAACP National Convention, July 13-20 in Atlantic City, NJ. We Need You in the Fight: Each and every NAACP member makes a difference to the complex, ongoing work of advancing racial equality. Join this multigenerational network of activists dismantling structural racism by using your power to take action on the most pressing issues of our time. Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP. Become a member or gift a membership: adults $30, youths $10. Make check/ money order 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, NY 10475.

––Brenda Brown

18

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Rod Saunders

Inconvenient Truths Let me start out by thanking the resident cooperators, our NY State representatives – Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Riverbay Corp. staff and CCPD, the press (News12), for coming out to the Riverbay Board of Director’s sponsored “Rally,” Saturday, February 26, to protest the creation of an exit ramp off of the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway, onto the Hutchinson River Parkway E. and Bartow Avenue (eastbound/westbound) streets.

Appearing and speaking on behalf of the Riverbay Board of Directors were: Board President Bernie Cylich, Directors Mary Pearson, Leslie Peterson, Francine Reva Jones, and Sonia Feliciano.

Assemblyman Benedetto and I were given the opportunity to be interviewed by News12 correspondent Julio Avila as well as address the participants of the rally. Assemblyman Benedetto’s comments focused on the lack of the logistical practicality in placing the exit at the proposed location. He assured the Rally’s participants that he was continuing his attempts to halt the placement of the exit. State Senator Jamaal Bailey in addressing the participants, made it clear that an adverse effect on one community has an adverse affect on others. State Senator Bailey made it clear that he and Assemblyman Benedetto will both stand with us, however, he was adamant about the fact that it is imperative that the residents of Co-op City come up to Albany in force, and in unity to demonstrate our distain for the exit. My wife, Democratic Female District Leader Shirley Saunders, also addressed the Rally’s participants and addressed how our community is “sick and tired of accepting unwanted projects that are contrary to our community’s quality of life.”

The messaging was diverse, but consistent in that all comments were in support of “Stopping the Exit” from being built.

As you know, the proposed project had been bantered around for some time now. It was merely a year ago (February 2, 2021) that the Project Manager of the NY State Dept. of Transportation (NYSDOT), and the Project Oversight Manager of the Federal

collection of public comments, objecting to, or in support of, the proposed exit. As of this writing, the results of those comments were not made public, ing towards obtaining that information now. Whatmatter.

Inconvenient Truths

business and the business of government, overrule our quality of life. The exit ramp will have two (2) to the proposed new Metro-North station.

The second inconvenient truth is documented.

The Environmental Impact Evaluation study that was presented with the project’s Draft Report [Chapter 5. – Draft Section 4(f) date November 2020] references the impact, or lack thereof, to the Pelham Bay Park Historic District, or the Bronx Victory Memorial and Memorial Grove. The study goes on to explain the project’s is taking “Measures to Minimalize Harm,” so as to protect the trees & vegetation, buildings structures, and paths, but nowhere in the report that I was directed to by the NYSDOT, is there any mention of the impact of many more motor vehicles exiting directly into the Co-op City community.

My last “inconvenient” reference in this viewpoint centers around one of NY State’s mandates.

A.4302/S.2758) which Governor Hochul signed this past September requiring all emissions. The New York State legislative body unfrom automobiles because the gases contribute to global warming, and more importantly, adversely affect the human respiratory system. The Bronx, as everybody knows, has the highest number of asthma cases in NYC. Having said that, why then would the Governor allow the State to go ahead and build a project that

as PM2.5, which I understand to be particle matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, and has been linked to increased illness and death, primarily from heart and lung diseases. Additionally, this air pollution has been attributed to cause many other illnesses including cancers, cognitive disorders.

Is this what the State wants for Co-op City? A community already bordered by two highways, two malls and two bus depots. “Yes – we’ll order hundreds more automotive pollutants daily please – thank you.”

An Irrepressible Resolve to their Fait Accompli When the NYSDOT’s design engineers concepRiver Parkway into a one lane east/west street when entering Co-op City, I cannot understand how anysee the possibility of a tragic accident literally cutting off thousands of residents from emergency services, or access to their homes, or places of business.

The project engineers may not have been concerned about our air quality, or quality of life period, bound I-95. However convenient the exit from the Hutchinson River Parkway’s northbound exit may new Metro-North Station, how anyone could NOT foresee the potential dangers that the creation of an intersection onto a one lane street after a curve, from a busy highway is, in my opinion, reprehensible.

Therefore, we must maintain an irrepressible resolve going forward, and it is up to every shareholder and cooperator to band together as we have done in the past, make our voices clear that this exit must not be built before it’s too late.

The contractor awarded the NYSDOT project’s contract is moving ahead, so it will be in our best interest to exhaust every measure to shut this part of the project down!

Meet, rally, call, write, go to Albany, whatever’s necessary. Should we need to go further, all options must remain open.

Thank you as always for reading my viewpoint.

I can be reached at rsaunders@riverbayboard.com.

19

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Bartow

Fri., March 11

Thurs., March 10

Wed., March 9

Tues., March 8

Mon., March 7

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

No Events

No Events

Einstein

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Line Dance w/Ellie, In-person, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45.

Arthritis Exercise Class w/Damion, In-person, Rm. 45, 11:10 a.m.-12:10 p.m.

Health & Wellness Support Group, 10-11 a.m. Virtual.

Stay Well Exercise w/Denise 10:00-11:00 a.m., Rm. 2

Arts with Laura, 10 a.m.12 p.m. via Zoom and phone. Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387.

Health & Wellness w/Ann 10-11 a.m.

Bereavement w/Dorine 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387.

Zoom Smartphone & Tablet Class, 2-3 p.m.

Dial in #: 1-646-876-9923 Meeting ID: 889-6644-6693 Passcode: Bartow Arts with Laura 10 a.m.-12 p.m., via Zoom and phone. Must call or

email to register: 929-3991387.

NORC Aerobic Classes Every Fri., 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Mobile: 929-205-6099; Meeting ID: 986 8235 8691; Passcode: 849150

Stretch and Tone w/Ola Rm. 38, 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

In-person.

Bodies in Motion w/Ola 11 a.m.-12 p.m., In-person Line Dance w/Cynthia Rm. 45, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Chair Yoga w/Charles Tyler 10-11 a.m. Zoom, virtual only for now. Dial-in: 1-646-876-9923 Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173 Passcode: 855423 Piano Class, In-person, 11 a.m.12 p.m.

ZUMBA w/Ola Rm. 45, 1-2 p.m.

Knitting & Crochet Rm. 2, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.,

Enjoy a delicious luncheon at Longhorn’s Restaurant; choice of sirloin steak, chicken marsala or seafood cakes, served with side dishes, dessert, beverage, coffee, tea, taxes and gratuities included. Pick-ups: Bartow (in front of library), 8:30 a.m.; Dreiser (in front of the hardware store) 8:45 a.m.; and Einstein Loop in front of the community center, 9:00 a.m. Price: $80.

– 9-11 a.m.

Zoom meeting. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057.

– 11

Stuffed Cabbage w/Beef Mashed Potato Steamed Carrots Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit and Juice

Tofu and Vegetable Fried Rice Braised Collard Greens

Hummus Plate Pita Potato Salad Beet Salad Fresh Fruit and Juice

Spanish Class, In-person, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Please call 718-320-2066 for an appointment.

Non-Kosher

Weight Mgt. Support Group w/ Gigi, 2nd Wed. of the month, 1-2 p.m. Conference call: 929-2991045, Passcode: 1386 Bingo, 1 p.m., Rm. 2, In-person, or join Zoom, Meeting ID: 828 4139 6474, Passcode: 194662 Dial-in number: 1-929-205-6099 Self Defense Class, In-person 2 p.m., Rm. 2.

Computer Class w/Victor Room 40, 2-3 p.m., In-person

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

Kosher

Sesame Chicken Lo Mein Oriental Blend Vegetables Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Line Dancing w/Ellie 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Dreiser Loop Senior Center, Rm. 2. Must wear mask and maintain social distance during class.

Line Dance w/Cynthia Rm. 45, In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m. Meeting ID: 992 3169 6108, Passcode: 503637; Dial-in: 1-929-205-6099; Virtual & In-person Computer Learning Zoom meeting w/ Ralph, 6 p.m. Dial-in: 929-205-6609, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554, virtual only.

Blood Pressure 1st & 3rd Tues.

10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Digital Photography Class In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Tai-Chi, In-person, 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Arthritis Exercise Class w/ Damion, every Thurs., 11 a.m.

-12 p.m. Zoom Meeting ID: 986 0021 6442, Passcode: 573762.

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

required for registration.

MENU

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Art Class w/Dmitry 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Meditative Moments (Meditation Class), 9-10 a.m., Rm. 2

Yankee Pot Roast Barley Winter Blend Vegetables Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice BBQ Chicken Legs Baked Potato Grilled Vegetables Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

BBQ Chicken Leg Roasted Butternut Squash Sauteed Spinach

Pork Tenderloin w/Zesty Cilantro Sauce Baked Red Potato Wedges Steamed Broccoli

Baked Fish Fillets Baked Macaroni and Cheese Normandy Blend

Curried Chicken Legs Brown Rice w/ Pigeon Peas Okra

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk

*Menu subject to change without notice.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

a.m.-12 p.m., third Thurs. of every month. Dialin number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 991 1390 5105, Passcode: 170462.

– Thurs., 6-7 p.m. Join Zoom Meeting. Dialin number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

-

15-minute interval. Pick-up is at Bartow on Asch Loop near the library.

– Wed., 4-5 p.m. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 882 1866 2627, Passcode: 093787.

that will meet virtually every Thursday from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Meeting dates are March 10, 17, 24, 31 and April 7. Please email amoncrieffe@jasa.org to register for this activity.

12 p.m.

Pick-up starts at 9:30 a.m. and picks up at every

at Dreiser in Room 2, Wed., 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 10:30-11:30 a.m.; Thurs., 10-11 a.m.

– 2049 Bartow Avenue, JASA with Long Island University Students – Wed., 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Einstein, Rms. 45 and 49.

(2 tests per cated beneath the library; Monday, March 14, 11

20

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Traditional Synagogue The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services.

Saturday morning services will start at 10 a.m.

The requirement for wearing a mask and social distancing will be strictly enforced during all synagogue services.

General Information The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is accessible, no steps. Phone number: 718-379-6920.

a message.

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

The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help.

The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan.

There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op

City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, March 5, at 6:44 p.m.

Candle lighting for Fri., March 11, at 5:38 p.m.

Good and Welfare a loved 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, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To All Members Happy birthday to our members who will be celebrating their birthday in March. Please send me your name and I will add it 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

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, St. Joseph’s Church has suspended services until further notice. However, we continue to worship via teleconference on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Father Johnson also conducts daily weekday services at noon.

You are invited to participate in these services by calling 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

Fundraising Cake Sale – The Episcopal Church Women of St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church is having a Cake Sale on Saturday, March 26, starting at noon. Please come down and join us for this event. Buy and take home some of our delicious baked goodies!!

Grace and Peace!

––M. Chambers

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment responsible for a daily Medical Coverage co-payment of $300Did you know that discharge $500 a day? planning and billing begins when One of the biggest you enter the emergency? This is an misconceptions excellent time to review your health about Medicare is care coverage. Check to see what your that it provides longcoverage does and does not cover. What is the coterm nursing home payment for an ambulance to the emergency room, to be seen at urgent care, or to see a medical doctor, coverage. It doesn’t. Medicare covers only limited periods of inpatient care, only in a skilled nursing or specialist, lab workup, and diagnostic exams like an rehabilitation facility following a hospital stay, and MRI, Cat Scan, or x-ray.? only under strict guidelines. Still, Medicare nursing Does your coverage cover rehabilitation in the home coverage can be vital if the person you’re caring home, at a rehabilitation center, or nursing home? Is for has just been hospitalized. Medicare can pay for Hospice services covered in-home or at a facility? costly short-term, intensive rehabilitation, which, in Are homecare and HHA services or respite services turn, can give you a chance to arrange for longer-term covered? If so, what is the length of time? Can you care if it’s needed. pay privately for respite care?

One of the reasons many people mistakenly believe You have just been told that your loved one that Medicare covers long-term custodial care is will be transferred from the hospital to the nursing Affiliated Benefits_Ad_Final_Layout 1 1/10/22 2:52 PM Page 1 that it is easily confused with Medicaid, a separate home for rehabilitation. You have some concerns, program. Unlike Medicare, Medicaid can cover longwill rehabilitation services be covered by Medicare, term care, either in a nursing home or home. Medicare Medicaid, or other health insurance? How long will nursing home coverage is a standard part of Medicare the coverage pay for these services before you are

Ab

A. Anyone enrolled in Medicare Part A can receive Medicare nursing home coverage if they qualify for it. There’s no special paperwork needed to apply for Medicare nursing home coverage; the nursing home itself handles all the administration. If the person you’re caring for is enrolled in a Medicare Part C Medicare Advantage Plan, it too will cover nursing home care. in a facility, Medicare pays all covered charges. For days 21 to 100 in a nursing facility, Medicare pays all covered costs except a daily “coinsurance amount” for which patients are personally responsible. If the patient has a private Medigap supplemental insurance policy, that policy might pay some or all this coinsurance amount. After 100 days in a covered skilled nursing facility, Medicare no longer bears any cost.

Does all this sound confusing? Please join us on March 17 at 7 p.m. for our upcoming 45-mins. “Let’s Talk” informational session. Topic: Medical coverage for Nursing Home services. Presenter: Lourdes Gonzalez, Director from Regis Care Center.

––Diane Cooper

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Serving all cultures & faiths

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Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

Iglesia Evangelica MU de Co-op City Co-op City United Methodist Church Open doors, open hearts and open minds “If you say, ‘the Lord is my refuge,’ and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” ––Psalm 91:9-1.1 UMCC is a Bible-centered congregation with nities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to ticultural and bilingual congregation. All are welfer online service.

through Zoom, please use the following information our services, please contact our administrative secreemail: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com.

Remote Schedule for Sundays. Come and reonline through our Facebook page: www.facebook. vices via Zoom. For more information, visit our website at www.coopcityumc.com.

Date: TBA.

Food Pantry:

tion and distribution of food are on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Those registering must present one of the following government-issued up-to-date ID’s one participant per household may register.

Blessings.

––Marta Medina

Co-op City Baptist Church Line shown above.

available on Zoom using the following informaZoom

lodging including four consecutive nights in South tional information or to be placed on the waitlist.

using the Free Conference Call.com Line.

Call.com line shown above.

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tory service.

The Scholarship Ministry is going to Mt.

Zoom/Free Call Conference

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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

Pentecostal Tabernacle their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise as follows: morning at 11 a.m. at 11 a.m. Bible study and prayer meeting start at

Focus: an hour as ye think not the son of man cometh.” – Matthew 24:44 “Then shall the kingdom of heaven be like unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth

bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.

And at midnight, there was a cry made, behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, give us of your oil, for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, not so; lest there be not enough for us and you, but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us but he answered and said, verily I say unto you I know you not watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the son of man cometh.” –Matthew 25:1-13

The son of man will soon return in an hour that patiently studying the word of God and be prepared ney, it is important to check to see if there is enough gas to take you to your destination. Therefore, it is important that we keep our heart right with God having our vessels trimmed and burning bright, and do many years building the ark, and he knew that the know the exact day. The same applies to us in this time, we have seen signs and wonders, and strange things happening all around us, but we do not know the day and time of Christ's return. Therefore, let us maintain a sweet fellowship with God and prepare for the coming of our Lord and savior.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Church of the New Vision Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus dant mercy towards us as His people through Jesus Christ, the very demonstration of God’s Love towards humanity. (John 3:16) As we celebrate Jesus Christ, the very demonstration of God’s Love towards humanful for the blessings we have received. May you and your family have a happy and healthy new year.

Kenneth and Deborah Hodge, welcome you to worship with us.

Our verse for 2022 is: (Isaiah 54:17) “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from, Me, say the Lord.” has reopened.

a.m. en. Welcome back. Services can also be viewed on YouTube

please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity.

Sunday, February 27th Service Theme Scripture: (1 John 5:4-5) “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5:1-5; Colossians 3:11; Acts 17:25-26; Revelations 12:11.) sympathies and prayers to the grieving families.

May God grant you the strength, comfort and peace

in unity by God’s grace –– abiding in faith, hope and love. Because a small group of believers saw a need and had a mission to move forward in unity with a 50th Golden Anniversary Fundraiser with your contribution of organization. Make payment payable to Church of

The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Love of God be with you all. Amen.

––Brenda Brown

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Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

CLASSIFIEDS

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APPLIANCE REPAIR

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

Old Records Wanted.

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Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497 Fully Insured

718.792.2655

10/30

• ALL HANDYMAN SERVICES • RANGE HOODS We BEAT • VERTICAL & MINI BLINDS • LIGHT FIXTURES Any • SINK VANITIES • KITCHEN CABINETS • SPACE SAVERS • CABINET REFACING Quote!

• MATCHING HAMPERS • COUNTERTOPS • BATHTUB ENCLOSURES • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CLIP-ON MIRROR FRAMES • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

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Please see page 7 for information on how to apply for employment opportunities at Riverbay Corporation.

1-800-479-2667

• Stoves • Washers • Dryers •Lamps • Dishwashers • Refrigerators • Bags • Hoses • Belts • Vacuum Cleaners

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LP, 78 or 45.

Call Joe 917-952-4408

3/26

RESUME SERVICE RESUME GURU 20+ Yrs Experience - Top Quality Service Resumes for New/Experienced Job Seekers References Available - Reasonable Prices - Cash & Zelle Resume.Guru328@gmail.com 3/5 Call or Text (929) 255-4429

Elim in Bugsate

CO-OP SALES BLINDS! Vertical, Mini, Wood, Pleats

www.co-opsales.info 3/26

REUPHOLSTERY

REUPHOLSTERING 718.881.7691

Custom Craftsmen – 40 yrs. experience. Sofas & Chairs upholstered; Slipcovers - Fabric & Plastic; Kitchen Chairs - $8.99 & up. Caning; Venetian Blinds; Drapes - Custom made, Refinishing, Touch Up & Polishing of Furniture.

3/26

CLEANING SERVICES

STYLISH DECORATORS 3/26

3/26

TAX PREPARATION 3/5 3/5

LOCKSMITH

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS SPOONER

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• Basic Cleaning $100 • Deep Cleaning $150 • Non-Medical Senior Care $90 • 4 Hour Min. + 8.88% tax • Bonded • 7 Days • Cash, Pay-Pal www.spoonercleaning.com 3/5 (718) 320-5112

Advertise in the Co-op City Times!

Call for rates!

Ads starting at $8/week!

718-320-3300 x3384

NEW STYLE BLINDS Re-installation of any types of Blinds.

Repair Closet Doors and Sell New Bi-Fold Doors!

3/26

COMPUTER CONSULTANT, SALES & REPAIR JB RYAN COMPUTER REPAIR & UPGRADE

3/26

Repair – Upgrade – Data Recovery – Virus Removal – Laptop Overheats – Cracked Screen – Broken Power Jack – Transfer your cassette tape music to CDs. Call James 646-281-4475, 718-324-4332.

FOR SALE 1 Single Motorized Bed - $600; Motorized wheelchair $700; Manual wheelchair $150 All items have to be picked up by buyer.

Ericacmitchell@hotmail.com; 646-853-4658 3/19

CLASSIFIEDS

WHISTLEBLOWER ANONYMOUS HOTLINE

MARY KAY CONSULTANT Cassandra Watson-Gabbidon, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant. Website: www.marykay.com/cwatson-gabbidon.

Phone: 954-861-0475. Mention this ad when you call.

3/5

PAINTING

FATHER & SON

5/7

Top Quality Work - Painting, Plastering, Tiles, Walls

Call Wesley 212.996.7347 or 917.325.5334

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; or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the email or fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022

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Co-op City Times / March 5, 2022