Co-op City Times 03/25/17

Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. © Copyright 2017 Co-op City Times

Seven pick up petitions to run for the Board of Directors Vol. 52 No. 12

2017 - 2018 Budget Approved

Saturday, March 25, 2017

Deadline for submission is April 3

Seven shareholders picked up qualifying petition packages this week for the annual election of the Riverbay Board of Directors which will take place on Wednesday, May 24.

The petition period for those who hope to qualify as a candidate began this past Monday, March 20, and will conclude at 5 p.m. on Monday, April 3, when all signed petitions are due back to the Riverbay Legal Department, located in the administrative building at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.

BY ROZAAN BOONE

A test survey, which will look like the depiction above, will begin arriving to Co-op City households this coming week as a precursor to the 2017 Riverbay Board election which is being conducted by mail-in ballot or electronic voting this year. Please fill out the test survey and return it by the April 10, 2017 deadline by following the instructions included with the survey.

Out of the seven resident shareholders who picked up petitions to run for a seat on the Riverbay Board of Directors this week, four are incumbent directors, one is a former candidate, and two are running for (Continued on page 15)

Mid-week power outages caused by disconnections during scheduled maintenance of a turbine A preliminary Root Cause Analysis (RCA) investigation into a series of partial electrical outages that affected buildings in Section 3, 4, and 5 both Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning pointed to scheduled preventive maintenance testing activities being (Continued on page 11)

BY BILL STUTTIG

Board Set Priorities That Reduced Carrying Charge Increase

25¢

Reviewing and ap- President’s Message the time of our mortgage proving our most recent application. budget was a long proHCR imposed a 3% cess, but I believe it increase over the board’s President was a necessary proapproved 1% two years cess to go through. In in a row. Additionally, the end, the majority of Wells Fargo wanted an autothe board concluded that matic 2% annual increase in Co-op City had several our mortgage agreement that capital projects that needed the board, under Director to be addressed and while Cylich’s charge, got them to we saved close to $5 million agree to let the board raise during the budget review the carrying charges only process, there was no other when needed. If not, we place to find $20 million would automatically have to meet our needs, aside a 2% increase each year, from a draconian cut in mandated by our mortlabor that would have drastically gage. reduced services and our quality of life.

Business, Not Personal or Political If there was any other creative way I strongly believe that the work of of finding the money, no one was able the Board of Directors is that of to identify it. In the end, if we did not business. From the board developapprove a budget to address our needs ment weekend to the insistence on and maintain the property, the decifollowing protocol, I believe the sion would have been made for us. board should be about business, not Some may say that is a fear tactic. I politics or personal agendas. When I say it is reality. The same reality the ran for the board, I campaigned on board faced when the entities wanted ridding our board of the politics, pera management decision. They threatsonal agendas, corruption and ened the board with fines of $40k each incompetence on the board and in if a decision was not made by a set management. I stand firmly on that deadline. We have also lived through (Continued on page 2) two imposed carrying charge increase at

Linda Berk

SCRIE & DRIE may help defray increased carrying charges for some Co-op City shareholders

Eligible Co-op City shareholders who are registered with the city’s Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) programs may be able to avoid paying the monthly carrying charge increase which is tentatively scheduled to go into effect on Thursday, June 1, 2017.

(Continued on page 4)

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Spelling For Success!

After many weeks of reviewing all the capital needs that Co-op City faces over the next five years, the Riverbay Board of Directors struck a balance between funding the necessary projects and maintaining affordability for shareholders.

Instead of accepting Riverbay’s original proposal of a 4.62% carrying charge increase this year, the Board adopted a two-year budget that raises charges 1.9%

BY JIM ROBERTS

(Continued on page 34)

Management Report see Page 9

Spelling for Success – Twenty-two boys and girls took part in the 4th Annual Spelling Bee sponsored by the African-American Association and the Riverbay Fund on March 18 at the Bartow Center.

(See story on page 3, photos on page 5) Photo by Lauretta Jaysura

2

President’s Message

today. When each board director takes their oath of office, they swear to assume fiduciary responsibility for the corporation, the entity for which each of us are shareholders. Taking care of the corporation is and should be our focus. When we do that, we are protecting the investment of every shareholder. When we make decisions, they should be for the corporation (shareholders) collectively, that is the just, fair and legal approach. I believe as President, my role is to ensure we stay focused on our responsibility and that the corporation is directed into a sustainable future of efficiency and quality living.

Balanced Approach to Savings and Financial Stability Three years ago, the makeup of the Board of Directors changed and under the new leadership of Cleve Taylor, the board took on some very difficult tasks.

We removed MSI, a management company that many in this community were leery of for many years. We performed forensic exercises on their computers to verify claims of impropriety. We established an interim management team and began a yearlong arduous task of searching for new and competent property management talent. Our decision to hire Douglas Elliman has served us well and for the first time in over fifteen years, management and the board are working together for the betterment of the shareholders.

Prior to new management and since, this board has insisted on a holistic approach to managing Riverbay Corp.

That means the board and management consider a comprehensive analysis of all things that make this property work, including staff, processes, organization, finances (revenue and expenses), corporate culture, technology, structures and infrastructures to name some. In so doing there has been incredible improvements that have saved us money.

It’s not just about cutting the budget, it is about running this property in a smart and efficient manner that will save the corporation money and improve the services delivered. Because of the age of the property, there may be some cost that the shareholders may bear, however, we are investing in our property. I am confident Co-op City will remain an affordable housing option and the best deal in town if we continue with this strategy.

Savings Over the Past Two Years In taking a holistic approach to managing our property we have found savings in many ways. So, when asked to cut the budget, as a service providing corporation, the only place where management can cut to find 20 million dollars is staff. When we cut staff, we will lose service and quality of life

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

standards. We can cut an employee here and there where there is inefficiency, and management has done just that. However, it will not give use the necessary money. I am proud of the job our new management has done so far, and there is more work to be done.

Listed here are all the ways we have saved money or increased revenue, millions of dollars to offset any additional cost to shareholders.

Staffing and Reorganization to Date (saving millions) New Talent and/or Department Internal Auditor (7 Years without) Procurement Department (Contracts and Compliance) NEW Risk Management Garage and Storage (Combined) Construction Supervisor NEW Construction Director of Safety IT Interaction with Elected officials Round Table with: Addressing elevators, Water Commission policy impact and transportation: Congressman Eliot Engel; State Senator Jamaal Bailey; Assemblyman Michael Benedetto; Assemblyman Marcos Crespo; Councilmember Andy King; Meetings with Mayor Bill de Blasio, First Deputy and Commissioners; Asbestos; City Agencies response to Riverbay Waterfront Development (City funded); Community Center (City funded); It is important that as we move forward, we not lose sight of our goals.

We must remain on the path of looking at the big picture and interdependency of the thousands of moving parts at Co-op City. As we continue to

MTA Real-Time Service Updates

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

refine the organization, technology, establishment of protocols and training of staff there are many additional ways this corporation can continue to save money, keeping any future cost to the shareholder to a bare minimum.

That is the charge of the board and management; to keep the property maintained, prevent catastrophic failure, maintain or improve the curb

appeal and quality of life while minimizing the cost to shareholders. If management does that with the oversight of the board, we will continue to be a national example of sustainable affordable housing.

I continue to be interested in your thoughts and ideas. I may be reached at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or Lberk@riverbayboard.com.

$25 off for New Clients excluding 1040EZ.

Please bring coupon.

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Co-op City Times 2 n d

Front Pa ge

3

Co-op City Holds 4th Annual Spelling Bee Stephen’s dad, George Ogunbiyi, who could hardly contain himself, also had two other of his On Saturday, March 18, the African Amersiblings competing in the spelling bee. He said ican Association of Co-op City and the Riverthat Stephen was the “best student” in his school! bay Fund once again collaborated to cosponMs. Valerie-Walker-Gordon said that she was sor the annual spelling bee in Co-op City. proud of her grandson, Jaivan, who she called The event’s initiator, Board Director “my mathematician or sports player,” whatever Francine Reva Jones, explained: “When I first he wants to be. saw ‘Akeela and the Bee’ (the movie), I knew Ms. Daisy Bilson, whose twin daughters, this had to come to Co-op; smart kids rock!”

Eyram and Yayra, were in the competition for Like Akeela, last Saturday’s contestants the first time, said that she was very impressed were all young, smart and great spellers who and enjoyed the contest very much. “Spelling were eager to compete. Twenty-two boys and helps them go further and makes the brain acgirls in grades 4 to 8 came out to this 4th Antive,” she said. nual Spelling Bee held in the Bartow Center, Every child who competed, win or not, reroom 31, which was cheerfully decorated by ceived a personal congratulatory certificate for committee volunteers, along with their famiparticipating. The First Place winner received lies, moms, dads, sisters and brothers and $100; the 2nd Place winner, $50 and the 3rd even a few grandparents. The youngsters deplace winner received $25. Additionally, the cidedly excited had an air of nervousness, but “Bee Hivers” or those who registered early each more so they showed confidence. received special prizes.

Twelve-year old Stone Ferguson of Queens, The other contestants were: Princess Owusu NY, said that this is his second time competing Agyepong, Eyram Bilson, Yayra Bilson, Jonelle and he likes to meet new people.

“I might lose or I might win, but I am con- 1st Place winner, Stephen Boateng, Caleb Brennan, Raquel Broodie, Paige Noelle Brown, Dakota Cameron, Julian fident,” Caleb Brennan, only 8 years, old Ogunbiyi Photo by Lauretta Jaysura Collins, Saige Ferguson, Stone Ferguson, Axeladded. “It tests your endurance.”

Josh M. Gonzalo, Hashim Kamal, Ryan Kamal, Michelle Marbury served excellently as Ashley Lawrence, Abdul Muid, Samuel Ogunbiyi, Stephanie greeter and Mistress of Ceremonies, assisted by Elder Ogunbiyi, Stephen Ogunbiyi, Michal Steadman.

Barry E. Lee who led the opening prayer. Following was Riverbay Fund president and Board director, Rev. Deborah the ceremony of Libation and honoring one’s ancestors Jenkins, said: “This is one of the most exciting events that we and the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the co-sponsor. It is wonderful.”

African American anthem.

Several other Riverbay Board directors were in attenSpelling bees are educational, as well as fun. Once the dance, Leslie Peterson, Junius Williams and Marie Smith, competition was underway and all the young “bee hivers” setwho said that it was her first time and she was very glad tled and in place, Rev. Beverly Spruill read and explained the that she had come because it was a very nice event that very important contest rules which contestants and officials helps our young people. must follow in order to remain eligible. The contest anIn closing out this year’s super successful bee, president nouncer was the very talented Ms. Ebony Rae Lambright. of the African American Association and a Riverbay Board After more than ten rounds, each round increasing in director, Kevin Lambright, gave a hearty “thank you” to the difficulty, the final three spellers emerged albeit the boys for a consecutive year: 3rd Place winner: Caleb Brennan, spelling bee committee members, sponsors, parents and all who supported the children and the organization.

P.S. 160; 2nd Place winner: Jaivan Gordon, P.S. 153 and Refreshments and treats were served.

1st Place winner, Stephen Ogunbiyi, P.S. 89. The winning (See page 5 for more pictures) word was “MITOCHONDRIA.”

BY LAURETTA J. JAYSURA

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

Stop The Bleed Jacobi Medical Center will present an educational event on Thursday, March 30, 7 p.m., Bartow Center, room 31, to demonstrate how to “Stop the Bleed” in emergency situations.

In incidents where blood loss is occurring, seconds count and immediate intervention to staunch blood loss can mean the difference between life and death. Be prepared, attend and be informed.

For more information, please contact Jacobi at (718) 918-3827.

Spring Celebration April 15 The Riverbay SpEGGtacular Spring celebration will be held on Saturday, April 15, 12 – 4 p.m. in the Dreiser Center. Admission is FREE. The Easter Egg Hunt will take place from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. There will also be sack races, hula hoop contests, egg & spoon race and much more. This is great family fun so bring the kids and come out and participate.

Mammography Van In Co-op City Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto, in conjunction with Project Renewal, formerly operating as Women’s Outreach Network, will sponsor a free Mobile Mammography Screening Van which will be parked in front of the Baychester Public Library located at 2049 Asch Loop North, Co-op City on Saturday, April 1st, beginning at 1:30 p.m.

This program is for women 40 years of age and older who have not had a mammogram in the past year. All insurance plans are accepted, however, if you do not have insurance, you can still sign up for the program.

An appointment is necessary.

Please call 1-800-564-6868 This program is funded by Bronx Cancer Services Program Partnership. Screening coordination and Outreach/In-reach funded by the Komen Greater NYC 2008 Community Breast Health Grant.

Application Deadline For The Kevin T. Shaw Memorial Scholarship Is April 30, 2017

BY ROZAAN BOONE

The Kevin T. Shaw Jr. Memorial Scholarship Foundation has announced that the application deadline is April 30, 2017 for high school seniors who demonstrate exemplary leadership and academic success to apply for a financial award.

In addition to academic considerations, the Kevin T. Shaw Jr. scholarship winner(s) will be those who personify the extraordinary life and legacy of Kevin Shaw Jr. by embodying what he stood for as they pursue higher education.

The Kevin T. Shaw Jr. Memorial Foundation was established by long-time Co-op City shareholders, the late Kevin Shaw and his wife, Sakeena Shaw, in honor of their son, Kevin T. Shaw Jr., who passed away in June, 2015 at the age of 26.

Initially, the Kevin T. Shaw Jr. Memorial Scholarship was administered by the New York Urban League which, last year, awarded two outstanding young scholars, Edison Malan and Abdullah Wouadijou. Going forward, however, the Kevin T. Shaw Jr. Memorial Foundation will take over the responsibilities, awarding five scholarships in 2017.

Eligible candidates must be a resident of New York City and of African American background; demonstrate a need for financial assistance; be a current high school graduate or recipient of a GED; have a cumulative average of at least 80, or an average GED score of 3,000; be accepted as a full-time and

first-term matriculating freshman at an accredited college or university in pursuit of a BA or Associates’ degree at the time that the award is presented; be a person who demonstrates strong potential for academic achievement and be of excellent character and proven leadership ability, with a demonstrated commitment to community service and extra-curricular activities. All applications must also be accompanied by three letters of recommendation and an essay describing the candidate’s future personal and professional aspirations.

Kevin Jr. grew up in Co-op City and was a role model to many young people. He had a charismatic personality, an entrepreneurial mindset and a motivational drive. As a youngster, Kevin received an academic scholarship and was enrolled in the Honors Program at Rice High School and later awarded a full academic scholarship to pursue his undergraduate studies at Fairfield University earning his Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in Finance and Accounting.

Upon graduation, Kevin Jr. began his professional career at the Royal Bank of Scotland and KMR LLP, a CPA firm in New York City, where he honed his accounting skills. During the 2010-2011 season, Kevin returned to basketball serving as an assistant coach at Concordia College.

(Continued on page 8)

4

SCRIE/DRIE

Those who have not yet registered are advised to do so as soon as the carrying charge increase order is received from the state HCR, the supervisory agency for Co-op City. This increase order, which will come from the commissioner of HCR, will be handed down after the carrying charge increase hearing is held. The Co-op City Times will notify eligible shareholders when to submit their applications.

Since Co-op City is a state MitchellLama Housing Development, senior citizens who live in here must only apply for SCRIE with the NYC Department of Housing, Preservation and Development (HPD). Cooperators can call HPD at (212) 863-8494 for more information. Through SCRIE, people 62 years or older with the entire household yearly income of $50,000 or less may be eligible for exemption from all or some increases in carrying charges, The 1.9% increase in carrying charges scheduled to take effect on June 1, 2017 raises the average carrying charge to $220.54 per room from $216.43 per room in Co-op City apartments.

SCRIE and DRIE make up New York City’s Rent Freeze Program which “freezes” the rent of eligible senior citizens and those with qualifying disabilities by granting an exemption from paying the increase portion of their rent or, in the case of Co-op City, maintenance or carrying charges, thereby helping them to remain in affordable housing.

To be eligible for the SCRIE program, applicants must satisfy all of the following requirements: they must be 62 years and over; have an annual household income not in excess of $50,000; have a valid one or two-year lease for an apartment that is regulated by the Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), for example, a rent controlled, rent stabilized or hotel stabilized apartment; and must pay

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017 more than one-third of their household’s monthly income for rent.

Landlords and management agents receive tax abatement credits in lieu of cash for any rent increase, and, under Local Law 75 which was signed by Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2005, the income eligibility threshold of the SCRIE program has been increasing annually by $1,000 until it reached $29,000 in the year 2009. On July 1, 2014, that threshold was increased to $50,000 or less.

According to Riverbay’s Director of Finance, Peter Merola, there are currently 1,316 seniors on SCRIE in Co-op City, and 148 households receiving DRIE benefits.

“During these difficult times, it is nice to see that the City has continued these much needed subsidy programs to help those qualifying cooperators with their monthly living expenses” said Merola. “It should be pointed out, however, that both SCRIE and DRIE helps cooperators who are 62 years of age and older, or qualified disabled persons, to pay for the ‘increase’ in carrying charges, not their entire carrying charge.”

Mr. Merola explained that the SCRIE and DRIE programs work by the city notifying Riverbay how much assistance each qualifying cooperator is to receive and Riverbay posts this credit to the shareholder’s account. In turn, the city “pays” Riverbay by applying an abatement for this same amount to Riverbay’s real estate taxes.

On the other hand, the DRIE law, which was enacted on October 10, 2005, has five criteria and, like SCRIE, applicants must satisfy all of them to be eligible: The applicant must rent an eligible apartment.

An eligible apartment is defined by the DRIE law as those regulated by the state Division of Housing and Community Renewal, for instance, rent-controlled or rent stabilized apartments; those in the Mitchell-Lama program; (Continued from page 1)

York City as soon as possible to avoid those owned by a limited dividend future carrying charge increases.” housing company, redevelopment comEssentially, once the DRIE applicapany, or housing development fund tion is filed and approved, the city will company incorporated under the private housing finance law; or those in a buildnotify Riverbay which residents were ing where the mortgage was federally approved and at the time of the next carinsured under Section 213 of the rying charge increase, the resident’s carrying charge should remain at its current National Housing Act, and the applicant level. In turn, the DOF will send Riverwas a tenant of record at the time of the bay Corporation a credit towards its mortgage termination. property taxes which will compensate The applicant must be the head of the housing development for the carryhousehold (18 years of age or older) and ing charge increase it would have named on the lease or rent order, be the received from the DRIE participant. tenant of record, or be the spouse or registered domestic partner with a disabil“The cooperator must fill out an appliity; or either of the above. The tenant of cation which will be evaluated by the record may be a spouse, domestic partNew York City Department of Finance,” ner, or child who has attained the right said Lou Salegna, Riverbay’s Controller. of succession to the apartment upon the “The agency will then make a determination as to eligibility and the amount of death of the leaseholder. carrying charges they will absorb.”

Applicants of DRIE must receive eliFor assistance in completing the gible state or federal disability-related application, please call 3-1-1 or confinancial assistance. tact the Mayor’s Office for People Only those currently receiving Fedwith Disabilities. eral Supplemental Security Income Mr. Merola emphasizes that since (SSI); Federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI); US Department SCRIE and DRIE are New York City of Veterans Affairs disability pension programs, shareholders must file or compensation (Must be Military their applications as instructed on the service-related disability pension or application forms, not with Riverbay Corporation. compensation); or Disability-related Co-op City shareholders are advised Medicaid (if the applicant has received NOT TO apply for SCRIE or DRIE either SSI or SSDI in the past) to qualonline via the NYC Department of ify to receive DRIE. Finance website. Completed applicaThe applicant must have an annual household income of $50,000 or less. tions should be mailed to the address provided on the applications.

Income eligibility is established by using the applicant’s income from the For the convenience of Riverbay previous calendar year. shareholders, the applications for both DRIE applicants must pay more than SCRIE and DRIE are available at the one-third of their household’s aggregate reception desk at the Riverbay adminisdisposable income for rent, which is the trative office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. Although the applications total countable wages and other sources can be picked up now, they should not of income, minus allowable deductions be submitted to the city until after the for all members of the household. carrying charge increase order is “For those qualifying households, this received from HCR. will be a great benefit in that the appliIt should be noted that, by law, cant will not have to pay future carrying charge increases,” said Merola. “All households can only receive either cooperators who think they may qualify SCRIE or DRIE, not both of these rent should file their applications with New increase exemptions.

Residents advised to remove loose valuables from their vehicles as “smash and grab” auto crimes increase Aside from unusually cold and wintry weather, March has brought with it a spike in auto crimes in Co-op City, all related to the smashing of car windows and, in most cases, the theft of personal property from those vehicles.

The crime pattern began on March 5th as officers discovered several vehicles parked in the vicinity of Dafoe Place just off of Dreiser Loop, with smashed car windows. On March 14th, a similar crime occurred as a cooperator reported a car window smashed and personal property removed from the car. The car was parked in Section 5.

On March 16th the same crime occurred, this time on Dreier Loop and the next day March 17th, a vehicle was hit in a similar way again in Section 5.

Also, on March 8th, a cooperator reported that his or her vehicle’s catBY BILL STUTTIG

alytic convertor had been removed while it was parked in the vicinity of Bellamy Loop.

Chief Frank Apollo, commander of the Co-op City Public Safety Department, said that the department is working to catch the person or persons responsible for this spike in auto vandalism and larceny, but in the meantime, he advised residents to remove any valuables from their car after they

park and before they exit their vehicles.

He described these crimes as a crime of opportunity where the criminals will often look into several vehicles looking for something to steal and when they see something they smash the window and remove the items quickly. In almost all cases, these crimes are committed under the cover of night so residents are advised to be extra careful when parking their vehicle for the overnight period.

In many cases, the Chief said, the crime occurs because of as little as a few dollars of loose change left visible in the car. For the sake of two dollars in change, broken car window can cost you hundreds of dollars in repair costs.

A similar crime spree occurred here during the summer of 2015 and within weeks Co-op City detectives made several arrests and stopped the pattern.

Chief Apollo expressed confidence that this crime pattern will be stopped as well, but in the meantime, he asked residents to be vigilant and remove valuables from sight before leaving their vehicles for the night.

Residents who spot suspicious behavior regarding this or other types of crime are asked to call Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. All tipsters may remain anonymous.

In the case of these types of crimes, the sooner a tip is received from a witness to a crime spree in progress the more likely in can lead to an arrest. But in all cases, the cooperator is never to intervene or attempt to stop the crime, but call Public Safety so that trained detectives and officers can respond and take the appropriate steps to stop the crime and make arrests if warranted.

5

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

It’s

African-American Association Spelling Bee

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

The 4th annual contest was held on March 18 at the Bartow Center.

Photos by Lauretta Jaysura and Francine Reva Jones

6

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Letters to the Editor

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• authors. or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

– •the– authenticity • – • – of•– – • Anonymous – – • – Letters • – •cannot – •exceed – •–350•words.

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

Co-operatively Yours To the Editor:

The differing camps of the YOYO (You’re On Your Own) group and the WITTT (We’re In This Thing Together [I just made that up] group endlessly battle it out everywhere: in legislatures, on TV, at the Thanksgiving table, on first dates, in newspapers' letters to the editor.

I live in Co-op City — short for Cooperative City — on purpose. In this progressive’s worldview, secondclass citizens do not exist. A population that allows itself to be manipulated by the rich and powerful to work against its own best interests — to divide and conquer, to sniff out the latest scapegoat — is a duped population.

Cooperative people happily support the most vulnerable among them, they know that “pulling up the ladder” behind themselves is a self-defeating concept, they believe compensation should be given to those who’ve had opportunity systematically withheld from them for generations.

Why would cooperators try to persuade their neighbors to adopt a viewpoint that goes against the common good? Does the average cooperator believe our air, water and food are needlessly regulated? Does the average cooperator believe danger lurks within every stranger and around every corner? Doesn’t the average cooperator believe in democratic values?

I believe what two U.S. documents and one pledge of allegiance profess (updated to reflect the reality that no one is 3/5 of a person and many are women): that we the people want a more perfect union; that all people are created equal; that there are universal rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and that there must be liberty and justice for all.

I also believe everything Senator Bernie Sanders and a handful of his like-minded up-and-comer colleagues believe.

Let’s help them democratically rise while we cooperatively fight the problem that is Trump.

—Mary Pearson

Income Affidavits Notice

Garage 7 Elevator Shut Down

Income Affidavit notices were mailed and should be arriving in your mailboxes this week. Please be on the look-out for them.

—Finance Department

Notice To All Cooperators In Building 9A - “B” Line Re: Domestic Hot & Cold Water The domestic hot & cold water will be shut down to do restoration work.

Date: Tuesday, March 28, 2017 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

As soon as the work has been completed the hot & cold water will be restored.

Please make sure that you keep your faucets in a closed position and all drains cleared of objects.

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience in this matter.

—Cooperator Services Office (Dreiser Loop. Room 6)

Next Monday, March 27, front elevator of Garage 7 will be shut down in the morning (by 9:00 a.m.) for floor replacement and rear car will be shut down in the afternoon. We will only shut down one elevator at a time.

Thank you for your understanding. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

— Parking Facilities

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

(718) 320-3300, ext. 3375 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Bill Stuttig Associate Editor

Jim Roberts Business Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

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

Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corporation of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available.

The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor.

All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times.

Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.

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

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 32 Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period.

If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

Building 32

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Building 32 A&B 4180 & 4160 Hutchinson River Parkway

May 31, 2017

May 31, 2020

7

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Public Safety Report

CCPD offers Fire Safety Tips for Co-op City Residents

BY LT. PAM APOLLO

There have been many reports of fires in the media over recent days and weeks. Cold temperatures late in the season can often result in an increase in fires due to a variety of circumstances. Improper use of space heaters in cold weather is March 05 – Defoe Circle located the driver, it was deteroften the cause of fires in residential dwellings. The DepartWhile on patrol, CCPD offi- mined that the driver was apparment of Public Safety offers these safety tips to reduce your cers discovered several vehicles ently intoxicated. The driver was with smashed windows. This placed under arrest and charged chance of having a fire start in your apartment. matter is under investigation. with Driving While Intoxicated. is always the best line of defense against fires.

If you Prevention March 07 – 100 Alcott Place March 14 – 99 Earhart Lane do not have a smoke detector newly installed by Riverbay and did Three males were arrested by A cooperator reported finding not change the batteries when you sprung ahead two weeks ago, now CCPD officers for criminal tresa window smashed on their vehiwould be a good time to do so. pass within the building. cle and items missing.

While we are thinking about fire safety, it is also a good time to review fire safety with March 07 – March 15 – 100 Erskine Place your family. The Public Safety Department would like to provide these fire safety tips.

120 Benchley Place CCPD officers responded to It is always good to have a plan and make certain all members of the family are familCCPD officers responding to a this location after a lost 9 year old iar with it. Every family should have a plan in place for when they are at home. When report of a disturbance at this loca- was found. Upon further investitraveling, make an alternate plan for your temporary accommodations. Also make certain tion found a female acting disor- gation, it was determined the that children away at school have a plan in place for their living quarters. Be sure your derly. Upon arrival, the female youth had run away from home, college student has working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in their col- was apparently upset and yelling. and rode a bus to Erskine Place.

When officers attempted to calm NYPD responded and took over lege dormitory or apartment.

The buildings in Co-op City are fireproof. This means that a fire will not travel from one her, she became more unruly. She custody from CCPD returning apartment to another. Unless the fire is in your apartment or if directed to leave by emergency was placed under arrest and charged the youth to his home in the confines of the 48 Precinct. personnel, in most cases, it is safest to stay within your apartment. If it becomes necessary to accordingly.

March 08 – 99 Bellamy Loop March 16 – 99 Dreiser Loop leave your apartment, close the door, but do not lock it. Take your keys if you can safely reach A cooperator reported discovA cooperator found a car winthem. Never go back in the apartment for anything unless deemed safe by emergency person- ering the catalytic convertor was dow smashed and items missing. nel. Call 9-1-1 and Public Safety (718) 671-3050 from a safe location. Go to an established removed from their vehicle.

March 16 - 120 Elgar Place meeting place so that you know all family members have gotten out of the home safely.

March 11 – A male found smoking mariAlways feel a door before you open it. If the door feels hot, do not open it. Keep the 120 Benchley Place juana in the 16th floor stairway door closed, call 9-1-1 and Public Safety (718) 671-3050. Wet towels can be placed at the CCPD and FDNY responded to was arrested and issued a sumbottom, sides and top of the door to keep smoke from entering. Do not use the elevator reports of compactor fire. Upon mons for unlawful possession of during a fire emergency. Only utilize the stairs and only travel down the stairs to a loca- arrival, it was determined that marijuana.

March 17 – 99 Earhart Lane tion below the fire. This should only be done if instructed by emergency personnel. debris caught fire in the compactor chute, but the built-in sprinkler A cooperator found their vehioutside the winApartment windows can be opened for ventilation if there is no smoke system promptly extinguished the cle had a broken window and dow. Remember smoke rises, do not open windows if you are above a fire location. blaze.

There were no reported property had been removed.

If it becomes necessary to travel through smoke-filled areas, stay close to the ground injuries or property damage.

March 18 – 4100 Hutchinson where there is less smoke. Place a wet towel over your nose and mouth. Provide wet towMarch 13 – Asch Loop River Parkway East els for all family members. If clothing should catch fire, do not run and fan the flames.

CCPD officers responded to Three males were arrested by Instead, “Stop, Drop and Roll.” This serves to effectively smother any flames. Have chil- an eyewitness report of a male CCPD from within this location dren practice these procedures so that in the event of an emergency, they know what to do. driving and weaving and striking for criminal trespass and possesSchool children will be familiar with these procedures as they have most likely seen them a parked vehicle. When officers sion of marijuana. demonstrated at school. These drills may seem silly, but they can save your life if you are familiar with them in an emergency.

Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children. Avoid using candles for any reason. They are a leading cause of fires in the home. Candles can easily be knocked over by children or pets. Safer battery For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: operated L.E.D. simulated candles are an excellent Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbay corp.com; and Barbara Penn at Bpenn@riverbaycorp.com. alternate. Smoking is also an extreme fire hazard.

Please note that emails should be sent to both parties.

Many fires are caused by lit smoking material catching fire to beds, couches or upholstery.

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails.

Always remember, if you see something, say someFor EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see bottom of the employment listings for specific directions. thing. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety CONTRACT SUMMARY at (718) 671-3050 or online at www. ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

Contract P1050, Purchase of Convector Coils for Co-op City Apartments and Public Spaces Bids Due: March 27, 2017 at 2049 Bartow Avenue by the end of business day (5:00 p.m.)

Insurance: Insurance is required from the winning bidder.

Public Safety Blotter

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

Contract P1052, 3rd Party Elevator Consultant for Cat 1 & Cat 5 Inspections Bids Due: April 6, 2017 at 2 p.m. (in a Sealed Opaque Envelope) Late Bids will not be accepted Insurance: Winning bidder will be required to provide insurance If interested in bidding, contact bpenn@riverbaycorp.com EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

There are no employment opportunities to list this week. Please check back again next week.

Co-op City Department of Public Safety (718) 671-3050 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc If you SEE something, SAY something!

8

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

New Amended Budget Approved

Bernard Cylich First Vice President On March 15, the Board, by a vote of 10 to 4, approved a proposed budget calling for two carrying charge increases—1.9% in the first year and another 1.9% in the second year (the budget is being submitted to HCR for approval). These increases will generate enough revenue to cover implementation of a number of essential capital projects.

What’s Actually In The Budget?

Management made it clear that, except for the capital projects, Riverbay would not have needed increases for the next five years, while still maintaining quality of service. It would have been the seventh year in a row in which no carrying charge increase was necessary to fund the operating budget. However, the cost of the capital projects over the next five years is estimated at $111.8 million—a figure that had been trimmed down from $129.1 million. In the paring-down process, several projects from the initial proposal were dropped.

Of the current $111.8 million figure, $72.4 million would be available from sources other than carrying charge increases: from reserve accounts, from the projected operating surplus over the next two years, and from a revision of our next two-year budget.

The $39.4 million shortfall, however, can come from only two sources: increases in garage fees and in carrying charges. The two carrying charge increases, of 1.9% and 1.9% for each of the two years, would generate $8.6 million during the first two years.

That’s $3 million less, over two years, than the rejected 3.72% increase would have produced.

Nevertheless, there will be sufficient funds to begin work to enhance the quality of life in our community, such as renovating hi-rise lobbies and the Dreiser auditorium, upgrading storefronts, replacing lobby doors with ADA-compliant ones, and constructing a new basketball

Scholarship

court behind garage 6. In addition, there will be adequate funds for such projects as replacing 160 faulty elevator motors; making balcony and façade repairs as required under NYC Local Law 11; waterproofing under the porticos; upgrading the digital control system in the power plant; replacing 74 building transformers, etc.

Even so, work not performed by Riverbay staff, requiring the use of outside contractors, must go through a tedious bidding, review, and Board-approval process. If contract bids come in below management’s estimate, then Riverbay may end with a surplus which may help finance other non-funded projects.

How Would Increases Impact Us? The average annual income in Co-op City is $59,000 (for comparison, note that the average income in Hunts Point is $21,000, and $72,000 in Staten Island).

The first 1.9% increase would raise the average carrying charge per room, per month by $4.11, from $216.43 to $220.54. The new yearly carrying charge for an average 4.5-room apartment would be $11,909.16, or 20% of the $59,000 family income.

The second 1.9% increase would raise the carrying charge per room, per month by $4.19, to $224.73.

Then the average yearly carrying charge would be $12,135.42, or 21% of the $59,000 family income.

(At present, the average carrying charge is $11,687.72, or 19.8% of the $59,000 family income).

Again, for comparison, note that 2 million New Yorkers pay more than 50% of their income for rent, and 5 million pay more than 30% of their income.

In my view, one of the miraculous things about Co-op City is that—in spite of what we went through for 15 years under Marion Scott Real Estate Management— we remain the best deal in the Bronx, if not in the city as a whole.

Relief For Seniors And People With Disabilities Senior citizens and people with disabilities whose annual income is below $50,000 are eligible to apply for Senior Citizens Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) or Disabled Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) if their carrying charges are more than 30% of their income.

In Co-op City today, 1,464 families enjoy those exemptions. In addition, 107 families receive Section 8 assistance. And New York City has an anti-eviction program to help families facing financial hardship.

Except for a shelter tax abatement and a J-51 tax credit for construction repairs from New York City, our community receives no aid—not from the city, Albany, or Washington—to offset carrying charge increases.

Even after the 13-month Co-op City rent-increase strike in 1975-77, the settlement with the Housing Finance Agency and the state included no financial help to ease the high (25%) carrying charge increase.

Clarification In a Co-op City Times Director’s Viewpoint (3/18/17), the writer referred to a comment I made in the newspaper the previous week (3/11/17). My remarks followed the Board’s rejection, on March 8, of a budget resolution calling for a one-time, twoyear carrying charge increase of 3.72% (I was out of town at the time the vote was taken). The statement I made is as follows: “I was disappointed that the Board did not adopt the budget and did not offer an alternative or amend the budget.”

The minutes of the March 8 meeting clearly document that no amendments were submitted, except for President Linda Berk’s amendment to delay garage fees by six months and to delete the laundry fees.

After the rejection of that budget proposal, no alternative budget resolution was submitted for the Board’s consideration and vote. In fact, since the previous Board meeting (2/22/17), no request, on record, was made of management to prepare an alternative budget resolution for the March 8 meeting.

Lender Entities Will Impose Their Budget It is my opinion that the Board’s action, on March 8, which left the corporation without an approved budget, irresponsibly exposed Riverbay to a budget imposed by the three lender entities: the State Housing and Community Renewal agency, the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Wells Fargo bank.

(Continued from page 3)

In 2012, Kevin and Gareth Little created “The Circle, LLC,” a sports and entertainment brokerage company, serving as the company’s Chief Executive Officer.

Kevin Jr. was listed among the 2012 Movers & Shakers in the Dec./Jan. 2013 issue of NV Magazine (New Vision in Business), a national, bi-monthly business magazine geared towards urban professionals, entrepreneurs and forward thinkers. During that interview, he was asked, “What’s the hardest lesson you’ve learned in business?” His response: “The hardest lesson I have learned and I think we all must learn is to be careful who you interact with or trust…Find the right people who are willing and knowledgeable to advise you and listen, but be yourself.”

In 2013, with his Master’s in Business Administration in hand from George Washington University, Kevin began to explore other ventures while continuing to serve as CEO at The Circle.

Kevin’s favorite inspirational quote was from Herb Brooks, the 1980 head coach of the US Olympic hockey team, who said, “Hard work beats talent when talent won’t work hard.”

Applications for the Kevin T. Shaw Jr. Memorial Scholarship are available online at www.kevinshawjrfoundation.org. Completed applications should be returned to: Kevin Shaw Attn: Kevin Shaw Jr Memorial Foundation P.O. Box 187 Bronx, NY 10475 Applications must be postmarked no later than April 30, 2017.

In Memoriam We, the family of Altavia Natasha Dove, 3/28/1967 – 11/29/1992 wish our beloved “Special Treasure” a happy 50th birthday in Heaven. Your unique personality, thoughtfulness, vivaciousness and beautiful smile are missed daily and we love you forever.

– Mother, Yvonne; father, John; sisters, Darlene and Mary, and brother-in-law, Mario; nephews Terrell and William, and niece Khelli.

6 months old

Kindergarden

1990 - Donizetti Place

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Business-Based Budget Ensures Strong Future For Co-op City

9

As has been widely reported, after many months of agreements so to cut 10% you would really be cutting Management Report negotiations, the Board approved a two-year budget to the bone and would require lay-offs of union staff.

(2017-2019) that includes a 1.9% increase in carrying We were also asked to look at a possible scenario of charges over each of the next two years which will be no carrying charge increase and still fund the 5-year capimplemented upon approval by the NYS Homes and ital projects. Since there is such a small portion of the Community Renewal (HCR) which we expect will be by July 1, 2017. budget that is discretionary that would have require layThe adoption of this budget comes after an extremely lengthy process that offs of existing staff. began in mid-October of last year. At that time, we asked each department head It is my understanding now that the fact that we preto prepare and submit a budget to management before meeting with them indipared a 0% budget which included lay-offs is being vidually. Initially, we spent 5-6 hours per day in meetings with department direccharacterized as a “political ploy.” Nothing could be tors peppering them with questions. In some cases, items were struck from their further from the truth. Because payroll costs are the largest single component of funding; in others, we asked them to sharpen their pencils and return to us; and our budget, reductions of this expense would have been required to allow for no in a few other instances, we increased funding because we didn’t think their figincrease and the capital improvement plan. ures were realistic. There were also several follow-up meetings with the finance Did the 0% budget reverse votes? Of course it did because some members department. realize that even that small a reduction in the workforce would result in a signifOn the capital projects side, we also reached out to our outside consultants and icant impact on services to all shareholders. engineers to get estimates of ongoing and planned projects so sufficient funding On the other hand, if you look at our revenue from sources other than carrying could be allocated to a $111.8M list of needed improvements (See chart.) charges, this has increased by $1.2M over the last budget due to better manageOnce we had gathered all these figures, a five-year capital plan was developed. ment. We are renewing commercial leases closer to market rents; increasing storThis had never been done in Co-op City’s history, but since Douglas Elliman age income through better management of the storage units so that when units Property Management was brought in to provide professional management, we become vacant, we get them reassigned to rent-paying shareholders faster; thought it important to take stock of where we are and where we need to be. implemented better processes for collection of garage revenue; and Con Ed payWe put a lot of time, thought and effort into this process. We gave the Board ments for performance increased by an extra $500,000 over the last year. this “draft” budget on January 11, 2017. That same day, our supervisory agencies Going forward, we intend to meet with department heads mid-way through and lender were on the property for a semi-annual update meeting and we shared the budget year to assess how we are doing and to get actual figures so that any the draft budget including the 5-year capital plan with them. surpluses in individual department budgets can be reallocated to other areas Clearly, the “draft” budget was not a final product, meaning it was subject to where there may be a deficit. This is especially important with capital projects change pending review and discussion with our Board. Our supervisory agencies and lender understand that budget preparation is a process and there may be alterations to the initial draft. However, since they wanted an update, we gave them the draft budget and 5-year capital plan we had prepared so they would have a general feel for our needs.

It is important to note that when you borrow $621M from a bank and you get the federal, state and city governments to insure that loan, they are not simply going to walk away and be inattentive to what you are doing. As a matter of fact, the loan documents that the Riverbay Board approved in 2012 grant these agencies increased oversight powers over Co-op City. We have nothing to hide from the agencies. Moreover, I, personally, or Douglas Elliman Property Management will not be put in a position to hide things from these agencies and lender hereby jeopardizing our professional reputation. We are highly respected in this industry and we will not be seen as trying to pull the wool over anybody’s eyes. We were brought in to elevate the professionalism of operations at Co-op City and that is what we are committed to doing.

The budget process is not something we can do in a vacuum and not have transparency with the lender or the supervisory agencies. It is ridiculous for anyone to believe you can borrow that amount of money and not be scrutinized or held accountable.

Once the draft budget was given to the Board, we had several follow-up meetings with the directors. During these discussions with the Board, numerous questions were posed which management responded to and several items from the 5-year capital plan were removed from the budget by vote of the Board. As we went through the process, we found a few areas where we had additional surpluses, for example, because it has been such a warm winter, we spent less for fuel at the power plant and therefore increased our initial estimate of this year’s budget surplus that will be rolled over for use in the next fiscal year. So during the review process, we kept looking and reforecasting which got us to the budget that includes the 1.9% carrying charge increase or 3.8% over the next two years.

With the 1.9% carrying charge increase, which raises the per room, per month charge by $4.11, shareholders will receive $111M in capital improvements since this money will largely fund capital projects. These projects include modernization of 160 elevators, Local Law 11 work to the buildings facades which is mansince these expenses are estimated and market-driven in many cases. dated by the city, replacement of all buildings’ entranceways and intercoms to This is another initiative that has never been done here prior to Douglas Elliincrease accessibility, upgrading building lobbies, upgrading and replacement of man assuming management duties. original equipment and controls in the power plant, replacement of 53 building In addition, as we improve our technology and service delivery, we believe transformers and waterproofing under the porticos of several buildings. that we will be able to identify positions that may result in staff reductions Keep in mind that 85% of revenue to the Riverbay Corporation comes from through attrition although there may be some lay-offs needed as well. shareholders and only 15% from other sources. While some funding is available It is my understanding from the Director of Finance, Peter Merola, who has from our reserve account for capital projects, the largest source of revenue is carbeen involved in these budget processes for many, many years that this has been rying charges. one of the most lengthy budget processes involving management and the Board.

In one scenario during our negotiations with the Riverbay Board, we were We are making business-based decisions while at the same time working to asked to cut 10% across the board. Our discretionary budget is only about 14% professionalize the staff and significantly improve the delivery of services to of our total budget and that accounts for your supplies, basically, mops, paint, shareholders while continuing to keep Co-op City affordable. Having said that, it floors, vehicles, etc. Payroll is the biggest portion of our financial burden, but is unrealistic to expect carrying charges to remain steady when expenses are conprobably 75-80% of that is non-discretionary because it represents all the union sistently going up and our loan agreement mandates that we pay all expenses to labor. Labor rates increase because they are subject to collective bargaining operate and not allow the physical plant to deteriorate.

Bob Klehammer

10

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

The 4th Annual Co-op City Spelling Bee

Director’s Viewpoint

Francine Reva Jones Secretary Determining Our Destiny It was not easy, but the Board finally passed the budget calling for two 1.9% increases for June 2017 and June of 2018. Management presented two different resolutions to the Board. Resolution #17-20 asked for no increases at all. In order to have enough funds for the necessary capital projects, Management would be forced to lay off many employees. Cutting staff would mean cutting services, which would change the quality of life as we know it. Resolution #17-21 provided for the two increases, which would allow Management to satisfy the necessary capital projects and make a few improvements. I joined these Board members in voting for the increase in order to maintain and improve our community: Linda Berk, Cylich, Lambright, Andrea Leslie, Sampson, Smith, Saunders and Turner.

I was pleased that despite the struggle, we came together and made a decision for the benefit of everyone. Also, that we determined our own destiny and HUD, Wells Fargo and HCR would not be required to make the decision for us.

Improvements As a result of complaints by cooperators and employees, Management has made some changes in the painting and plastering department. I was recently informed that things have improved. I believe that this, and other changes yet to come, will result in an increase in apartments being ready and available for new residents, which will result in a difference in Riverbay’s bottom line.

Disrespected As the chairperson of the Commercial Leasing & Residential Sales Committees, I was appalled to read of the disrespectful manner in which a shareholder was treated. Management has been informed about this matter and I expect it to be investigated. It is unacceptable for merchants to disrespect their customers.

Board Elections The Board elections are upon us. Prospective candidates for a seat on the 15-member Board have begun picking up their packages to begin the process. Each year, five seats become available. The terms of Board members who have served three years will expire and

they have the option of running again. There will be three candidates’ statements and three candidates’ forums.

We will no longer use the Board of Elections’ voting machines, but, as of last year, we arranged to change the process to voting by mail and voting online. In preparation for this new process, there will be a practice vote to test the process. Watch for mail from Election America this week containing a ballot for your test vote. You will receive the Board election mail from Election America a few weeks later. Please be involved in this new voting process.

4th Annual Spelling Bee The 4th Annual Co-op City Spelling Bee was very successful. Thanks to the parents who felt it important enough to involve their children in this friendly competition. Stephen Ogunbiyi, a 7th grader at P.S. 89, became the winner when he spelled the word “mitochondria� correctly. The prize was a $100 gift certificate from the African-American Association which was presented to him by the African-American Association president, Kevin Lambright. The runner-up was Jaivan Gordon, a 4th grader at our Educational Park School P.S. 153. He received the Rev. Beverly A. Spruill Award of a $50 gift certificate to Staples. Caleb Brennan, a 5th grader at Co-op City’s P.S. 160, finished 3rd and received the Ebony Lambright Award of a $25 gift certificate to Teacher’s Paradise, an educational supply store. Ashley Lawrence, a 5th grader of PS. 153 finished fourth. Congratulations to Lance Diaz, a 7th grader from Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, who won the early registration raffle drawing. The prize was a 7�

Android Tablet. All participants received certificates.

The event was recorded and plans are to show it on one of Co-op City’s cable stations. Stay tuned.

Thanks to Kevin Lambright, African-American Association president, and Pastor Deborah Jenkins, Riverbay Fund president, for their wonderful words of encouragement. Leandra Peters and Tamara King assisted and provided delicious refreshments.

Gratitude is also extended to volunteers, including Sandy Krasnove, Sandra Jackson-Williams, Hattie Lucas, Annette Newman, Annette Michel and Janie Williams. We appreciate the Board directors who attended. This Bee would have been impossible without the commitment

Wishing my princess a happy birthday! How time flies. I remember when you were born.You were the size of my hand. Look at you now all grown up! You will always be my lil baby. I love you. Enjoy your day, princess! Daddy loves you! —Omar DeLosAngeles

Co-op City Times Photo Submission Guidelines If you are submitting photos for publication to the Co-op City Times, please adhere to the following guidelines to ensure the best photo quality suitable for publication: 1) Make sure the photo setting on your digital cameras or cell phone cameras is set to the highest possible resolution. The higher the resolution, the better the image quality.

2) Fuzzy or blurry images are difficult to sharpen, so please make sure all images submitted are clear, crisp and brightly lit.

3) Photocopies of photos cannot be used.

4) Printed glossy photos are also recommended.

Photo submissions can be sent by email to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com, or dropped off to the Co-op City Times office to be scanned at 2049 Bartow Avenue, room 21, Monday thru Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

of the Spelling Bee Committee, including Cheryl Birdsall, Ebony Rae Lambright, Elder Barry Lee, Michelle Marbury, Rev. Beverly Spruill and Elder Reva Jones.

They look forward to the 5th Spelling Bee. Women’s History Month The world-renowned Tamika D. Mallory will be featured at the African-American Association’s Women’s History Month Celebration on April 4th at 7 p.m. in the Dreiser Community Center. Ms. Mallory’s appearance was cancelled last week due to the blizzard. There will be an inspirational message for you.

Last Saturday, I proudly participated, with several other women, in a Women’s History Month Celebration at the Afrikan Poetry Theatre. We raised our voices and shared our experiences in politics, the arts and culture. Thanks to Brother Ital Kofi Ital for presenting a wonderful program.

Wholistic Health Fair The African-American Association will present its 13th Annual Wholistic Health Fair. More emphasis should be placed on avoiding illnesses and curing yourself naturally. Also, all should know that drugs, from my understanding, never cure disease; they only change the form or location of the disease. There will be discussions and demonstrations in many areas of natural holistic health. Please attend on Saturday, April 8th from 12 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. in the Bartow Center, room. 31. We look forward to seeing you.

Remembering Chuck Berry It was reported that Charles “Chuck� Berry (10/18/26-3/18/17) died of natural causes. He was a guitarist, singer and songwriter and one of the pioneers of Rock & Roll. With songs such as "Maybellene," "Roll Over Beethoven," "Rock and Roll Music" and "Johnny B. Goode," Berry refined and developed Rhythm and Blues into the major elements that made Rock & Roll distinctive. Among the honors Berry received were a 1984 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and the Kennedy Center honors in 2000. He leaves a legacy incomparable and matchless music.

Contact I can be reached at 718-671-5957.

Power outage

performed on the steam turbine generator at the power plant. According to the Power Plant, “During the testing several disconnections needed to be made in order to test the integrity of the steam turbine generator. One of the disconnections caused the trip of one of the main electric breakers that delivers power to buildings 15 to 22 and buildings 26 to 35 and resulted in loss of power in those buildings.”

The power outage on Tuesday affected buildings and garages in Section 3, 4, and 5 and partially both the Bartow and Einstein shopping and community centers. Initially is was reported that the 50-year-old transformer in the power plant temporarily failed early Tuesday afternoon and that the second transformer, designed to automatically start in the case of a problem with the main transformer was not receiving a sufficient level of voltage from Con Edison and the grid and therefore was not able to pick-up the electrical demand required for it to power the entire site.

According to a memo to the Riverbay Board of Directors from General Manager Noel Ellison, “As soon as the voltage condition was discovered, Con Ed was advised and increased the voltage of their system so that the transfer could be made to the spare transformer.”

The initial outage on Tuesday

11

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017 occurred at 12:15 p.m. and power was restored to some buildings as soon as Con Edison provided the needed additional voltage. In several other buildings, the breakers within those buildings had tripped due to the situation and had to be individually reset

by Power Plant staff. Power to all affected buildings was fully restored by 1:50 p.m. Tuesday.

General Manager Ellison said that Tuesday’s outage resulted in a full response to the community from the city’s fire department (FDNY) and the city’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM). As a result of the outage that occurred early Tuesday afternoon, nine people had to be extracted from elevators throughout the community. Firefighters, working with Riverbay’s elevator contractors and Public Safety ESU officers, helped to get seven of the trapped residents safely out of the stalled elevators. Two of the trapped residents were able to get out themselves before help arrived.

Frank Apollo, Chief of Co-op City’s Public Safety Department, said that all residents on the community’s emergency contact list due to their reliance on respirators and other powered medical devices were contacted to ensure their well-being. Residents whose phones were not working due (Continued from page 1)

to the outage were visited in person by officers who checked on their status.

It was reported that no injuries or medical emergencies were caused by Tuesday’s outage.

The next morning, Wednesday, March 22, power again went out to many of the same buildings during two brief periods – the first occurring at approximately 9:40 a.m. with restoration at 10:05 a.m. and then a second briefer outage immediately thereafter from 10:10 a.m. to 10:20 a.m.

It was after the Wednesday morning outages that it was discovered that disconnections made during to routine maintenance work on the plant’s steam turbine generator was likely the root cause of both the Tuesday and Wednesday outages.

General Manager Ellison said that this turned out to be good news for the community as it was initially feared

that the half-century old transformer was beginning to fail but it later turned out that the maintenance work disconnection to the turbine caused each of the outages.

Nevertheless, funds to overhaul the transformer are in the budget and the work is scheduled to be performed later this year.

Anthony Ligato, Riverbay’s Senior Director of Utility Assets, said this week that steps have been put in place to ensure that these disconnections will not occur again during future turbine maintenance procedures.

The information provided for this article and other communications on the outages provided for the residents this past week are part of a preliminary analysis and investigation into the root causes of the outages. A final RCA will be completed in the coming weeks.

Certified Co-op City clubs & organizations, feel free to post your upcoming events.

12

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Deborah Jenkins Treasurer Please know that after two years on this your Board of Directors, I have never lied or been disingenuous with you because it is not in my character to do so. I have never spun any decision for my own self-aggrandizement. I have been truthful! Having said that, let me share about this budget process and how flawed it was from the beginning.

The proposed budget which includes the 5-Year Capital Plan was shared with HUD, HCR and Wells Fargo, before it was ever shared with the full Board of Directors. In my opinion, that’s problem number one.

How can we be expected to make sound decisions, on behalf of the community, when we are not being made privy to pertinent information before others are? I believe this is a problem because the full Board didn’t have an opportunity to deliberate whether or not, as a body, we believed that it would be prudent to share a 5Year Plan with the oversight entities or even you as our fellow cooperators. So one can assume that whether a majority voted down a 3.72% increase or not, there was going to be an increase. Why? Because it had already been placed in the minds of the oversight entities that the need was there.

As soon as I heard about the 5-Year Capital Plan, I began to make mention of it here and encouraged both the president and management to make a detailed report to the community. My advice was met with continuous opposition. I have been very honest in saying that due to the need to repair our elevators, Local Law 11 and to increase accessibility for our disabled neighbors, there would be a need for an increase. However, I was not willing to vote for an increase based upon a budget full of errors and which could not be easily explained. I was not willing to vote for an increase

The irony is not lost... which it seemed was being defended harder by certain Board members than by management.

I made a suggestion to have management return with a zero increase, but frankly, the presentation of the zero increase was also met with the now approved 1.9% increase. If that didn’t reinforce my opening statements that an increase was inevitable because it was the will of some on the Board, what would?

I discovered a significant error in the resolutions themselves, that yes were corrected, but yet 10 people thought that it was okay to proceed because they must have thought it was simply so important to impose an increase. The zero budget was presented with lowlevel layoffs and when I asked about management salary freezes again, I was met with great push-back and opposition. Aside from the CCPD officers in training whose employment would have been halted, I’m not sure, from what I saw, where there would have been a quality of service impact. These types of things are subjective and therefore each of us as individuals can determine that internally.

HCR is within its rights to impose any increase and one greater than the 1.9%, but because that is their right is not a valid reason to vote for one ourselves. The loss of jobs may be imminent in the near future to stop all of the carrying charge increases. A Board which acts out of a perceived fear rather than acting on soundly presented budgeted items says a lot, in my opinion.

I can and will continue to defend my ‘“NO” votes because as the Board president said, “We are not in crisis.” Management reports that the 1.9% increase “will raise $8.5M.” The first year of the 5-Year Capital Plan calls for $6.7M for the elevators, $4.6M for Local Law 11 and $1.1M for increased accessibility and the second year calls for $13.3M, $4.6M Local Law 11 and $1.1M for increased accessibility. Combined, the total needed is $12.4M and $19M, respectively. $8.5M falls well short of those needs alone, these are only three of the “High Priority” items. Dreiser Auditorium was budgeted because we have the prom-

ise of a commitment from elected officials to assist us.

The lobby renovations, while nice and should be done, I believe that if presented to you as a community against an increase you may have, like many of us, chose to delay those upgrades.

The irony is not lost on the President of the United States proposing to cut 13% from the HUD budget and to eliminate Meals on Wheels which many of the seniors in this community depend upon for sustenance. I know the counter to my statement will be that we are not a social services agency, but a housing company. My response is that I am well aware of that, but the burden of the majority of the cooperators in this Naturally Occurring Retirement Community is great. I believe the rush to get an increase passed ignored this significant development. The rush didn’t allow for management to bring a clean and easily explicable budget that could, in my opinion, be justified. No, this was the will of a “new” majority over the will of the majority that had already spoken. Our lives, our community is not a game of who wins, it is simply our lives and our homes!

I’m not averse to a carrying charge increase, but I am averse to rushed preparation to somehow prove a point other than the dire need that seemed to be suggested, but still not proven, in my opinion.

Good in the Community: Awesome Spelling Bee presented by the African-American Association of some of the community’s brightest students! Congratulations to all participants, parents and 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners!

Civic meetings will continue at Faith @ Work Christian Church in response to some of the truly draconian policies being proposed at the federal level – HUD cuts, Meals on Wheels eliminated funding, afterschool program funding loss, immigration, saving ACA/rejecting American Healthcare Act, etc.; 120 DeKruif Place (Building 7), 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.

I can always be reached at (718) 644-0951 or by email at djenkins@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

13

14

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

The Budget & A Conversation

I proposed raising the rates to a flat increase of $75 for non-reserved spaces, and $100 for reserved spaces per month, and to offset the difference, raising the transient parking rate from $6 to $10 for 4 hours, making Assistant Secretary the hourly rate for non-residents more consistent with other commercial parking facility rates, and to help offset the burden that is currently placed solely on the I’m not happy with 2017/2018 budget that was just backs of the shareholders. passed, however, I voted for it because I understand that In addition, management wanted to increase the cost Co-op City has a 50-year-old infrastructure, with the of using our washing machines by .25 cents per load, and understanding that Co-op City had a considerable I argued that we were being “nickel & dimed.” The .25 amount of construction defects due to questionable concent increase has been removed from consideration. struction and city and state inspections, and thus, there is Most shareholders (and I am one) believe that MSI both present, and future work that must be addressed. took our perfectly good working washing machines sevIn my opinion, your Riverbay Board of Directors, in eral years ago, replaced them with smaller load machines passing Emergency Resolution 17-21, passed a resoluthat use less water, take about 10 more minutes, and in tion with an increase that tries to balance financial the final analysis, don’t get our clothes as clean. It gets affordability with fiscal responsibility which is never better – the previous machines took coins directly. going to be acceptable to everyone.

Presently, you need a pre-paid card, and should the Many cooperators who have resided here for more balance on that card fall below the amount threshold than 15 years will remember that by our not being fisfor your next usage, you must replenish with a minically responsible, and by being politically manipulated mum of $5. Westchester County parking facilities have by the Board at that time by not raising carrying charges, multiple options for payment (bills, coins, credit or caused the corporation to make three loans, totaling debit cards) and yet our current contractor finds it more than a billion (with a “B”) dollars to fix capital “impractical” to offer cooperators a mechanism that projects that the corporation had no monies in reserve to accepts denomination of currency of $5 bills, or higher. address, which left us to endure approximately 11 carryA gentleman arrived at 7 a.m. in the morning a little ing charge increases in subsequent years. more than a week ago to wait for me at the school bus The elevator motor replacement project, the Local stop. He waited patiently that particularly cold mornLaw 11 facade (building brickwork) & balcony repair ing for a half hour and held me there for an additional work, completion of the new power plant boiler instal70 minutes. He engaged me in conversation about the lation, and the waterproofing of our buildings beneath budget, but he also wanted to impart his (and other the porticos, have been conservatively estimated to cooperators) frustration with the present quality of cost the corporation (shareholders) about $78 million. workmanship in that he feels it is far below the stanIn voting for the 1-year 1.9% increase on March dards set by management back in the 1970’s & ‘80s.

15th, I did so because I believed that it keeps the corHis question to me was, “Why are we going to conporation in a much better financial position to comtinue paying more, but getting less?” – a valid point. plete specific capital construction projects, as well as He felt that we should be doing more to get our the fulfillment of our mandated obligations that are elected representatives to find grant monies and propart of the HUD loan agreement. grams that would offset the incremental raises that are Within the budget were proposals to increase the challenging the financial resources of many cooperaparking rates (for shareholders only) 10%. tors. My Legislative Committee will be addressing the

Rod Saunders

LOGAN is best Super Hero Film Since DARK KNIGHT

BY ANATOLIY BUDNITSKIY

ONE LAST TIME. LOGAN is not just the best X-MEN film to date. It is the best superhero film since THE DARK KNIGHT. LOGAN is so much more than a superhero film. It is a dark western.

Beautiful homage to Shane and Unforgiven, two of the greatest westerns to date. Logan was a very heavy film. A film about old age and death is never an easy watch, and you wouldn’t expect such a serious stone from a superhero/ comic book film. I am still pretty speechless about it; I actually haven’t felt like this since THE DARK KNIGHT. First things first, Hugh Jackman poured his soul into this film. Wow, his acting just tore me up. Legit, and honestly, you feel his pain and sorrow. In the film, it looks like he has been through the ringer in years past before the film starts off. Patrick Stewart as well was incredible. Both of the film’s veteran XMEN were phenomenal. Such gut-wrenching and rich performances.

The film’s villains were also great. Boyd Holbrook was good and pretty ruthless as a mercenary.

The Dr. Rice character was the usual XMEN villain, pretty menacing as well. The little girl was amazing.

Best action kid star since Chloe Grace-Moretz as HIT GIRL. Dafne Keen was awesome! Such a great

find. The plot was very dark and heavy.

It is a shame it took FOX to make a legit masterpiece of a film 17 years! This is how it should be. The action was unbelievably brutal. Really ruthless and bloody. It was very, very intense. They did not shy away from the rated “R” for sure. It was amazing. A wolverine film that should have been made ages ago!

I just can’t emphasize Hugh Jackman enough though. This was such brilliance to the utmost degree. A huge treat to the eyes. He was a nobody before XMEN, he established quite an awesome career for himself. LOGAN was his true, true masterful performance. A beautiful swan song for sure. It really, really shows on screen. LOGAN is the best film of this young year so far, even with the neverending list of films coming out this year. I doubt it will be close to this, but we shall see.

LOGAN, 2017, RATED R, ACTION DRAMA SCI-FI, 137 MINS. James Mangold – Director James Mangold, Scott Frank – Writers Hugh Jackman – Logan Patrick Stewart – Charles Dafne Keen – Laura Boyd Holbrook – Pierce Richard E. Grant – Dr. Price

pursuit of governmental grant opportunities in the immediate future.

This shareholder had a litany of dissatisfied complaints, and many are consistent with comments that I hear every day. He wanted to register with me his complaint about the inability to reach Riverbay personnel who may be responsible for making important decisions because they are “out of the office” and/or “in a meeting” and never get back to you.

As a Board member, I have proposed new policies and protocols and received the necessary votes of approval. Putting them into action, however, the corporation, I believe, has so far lacked the quality supervisory staff in the field to implement them.

That should be unacceptable, if not inexcusable.

During discussions on the Budget, proposals were made to cut a percent of spending from each of our departments by management.

In my opinion, and based upon the millions of dollars that is needed to manage the “High Priority” capital construction project needs of the corporation, compliance with that directive would not have generated the financial resources to justify the loss of 10 or 15% of our personnel. Additionally, in doing so would have made the same cooperators who are already frustrated by the response on the services in the community probably even more frustrating.

What I do propose is that the Board considers demanding that management move to terminate supervisory staff who cannot tell the difference between shoddy, incomplete work, with that of the quality workmanship that cooperators deserve. If supervisors lack the understanding of “what quality work is,” then we no longer need them on our payroll Shareholders contribute more than 85% of Riverbay Corp.’s approximate $220 million total expenditures, and in making our contribution, if it’s a day late, you pay a hefty price. A month in arrears may trigger the beginning of legal action. I am not aware of any penalty given to any supervisors do not provide cooperators with quality workmanship in a timely manner.

Remember – be engaged!

Online payment of monthly carrying charges Shareholders can now pay their carrying charges online by logging onto the Riverbay website at www.riverbaycorp.com, and clicking on the “PayLease” icon on the home page, or by signing in directly at the PayLease website at www.paylease.com.

Go green, go paperless! Register today.

Petition Period

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

the Board for first time.

According to the Riverbay Legal Department, those picking up petitions as of press time yesterday, are Marie Smith, Kevin Lambright, Stanley Frere, Daryl Johnson, Linda Berk, Daniel Bowen and Leah Richardson.

Any cooperator in good financial standing can run for a three-year term on the Board. Seventy-five valid cooperators’ signatures are needed on candidates’ petitions in order for them to qualify to run for the Board.

Those interested in running for the Board can request their qualifying election packages in person, which will include the candidate’s petitions, at the Riverbay receptionist during normal business hours at the administrative desk in the Bartow Community Center, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. At that time, the Riverbay Finance Department will access the prospective candidate’s financial record to determine whether or not they are indebted to the Riverbay Corporation, as per election rule B (3).

After 5 p.m. weekdays or throughout the weekend, qualifying election packages can be picked up at the Public Safety window in the Bartow Center, however, they will not include the nominating petitions and the prospective

candidates will be contacted the next business day after their financial eligibility is checked by the Finance Department to come in and pick up them up.

Shareholders will be voting to fill five open seats for three-year terms on the Board again this year.

The five vacant seats on the Board result as the current terms of Directors Linda Berk, Leah Graham, Daryl Johnson, Kevin Lambright and Marie Smith are expiring.

All petitions must be picked up and signed for by the prospective candidates, not by any representative, friend or family member.

There will be one vote per unit by residents who are shareholders of record as of April 3, 2017.

A candidates’ meeting where candidates’ petitions will be officially certified or rejected is scheduled for 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 11 in room 31 in the Bartow Community Center.

The official listing of candidates will then be published in the Co-op City Times on Saturday, April 15.

On Saturday, April 29, the first of three special election supplements will be published in the Co-op City Times, in which each of the candidates will place statements and advertisements outlining their quali-

Progressive Candidates, Civil Rights Protections, Voting Rights Reform As a political party, Working Families' efforts aim at supporting and electing the most progressive candidates possible, but the Co-op City WFP chapter’s interests go beyond that.

Two of our members went to Albany on March 13th to attend the 2017 New York Civil Liberties Union Day of Action in order to ask our state representatives, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto (518-455-5296) and State Senator Jamaal Bailey (518-455-2061), to vote “yes” on several important human and civil rights bills being considered.

For details of these bills, that aim at protecting electronic privacy, reproductive rights, students’defense against hate crimes, and other important civil liberty issues, google: NYCLU.org. There, you will also find details of a bill that follows the recommendations of President Obama’s task force on policing. If passed, the law would require better documentation, transparency, and record keeping from our police departments and more accountability from our police officers. Refer to assembly bill #A.5946 and senate bill #S.147 when you call our state legislators to support the “Police STAT Bill.”

While dialing your state representatives regarding the NY assembly and senate bills, tell them you’d also like their support on voting rights reform. And while you’re at it, call Governor Cuomo as well (518-4748390). Several NY legislators and leaders spoke at the Rally to Resist Voter Suppression at Battery Park in

downtown Manhattan on Sunday, March 19th. The action aimed at raising NYS’s ranking of #41 in the country in voter turnout. How? By enacting Early Voting and Automatic Voter Registration in the state. This may seem insignificant in this time of constant assault by the Trump administration, but expanding voting access is vital. Your vote is your voice.

• New Yorkers can help Georgians flip GA-6! Visit Jon Ossoff’s website https://electjon.com/ to see why Congressmen Hank Johnson and John Lewis are supporting this candidate’s April 18th primary run for the congressional seat vacated by the now Secretary of Health & Human Services, Tom Price.

• Mark your calendar for "Show us Your Taxes” day on Saturday, April 15th to demand Trump reveal his financial conflicts, conflicts that could affect national security. Watch this space for details on where you might join us to rally and march.

• Interested in a bus trip to D.C. for the April 29th People’s Climate Rally?

Email Canzoneri.kelly@gmail.com or call or text Kelly at 347-681-3819.

• *FYI: Due to the snow cancellation, the African American Association has rescheduled Black Lives Matter and Women’s March organizer Tamika Mallory’s talk. Please check the AAA article in this edition for details.

• Our next WFP meeting will be held on the usual third Tuesday of the month, April 18th, at 7:30 p.m., room 35 of Einstein Community Center, Section 5.

—Kelly Canzoneri

Co-op City Working Families Party

fications for the position of Riverbay Board Director and their views on issues facing the community.

Three official Candidates’ Forums are scheduled this year. The first will be held on Monday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m. in room 31 of the Bartow Center.

The second official Candidates’ Forum will take place on Wednesday, April 26, at 7:30 p.m. in Auditorium C of the Dreiser Center, and the third and final forum has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Room 45 of the Einstein Community Center.

The annual meeting of shareholders to elect candidates to serve three-year terms on the 15-member Board, which sets policy for the Riverbay Corporation and the Co-op City community, has been set for Wednesday, May 24th.

This year, voting will be conducted by mail-in or electronic ballot, instead of by voting machines.

In preparation, Election America, Co-op City’s election contractor, will mail a test survey to Co-op City households starting this Monday, March 27, which shareholders are encouraged to complete and return. The survey can either be completed online or returned by snail mail by following the directions which will accompany the survey.

A pre-addressed, stamped envelope is

15 provided for shareholders’ convenience. The deadline to return the test survey is April 10, 2017.

The 2017 Election Committee is chaired by Board Director Claudia Sampson. The other members of the committee include Board Director Francine Jones. The other members of the committee are John Gale, Annette Newman, Dolores Rankin and Sandy Krasnove.

Shareholders picking up petition packages to run for the Riverbay Board are advised to read the rules and regulations carefully and to abide by those rules to avoid being disqualified. Potential candidates should also be aware that campaigning must not start until the day after the Candidates’ Meeting on Tuesday, April 11 when the Election Committee will certify the official candidates and campaigning may begin as per election rule E 6(a). This includes campaigning on social media, by email, or other electronic forums.

Any potential candidate who has questions about the election rules or who needs further clarification, may address their questions to their 2017 Election Committee, c/o Riverbay Legal Department, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

16

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

We Must Hold Management Accountable For Every Dollar Spent Director’s Viewpoint

Sonia Feliciano Assistant Treasurer Dear fellow shareholders, It is not always an easy discussion to present the community with a carrying charge increase, but I want to clarify my position as to why I voted for the 1.9%. When the Board came together to discuss the budget that included a 5-year capital spending plan, the proposal was for a 4.6% carrying charge increase.

Management then reduced the budget as a result of the Board’s directive to scrutinize the budget by $4.6 million equaling a 3.72% increase.

In voting no to the 3.72% increase, I felt management had not done enough to prove the need for such an increase all at once in the 5-year capital plan without looking at where we could arrive at savings as a whole. We looked at things that some of us felt could be done at a later date. Some Board directors provided ideas that were discussed in last week’s viewpoint as a way to minimize the cost to us, the shareholders. We all had lots of questions, and many of us did not come away with the feeling that those questions/concerns were addressed to our satisfaction.

Management was asked to examine and revise the capital plan with a 0% increase and one suggested at 1.9% each year over two years with a 5% increase in garage fees for each of the two years.

The 0% increase would have eliminated positions, reducing in the areas of public safety, communications, budget and finance, computer services, garages, restoration, maintenance, construction and other departments. While we may believe that this reduction would have not impacted services, I believe it would have over the long term.

The 1.9% in each of the two years will not replace many of the open/vacant positions and keeps the payroll at 1,010 employees, from the last projection of 1,068.

Our operating budget at approximately $219.8 million is broken down into bad debt, materials and services, debt service and fees, utilities, real estate taxes, insurance, reserves, water and sewer with the largest piece, 45% coming from payroll and burden (benefits). Do we need this many employees? I am not about to say that laying off or firing is the needed course of action to take. The burden is on management to prove otherwise. I will say that we need to be prudent in our hiring practices and ensure that we evaluate every position we have at Riverbay. Going through each department, perhaps collapsing some will produce cost savings. We certainly can do a better job at this.

The need for the added revenue is to begin the elevator project estimated at about $40 million, and continue with Local Law 11 projects, a governmental mandate that is not all covered with reserves. We need to start the lobby entrance work, shopping centers, and replace building transformers at 8 per year for a total of 74. We have already completed 21. The concrete T-beam project for garages 1-8 must be done, upgrading building substations, and sidewalks.

All of these projects are considered high priority.

While we have a surplus, it is not enough. With an almost 50 year old aging infrastructure, how much can we delay? As costs continue to rise, we put off the inevitable.

The 1.9% in each year will generate revenue in the amount of $8.6 million as opposed to $11.6 million with the 3.72% asked for originally. My yes vote was not given lightly. This vote for me implies that we will measure and hold management accountable for every dollar spent, every contract negotiated and every personnel decision made that affects the life of our community as shareholders. Carrying charge increases cannot be a sustainable option and should

Carver Loop Civic Association Jean Mickens opened the March 6th meeting with an inspirational reference celebrating the upcoming holidays for both Christians and Jews noting we are closer than we are apart.

Magdalen Lewis covered the following: • Thanked volunteers who manned building lobbies collecting association dues. We always appreciate individuals for their time and support of building functions.

• All constituents invited – Andy King's "State of Our District Meeting," Sunday, March 12th, 3 p.m.

• The establishment of two onsite notaries for building residents, Mattie Witherspoon and Deborah Henry. Day will be designated for availability of notary services.

• Re-establishment of Scholarship Committee (2017) for eligible students-residents. Urging neighbors to submit names of candidates. Scholarship requirements/guidelines advertising will begin shortly.

• Condolences extended to Omar De Los Angeles on the passing of his mother, Sonia Jaquez. Our prayers are with him and his family.

Guest speaker, Vanessa Aldea, executive CSO manager, detailed her role: implement customer service training; oversee all staff within her designated sections; provide consistent customer service to shareholders; update new shareholders of regulations and encourage building association meeting participation.

Ms. Aldea introduced Lois English, CSO manager, Sections 1-2. They addressed: • Upcoming office changes—some individuals leaving, others being relocated. Implementation of surveys to follow-up with service calls/requests.

• Site complaints: Call CSO—each apartment assigned a code.

• Noise Complaints. Public Safety will verify disturbances before proceeding. If unable to verify, they will establish a log to determine if a pattern exists.

• Building inspections were performed with Javier

Valenzuela (Building Supervisor). Findings posted in our lobbies.

• Households to update contact information: (1) Emergency Contact Forms; (2) Yellow Key Card.

Indicates who has permission to enter apartments, who to contact in an emergency, children/other occupant information. To update, forms must be notarized with picture ID. (3) Phone Tree: utilized to contact shareholders of pertinent information by: phone calls, text and email.

• Fire Safety/Lead Paint/Window Guard notice forms. Contact CSO to obtain code, call 646-3927233 for form.

Questions: • Complaints of smoke in hallways and apartments. Public Safety performs building sweeps.

• Subleasing apartments is not allowed. Will reemphasize with Sales to enforce policy. Community Affairs Division currently investigating suspected cases.

• ID for Riverbay workers and subcontractors. All employees required to display ID. Call CSO to verify. Will reiterate with HR to reinforce.

• Service calls: create log of calls, date, time, person you spoke with.

• Work orders: only sign when satisfied, review checklist, identify work performed, record name.

• Dog policy rules - doggy droppings. Report to Public Safety.

• CSO locations: Dreiser Loop—2nd floor, room 6, Restoration/Maintenance, Dreiser Loop, lower plaza • Laundry Rooms. Replacement of dryers/additional carts for building.

Will extend an invitation to Javier Valenzuela, building supervisor, to attend our next meeting, Monday, April 3rd at 7:30 p.m.

In closing a 50/50 raffle was drawn and awarded to a lucky attendee.

—Toni Thomas

never be the only source of income.

As a corporation, we should act on grants, and other subsidies we may be able to avail ourselves to.

Our elected officials were here recently. We will continue to work with them on issues we discussed at the Legislative Roundtable meeting and stated in my last viewpoint. We will continue to engage our community for ideas for cost savings options as it is my firm belief that there is no help coming from Washington.

The budget will go to HCR and we hope they will approve it. Once the plan is adopted, the real work begins. As Board members, it is our duty as shareholders and your representatives to get the information we need from management, fully understand it, rather than passively consume what we are fed. This is not acceptable to us or should it be to you. It is management’s responsibility to communicate the budget and its actions to the community in a manner that is understood and transparent. We will never accept Co-op City be put in a risky financial position.

The infrastructure decay allowed in the past will never be an option for us regardless of how we think we should arrive at the conclusion. I will continue to work with my peers on the Board to provide you with facts as we know them, however positive or negative it may be.

Announcements The Buildings and Grounds meeting scheduled for April 11, has been changed back to the first Tuesday, April 4, due to scheduling conflicts with other meetings. We apologize for the change and we hope the building presidents and the representatives will be able to adjust their schedule to accommodate the new date. Thank you.

If you have any concerns that you wish to address, I can be reached at 917-992-7311. You can write to me at Riverbay Board, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or email me SFeliciano@riverbay board.com.

Shareholders first because we matter!

Building 17 Association At our General Meeting held on Monday, March 13, we discussed the upcoming 45th Precinct’s Annual Breakfast to be held on Wednesday, May 10, from 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Villa Barone located at 737 Throgs Neck Expressway, Bronx, NY. All members are encouraged to attend this vital and exciting community event.

As part of the Treasurers’ Report, we discussed dates and times for the collection of the annual building association dues. We agreed that we will be collecting the members’ dues in April and will finalize the dates at our next association meeting. The annual dues for the 2017 calendar year will remain at $5 per household. All tenants are encouraged to join and participate.

A general discussion was held regarding preparations for the storm that was fast approaching. Suggestions included making sure that extra water was available for drinking and other household matters, the need for candles in case we lost power and making sure that batteries and flashlights were available.

An energetic conversation was had regarding laundry room etiquette. Cooperators are reminded that the laundry baskets are not toys for children to play with; they are not for riding on or basketball hoops or racing cars. They are not for separating dirty laundry. They are not to be removed from the laundry room. We are asking, need, and expect for everyone to cooperate with this. Quality of life is something we can accomplish only with each other’s help.

We wish everyone good health and hope to see you at our next meeting. If everyone did a little, no one would have to do a lot.

—Lisa Proto

Remember to Conserve Water & Electricity

17

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Health News by Montefiore Medical Center Health News

March Is National Kidney Awareness Month March is National Kidney Month, a time to get educated on the important roles that kidneys serve in the human body. Vaughn W. Folkert, M.D., acting chief, renal division, Montefiore Medical Center, and professor, clinical medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, tells us about kidneys, kidney disease, and how to be proactive about your kidney health.

What functions do kidneys serve?

While we often think of the kidneys as organs that “just get fluid out of our body,” they, in fact, have several very complex functions. First and perhaps foremost, the kidneys are responsible for keeping the body’s fluid and salt levels balanced. Thus, when you consume excess salt or water, the kidneys sense that the body does not need this surplus and creates extra urine to rid the spare nutrients.

The opposite is also true: if you’re outside working in the hot sun or exercising, and don’t have access to fluids, your kidneys sense the need to concentrate your urine by keeping the necessary salt and water in your body.

The kidneys are also responsible for: helping the body remove waste products that are by-products of metabolism (such as extra nitrogen and urea), regulate blood pressure, and synthesize hormones that regulate both anemia (red blood cell production) and calcium levels.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic Kidney Disease is a very general term that encompasses many conditions in which the kidney is unable to do one or more of the functions above. The term “chronic” is used to denote that the problem or problems have been going on for at least a few months. Most often, the term “Chronic Kidney Disease” refers to the inability of the kidneys to filter and excrete the toxins and waste products out of the body, causing these toxins to slowly build up in the body and thereby causing disease and illness. Chronic Kidney Disease is graded from 1 to 5, with 1 being the mildest and 5 being so severe that dialysis is needed.

How do I know if I have Chronic Kidney Disease? What are the symptoms/signs?

Unfortunately, Chronic Kidney Disease is often silent until the damage of kidney disease is quite severe.

The good news is that finding out if you have Chronic Kidney Disease is as simple as getting a blood test and a

urine test. Symptoms and signs of Chronic Kidney Disease usually don’t manifest until “Stage 4,” and are very general, such as loss of appetite, fatigue, weight loss, sometimes swelling of the feet and ankles. Interestingly, most cases of Chronic Kidney Disease do not experience much change in the volume or pattern of their urine output until the disease is very far advanced. Talk to your primary care doctor if you think you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.

How can I proactively work with my primary care provider (PCP) to screen for Chronic Kidney Disease so that it is caught early enough to treat?

The key phrase here is to be proactive. Recognition of, and screening for, Chronic Kidney Disease is very simple, and easily identified by routine blood and urine tests. The proactive part is for you to make sure you see your doctor regularly for a blood pressure check and simple blood and urine tests. The key question to ask your PCP is: Do I have any of the stages of Chronic Kidney Disease?” It’s as simple as asking. If your PCP has done the testing, she/he can easily answer your question. If the tests have not been done, this will be the perfect reminder to your PCP to order the tests. Early detection greatly increases the chance that Chronic Kidney Disease can be either treated, or the progression of the disease stopped or delayed. So, early detection is key.

Who is at risk for Chronic Kidney Disease? How do I know if I am at a higher risk of developing Chronic Kidney Disease?

There are many diseases that can cause kidney disease. However, there are two common diseases that cause the majority of the cases of Chronic Kidney Disease: diabetes and hypertension. If you have either or both of these diseases, you are at a much higher risk of developing Chronic Kidney Disease. These are two diseases that are easily tested for, too – blood pressure checks by your PCP and blood tests to see if you have diabetes (an elevated blood sugar).

Chronic Kidney Disease can also be associated with other diseases (such as HIV), some medications, overuse of many non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen), and a host of other problems, such as kidney stones and hepatitis C. However, the biggest increase in risk is due to diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.

What can I do today to start proactively protecting my kidneys?

First and foremost: be healthy in your diet and your lifestyle. Avoid high salt foods; avoid non-steroidal pain medications; and if you are overweight, lose weight. Have your blood pressure checked regularly and make sure you are screened for diabetes.

Adopt a regular exercise routine, which will help maintain a healthy weight and is good for controlling blood pressure. If you smoke: stop!

Smoking is associated with a higher risk of Chronic Kidney Disease and also raises your blood pressure. If you need help quitting, Montefiore provides smoking cessation support at these Montefiore Medical Group locations: Co-op City - Bartow (2100 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; Call: 718-320-5300) and/or Co-op City Dreiser Loop (115 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475; Call: 718-3206300). NY State also provides a free resource to help New Yorkers quit smoking: NYS Smokers Quit Line 1866-NYQUITS (1-866-697-8487).

What are the risk factors for developing Chronic Kidney Disease?

As outlined above, the two biggest risk factors are diabetes and hypertension. It’s also important to know your family history of kidney disease and to share this history with your PCP. Do you know of anyone in your family who has Chronic Kidney Disease or who was, or is, on dialysis? If you have a positive family history of Chronic Kidney Disease, the risk of you developing Chronic Kidney Disease is higher. So, know your family history and share this information with your PCP. And, as noted, smoking, obesity, and regular use of some drugs, such as ibuprofen, are also risk factors.

What services does Montefiore offer to those who have Chronic Kidney Disease?

Montefiore has several services to help you deal with Chronic Kidney Disease. First and foremost, Montefiore has an extensive network of primary care offices where you can get screening and care for any of your medical needs. If you are identified as having Chronic Kidney Disease, Montefiore also has an extensive network of kidney care specialists (nephrologists) that your PCP can refer you to, as well as a Kidney Care Program that is multidisciplinary, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, social workers and dieticians to help coordinate care of the many aspects of Chronic Kidney Disease. These doctors and this team are experts in diagnosing and treating the many causes of Chronic Kidney Disease, and they also have the resources to help you with education, diet, and any other issues that might come up which may be related to Chronic Kidney Disease. The nephrologists will work closely with your PCP to coordinate your care and treat you, doing all that is possible to treat your kidney disease or prevent its progression. To learn more about nephrology and the Kidney Care Program at Montefiore, please call: 1-866-633-8255.

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

accept most health insurance plans

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

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

18

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Freshen Up Your Home!

1-800-479-2667 • www.co-opsales.info PROTECT YOUR FLOORS FROM LEAKS! Ask us about our Waterproof Laminate Flooring at the Lowest Prices!

Reface Your Kitchen BEST PRICES !

with New Counters, Sink & Faucet!

• All Wood Doors • Choice of Hardware (Nickel, Stainless, Bronze) • Hundreds of Counter Options • Granite Available

TAXES ARE COMPLICATED. Getting your taxes done isn't enough - you need your taxes done right. That's where we come in. We hire and train the most qualified tax professionals to ensure you claim every credit and deduction you deserve so you get your maximum

BEST !

TY QUALI

refund. Guaranteed.¶

Short Closet Doors?

Get your full height closet doors back!

You don’t have to overpay for elegance!

YOUR LOCAL OFFICE(S): J. Frank Vazquez, Enrolled Agent , 2013 Williamsbridge Road Bronx, New York 10461 Make an appointment today 929-777-9229

OTHER SERVICES: • • • • •

TRY OUR NEW PAINT SERVICE! Flooring (Tiles, Laminate, Wood) • Blinds Bath Cabinets/Sinks • Appliances Grout/Carpet Cleaning • Range Hoods Shower Doors • Light Fixtures • Tub Liners

We Solve Tax Problems., Any Year, Any Return We prepare corporate (1120, 1120S, LLC) & partnership returns., Receive $25 discount with this ad.

JasonLash@Co-opSales.com • Se Habla Español Licensed & Insured #1188270, NYC Better Business Bureau, NYC Dept. of Consumer Affairs

15-0105

— We Beat ALL Competitor Pricing! — ¶If you discover an H&R Block error on your return that entitles you to a larger refund (or smaller tax liability), we'll refund the tax prep fee for that return. Refund claims must be made during the calendar year in which the return was prepared. OBTP#B13696 ©2015 HRB Tax Group, Inc.

Register Now for MMCC’s Spring Spring Program 8-Week Classes | Saturday Classess ffor or Children Creativity Ballet (Beg.) Cooking Ceramics Arts & Craffts Acting Cartooning Guitar Painting Jazz & Hip Hop Dance Jewelry-Making

ENERGY FITNESS CENTER Strength Cardio Free Weights SA AVE $25 Off Membership thru 4/30/17

Sports & Fitness Basketball Fitness Training Rock Wall Climbing Gymnastics Adult Yoga & Zumba

Baseball & Softball League Ages 5-16 t Divisions are based on age ass of 6/1/17. t Copy of Birth Certificate for new players required. t Season starts April 8!

Education Coding Web Design Reading & Math Fun ndamentals

Building communities one life at a time

Tae K Kw won Do School Instructor Paul Waymans Sat, Tues, Thurs, Fri - Children Tues & Fri Classes - Adults Beginner & Yellow Belts Learn to Swim!

Fordham University Pool Sat & Sun, Ages 5-11 Tues Nights, Adults Sundays - Competitive Swim

HUR RRY & REGISTER TODAY! Prog grams begin April 1!

Mosholu o Montefiore Community Center 34 450 Dekalb Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467 CALL: A 718.882.4000 | VISIT: MMCC.ORG

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

19

20

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Get ready to pay a lot more money to live here

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson The majority of our board has voted to increase our carrying charges and our parking charges. And, now, some of our cooperators are worried about being able to stay here.

The Beginning of the End? By a majority vote, our board recently passed an emergency resolution on March 15 to increase our carrying charges by 1.9 percent and our parking charges by 5 percent on June 1, 2017. Thereafter, lots of residents spoke out: "They couldn't find anything to cut? Not one item? How are we going to pay for these increases when we didn't get a raise on our jobs?"

Other cooperators asked about the previous increase from just two years ago. “I thought that the previous 4.5 percent increase was to pay for the employee lawsuit. If that was so, how come they didn't stop that increase after we paid for the lawsuit?”

Here are the names of the directors that voted yes for this resolution: Linda Berk, Bernard Cylich, Sonia Feliciano, Francine Reva Jones, Kevin Lambright, Andrea Leslie, Claudia Sampson, Rod Saunders, Marie Smith, and Evelyn Turner.

Here are the names of the directors that voted no for this resolution: Deborah Jenkins, Leslie Peterson, Junius Williams, and Daryl Johnson. Leah Graham was absent for this vote.

Now, unfortunately, some people might think that a carrying charge increase of 1.9 percent is small. But, these same people are forgetting that we're going to get hit with another 1.9 percent increase next year, on June 1, 2018.

That's it, right? No! We’re not finished because these increases will continue way beyond 2017 and 2018. Don't believe me? Let's take a closer look at the statements that were on the resolution for these increases. The resolution states that the increases that we're getting this year and next year will only "maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2019."

Now, based on these exact words, what do you think is going to happen after March 31, 2019? That's right, another increase might be needed to "maintain

a balanced budget. …"

So, in actuality, the reported waste that you read about within the 27 departments at Riverbay is simply going to continue. And, not only will the waste continue, the budget for these departments will probably increase as well. So, amazingly, we have 27 different departments here and we're going to spend $120 million to run them. Insane!

Bottom line: I believe that our carrying charges might go up about 2 percent every year for the next few years. And, yes, some people might play games to soften this blow and say: "Oh, it's only a one point nine percent increase." Nonsense! Those little numbers are going to add up over a short period of time.

Thereafter, you might have a problem when you compare your monthly carrying charge statement against your income. Then, some heavy decisions might need to be made.

This is a shame because we have a diverse community of nice cooperators here. So, it's horrible to think that we were pushed out of here because some people made some decisions to jack up the carrying charges here.

SCRIE and DRIE Programs As mentioned above, the carrying charge increases were just announced last week. So, I'm hoping to see if we can assist some of our cooperators with the SCRIE (pronounced SCREE) program and the DRIE (pronounced DREE) program.

One thing that I'm hoping for, at least, is to have printed applications for these programs available to our community. But, first, let's learn a little about these programs. Then, I will publish several articles that will clearly explain everything in detail.

In reference to the SCRIE program, NYC states that: Through the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption Program (SCRIE), people 62 years or older with yearly incomes below $50,000 may be eligible for exemption from all or some increases in rents, carrying charges, capital assessment or voluntary capital contributions. Depending on the type of housing in which you live, you may be eligible for assistance.

In reference to the DRIE program, NYC states that: The Disability Rent Increase Exemption

Poems

BY PATRICK FARRAR Each day I create to allow myself to see what lies beneath.

What is deeper down and out of reach from man-made machines?

The constant hitting of whatever triggers curiosity?

There is the experience of growth embedded in this material, in this physical flesh.

*** A - Amazing how you can never fail with creativity.

R - Reclaiming your passion, remembering before money was introduced into your life.

T - Touched with the ability to create from nothing, advancing whatever you touch into something or something into nothing.

I - Inquisitive and curious, stop telling me to stop asking questions.

S - skeptical of it all T - Triumphant in the midst of adversity, in search of my own solution to the problem.

*** Touched and stretched, everything is in arms reach.

I love the feeling of creating, the knowledge is in what I create and realize.

The truth of course always lies beneath in broad daylight.

Stagnation surfaces the pain while madness searches for the revolver.

(Patrick Farrar is a young Co-op City artist/poet who lives in Section 2.)

(DRIE, also known as the NYC Rent Freeze Program) is an exemption against future rent increases for eligible disabled persons living in rent-controlled, rent-stabilized, Mitchell-Lama and other eligible apartments. Applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements for DRIE benefits. Landlords of DRIE tenants will receive tax credits to make up the difference between the frozen rent and what the DRIE tenants would be paying without the benefit.

Now, I know that there will be a lot of questions in regards to both programs. However, the carrying charge increase will not start until June 1, 2017. So, there is no need to rush and panic because good information will be produced in the near future to help this community with these programs.

Finally, can you believe that we only had 935 cooperators in the SCRIE program and only 132 cooperators in the DRIE program when we were hit with that massive 4.5 percent increase two years ago?

This is a shame because we have 15,372 apartments here. So, we must help our neighbors to get into these programs. Thank you.

Close Lots of information will be produced about the SCRIE and DRIE programs soon. So, please, let's spread the word. Thank you.

Questions or comments? Please send a letter to: Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, please send a message to me at darylhjohnson@optonline.net (There are absolutely no problems with this email address. So, please doublecheck the spelling of this address if your message bounces back to you.) Also, please call me at 718671-4544 if you don't receive a response from your message. You can also join me on Facebook by typing in: Daryl H. Johnson.

Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family.

Thank you.

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

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

Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted.

HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted.

We participate in Postal Workers, Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Verizon Workers, 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire Plan, Medicare, Travelers, United Health Care and many other union and major medical plans.

Se Habla Español MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.

21

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Broun Place Townhouse Association From Broun Place Townhouse Association: Co-op City is approaching 50 years in existence. This week, the other city newspaper looked at famous former residents and omitted Congressperson Eliot Engel. Broun Place feels it is important to recognize his long tenure, hard work and loyalty. We are proud to recognize that a former resident is Congressperson Eliot Engel. It is important for the children of Co-op City to know their illustrious former neighbors.

That horrible storm of last Tuesday left our walkways totally unwalkable. We salute the Grounds crew for an amazing job, enabling use. However, that very unsafe patch beginning between 28 and 29 Broun Place was not cleared to the greenway podium and it was very dangerous. Clearance is necessary to get to Dreiser/DeKruif Place. We have written to Building and Grounds, but no response to date.

All were welcome to our first Broun Place Townhouse Association meeting of the New Year, held on March 23, in Bartow Center, rm. 31 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Our guest was assistant general manager, Mr. Warren Mitchell. On the agenda were issues of townhouse signage, exterior repairs and preventive care issues. We will report further next week. Thank you for your attendance and to those that helped in preparation.

We assisted with last Thursday’s Interfaith Breakfast. It was a great coming together of diverse ethnicities and religions.

A presentation of Indian dance, African dance and speeches by City Councilperson Andy King, and Bronx Borough President

Building 13 Association

Ruben Diaz Jr. highlighted the event.

Guests included our General Manager Noel Ellison. Thanks to our own Bishops Angelo and Nancy Rosario, Bronx Clergy Task Force, as the force behind this event.

Since our dumpster pads were cleaned up and since Martin has been our groundskeeper, there is a major improvement in our dumpster pad. Call 3-1-1 to register problems off Co-op City property. Broun Place agrees with Building 9, we shouldn’t go back to NYC Department of Sanitation, but should continue with our own recycling program. It just takes being conscientious to the mission of clean streets.

This week, we attended the Riverbay Buildings and Grounds Committee. The very important matter of signage and its lack, especially for townhouse clusters, has been glaring, but I couldn’t see it! Thank you to the Nathaniel family for their update on the modifications and repairs on their apartment.

There is “new” information regarding window guards. Townhouse residents can purchase them, but the forms are not required to be filled out by townhouse residents. We learned this by working with Adler Place Townhouses Association and their president, Kenneth Graham.

Tiding of condolence to the family and friends of Kevin Shaw, well known entrepreneur and cooperator. Happy birthday to Dave Lazaar. Please advise me of your tidings. We would be happy to recognize your special dates.

“If you see something, say something;” call Public Safety: 718-671-3050.

Have a great week!

—Eva Lazaar

Postponed: Due to inclement weather, we postponed Women Keeping it Real. A call went out to members advising them of the cancellation. We apologize for any inconvenience, but wanted all to be safe in their travels. We will advise you of the rescheduled date in a couple of weeks. We welcome new participants to our fun filled group. WE learn from each other. Remember! You must be 18 and over to participate.

Summer Fun Day is on the move. It is scheduled for June 17, from noon to 6:00 p.m. If you would like to volunteer, please contact your building association. You will be advised regarding meeting dates for volunteers at a later date.

We want to start to participate in a campaign that will help the planet. What better day to begin than EARTH DAY. Rivers Run Community Garden, along with the Co-op City Little League and Mother Earth, to take the pledge: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

• I WILL SAVE ENERGY. Turn off lights and electronics when not in use.

• I WILL CONSERVE RESOURCES. I will not waste water • I WILL NOT LITTER. Put trash into proper receptacles and remember to recycle.

More information will follow regarding the opening day ceremony for the Co-op City Little League and composting and art workshops at the garden.

UPDATE: Lobster Fest – Final payment is due April 15. We ask that you be prompt with your payment. The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 15, at the Nordic Lodge. It’s an all-you-can-eat LOBSTER FEST. We will leave from 100 Casals Place at 7:30 a.m. and depart for home at 6:30 p.m. Seats for the Lobster Fest are sold out. If you would like to be placed on our waiting list, call Sherrie Hernandez (number below) with your contact information. The cost is $160 per person.

Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. For information re the Nordic Lodge Lobster feast, contact Sherrie Hernandez at 914-837-5970; Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370. Our website is www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com.

Again, thanks for making our team work.

—Leslie Peterson

Building 10 Association Hi, fellow neighbors: Undeterred by the cold weather with a wind chill in the single digits, we persevered and had a "funtastic" time on our recent Mohegan Sun Casino trip.

A great bus driver made for a smooth, safe ride.

Building 10C neighbor, Eva, was the winner of a lucrative 50/50 raffle and three of our guests each received a bottle of wine graciously donated by Fundraising Committee members Donald & Ruby Fuller. In addition, at the end of the trip as they deboarded the bus, each person received a beautifully packaged gift of "Figenza" generously donated by Building 10C neighbor Tiny Wood and his daughter Felay'sha. We're looking forward to our next great adventure.

Although our recent General Membership Meeting was not as well attended as we would have liked

(we're attributing this to the harsh weather conditions), those in attendance actively participated in what was a very informative meeting. Our guest speaker was 23-year-old Mr. Jaylen Chapman, a Building 10C resident and a May, 2016 graduate of Western Illinois University. He is also a licensed NYS insurance sales agent. Mr. Chapman gave a very comprehensive and informative overview of the Medicare Insurance Program and its components. He stressed that all Medicare beneficiaries should review the Medicare Handbook to better educate themselves on the program. Members were quite impressed with his presentation and knowledge and we invited him to come back and speak again.

We also welcomed back association board president Maxine from her recent leave of absence. It's good to have her back.

The Section 2 (Bldgs. 9 - 14) Summer Fun Day event will take place on Saturday, June 17, from 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. Bldg. 10 will participate in the event.

Anyone interested in volunteering to assist should contact Maxine or Lisa. Further details will follow.

Our Bake Sale, which was a smashing success last year, will be held in early June. Lenise, our resident "bake chef," will lead this event.

Association Dues – We will continue to collect and accept 2017 association dues throughout the year.

The 45th Precinct Community Council Breakfast will be held on Wednesday, May 10, from 8:30 a.m. 11 a.m. at Villa Barone in Throggs Neck. The association will pay for two guests to attend. Additional tickets cost $15 each.

A wonderfully blessed week is wished to all.

—Carol Campbell

INCOME TAX PREPARATION MARC A. GOODMAN ENROLLED AGENT & ACCREDITED TAX PREPARER SERVING CO-OP CITY SINCE 1972 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR LOW PRICES AND USEFUL INFORMATION AT:

WWW.GOODMANTAX.COM 137 EINSTEIN LOOP * SECTION 5

PARKING VALIDATED FOR GARAGE 7

LEFT OF THE ENTRANCE TO THE COMMUNITY CENTER

FOR INFORMATION CALL: 718-379-5217

22

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Kevin Lambright There have been only a few questions looming in the air about why we would vote for an increase and the fact that most people cannot afford an increase in their maintenance fees. Our community is the fastest growing senior community in North America. If seniors were to be displaced in our community, it would be a major disservice of humanistic proportions. Fortunately, there are things in place to counter 95% of that ever happening.

The SCRIE program subsidizes any senior who applies and has an annual household income of less than $50,000 per year. If 1/3 of their monthly income goes to carrying charges, they will be subsidized for any increases in carrying charges. So seniors, for the most part, are safe from displacement.

That has been my understanding of the process.

Solid Ground Let me be as clear as I can to emphasize the fact that when I voted to move forward to ensure the best budget presented to us by our current management, I did not vote for an increase. I voted yes to enable us to continue to live with the quality of life that I had not been used to prior to moving to Co-op City. I voted yes to re-establish confidence in knowing that we refuse to be in “emergency” mode every time there was a small or large crisis to be dealt with. I voted yes to place us in a position where we can be respected by the politicians who were elected to serve us. I voted yes to place us in the position not to repair our community, but to rebuild it. I voted yes to make it stronger than it was from inception and better than it is today.

We all know that the cost of living is going up and

Seniors are safe the reality of increased income for most is nonexistent. This is a fact across North America. Co-op City is no different when it comes to that reality. To those of you who fight that reality by saying don’t compare us to the rest of the world because you want to dismiss that reality, I ask you two questions: Do you want to take the red pill and continue to live in a false reality ignoring self-deterioration? Or are you willing to take the blue pill and meet challenges head-on with financial stability and pride creating depth and never questioning how deep the rabbit hole goes?

For the record, the questions were not rhetorical.

We should always try to look for ways to make bad situations better or make good situations even better. We must admit that throughout our lives, we haven’t always made the best decisions. If anyone tells you that they have, you had better grow 10 more eyes and keep all eyes on them. We are all human and mistakes are part of our growth. When you are a representative of others, the responsibility is even greater.

As a member of the Riverbay Board, I am met with many emotions, personalities, learning curves and so much more. If my intentions can collaborate with responsibility and work ethic, I am only at the beginning of a potentially successful representation of those I serve. As shareholders and community participants, we all have responsibilities to ourselves, our families and neighbors. For those of us who are not aware, our neighbors are equivalent to business partners.

Spelling Bee The African–American Association and the Riverbay Fund sponsored the 4th Annual Co-op City Spelling Bee last Saturday, March 18. It was an incredible, heartwarming event. There were 22 participants, age ranging from 8-12 years. All participants received awards. The biggest award was watching these young scholars compete for titles and the positive aura in the room throughout the entire event.

African American Association We have rescheduled for Ms. Tamika D. Mallory to be our special guest on Tuesday, April 4th. We look forward to another incredible turnout for this event so arrive early. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. in room #9, Dreiser Center.

Our Spelling Bee was a hit once again!!! With 22 eager contestants all showing off their intellectual fortitude, the audience seemed just as nervous for these young scholars as they were themselves. After close to 15 rounds of challenging words, three young ambitious scholars emerged: First Place: Stephen Ogunbiyi; Second Place: Jaivan Gordon; Third Place: Caleb Brennan.

We would not have been able to proudly boast the success of this event without the assistance of: Francine R. Jones, Cheryl Birdsall, Ebony Rae Lambright, Elder Barry E. Lee, Michelle Marbury, Rev. Beverly Spruil and Kevin Lambright. This event was co-sponsored by the Riverbay Fund. Thank you also to all donors and volunteers.

Meca Talent will present a Gospel comedy, “The First Lady,” on April 7th. Only 500 tickets are available.

There may be a second show added due to demand.

Contact Meca Talent at the number below for info.

Our Wholistic Health seminar is on April 8th in Bartow Center.

Our fashion show will be held during Fashion Week here in New York. If you are looking to showcase your modeling or designer skills, contact us ASAP. We will choose up to 15 models and five designers to showcase their talents. Contact: Deborah C. Nelson at (917) 445-6692.

The association sponsors the following ongoing programs and encourages your participation.

Acting Classes – Children’s and Adult classes are available. Contact: Meca Talent. For more info call

us at: 646-373-4122 Belly Dance Classes – Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. For more information, call Xonia, 646-301-9438 Children’s Programs – For information about the early morning school drop-off program Contact: Ms. Hines at 347-283-3809 and the after school program, call 718-379-5555.

Evening Line Dance Classes – Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Cynthia, 917-9037073.

Music, Rhythm & Dance – Most Fridays 7:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 15; most Saturdays, 10:00 a.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Keith, 917-5616211.

Yoga & Pilates Mat Classes – Classes on Tuesday 7:15 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 2. Lose weight, tone and strengthen your muscles with exercises that reduce stress through breathing techniques. For more information, call 718-671-8364.

ZUMBA AND YOGA – Classes on Saturday start at 9:30 in Dreiser Center, room #2 General Membership Meeting – The next meeting will be announced. If you are unable to attend the meeting, please read our weekly column for updates.

Also, if you wish to join or update your membership, please send a check or money order (DO NOT MAIL CASH) of $15 for a single membership or $25 for families to: African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Donations are welcomed. Like us on Facebook: CoopcityAfricanamericanassoc/email us at: aaaccpower@gmail.com.

—Kevin Lambright

MC for the event was Michelle Marbury. She, along with Elder Barry E. Lee, opened with the Welcome Address, prayer and libation. There were special greetings by Elder Francine Reva Jones, Spelling Bee creator and Riverbay Board member; Pastor Deborah Jenkins, Riverbay Fund director and Riverbay Board director. Contest rules were read by Rev. Beverly Spruill. The contest announcer was Ebony Rae Lambright. Closing remarks for the event were made by yours truly Kevin Lambright, president of the African-American Association.

Prize winners of the contest were: 1st Prize: Stephen Ogunbiyi (the African-American Association Award); 2nd Prize: Jaivon Gordon (the Rev. Beverly A. Spruill Award); 3rd Prize: Caleb Brennan (Ebony Rae Empowerment Award). All winners also received monetary awards as well.

Coming Soon I, like most of you, am looking forward to some fun things coming this year. Just to name a few: Hit Gospel Comedy “The First Lady;” Wholistic Health Seminar; UniverSoul Circus; fashion shows; Tunes on Tuesdays; Wicked Wednesdays, and so much more.

This is proof that so much is happening right here on your property. We must support these events so that we can continue to heighten levels of quality of life here in our community.

Keep in Touch These are times when we need to keep an eye on our family, friends and neighbors. There are people who want what we have and look for opportunities to take it. We must protect and defend one another and our property. Remember, this all belongs to us.

If you see something that seems suspicious, do not hesitate to call Public Safety. I look forward to your correspondence and feedback. I can be reached at klambright@riverbayboard.com or by phone at 646-721-8185.

Building 33 Association Hello, Building 33.

Due to a few set-backs, I have been out of commission for quite a few months. I am trying to get stronger, so I can return to doing the activities that we do in Building 33. The weather is getting nice, so it will be easier for me to get around.

The first thing on the agenda will be the flea market and cake sale. We will be collecting articles of clothing in good condition. You can bring the articles down to the back room for donation.

All common household appliances in good working condition will be accepted. Example, deep fryers, electric can openers, coffee makers, blenders, toaster, microwaves, etc.

All of our building cake makers will be on call.

Without your help, it will be hard for this event to be a success.

Also since my absence, I have not been in touch with our community leaders. I will be looking for a guest speaker for our building meetings. Time and date will be announced by next week.

Riverbay Corporation sent me a list of all new cooperators in the building. I will be reaching out to you to join us at the meetings. I miss you guys.

Get well wishes to the sick and shut-ins.

—Patricia Bonaparte

Please remember

to curb

your dog!

23

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Building 26 Association

Building 27 Association

Warm greetings to our Co-op City families, friends, merchants, and especially our new residents. March 20th was the first day of spring, but it still feels like the first day of winter. March is going out like a roaring lion with frigid temperatures.

Fond wishes to everyone celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrated events during the month of March.

Speedy recovery to all who are sick, home bound, and/or hospitalized. Our sincere condolences to those families who have suffered the loss of a beloved one.

Blessings to you during your difficult time of bereavement.

An appreciative thank you to the eight Riverbay Board of Directors (Sonia Feliciano, Leah Graham, Deborah Jenkins, Daryl Johnson, Leslie Peterson, Marie Smith, Evelyn Turner, and Junius Williams) who voted NO to the resolution to increase our monthly maintenance. Again, we thank you for your continued support.

Our next building association meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m. in the rear lobby of 2420 Hunter Avenue. Please come out and be updated to our building and community happenings. There will be refreshments served and we’ll also have a 50/50 raffle.

Sincere thanks to our volunteers who sat and collected membership dues throughout Building 26. And an appreciative thank you to those cooperators who paid their membership dues.

Upcoming Income Affidavits – Pat Cipollaro, our building president, will be available to notarize your income affidavit. Availability is forthcoming.

Let's all work to help keep Co-op City clean by properly disposing trash in the nearest receptacle. Please dispose of large boxes, furniture, and other large objects from your residence by taking it to the designated area of your building's basement.

Debris thrown from your window or terrace is dangerous. Violators will be summonses and/or arrested. If you see something, say something by calling 9 -1-1 for emergencies and 3-1-1 for all non-emergencies.

—YuVonne Lewis

Greetings, neighbors. Spring is here, snow and all. Perhaps the trees and plants will be blooming soon.

Bldg. Association General Meeting – will be Thursday, March 30th, at 7 p.m. Please join us in Bldg. 27C, rear lobby association room.

New cooperators, please come and meet your neighbors. There is something that may interest you or you may want to recommend an activity, the association is for all cooperators who want to share their comments, etc., for the betterment of your building and community.

Annual Association Dues – are $5 per family and representatives of Bldg.

A, B and C buildings will be collecting from you on Friday, April 7th from 4 to 8 p.m. The dues support the association as we post fliers of information, participation in the Section Fun Day, our wonderful annual Holiday parties, decorations for our lobbies during the holidays, etc. Thank you for your continuous support of your building association.

Foxwood Casino, Connecticut – The Building 27 Association would love for you to join us on Friday, May 19. Price $40, $10 rebate and a buffet voucher. Bus leaving at 8 a.m. SHARP from Einstein Loop Center. First payment of $20 due by Thursday, March 23 to hold your seat. Payments will be accepted on Thursday, March 23, in Bldg. 27B lobby, 4 to 7 p.m. Final payment due and/no refunds after May 7. Checks or money may be mailed to Lillian Sumpter, 140 Erdman Pl. Apt. 6D, Bronx, NY 10745. Contacts if any questions, 718-379-4629 or 718-671-1905 (9-5 p.m.)

We extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of Janice Walcott in the passing of her mother, Gloria Green of Bldg. 27B. Please share with the Sunshine Committee, Ms. Lydia Rondon, by calling her at (718) 583-3040. If a neighbor in our building is ill, home-bound, birthdays, bereavement, Ms. Rondon will respond on behalf of the association. Happy birthday to all in this month.

Please keep our Board and community in prayer, that the Board will make the right decisions. Pray for leaders, peace and stability.

—H. Overman

Building 21 Association A Better and Better Every Day in Every Way All of us want a better CO-OP City and the best way to have that is to be informed and to take advantage of the infrastructure that protects and guides us.

We are not tenants, we are shareholders and cooperators. CO-OP City is a jewel in New York’s crown. We must cooperate with each other in order to make and keep our community one of the best places to live in New York. How do we do that? Our intention is to answer that question in The Tank.

THINK TANK at Building 21 needs your input. Come out and lend your intention to The Tank. Put us on your calendar, Friday evening, 8:30-10 p.m. in the gathering room in the rear of Building 21B. Floor Captains will make CO-OP City Work Better…

All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows: 1. CONTACT NUMBERS (FOR YOUR FLOOR ONLY) • LIST ALL EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS AND DISTRIBUTE TO EACH NEIGHBOR 2. CO-OP CITY TIMES • PLACE THEM AT EACH APARTMENT DOOR (Delivered on Saturdays) 3. ELEVATOR NOTICES • READ THEM AND TALK TO YOUR NEIGHBORS ABOUT THEM 4. PROMOTE: • MEETINGS, CLUBS AND GATHERINGS 5. ENCOURAGE • YOUR NEIGHBORS TO: VOTE – VOTE – VOTE! IN THE RIVERBAY ELECTION • MAKE CALLS TO THE RIVERBAY OFFICES SECURITY - 718-671-3050 CSO OFFICES - 718-320-3300 The Race for the $300 Prize is in full swing Those 21 Association members who wish to start earning valuable points and a chance to win $300 have many ways to do s. Note: A member is ANY shareholder who has paid their annual $5 dues to the Building 21 Association. Refer back to the following issues of the CO-OP City Times for complete rules of the 21 Association Rewards Points Program: September 10th, 17th and 24th.

If you have any questions regarding The 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information. EMAIL your building association at 21association@ gmail.com. CALL your association at 347.504.1821. ATTEND the monthly meetings which are held every 3rd Thursday in “The Gathering Room” in the rear of the B-section at 7 p.m. All monies collected (i.e., annual dues etc.) are turned in to our treasurer and installed in the association’s bank account.

We are dedicated to the self-development and empowerment of every shareholder in CO-OP City. We are passionate about this community. Aren’t you???

Come and join us at Building 21 sometime soon. Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals A FORCE FOR GOOD. See you around the neighborhood!

—Michelle Marbury

Baychester Visual Arts Association Our 2016-2017 season portends to be one of the most exciting in our history – with art classes, art shows, lecture/demonstrations and workshops, free and open to the public.

BVA’s next class sessions began on Tuesday, Feb. 7th and continues until April 11th in room 5, Dreiser Community Center. The next session starts on April 18. You can choose from the two class schedules which are 1:00 p.m.

– 3:00 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The fees are as follows: Annual membership is $35 a year and a session of 10 classes is $60. This is the best bargain in the Bronx – maybe even the city – given the quality of instruction offered. Stop by our permanent workshop in room 5 in the Dreiser community center and see beautiful artwork done by students and our instructor displayed throughout our studio.

Don’t miss our flea market which will be held in our studio room 5 in the Dreiser community center on April 22, from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. Beautiful and inexpensive items will be on sale. You’ll be glad you stopped by!

Mr. Moses Groves, BVA’s own art instructor, will be the artistic guide for these classes. Mr. Groves is an accomplished artist who has studied at the Art Students League and NYU. He has exhibited work in the New York and New Jersey area and has won awards for his artwork. You can call M. Groves at 201-862-0847 or S. Lochansky at 718-379-1049 for more information.

You can register in room 5 on Tuesdays at the Dreiser Community Center and check out the art work on display in our studio or by mail indicating the class time desired. Tuition can be sent to Baychester Visual Arts, P.O. Box 678, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

BVA is a non-profit, self-supporting organization that needs your support to continue offering high level art instruction at these bargain prices. So come join BVA on this fabulous artistic trek, take a class, make a tax deductible donation, and feel the satisfaction of being a creator and/or patron of the arts. All checks should be made out as indicated above.

Science is for the body and art is for the soul.

—Sylvia Lochansky

Building 32 Association The Executive Board of Building 32 Association would like to thank everyone who helped make our fundraiser trip successful; more importantly, we are pleased that you enjoyed yourselves. A special thank you to the woman who found an iPad on the bus and turned it in. The owner, who received her iPad today, is very grateful to you.

We are planning a spring trip to a winery. Details will appear in the next few weeks and we look forward to seeing you.

—Lorna Smith

24

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner For the first time in my tenure as member of the Board of Directors, a very clever, strategic strategy was utilized by management. After the Board voted NO to a previous carrying charge increase for this fiscal year – we do have a budget surplus – two (2), not one (1) resolutions were presented for vote.

Make Co-op City Unsafe If this director had voted for a “0”% for this fiscal year, as we do have a budget surplus, management was prepared and I would have agreed to the following: • Reduce Public Safety headcount from 100 to 90 Eliminate supervisor of Detective Unit.

Adjust funds for gasoline & uniform cleaning based on actuals.

Reduce vehicle purchase.

Eliminate Mobile Command Center.

Eliminate scooters.

• Reduce Garage Attendant overnight shift by 7.

Eliminate and adjust Grounds positions.

• Reduce Lobby Attendant staffs.

Eliminate temp exterminators.

Eliminate tool purchase for Construction.

Eliminate and adjust Office Services positions.

• Eliminate Assistant Co-op City Times Editor position.

• Eliminate two (2) positions in Power Plant.

Eliminate several positions in HR. • Increase outside Legal cost based on 9-month actual of $908,000 to $525,000.

• Increase outside Consultant fees to $66,000.

• Reduce Temps from 50 to 32 – And the list goes on!

From my standing, employees at the bottom were

Between A Rock & A Hard Place getting hammered. My concern was a Yes vote could certainly “possibly” lead to homelessness for some and great harm to the quality of life for all cooperators.

In my opinion, the way the budget with the “0%” carrying charge was cleverly devised the second time around, a NO vote for this Director was a nobrainer. This director could NOT envision cutting Public Safety and NOT have Garage Attendants at nights, as well as other critical services impacting quality of life. We also need our lobby attendants.

That said, this Director voted YES to an increase of 1.9% in carrying charges and a 5% increase in garage fees. Will we get another increase next year?

In my opinion, YES, we will, as scare tactics work.

How? You cut the department staff that will ensure cooperators are no longer SAFE. In my opinion, for the first time since serving on the Board, this management company, Douglas Elliman, with support, figured out a unique way to get ongoing carrying charge and other increases approved – It’s either THIS OR THAT – Vote Yes or No! Will management be successful in obtaining outside grants to assist with elevator repairs is unknown.

It has not happened with those GM’s who have been employed before Douglas Elliman. In my opinion, cooperators, especially seniors and those with disabilities and children in college, will have some difficult days ahead. Cuts and decreases in services are coming from Washington to New York City and State and increases are coming from Co-op City to keep an “affordable” roof, with amenities, over our heads.

In my opinion, we don’t need more shopping malls in our immediate community – we need AFFORDABLE HOUSING and facilities for our youth and young adults. We need a facility in Co-op City in walking distance for all age groups. By the way, the former Bingo Hall remains vacant.

Concern For Small Black Businesses Based on what I am presently witnessing in Co-op

City and what is coming from Washington, DC as it relates to health care, I have expressed concern that it will be difficult for the reportedly five small black businesses to make it. There is no need to preach to the choir about the unique life-long struggle of people of color when it comes to “business ownership” and getting business loans. Historically, we have come a long way since enslavement/(immigration), however, the losses of small Black businesses in particular have been many. How many stores in Bay Plaza are owned and operated by people of color? We must keep a watchful eye and support what we have in Co-op City.

In Spite Of It All We continue to have many exciting events happening in our community. A special thanks to all who give of their time to volunteer, especially the clubs and organizations.

Mental Health Event A Mental Health Awareness Workshop is happening in Co-op City as follows: Date: Saturday, April 8th 2017 Where: Dreiser Loop Auditorium A, 177 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 Time: 1:30 to 5:00 p.m.

Workshops include a Poetry Slam “In Our Own Voice” Presentations (hear from those with mental illness who are making a difference in spite of their illness) Caregiver Resources: If you are living with or have a loved one in your life with a mental illness, you need all the support you can get. Free refreshments will be served.

Please continue to write or email your concerns and challenges. Follow-up on your behalf will be requested.

“Truth - It’s more important now than ever.”

I may be reached at: Evelyn M. Turner - 917-3241033 or eturner@riverbayboard.com. Write me at Evelyn M. Turner, LCSW, Riverbay Board Director – 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

25

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

National Council of Negro Women

Black Forum

Women’s Celebration Program – On Saturday, April 1, we will be celebrating young women in our community, 16-18 (high school students) and 17-29 years of age who are enrolled in college or have graduated and have excelled in other extracurricular activities. We are calling this program “Bronx Scholars Represent.”

Young women will be honored with Certificates of Achievement for their outstanding academics and will be highlighted in a booklet “Young Bronx Women of Excellence.” Awardees must have resided in the Bronx during their formative years, attended high school in the Bronx and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They must submit a statement from a teacher, coach, etc. as to their excellent achievements. High school students must have parental permission to participate. For more information, please contact first vice president and chairperson for our women’s event, Camille Worrell at sistasonamission@aol.com. She will forward to you an application form and letter. Also, we are calling all poets! Between 1 and 2 p.m., poets are invited to share their original work or read some of their favorite poetry. This will be a free afternoon event in room 4, Dreiser Center.

Spirit Cruise Pre-Mothers’ Day Celebration – What a glorious way to celebrate Mothers’ Day! Join us on a Gospel Luncheon Cruise on Saturday, May 13, for a delightful 2-hour cruise with a lunch buffet, DJ and dancing, skyline views on New York Harbor and great gospel music as well. Mother will be delighted!

No last minute desperate arrangements for you! For just $80 per person, your preparations are complete. For more information, contact (718) 379-3788 or (347) 602-5600 or (917) 670-4012. Checks are payable to NCNW Co-op City Section and can be mailed to PO Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. No refunds please.

Bethune Height Recognition Program – Plans are under way for our 43rd Annual Bethune Height Recognition Program that will take place on Saturday, May 20, at the Astoria World Manor. This is a celebration in which all NCNW sections in New York State come together to support and live the legacy of NCNW’s founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Dorothy I Height, Chair/President Emerita. One of our honorees this year will be Sandra Bookman of WABC-TV. National Museum of African American History & Culture – Have you already visited the new Smithsonian in Washington on a one-day trip and only saw one floor? We are planning a 2-day trip, August 6 – August 7, for only $299 for a double and $249 per child. Payment plan available, but no refunds. We will spend Sunday afternoon and Monday morning at the museum and Monday afternoon, on the way home, we will visit Arundel Mills (back to school shopping) and the Live Casino! One breakfast, 2 lunch buffets at Golden Corral, 1 dinner at Phillips Seafood and 1 night hotel accommodations are included. For contact information for single, triple or quads, call (718) 655-9034 or (718) 538-8606 or (718) 320-2366.

—Joyce Howard

Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. invites its members to attend this special meeting on Tuesday, April 4, at 12 p.m.

Please inform coalition of any suggestions that you may have. Ms. Virgina Stewart is the president of the coalition. Phone number, (718) 671-4506.

We were in recess the months of January and February. The next general membership meeting will be on Tuesday, April 4, at 12 p.m., 177 Dreiser Community Center, room 15. It is important that two representatives should be sent from each organization to attend all coalition meetings.

The coalition is a non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life of cooperators while providing educational and culturally enriching programs for the community. We also act as one voice for all coalition members where there are issues of common concern and human rights. We also sponsor Friends & Family Day and Kwanzaa celebrations free for the community.

Members of the coalition include the following: African-American Association; Co-op City Baptist Church; Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; NAACP, Co-op City Branch; St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church and Zodiacs Track Club.

Please support our efforts by sending us a tax deductible contribution made payable to Coalition of African-American Churches and Community Organization of Co-op City, Inc., P.O. Box 619, Bronx, NY 10475. Churches and organizations that desire to join the coalition may apply for membership by either writing or calling (718) 6714506 or (718) 671-5957 for a membership application which should be returned with a letter on your church/organization’s letterhead and signed by the minister/president. Read the coalition’s weekly column for information about events and issues. Remember the coalition’s motto is, “Coming together is the Beginning, Keeping together is Progress and Working together is Success.”

—Harman T. Leacock

Next Defensive Driving Class The next Black Forum defensive driving course will be on Saturday, April 8, 8:50 a.m. – 3 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 1. Please make your check in the amount of $35, payable to “the Black Forum of Co-op City.” Call (718) 320-8035.

Trip To Sugarhouse Casino The Black Forum trip to the Sugarhouse casino on Sat., Apirl 22 is sold out. Bus will leave Dreiser at 8:30 a.m., Asch Loop at 9 a.m., and Einstein at 9:15 a.m.

Trip to Sands Casino Come join us on a trip to the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA, on Sat., June 24. For information, please call (718) 320-0033 or (917) 209-5334. Call today.

Summer Youth Program If you are young person between the ages of 16-24 and you are interested in working with the Black Forum over the summer, please call us, (718) 320-8035.

Need Legal Help?

If you are in arrears, etc., etc., we can help. A representative from HRA will be here on Thursday, March 30, 10 a.m. to discuss your issues.

Cruise to Bermuda Join with us for seven (7) glorious days of fun in the sun cruise to Bermuda, on Norwegian “Breakaway,” sailing out of New York on Sunday, Aug. 27th to Sun., Sept. 3rd. Rates based on double occupancy, includes taxes & port fees; inside cabin $1235.08, Ocean View: $1355.08 and Balcony $1505.08. Gratuities $13.50 p/d, p/p/. First deposit due Mar. 21. $50.

Payment in full May 29th. For more

information, call Judy at (929) 274-5839.

Please leave your name and number.

Food Pantry Volunteers Needed Two nights a week from 5-6:30 p.m.

Please call (718) 320-8035.

Food distribution sites On Thursdays, residents of Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Likewise, residents of Buildings 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursdays to pick up food. Residents of all other buildings and townhouses can pick-up at Dreiser Center, room 20. For information, please call (718) 320-8035.

Emergency Food Program We are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., rm. 20 in Dreiser Center.

Also, due to budget constraints and shortage of available food, you must live within zip code 10475 to participate in this program. You must also have your card with you and bring two clean plastic shopping bags. Please also have your current photo ID, such as a non- or driver’s license or any photo ID card with proof of address.

You will then be issued a card in order to pick up food in the future.

We Need You - Join Us Today Membership is $5 per year/person.

Call (718) 320-8035 or write to Black Forum, P.O. Box 563, Bronx, NY 10475; email: coopcityblackforum@ gmail.com or tonyshome10475@gmail. com. Call or visit us, room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center.

—Tony Illis

Spanish-American Community Club Please join us on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 8 p.m. Everyone is welcome!

The Nomination of Officers took place on Thursday, March 9th and Elections were held on Thursday, March 16th. Please welcome our new Board and Executive Board Members: President – Alfonso Gonzalez; VicePresident – Rosaura Cruz; 2nd Vice-President – George Castellanos; Treasurer – Octavio Cruz; Assistant Treasurer – Luz Peña; Recording Secretary – Iris Ramos; Correspondence Secretary – Carmen Rodriguez; Sergeant-At-Arms – Claudio Guzman; For the Board – Aida Gonzalez, Jose Lopez and Lourdes Suarez; for the Scholarship Board of Trustees – Nelly Rodriguez, Rosaura Cruz and Gladys Rivera. Best wishes to all!

Congratulations to the winners of our special election raffle: Iris Ramos and Lourdes Suarez.

‘Social Friday’ is scheduled for March 31st at 7:00 p.m.

The club is co-sponsoring a dance on Saturday, April 15th. The ‘Sábado de Gloria’ dance will be held in the Dreiser Auditorium ‘A’ beginning at 9:00 p.m. Enjoy live music

by Toby Rivera, NYC Latin Star and DJ ‘Elmer G’. Please call (347) 928-5633 for tickets ($30 in advance).

The Installation of Officers Dinner and Dance is scheduled for Friday, April 28th at Maestro’s. Tickets are $60 for members, $80 for non-members. Payment is due by Thursday, April 20th. If you have not renewed

your membership as of February, you will be required to pay the non-member rate.

Please contact Luz Peña at (407) 716-4476 or Daliah Rodriguez at (917) 577-9047 for more information.

Applications for the Tony Mondesire Scholarship are now available. Applications are being distributed to member households with students of higher education. The forms will be available in room 16 of Dreiser Loop Center at any of our monthly meetings, either the 2nd Thursday of every month or at the board of directors meetings on the 1st Tuesday of each month. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and residents of the Bronx. Students must carry a minimum of 12 credits per semester at an accredited institution for at least one year.

Applications must be returned by May 11th, either by mail, or to a member of the Scholarship Board of Trustees.

Coming soon: Karaoke Night on May 6th, Casino Trip on June 10th (already SOLD OUT!), Parents Night on June 24th and ‘El Batey’ Picnic on July 30th. More information will be available in the coming weeks.

Additional information for all of our upcoming club events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website: http://spanamcccc.synthasite .com. You may also contact the club at (718) 379-7017, email us at SpanAmCCCC@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.

—Carmen Rodriguez

26

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Remaining affordable without compromising safety or affordabilty Director’s Viewpoint

Leslie Peterson and Junius Williams. The vote was 10 to 4 in favor of the 3.8%.

What’s next? HCR reviews our operating expenses and other obligations. HCR will also prepare a letter Riverbay must distribute by a specified deadline. The letter will give shareholders an opportunity to particiLast week, the Board directors met once again to pate in the process and send written comments. There review proposed budgets that we needed to complete is a 30-day comment period so that you may review and submit by March 31, 2017. The evening before, the budget and comment on what was submitted to we reconvened we received two budgets on which to HCR by Riverbay. If rules remain the same as dicvote: One was for a 0% increase and the other for tated in the previous budget, HCR will advise you 1.9% in the first year and 1.9% the second year (total that during this period you may ask Riverbay to make financial records available for inspection. HCR will 3.8% increase). I voted for a 0% percent increase.

Both proposals included the major items we need also schedule a meeting with shareholders. Repreto address, such as the elevators, self-opening lobby sentatives from HCR will attend and answer addidoors and Local Law 11 work. Both included $27.6 tional questions. million in “High Priority” work and $3.9 million in Board members were reminded about a year when “Medium Priority” work. Included in the approved a previous Board voted on a 1% increase, which was increase was lobby renovations. subsequently overruled by HCR, who implemented a 3% instead. Absent from that conversation was the The 0% budget included reorganization changes state of our financial affairs at that time. The process including the elimination of lines (several were vacant for 1-3 years) and department budget decreases based will culminate only after HCR has reviewed all input on historical needs. Cleaning our house and managing and the actual needs and circumstances of the develour money with a 0% increase would generate $5.9 opment. The commissioner will make the final determillion in surplus funds. The 3.8% increase has mination and you will be officially notified by HCR. changes creating $2.4 million in surplus funds. We all We must be wise and spend judiciously by prowant to remain affordable without compromising ducing budgets that suit our level of expenditure. safety or affordability and both accomplish that. Vot- This is certainly better than spending more than you ing for the 0% was Deborah Jenkins, Daryl Johnson, can afford, getting into debt and falling into eco-

Leslie Peterson

nomic crisis.

Just two more things: 1. I want to congratulate the young girls and boys who participated in the Spelling Bee last weekend.

Their parents and family members watched along with the community as round-by-round, they rose to the challenge. In the end, three young men placed first, second and third. Job well done and keep up the good work.

2. Earth Day is April 22, and Rivers Run Community Garden is collaborating with the Co-op City Little League encouraging Co-op City to: (additional details to follow).

Save The Planet and Take The Pledge.

MY EARTH DAY EVERYDAY PLEDGE: REDUCE, REUSE and RECYCLE • I WILL SAVE ENERGY, turn off lights and electronics when not in use.

• I WILL CONSERVE RESOURCES. I will not waste water • I WILL NOT LITTER. I will put trash into proper receptacles and remember to recycle.

“You must never be fearful about what you do when it's right,” by Rosa Parks I am always interested in hearing your thoughts. I can be reached by mail at: Leslie Peterson, Riverbay Board Director, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; Tel. 718-320-1370, or email lpeterson@ riverbayboard.com or daddpeterson@aol.com.

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Building 9 Association

The next General Meeting will be Wednesday, April 5, at 1:30 p.m. in the Dreiser auditorium. However, please note that the MTA will be making a presentation regarding Reduced Fare Easy Pay Metro Card for seniors at that meeting.

Travel Events: (price includes transportation/Coach Bus: Dreiser Loop opposite H&R Block).

• July 5-7, Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, Del. Price: double, $400 pp/single $490 pp. Deposit: $100 ASAP. Two payments each: $150 double/$195 single.

Final Payment Due: June 5. Contacts: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718320-0500.

• Sept. 9-16 (8 day/7 night) Canada & New England cruise on the beautiful Carnival “Sunshine.” $250 deposit per person due immediately to hold reservation. NYC Departure/Return. NOTE: Preferred Cabin/Category selection goes to earliest bookings. Cabin/Category Prices from $929 to $1399 which include your cabin, meals, port charges and taxes. Final payment due by May 19. Travel insurance (additional cost) encouraged. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722.

Theatre Committee: (price includes van/coach transportation, Dreiser Loop opposite rehab center or opposite H&R Block) • April 26th. Showtime: 2:00 p.m. “ON YOUR FEET” at the Marquis Theatre.

Price: $90. Deposit: $45. Final payment DUE ASAP. Contact: Lois Scott, 347768-3943.

• May 9th (Tuesday). “JONAH,” Sight & Sound Theatre, PA. Includes lunch at Millers. Price: $125. Deposit required: $75. Final payment ASAP. Contact: Lois Scott, 347-768-3943.

• June 21st (Wed.). Lunch/showtime: 11:00 a.m. “MAMMA MIA,” Westchester Broadway Theatre. A musical story about a young woman about to be married discovers that any one of three men could be her father. She invites all three to the wedding without telling her mother, Donna. Price, $70. Deposit immediately: $35. Balance/full payment due May 1st. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718671 4949.

Members and friends, we do require your deposit and/or full payment, along with your name and telephone number, when signing up for trips and/or shown.

First fully paid, confirmed seating. Committee members in Dreiser clubroom 19 (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30-5:00 p.m.

Good And Welfare: To members, as you rest and heal, know that you are thought of warmly and wished a quick recovery.” Call Josephine Flowers, 718 320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements."

If interested in joining us on our next SPA DAY, call 718-379-4784/718-6718449 – leave your name and phone number. Note: Our next SPA Day – May date to be determined.

“Spring is not the best of seasons. Cold and flu are two good reasons; wind and rain and other sorrow, warm today and cold tomorrow.” –Author Unknown —Claudette Davis

Greetings.

Spring has Sprung!

Time to focus on renewal.

Let us strive for betterment of our perceptions about our homes, our building and our community. Let us manifest selfrespect and respect for our neighbors. Let's strive to keep our elevators, lobbies, garages and compactor 9A Dues Collectors: Wanda Rodriguez, Wanda Randall, rooms clean. Please don't Daisy McCoy and Shirley Wells. litter on our walkways.

It is also time to engage our young ones. Chief Apollo is sponsoring the 'Pizza with A Cop' campaign. Our children should be familiar with our law enforcement professionals, not afraid of them. Our children should be comfortable when interacting with our law enforcement professionals, not confrontation. Our law enforcement professionals should be our children's protectors, mentors and role models. This is a step in that direction. When we know each other better, we treat each other better. If you can change a perspective, you can change a life. Please encourage your children to join us. Wednesday, April 12, in the Building 9 association room. CCPD will be present to inspire and to encourage our youth.

Remember, 'Encouragement is Nourishment.'

Our April Membership Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 20th, at 7 p.m.

Our scheduled guest speaker will be Edgar Perez, Restorations Department manager.

Our Annual Building 9 Association Bake Sale is scheduled for Saturday, June 3rd, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. Calling all bakers! Please bake something for us and/or buy something from us.

The 6th Annual Summer Family Fun Day event in Section 2 is scheduled for Saturday, June 17th, from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. in Carver Loop.

We will be selling T-shirts as our fundraiser. Also, we will need volunteers.

We are still in the planning stages of our Annual Summer Bus Ride.

Thank you to those who supported our 1st Women's History Month Movie Night.

We look forward to seeing familiar faces and food at our 2nd Annual International Food Night, March 25th, at 7 p.m. Share your dish, share your culture with your neighbors.

Bernie Cylich, first vice president, and Linda Berk, president, Riverbay Corporation Board of Directors, were guest speakers at our March meeting. They updated the members on the new lobby doors, shopping center construction, Local Law 11 progress, concerns about the elevators, and the budget.

The Riverbay Board of Directors’ Annual election period has begun. Nominating petitions were picked up on Monday, March 20th. Read your local papers.

Attend a candidates' forums. Learn the issues. To be informed is to be empowered.

If you want to go swiftly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.

—Linda Collins

Be Courteous To Your Neighbors.

Co-op City Is A Cooperative Development!

27

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Co-op City Sports

On Saturday, March 18th, Velocity Track Club New York (VTC) was invited to the Throgs Neck S.D.A. Church Mission in the Bronx to worship and to be honored for the sacrifice we make for our youth. The DeMore family (Elder Anthony DeMore and his wife, Sister Johanina DeMore) have two sons who train with VTC. The service was tailored just for us and we were truly blessed.

There were talented singers, musicians, story-telling for the youth and a heartfelt sermon. It was great to have the team spending time together in a spiritual setting at this joyous event!

Our coaches, Destry Gordon, KenDall Jackson, Gary Caldwell and Winston Dinkins, were honored with lovely

Velocity Track Club New York plaques and encouraging words. The coaches’ wives, Charlotte Gordon, Serena Jackson, Melanie Caldwell and Angela Corbin-Dinkins, were also honored with lovely flowers and thank you cards. Certificates and thank you cards were also presented to VTC’s entire staff, Tanya Ingram, Serena Jackson, Renee Parker, Diana Kendall and Edith Tolbert. Thank you, DeMore family, we truly appreciate everything!

On Sunday, March 19th, Coach Gordon and I attended the 3rd USATF New York Awards Banquet, Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex in Staten Island, NY. We celebrated the great athletic performances of 2016 and honored the hard working officials, administrators and coaches. The Athlete of the Year Awards categories were: Youth (Track & Field and Cross Country) for their division/gender, plus overall athlete for girl & boy. Open (men & women) Track & Field, Masters Track & Field, Long Distance Running, Race Walking award, Officials award, President awards, Media award and Coaching award. The best performers from USATF New York during 2016 were honored, including two from VTC.

Brianna Burrell was Athlete of the Year for the 8 & under girls for Track & Field. Brianna had a great 2016, at the USATF Hershey Indoor Championship, taking 2nd in the long jump and 5th in the 55 meter dash. She also has the USATF New York record in the long jump, winning the silver medal in the event, and the bronze medal in the 100 meters & 6th place medal in the 200 meters.

In 2016, Brianna earned 5 national medals and has an association record. Olivia Burrell (sister) was named Velocity Track Club Staff, Coaches & Spouses Athlete of the Year for the 9 & 10 girls Track & Field. Olivia also national medals and was named had an outstanding 2016. At the 2016 National Champion, plus she has an USATF Hershey Indoor National association record.

Championship, she won a Gold medal Velocity Track Club New York is a in the long jump, and also won a 5th 501(c) not-for-profit. For additional place medal in the 55 meters dash. information, you can go to our website, Olivia won a silver medal in the long Velocitytrack.org, or contact me, jump, 5th place medal in the 100 Coach Winston Dinkins, at 914-441meters and 6th place medal in the 200 6196 or email me at watclt@aol.com. meters. During 2016, Olivia earned 5 —Winston Dinkins

Faith @ Work Christian Church 120 DeKruif Place (street level). Praise and Worship begins at 9:30 a.m. Church telephone: (347) 346-5790; email: fatwcc@aol.com.

Weekly Worship Experiences: Tuesday Prayer Service, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday Morning Worship, 9:30 a.m. Teen Church, 10:00 a.m., 2nd Sundays; Children's Church, 3rd Sundays (K-3); Older Children's Church, 4th Sundays (4th-7th).

Church motto: "We are Christ-centered, familyfocused with power and authority."

Church mission: To empower, educate and motivate men, women, boys and girls to reach their full potential and live abundant lives through preaching and teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Come worship with us, where we honor tradition but are not bound by it! All are welcome to join us any and every Sunday because our goal is to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, in LOVE, through teaching and preaching the Word of God from the Bible.

Bible Study is underway and we're excited! Join us for a Mid-Day Study, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., as well as our regular 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study.

Please join us as we journey through the book of Revelation.

The 7 Last Sayings of Christ from the Cross – April 14th, at 10:00 a.m., led by Pastor Frank Jenkins, Pastor Lamont Granby, Pastor Kimberly Mabry Wright, Minister Larae Shabaka, Pastor James Furman, Pastor Dawn Snell and Min. Phyllis Coy-Kerr.

Resurrection Sunday, April 16th – Worship begins promptly at 9:30 a.m. We welcome you all to join us where you'll get no watered down version of the Gospel, but the Word of God! Finally, we are continuing to meet every two weeks at Faith @ Work Christian Church, 120 DeKruif Place,

to plan our actions against any injustice and inequality we believe must be addressed at the national level. We invite all who are concerned about Meals on Wheels’ elimination, afterschool funding elimination, immigration, the ACA/American Healthcare Act, education, gun violence, civil rights and many other liberties that might be under attack, to join us on March 26 at 12:30 p.m. All are welcome! Lite refreshments will be served.

Remember, it's never about us, but always about the goodness of the Lord.

—Pastor Deborah D. Jenkins

Family Owned and Operated • Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

• Casket Showroom on premises

• Cremations

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

All areas are handicapped accessible

Personalized & Professional Care • 50 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665 NOW WEBCASTING TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABROAD

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

Serving all cultures & faiths

28

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Community Protestant Church

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

On behalf of our Pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone: (718) 862-9172.

Regular Church Schedule Sunday School - 9:00 a.m.

Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Communion Service - Every first and third Sundays Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.

The following programs are at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) Morning Prayer Services - Tuesday, 6 a.m. – 8 a.m., and 9 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m.

Extension of Prayer and Worship Service – Every first, second and third Fridays at 7:00 p.m.

Other Scheduled Events Observance Of The 48TH Anniversary Of Community Protestant Church Sunday, April 2nd, 11:00 a.m.—We extend a cordial invitation to you to worship with us on our special day, the 48th Anniversary of Community Protestant Church. Our Theme: “The Church is the Lord’s Vineyard, the Branch of the True Vine, and the Light of the World.” Our Guest Preacher will be Minister Diane Asphall, Mt. Zion Christian Baptist Church, Mt. Vernon, NY. Holy Week Services At Community Protestant - All Are Welcome Palm Sunday, April 9th at 11:00 a.m., Sunday School Easter Presentation.

Thursday, April 13th at 7:00 p.m. – MAUNDY THURSDAY SERVICE in conjunction with Co-op City Baptist Church. *Friday, April 14th, 12:00 p.m. - GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE – “THE SEVEN LAST WORDS.” SUNDAY, APRIL 16TH, 9:00 A.M. (ONE SERVICE ONLY) – Morning Worship Service - RESURRECTION SUNDAY (EASTER SUNDAY) Saturday, May 6th, 4:00 p.m. – BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! The Hospitality Ministry invites you to join us in A PRE-MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION, featuring the Master of Entertainment, internationally renowned MR. HUNTER HAYES. A jazz legend and Emmy Award winner, Mr. Hayes has performed with such great artists as James Brown, Miles Davis and Lonnie Youngblood. It will be held in room 31, Bartow Community Center, Co-op City, 2049 Bartow Avenue, lower level. Admission: $35 for adults; $15 for children 15 and under. For tickets and/or additional information, contact: (718) 671-6122, (718) 671-0425 or (718) 671-3181.

September 12–15 – The Missionary Ministry sponsors a trip to THE HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA, the only Entertainment Park that celebrates the Biblical Word of the Christian Faith. Package includes: Round trip airfare; round trip airport transportation from Bartow Ave. (Co-op City, Bronx); 4 days/3 nights hotel accommodation; 3 buffet breakfasts; 1 group dinner, 2 day admissions to the Holy Land Experience; Lunch-To-Go at the Holy Land Experience; transportation from the hotel to the Holy Land and travel insurance. $1,013 per person double occupancy; $961 per person triple; $1,253 single. $113 deposit due December 3, 2016 (non refundable after 5/17/17). For reservation and/or additional information, call (718) 671-0425 or (718) 379-8514.

—Evan G. Mitchell

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome.

Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service.

Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church.

The men hold their meeting after service on the 2nd Sunday of each month.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 26, when we will celebrate the Fourth Sunday in Lent. Our Supply Priest, Father Simeon Johnson, will be the preacher and celebrant.

Events Many thanks for your participation and support in connection with our annual cake sale fundraiser last Saturday. In spite of the weather, this event went very well. Please note the following: 1) Holy Week: This year, services will again be hosted by a member church from each IPC (Interfaith Parish Council). Services will begin at 7 p.m.

Monday, 4/10, St. David’s Church, 384 E 160th Street, Bronx, NY 10451.

Tuesday, 4/11, St. Martha’s Church, 1858 Hunt Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462.

Wednesday, 4/12, Church of the Mediator, 260 W. 231st Street, Bronx (to be confirmed).

2) 2 ECW raffle tickets are now available. 1st Prize, $300; 2nd Prize, $175 and 3rd Prize, $75. The tickets are $1 each and $5 for a book of 6.

All ticket stubs and payments should be turned in by Sunday, April 16.

Drawing takes place on Saturday, April 29, and winners need not be present.

3) Save the Date: Saturday, July 22, Pindar Valley Winery Trip. (Details to follow) 4) National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC, Saturday, June 3. Motor coach transportation departing from Dreiser Loop at 7:00 a.m. All- you-can-eat luncheon buffet at the Golden Corral. SOLD OUT!!

Outreach Program: We continue to collect non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. Please remember to donate.

For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718320-0844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org.

“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil; * for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” —Psalm 23:4 —M. Chambers

Church of the New Vision

Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association

Pastors Kenneth Hodge and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us.

Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s people. Serving the community for over 44 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian Love. All are welcome.

Order of Services: Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Adult and Youth Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

Mid-day Bible Study: Tuesdays, 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Women Bible Study: 2nd Saturday of each month, 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Youth Ministry: Fridays, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Upcoming Events 1) April 14th, Good Friday Service, 7:30 p.m. The Seven Last Words of Jesus.

2) April 9th is Palm Sunday service, 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

3) Easter Sunday, April 16th, there will be a sunrise service 6:00 a.m. and an 11:00 a.m. service; breakfast will be served after sunrise service.

4) Saturday, May 20th, Usher Board Luncheon at 1:00 p.m.

5) Sunday, May 28th, Senior Ministry Anniversary Celebration, 3:00 p.m. service.

6) In regards to the trip to The Holyland Experience and Walt Disney WorldMagic Kingdom, final payment is due by May 7th. For information, see Sister Sadie James, Loretta Scott, Yolanda Brightman or Hermena Smith.

Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475.

Telephone, (718) 571-8746 or (203) 374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, NY 10475. Visit our Facebook page: Church of the New Vision concerning upcoming events and trips, or call the church.

—Carol Haque

Hi, neighbors! Our next general membership meeting is Monday, March 27th, 7:30 p.m., activity room. Come and join us. We welcome our new neighbors to our Building.

One of our agenda items will be our missing mailboxes. Also, we are moving forward with our Pizza Party for our Building 12 kids ages 10-14, scheduled to take place, next month. Notices will be placed on each floor with more information.

If you would like to volunteer for our Annual Summer Fun Day, call or email 718-379-7841 or MLSAH@aol.com.

Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who has suffered a loss or is sick and shut-in.

If you see something, say something. To contact CCPD (Public Safety), call 718-671-3050.

We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718-379-7841.

—Sonja Maxwell

Jewish War Veterans Post 500 There will be a meeting of Co-op City Post 500 on Sunday, April 2nd, held at the Town House Restaurant at 10:00 a.m.

The principal officers of the post for 2017 are: Commander: Marvin Warm Senior Vice Commander: Leon Weinstein, Junior Vice Commander: Alan Kalter, Judge Advocate: Hy Turkin and Officer of the Day: Stewart Kogon.

Get well wishes go to Hy Turkin and Stewart Kogon.

—Marvin Warm

Building 15B Association Our next building association meeting will be on Thursday, March 30th at 7 p.m. in our meeting room in the rear lobby of Building 15B. Our guest speakers will be Mr. Pedro Villablanca Spinett and Ms. Mariela Salazar from Montefiore who will give a presentation on Heart and Diabetes.

Please try to make every effort to attend this important meeting with questions and answers at the end.

We would like to welcome any new cooperators to the building and invite them to come join us at our meeting and bring a neighbor.

Refreshments will be served. We will also have a 50/50 raffle.

—Sandy Krasnove

29

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Faith In God Church & Bible Institute Rev. Dr. Gladys R. Little, Apostle, and Pastor & Evangelist Vernon Little greet everyone in the name of Jesus that name which is above every name. We want you to know that you are welcome in this house of the Lord! It is His house by ownership: it is our house by stewardship: and it can be your house by membership; so come on in and join with us. May God bless you in this house!

Sometimes, fear of what lies ahead can crush your spirit and you stumble along, desperate for a God who will strengthen you. Let’s look at a passage of scripture for encouragement.

Psalm 34:11-18 in the (NIV) says: 11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.

12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.

14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

15 The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth.

17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.

18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Invitations Sweet Hour of Prayer is today at 3 p.m. Sunday School is tomorrow at 10 a.m. Our Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 11 a.m. Every 3rd Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion.

If you’re into gospel rap/holy hip-hop, go to www.reverbnation.com/ vernonlittle and download music from Vernon Little free of charge. He also has videos on YouTube. You will be blessed, encouraged and inspired.

We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone # is (347) 276-4925. Jesus loves you, and so do we!

—Apostle Gladys R. Little

Evangelical Church of Co-op City – UMC Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds Come & Visit Us – We welcome you to God’s House – Your House – One Family in Christ. We are a congregation with spirit-filled worship, offering opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and bilingual congregation and all are welcome. Services are at the church at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across the street from Building 30. Parking is available.

Our phone number is (718) 320-3795, and leave a message if there is no answer. Pastor Magaly Beltre is at the church on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Sunday Services – The first Sunday of the month is a bilingual service with communion, service starts at 10:00 a.m. Every other Sunday, the English Service is at 10:00 a.m. and the Spanish Service is at 12:00 p.m. Remember the importance of worship & fellowship of all who believe and have a relationship with the Lord.

Sunday School – We are now having Sunday School for adults at 8:45 a.m. in English, 10:30 a.m. in Spanish and 10:30 a.m. for children.

Prayer Night (English) & Prayer Morning (Spanish): The Lord said, “Whenever two or more are gathered in my name, I am in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. Tuesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday at noon to 1:00 p.m. Come and bring your prayer needs so we can pray together. Remember that prayer brings many blessings, which God has promised to all his children.

Family Night: Friday nights at 7:30 p.m., we have family night with Bible studies in English & Spanish and all kinds of activities for children, teens and young adults.

Music School: The music school is having registration for the fall semester. They offer piano, guitar, drums, violin, voice and many other instruments. Registration is free and rates are very reasonable. Come to the church Monday thru Friday in the afternoons and see Maestro Frank Colon to register. You can call Maestro at (917) 753-3644. The music school is open to all ages from 5 years old to 100 years young.

Holiday Season: Palm Sunday’s service will be at 10 a.m. on April 9th, Holy Thursday’s service will be at 7 p.m. on April 13th with communion. Good Friday service will be at 6 p.m. on April 14th. Easter Sunday (Resurrection Day) service will be at 10 a.m. on April 16th.

—Barbara Penn

Circle of Christ Church The Circle of Christ Church family extends a warm welcome to you and your family and invites you to come and worship with us at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level (located in the Dreiser Community Center).

La familia de la Iglesia Circulo de Cristo les extiende una cálida invitación a usted y su familia para que vengan a alabar a Dios junto con nosotros. Nos encontramos en el 147 de Dreiser Loop, al nivel del patio (localizado en el centro Comunal de Dreiser).

We are a multicultural church that embraces God’s love for all. Family unity is very important to us. We have a wonderful children ministry focused on learning God’s word. Our youth ministry is very active and dynamic. The youth are involved in music, retreats, concerts, debates, conferences, drama,

counseling among many other activities.

Somos una Iglesia multicultural que recibe y da del amor the Dios para todos. La unidad de la familia es muy importante para nosotros. Tenemos un ministerio para los jóvenes que es muy dinámico. Los jóvenes disfrutan de música, retiros, conciertos, debates, conferencias, dramas, consejería y mucho mas.

We also have a food pantry for those in need in our community. Our phone number is 347-945-1992 in case there is no one in the office please feel free to leave a message, we will call you back.

Suplimos comida a aquellos en nuestra comunidad que lo necesitan.

Nuestro teléfono es 347-945-1992 de no haber nadie en la oficina, sientancen libres de dejar un mensaje, le devolveremos su llamada.

VISION CARE SPECIALIST

DR. DAVID HORN, O.D. FAAO • FELLOW, AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY

• COMPLETE VISION CARE - EYE EXAMINATION

• OCULAR DISEASE TREATMENT

• EYEGLASSES

• GLAUCOMA TREATMENT

• CONTACT LENSES

High Fashion Frames on Premises. “Your Vision Health Is My Concern.”

Much of Learning Is Done Through The Eyes. Insist on a Professional Eye Examination.

120 ALCOTT PLACE

Thought for the week 18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.

19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18 Give your past and mistakes to God. God has the ability to use our mistakes for our good if we trust Him to do so.

Reflexion para la semana 18 No os acordéis de las cosas pasadas, ni traigáis a memoria las cosas antiguas.

19 He aquí que yo hago cosa nueva; pronto saldrá a luz; ¿no la conoceréis?

Otra vez abriré camino en el desierto, y ríos en la soledad. Isaias 43:18 Dale a Dios el pasado y tus errores.

Dios tiene la habilidad de usar tus

errores para tu propio bien si confiamos que así el lo ara.

English services Wednesday, 7 to 9 p.m., Prayer & Bible Study.

Friday, 7 to 9 p.m., Youth Night Sunday, 11 a.m., Worship and the Word Children Church, 5 years old to 12 years old Little lamb nursery.

Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m.

Prayer and the Word Thursday, 5 p.m., Boys and Girls Club Horario de Servicios en Español Domingo, 9:00 a 10:30 a.m., Alabanzas y Predicación Jueves, 12:00 p.m., Oración y Estudio Bíblico All are welcome.

—Reverend Samuel Colón

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

“COURTEOUS AND PROMPT SERVICE AT AN AFFORDABLE FEE”

(Bldg. 17 • Sect. 3) • Co-op City

633 Lydig Ave • Bronx, NY

718-379-8029

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

Medicare and many insurances accepted.

DOCTOR’S HOURS: MONDAY: 1:30 - 7:00 PM • WEDNESDAY: 2:00 - 7:00 PM FRIDAY: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM • SATURDAY: 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT!

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

30

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

MENU

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Crochet & Knitting: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Non-Kosher Kosher Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Orange juice Stay Well Exercise: 10-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Color Your Stress Away: 11 a.m., Rm. 4 Beef hamburger Grilled Caribbean Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Plain hamburger bun chicken breast Diabetes Support Group: 1 p.m. – Last Mauzone potato knish Braised collard greens Monday of the month Mixed green salad Bereavement Counseling: Rm. 13, 1 p.m.

Mashed sweet Gentle Yoga: 1:15-2 p.m., Rm. 2 Fresh fruit potatoes Basic Cell Phone & iPad: 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Alt: Turkey salad Intermediate Yoga: 2-3 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Dominoes: 10 a.m.

Apple juice Session: 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Shake & bake chicken Pork chops Tai Chi: 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Alert & Alive: 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Coleslaw w/oyster sauce Cultural Dance: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Mashed sweet Baked macaroni Aud. B Matinee Movie: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 potatoes & cheese Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Whole wheat bread Red cabbage salad Karaoke by Steven: 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Zumba: 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Canned pears Room 45 Afternoon Movie: 1 p.m.

Alt: Tuna Nicoise salad

Mon., Mar. 27 Tues., Mar. 28

Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Walking Club: 10:30 a.m.

Bingo: 12:30-2:00 p.m.

Caregiver Support Group: 1:00 p.m., 1st & 3rd Tues Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Wed., Mar. 29

Blood Pressure: Every 1st & 3rd Wed., 9-10 a.m.

Games: 9:30-11:00 a.m.

Stay Well Exercise: 10 - 11 a.m.

Line Dancing: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Bingo: 1-2 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Smartphone Class: Beginner – 12:30– 1:30 p.m.; Intermediate – 1:30–2:30 p.m., Bartow office

Thurs., Mar. 30

Library: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Crocheting & Knitting 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Chat Session: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Bingo: 1- 2 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Grandparent Connection: 1st Thursday, Rm. 35, 10:30 Arthritis Exercise: 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee: 11 a.m.

Word Search: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Karaoke by Steven: 1 p.m., Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10:30am Blood Pressure: 10-11:30 a.m., 1st & 3rd Thursday, Rm. 8 Line Dancing: 10-11 a.m., Aud. A Piano Sing Along: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Drama Club: 1:30-4 p.m.

Fri., Mar. 31

Library: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Line Dancing: 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Around The Lunch Table: 11:30 a.m.

Word Search: 11 am.-12 p.m.

Bingo: 1:00-3:00 p.m., Rm. 35 Diabetes Support Group: 2nd Monday - 1 p.m.

Pokeno: 3-4 p.m.

Word Games: 9:30-11 a.m.

Library: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Weight Management: Bartow Center – 10 a.m.

Arthritis Exercises: 11 a.m.-noon Bingo: 1-2 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Men’s Line Dancing: 9 -10 a.m.

Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Women’s Line Dancing: 10-11:30 a.m.

Chat Session: 10 a.m.

Bingo: 1 -2 p.m.

Piano Sing-along: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Art: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Bingo: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Pokeno: 2-4 p.m., Rm. 35 Blood Pressure: 2nd & 4th Friday, 10 a.m. -11:30 a.m., Rm. 45

Crochet & Knitting: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10 a.m., 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Meditative Moments: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 8 Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Bingo: 1-3 p.m.

Card Games, Dominoes: 2-4 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Sewing: 9:30 -11:30 a.m.

Tai Chi: 11 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Spelling Bee: 10 a.m.

Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Spanish Practice Class: 10:30 a.m., African Brazilian Dance: 1 p.m., Rm. 2 Computer Lab Art Class: 1-3 p.m.

Yoga: 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2 Zumba: 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Orange Pineapple juice Tilapia Francaise Cuban style yellow rice Chicken stir fry Kale w/garlic sauce Brown rice Whole wheat bread Healthy wildberry Steamed broccoli & applesauce Alt: Vegetarian chopped liver Orange juice Salisbury steak w/mushroom gravy Beef pot roast Fusilli pasta w/parsley Baby carrots Steamed peas & carrots w/parsley Whole wheat bread Red bliss potatoes Alt: Grilled chicken breast

Walk Group: 9:30 a.m., Rm. 40

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

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

Apple juice Baked chicken legs Cous cous Green beans Challah bread Fresh fruit Alt: Gefilte fish

Lemon pepper fish Rice vegetables Steamed kale

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk *Menu subject to change without notice.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (718) 320-2066, Ext. 2010 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

Upcoming Events/Trips JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Payments for trips can be made at all 3 centers. Trip registration policy: There will be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation! All trips must be paid in advance – No Exceptions! You can register for all trips starting the Monday after it has been published in the newspaper: JASA will not accept checks under $5.00 (FREE) LiveOn NY – SCRIE Application & SNAP (food stamps) Assistance – Fridays, April 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. First come first served! JASA Main Office 2049 Bartow Ave Free Tax Preparation & E-File – Sponsored by AARP Foundation Tax Aide, for taxpayers with low – moderate incomes; with special attention to those age 50 or older. JASA Einstein Office, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm 35, Tues. & Weds., 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Clients will be seen in order of appearance. Sign-in (sheet) begins before 10 a.m. Service may be limited to first 20-25 on line. Call 718-320-2066 for information. April 18th - last day of service.

St. Mary’s Recreation Center Pool – Fri., April 7th, $3. Pool aerobics for seniors – 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Bartow - 8:30, Einstein - 8:45 & Dreiser - 9 a.m. 14 seats available. There is a $25 yearly fee to use the facility. If you wish to become a member please come into the JASA Bartow office and fill out an

application. Membership is non-refundable. Membership is not only for the senior aerobics, it’s for any activity in the center and can be used with other city park centers. Proper attire requested, swim cap, sturdy lock, no valuables & if needed, medicine in a bag to be held on deck by instructor.

ACE in the Hole @ Royal Manor, Garfield, NJ – Thurs March 30th, $50. Family style lunch served, 2 comp. drinks during Happy Hour “Tribute to Natalie Cole.” Also starring comedian Melvin George. Thursday, March 30th. Show 11:30 – 3:30.

Pickups: Bartow – 9 a.m. Einstein – 9:15 & Dreiser – from 10 to 9:30 a.m. Wait list.

Empire – IKEA – Beard Street, Brooklyn, NY, Wednesday, April 5th, $5. Bartow - 8:30, Einstein 8:45 & Dreiser - 9 a.m.

Target Throggsneck – Monday, April 3rd, $2.

Bartow - 9:30, Einstein - 9:45 & Dreiser - 10 a.m.

Aldi – Tuesday, April 4th, $2. Bartow - 9:30, Einstein - 9:45 & Dreiser - 10 a.m.

Wal-Mart – Thursday, April 6th, $15. Bartow – 8:30, Einstein – 8:45 & Dreiser – 9 a.m.

Shoprite – Monday, April 10th, $2. Bartow 9:30, Einstein - 9:45 & Dreiser - 10 a.m.

Fashion Institute of Technology – Thurs., April 12th, $3. Bartow – 10:00, Einstein – 10:15 & Dreiser – 10:30 a.m. Wait list.

New Smartphone/Tablet Classes begin Wed., April 12th at the Bartow Main office. Beginner 12:30 p.m. Advanced - 1:30 p.m. To register call 718-320-2066.

JASA Closed Tuesday, April 11th, for Passover Day 1 & Monday, April 17th for Passover Day 7.

National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC – $85. 10 seats available for Wednesday, April 19th only. Sat., April 8th and Tues., April 25th - wait list.

Fairway/BJ’s –Friday, April 21st, $3. Bartow 9:30, Einstein - 9:45 & Dreiser - 10 a.m.

Empire – Tuesday, April 25th & Wednesday April 26th - $5. Bartow - 9:30, Einstein - 9:45 & Dreiser - 10 a.m.

Wal-Mart – Thursday, April 27th. Bartow – 8:30, Einstein – 8:45 & Dreiser – 9 a.m.

Co-op City’s Annual Passover Luncheon 2017 – Friday April 7th, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Tickets are $4 in advance and $7 at the door. Dreiser Community Center, 177 Dreiser Loop, Auditorium B. Tickets will be available at all 3 senior centers. Menu – Roast chicken, potato kugel & carrot tzimmes, honey cake, juice; live entertainment.

Ace in the Hole @ Royal Manor, “Tribute to Lionel Richie” – Thursday, May 11th, $85. Coach Bus. 50 seats. Pickups TBA.

31

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Scheduling Activities Calendar

Goose Island Seniors Bingo—Sunday, March 26th, at 1:30 p.m.

That’s tomorrow with Stephen, in our club room 39. All are welcome. Admission of $5 includes 12 games and jackpot. Extra cards are 25¢. Refreshments and snacks will be served.

Sands Casino, PA—Tuesday, March 28. This Tuesday, pick-up time is 8:30 a.m. at our usual bus stops: Einstein Loop, Asch Loop (by library) and Dreiser Loop (by the hardware store). Come have fun on the bus with us. A wonderful movie will be shown on the bus coming home. Bring your Sands Casino card if you have one. The bus is full, no one will be able to sit alone, sorry.

Bingo—Wednesday, March 29th, at 1:30 p.m., with Stephen, in our club room #39. Members only. Admission, $5 include 12 games and jackpot.

Extra cards are 25¢. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Come and join us. We are having so much fun and winning a little money on the side.

Spring Indoor Picnic—Saturday, May 20th at 12:30 p.m. Members only in our club room #39.

Admission is $5 for buffet and entertainment.

Come and have a fun time with friends.

“Mama Mia”—Wednesday, June 7th at Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford, NY. Come and enjoy a delicious lunch and a terrific show. Price is $79 includes a show, luncheon, and transportation.

Pick-up at 9 a.m. All money must be paid by May 15th. See Ann, Mary or Stephen.

“Come Blow Your Horn”—Thursday, October 12th at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, Hampton, NJ. It’s a very funny play by Neil Simon. Also, you

will enjoy a scrumptious lunch and all the desserts you can eat. They are de-li-cious. Price is $79 for show, lunch and transportation. A deposit will hold your reservation. All money must be paid by September 21st. See Ann, Mary or Stephen.

To all members: Happy birthday and happy anniversary to all our members whot celebrate their day in the month of March: Carla Zeman, Stephen Roberts, Yvonne Starks, Mercedes Pagan, Nilda Pagan, Diana Rodriguez, Ida Nickenson, and Jeanne Delmonico. We wish Jeanne a speedy recovery and hope she will return to us soon. We miss and love you.

Our Lounge—Come sit and relax, read or rent a book from our large library, play cards every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Play Bingo every Wednesday and last Sunday of each month for only $15 per year. Also, come with us on great trips.

We still have items from our Garage Sale for a very good price. Come up and look around. We are open Monday - Thursday from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Note: Call Ann, Mary, or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613, or visit us MondayThursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39. You can also call Mary at 718-3794899 and she will return your call. Leave a message and your phone number. To call Stephen, 347847-1941.

Good health to all.

—Mary Pilla

AARP Chapter #4997 FYI: With Congress taking on so many issues, AARP has launched several campaigns on behalf of seniors and their families. MEDICARE: AARP is fighting proposals in Congress that would turn Medicare into a voucher system. A change like that could dramatically hike costs for seniors and pose serious risks to all Americans paying into Medicare. To join AARP’s national Medicare campaign, go to aarp.org/protectmedicare. There are two other areas: Caregiving and Nutrition – additional info in future articles.

FYI-2: Our next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 10, 1 p.m. in Dreiser Auditorium A. Spring would have made its way to Co-op City, and we would like to have you make our meeting your first outing.

Also, we will have a presentation from our members on their trip to Cuba. You won’t want to miss it.

Please contact our Good & Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family member who has passed.

2017 Tour Activities July 7 - 9: Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington (DC) – round-trip transportation via Deluxe Motor coach, w/3 breakfast buffet, 2 dinner buffet – including a seafood buffet; a professional guided tour of Washington, DC; one full day at the Smithsonian African American Museum; and full day shopping at Arundel Mill mall, including the Maryland Live Casino before traveling home, $515/person, single; $415/person, double; $385/person, triple and $365/person, quad.

Contact Judith, 718-379-3370.

September 18 -21: 4-day/3-night trip to Cape Cod – Motor coach transportation, 3 full breakfast, 2 dinners, 1 Lobster dinner; Foxwood Casino (w/bonus); guided escort to African American tour of Martha’s Vineyard site; Hyannis, John F. Kennedy Memorial; Provincetown along scenic route 6A; Cape Cod National Seashore Visitors Center; admission to Zion Union Heritage Museum and more…$599/person – double; $739 – single…$50 deposit due immediately; 2nd payment of $150 due 3/20; 3rd payment of $200 due by 5/15; final payment due 6/30; trip insurance is available. Contact Hannah, 718-379-7962.

December 29 - January 2, 2018: Swingin’ New Year’s Eve Celebration in Savannah (GA) – Motor coach trip (2 night lodging to & from Savannah); 4 breakfasts; 2 full course dinners including a Riverboat Dinner Cruise; guided tour of Savannah, historic Davenport House, and Savannah’s River Street District; New Year’s Eve Show & Party at the Savannah Theater; New Year’s Day buffet lunch, $799/person – double, single fee TBD; trip insurance available. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370.

—Delores Debnam

Einstein Cancer Fund A happy birthday to all celebrating in the month of March in good health.

April 6, we will be going ot Foxwood Casino.

Cost per person is $35. Rebate is a $10 for Keno and $10 for food (buffet). Time of departure starting at Einstein at 8 a.m., followed by Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop. Remember your casino card.

Membership Meeting: April 2, Einstein Loop, room 38. Refreshments will be served.

Arrangements have been made at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, April 26, for the luncheon show of the hilarious comedy of “Born Yesterday” which was a huge hit of a film starring Judy Holliday. The cost per person is $79 which can be paid off by April 1st.

A small deposit of $5 or more will hold your reservation. You will be issued receipts for your deposits.

For all of the above trips, please call Lydia at 718-671-3005 or Annie Eutsey at 718-320-1874 for dues and a memorial card.

As always, remember to give a call to the homebound and those in nursing homes. Your calls will cheer them up and they will know they are always in your thoughts and prayers.

Good health and healings are wished to all.

—Lydia Ruas

32

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of Building 27B. Phone: 718-379-6920 Note: Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. If no one is in the office, leave a message and we will get back as soon as possible.

Shabbat ends today, March 25, at 7:54 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, March 31, at 7:02 p.m.

The Synagogue has Services Saturday morning at 9 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush. Everybody, please try your best to come to services, so we have a minyan and be able to take out the Torah. This Saturday, Rabbi Kronengold will conduct services.

Good & Welfare: We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one.

The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel Tov to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you a speedy recovery.

Save The Dates Bingo: The Synagogue’s next Bingo is scheduled for Sunday, April 2nd at 1 p.m. The cost is only $3 admission which includes refreshments and 10 games of Bingo. Also, there is a 3-part jackpot game for $2.

Passover Seders: The Synagogue is planning two Passover Seders, Monday night, April 10th and Tuesday night, April 11th. The cost is only $20 for each Seder. Cantor Sayani will conduct the Seders. For a reservation, call the Traditional Synagogue at 718-379-6920. Please leave your name and the number of people who will attend the Seder. Send the payment by April 3rd. Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place Lobby, Bronx, NY 10475.

Your support of the Traditional Synagogue and Men’s Club is greatly appreciated.

Wishing all our members and friends, peace and, good health.

—Gary Schwartz

Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue Try your luck with the Men’s Club Our next trip of the year is Sunday, April 30. It is now revised to the RESORTS CASINO in Atlantic City. Payment for the trip is due by April 28th.

The cost of the trip is $35 per person. You will receive $25 slot play. Also enjoy the boardwalk, visit the outlet stores and the other casinos.

This past Sunday, March 19th, we went to the Tropicana in Atlantic City.

Everyone had a good time, the weather was nice and sunny, and no snow in sight.

Everyone in the community can attend our trips. You need a Resorts Casino card, or government picture ID, passport, non- or drivers’ license to receive the bonus. If you don’t have a Resorts Casino card, with proper ID, the casino will issue you a card. On the bus we provide a drink, snack, play Bingo, and a 50/50 raffle. On the way home, we show a movie. We keep you entertained, and the ride goes fast.

The bus stops and returns to all three shopping centers. We leave Einstein Loop at 8:00 a.m. by the supermarket, Asch Loop by the back of the library at 8:15 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 8:25 a.m. by the hardware store. We will return to Co-op City around 8:30 p.m., depending on the traffic.

Hope to see you on our April 30th trip, and our future trips. Wishing everybody good health and happiness.

—Gary Schwartz

Cooperators United of Co-op City Hi. Our next meeting is Tuesday, March 28th, 7:00 p.m., Bartow, room 31.

Some of you have either emailed or handed me the location of your missing mailboxes. Thanks for getting back to us. We don’t know the number of mailboxes that were removed. We would appreciate, at our next meeting, if you would bring that information with you. Please indicate where the mailbox was located.

Once all of your responses are submitted, the location of the missing mailboxes will be placed on a site map, indicated by Red Dots, and presented to CB10, Congressman Engel’s office, our local elected officials and postmaster. It’s important that we all take a stand to have our mailboxes replaced. Start calling the USPS Customer Service at 1-800-275-8777 to complain about our missing mailboxes.

Call every day. Let our voices be heard.

If you “See Something, Say Something.”

Congratulations to all who are celebrating a special day this month. Our thoughts and prayers to everyone who is sick and shut-in. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com, 718-379-7841.

—Sonja Maxwell

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome your letters to the editor, however, if you would like your letter to be considered for publication, it must be signed, and include your address and telephone number – which will be kept confidential – so the authenticity of the writer can be verified. The Co-op City Times does not print anonymous or unsigned letters.

Reflections

by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue Once in a small town there was a very hardened and cruel criminal.

Finally, the townspeople could not stand him anymore and in a moment of anger, they decided to do away with him by lynching him.

As they took hold of him and prepared to tie him to the tree, a local priest shouted for them to halt, and said, “There is nothing this man has done that all of us have not felt in our hearts at one time or another. It is only that he has not been able to control himself.” Thereupon, they set the criminal free.

The main difference between the criminal and ourselves is that the criminal “acts out” his hostile, antisocial feelings. If thoughts could kill, then we would all be murderers; if all wishes could be realized, then we would all be criminals, as well all kings.

Every human being has an inner life, a secret life. It is his own, his right, his sacred privilege. The forces that operate within a man and the dreams that churn within his brain provide the energy that moves his life.

Remember to look objectively at your innermost thoughts before condemning others.

Young Israel of Co-op City Young Israel of Co-op City (lower level of the Dreiser Loop shopping center) is a house of worship that opens its doors every morning from 6 until 7 a.m.

Anyone who wishes to start the daily routine with prayers, during which our spiritual leader, Rabbi Solomon I. Berl, offers a brief Bible teaching is welcome.

On Friday evening, Sabbath services begin at 10 minutes after the candlelighting time. Saturday morning services start at 9 a.m. Rabbi Berl delivers his sermon at 10:30 a.m.

The Rabbi’s class on the Torah reading of the week begins one hour before sunset every Saturday afternoon.

For office hours or any information you may seek, feel free to call (718) 6712300 and leave your name, phone number and a brief message on the synagogue’s answering machine and your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Building 18 Association Hi, neighbors.

Our general meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 28, at 7:00 p.m. in the meeting room. We will be hosting the following business owners right here in our own back yard: “Belle Cheveux Studios,” the gym in Section 5 family fitness center and the Girl Scouts of America. This year, Building “18” Association will focus on “Community First.” Not sure if you want to attend? Some of our vendors will provide gift certificates toward their services. There will be a 50/50 drawing and refreshments served. Looking forward to seeing all of you on Tuesday.

Building 18 Scholarship Award applications will be available soon if you are a high school senior and will be graduating in June 2017. Please check bulletin board for dates, requirements and instructions. Two scholarship of $500 each will be awarded to two (2) students.

Membership Drive: If you missed paying your dues, you can still give it to any executive member; dues are only $10 per household. Please see lists of benefits on bulletin board. Presently, we have 144 membership families. Much congrats to the 20th floor for having nine out of twelve membership families. The drive goes on.

Please use the compactor rooms appropriately; please follow written instructions that are posted: please put your raw garbage down the chute, place newspapers and magazines and boxes, e.g., folded crackers, cookies boxes, etc. on the shelf. Put all bottles, cans in plastic bag hanging against the wall. If you are throwing out used oil, please store it in a jar and close it tightly; please, please take all big boxes, furniture, etc. down to the basement. Do block the compacter room! Thank you.

Please stay alert: If you see something, say something! —Gertie Brown

33

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Co-op City Baptist Church

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family, invites you to join us tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for worship service.

Sunday School for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us.

The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50.

Our telephone number is 718-320-3774.

Join us for a mid-week spiritual pick-up at our mid-week worship service on Wednesdays at noon. Bible study is held on Wednesdays at 1:00 and 7:30 p.m.

Bible study will also be held on Wednesday, April 5 at 5:00 p.m. Prayer Service is held on Fridays at noon and 7:30 p.m.

March is Women’s History Month today, March 25, at 10 a.m. the First Lady’s Ministry will be presenting HerStory. The theme is “Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business.” Donation is $15. The guest speaker will be Rev. Liza Coleman.

Tomorrow, Sunday, March 26, at 11 a.m. the Youth/Young Adult Choir will have an anniversary service celebration. Please come out to support our youth.

The Building Fund Ministry is having a Cake Sale and Jewelry Showcase on Saturday, April 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 135 Einstein Loop Room 51 (lower level). Please stop by for some homemade cakes and pies and find some jewelry while supporting Building Fund.

The Building Fund Ministry is having a Pre-Mother’s Day celebration going to the McDonald’s Gospelfest on Saturday, May 13 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The celebration includes an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch, a talent competition, including rising gospel stars of all colors, ages and cultures competing in a variety of categories and the Gospelfest concert featuring Israel Houghton, Erica Campbell, Bishop Paul Morton and others. The cost is $175.

There is a waiting list; for further information, please call 646-418-7102, 718862-9243 or the church at 718-320 -3774.

On March 6 to March 15, 2018, we will be going to the Holy Land in Israel.

Worship sailing on the Sea of Galilee; be baptized in the Jordan River; share in communion in the Garden Tomb; all where Jesus walked. The price per person from JFK is $2,995 for a double room an additional $586 for a single room. A deposit of $500 is due on or before May 7. Final payment is due on or before November 12. It is recommended that all purchase travel insurance for this trip.

All checks/money orders should be made out to the Co-op City Baptist Church.

A flyer along with the itinerary and reservation form has been placed on the information table. For additional information, you may call 718-671-1918, 718379-0541, 718-379-1776, 718-671-1271 or the church at 718-320-3774.

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

—Hattie L. Lucas

The Pentecostal Tabernacle,100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A (main lobby), Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

You are invited to attend services on the following days: Sunday: Sunday School for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m.

Worship starts at 11:45 a.m. each Sunday.

Wednesday: Prayer and fasting service will be held in the morning at 11 a.m.

- 12:30. Bible study & prayer meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Friday: Friday evening Youth Service will start at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: Miracles are a normal part of revival that includes physical wonders, salvation and the establishing of the people of truth.

And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being cripple from his mother’s womb, who never walked. The same heard Paul speak: who steadfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet, and he leaped and walked. And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia. The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. (Acts 14:8-11) The role of signs and wonders in the confirmation of truth is seen in Hebrews 2:3-4, which states: How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?

Simon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentles, to take out of them a people for his name (Acts 15:14).

When the first church council met in Jerusalem about A.D 50 to consider whether it was necessary for Gentiles to keep the Law of Moses, the argument ended when the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.(Acts 15:12) The fact that God worked miracles and wonders among the Gentiles was considered to be proof of God’s approval of the Gentile’s faith. If he honored their faith with miracles and wonders, they must have been acceptable to Him even though they were not keeping the Law of Moses.

Miracles, signs, and wonders accompanied the ministry of the early Christians and played an important role in the church. Moreover, the days of miracles are not over.

God still works through miracles today and they are still important to the ministry of the church in this world. It is important however, that we meditate on the word of God daily and we will be able to experience great miracles in our lives.

God take great delight in his people when they worship him with all their heart and walk in his way. Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly. (Psalm 1:1) For more information, call 718-324-0334 or 718-430-4218.

—Rev. R. Sibblies

Open Door Ministries Use me Lord – 2 Timothy 2:20-21 Satan scoffs at our ideas, he mocks our methods, he laughs at our wisdom, but he is paralyzed by our prayers (Samuel Chadwick).

2 Timothy 2:20-21 (NIV) 20 In a wealthy home, some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.

Being used by God is the highest level of achievement that any man can reach.

1 – The kingdom of God is large and every person has opportunity for service 2 – We are qualified or disqualified for service by a life of purity and holiness 3 – We are set apart for God’s purposes and must daily choose to stay apart from what would dirty us 4 – Christ desires to use you for His highest purposes as a reflection of your relationship with Him 5 - The gold and silver utensils able to withstand fire will remain a part of the Church forever; the wood and clay will only endure until the end of the world 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 (AMPC) 10 According to the grace, the special endowment for my task, of God bestowed on me, like a skillful architect and master builder I laid the foundation, and now another is building upon it. But let each man be careful how he builds upon it, 11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is already laid, which is Jesus Christ the Messiah. 12 But if anyone builds upon the Foundation, whether it be with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 The work of each will become plainly and openly shown for what it is; for the day of Christ will disclose and declare it, because it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test and critically appraise the character and worth of the work each person has done.

14 If the work which any person has built on this Foundation, any product of his efforts survives this test, he will get his reward.15 But if any person’s work is burned up under the test, he will suffer the loss of it all, losing his reward, though he himself will be saved, but only as one who has passed through fire.

Open Door Ministries’ Therapeutic Mentoring/Counseling Program meets Mondays and Thursdays @ 6:30 p.m. in Dreiser Loop, room 9. Every 3rd Thursday we meet at 6:30 p.m. to discuss life/spiritual issues, ALL ARE WELCOME. Sunday services are at 11 a.m. at Bartow Community Center, room 28.

Contact Pastor Luis by texting 917-334-4407 or email opendoorministries.net.

Blessings in Christ.

—Pastor Luis Ramos

34

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

Carrying charge

this year and the same amount next proper funding in place now, we can year. do proper repairs that will last for The carrying charge increases another 30 years,” Merola said. over the next two years will raise The original five-year capital $8.6 million in additional revenue for budget proposed by Riverbay in JanuRiverbay to help fund the needed ary called for a total of $138.6 million capital projects. Operating expenses in spending between now and fiscal are projected to stay flat from the year 2021-22. Of that amount, $53.1 2016-17 operating budget for both million was to come from Riverbay years of the new budget, 2017-18 and reserve funds and the balance, $85.5 2018-19. million, would be generated by yearly Paying for capital projects that surpluses in operating revenues. must be done rather than ignoring The plan approved by the Board of them for years is central to keeping Directors at its March 15 meeting and Co-op City on sound financial ground. submitted to the state Department of When Riverbay refinanced its mortHousing and Community Renewal gage with Wells Fargo in 2012, for their review and approval cuts that reserve funds for capital projects were total capital spending by $26.8 milcreated for the first time to help pay lion. Over a period of several weeks, for them. Raising additional money Board members held repeated discusnow through modest carrying charge sions to set priorities and remove increases will provide the added projects that could be deferred or money needed. eliminated. Also during that time, “This 1.9% increase will give shareManagement combed through the holders $111 million in capital projbudget to further trim expenses, ects over a five-year period,” said Merola said.

Peter Merola, Riverbay Director of All of the “High Priority” projects Finance. “Over a period of 50 years, remained in the final approved budget.

Co-op City’s infrastructure has deteriOne project covering building lobbies orated and these capital projects are was slashed from $7.7 million in the vital to maintaining the community.” original proposal to $2.6 million.

Unlike the way Co-op City operAll of the proposed “Low Priority” ated in the 1980s and 1990s, funding capital projects were removed, reduccapital projects responsibly now preing the cost of the capital budget by vents conditions like crumbling park$15.8 million. These projects included: ing garages and unsafe balconies that replacing the construction trailers with plagued the community then. a permanent office building; improve“Back then, rather than doing ments to the Waterfront and Greenway; second floor office space at the repairs, loose concrete would just be Power Plant; and an upgrade of the chipped off which then exposed the Bartow Center outdoor courtyard. metal rebar and caused it to rust. That A third category of projects – didn’t fix the problem – it only made “Medium Priority” – was reduced by it worse,” Merola said. more than half, from the original pro“We never had reserve funds for posal of $10.7 million to $4.8 million. capital projects before the HUD-guarEliminated were replacement pavers anteed Wells Fargo loan. With the (Continued from page 1)

Notice: Building 24, “B” Line

The Domestic Hot & Cold Water Will Be Shut Down In Order To Do Restoration Work.

Date: Monday, March 27, 2017 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

As Soon As The Work Has Been Completed The Hot & Cold Water Will Be Restored.

Please Make Sure That You Keep Your Faucets In A Closed Position And All Drains Cleared Of Objects.

We Apologize For The Inconvenience And Appreciate Your Patience In This Matter.

— Cooperator Services Office (Bartow Avenue)

Elevator Inspection Schedule Elevator Category I Inspections have been assigned as per the schedule below.

Please note that scheduled times are approximate. Each inspection takes approximately 90 minutes per elevator.   













































































      

at the townhouses, new shelving and equipment at Central Stores, construction of an elevator at the Bartow Center and replacement of all elevator motors in the parking garages.

Spending for capital projects in the first two years includes $20 million for the elevator motors ($40 million total); $9.2 million for Local Law 11 balcony and façade repairs ($23 million total); $3 million to install the boiler; $6 million for waterproofing below porticos ($11.4 million total); $2.5 million to renovate the Dreiser Auditorium; $2.5 million for upgrading storefronts in the Dreiser and Einstein Shopping Centers ($5 million total) and $2 million for the concrete T-Beam project in Garages 18 ($2 million total).

The budgeted spending before debt service and fees remains flat over three years. The current 2016-17 year budgeted $186.55 million and the next two years are budgeted at $182.76 in 2017-18 and $185.78 in 2018-19.

Increases in some departments will be offset by reductions in other expenses in order to keep those operating budgets flat and allow the increased revenues from the carrying charge increases to pay for a portion of the first two years of the five-year capital budget.

Reduced expenses in utilities and water in the next two years compared to this year will produce approximately $5.5 million in savings each year. Savings are being achieved through lower natural gas prices and efficient buying practices, as well as price reductions using New York City’s multi-family dwelling water pricing and money paid to Riverbay

by Con Edison’s power sales and demand reduction programs.

Maintenance expenses for all divi-

sions are projected to drop by $2.5 million and lower spending in Building and Grounds, Restorations flooring and general management are projected to decline by a total of $1 million.

Operating budgets will rise in several categories under the new budget adopted by the Board. The budget will rise by $3 million in building and community center janitorial, nearly $3 million in the Power Plant, $1 million in insurance, $600,000 in computer services, $300,000 in purchasing, nearly $300,000 in cooperator services, $500,000 in garages and $400,000 in lobby attendants.

An application will now be sent by Riverbay to the state DHCR which includes the proposed budget formatted into the state’s schedule. Staff at DHCR will review the proposal, double check the numbers submitted by Riverbay and ask questions over a period of two to three weeks.

DHCR will also schedule their “rent hearing” for a public meeting when shareholders can speak and express their opinions on the proposed budget and also establish a write-in period for written comments from shareholders.

DHCR staff then can get back to Riverbay to respond to any comments the state receives from shareholders during the comment period.

If the proposed budgets and carrying charge increases are approved, the DHCR Commissioner then issues a “Rent Increase Order” which must be delivered to each of the 15,372 shareholders five days prior to the date of the increase.

For the four-year period from 2014 to 2017, carrying charges in Co-op City increased a total of 5.5%, an average yearly increase of 1.375%.

35

Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

CLASSIFIEDS

Painting

718-320-3300 x3384 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

— SERVICES — SERVICES — SERVICES —

Computer Consultant, Sales & Repair

Appliance Repair

Repair - Upgrade - Trouble-shooting - Data Recovery Virus Removal - Laptop Overheat - Cracked Screen Broken Power Jack. Call James 646-281-4475 • 718-324-4332

JB RYAN COMPUTER REPAIR & UPGRADE

8/26

ACE APPLIANCE REPAIR (718) 379-8782 Refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, washers, dryers, dishwashers. Free service call with repairs.

Decorator

3/25

3/25

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L&L APPLIANCE REPAIR

$20

OFF

Present This Coupon (except vacuums/lamps)

STOVES • WASHERS • REFRIGERATORS • VACUUM CLEANERS and more. LIMIT — One Coupon Per Person.

Fully Insured • NYC License #1233497

718.792.2655

10/7

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

DARREN HANDYMAN

• ALL MAKES & MODELS • Stoves • Washers • Dryers •Lamps • Dishwashers • Refrigerators • Bags • Hoses • Belts • Vacuum Cleaners

No Job Too Big - or Too Small!

Cabinetry, Painting, Tiles, Electrical, Plumbing, All General Appliance Repair, Carpentry.

My Motto - Honest, Reliable, Fair.

917-541-6528.

4/8

(except vacuums)

718.792.2655

2951 Middletown Road, Bronx, NY 10461 (Near Pelham Bay Station)

Upholstery/Blinds

Advertise!

EXTRAORDINAIRE

Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497 10% DISCOUNT Fully Insured

3/25

Handyman

YOUR AD HERE! Call for rates!

STYLISH DECORATORS

Home Improvement 10/7

1-800-479-2667

5/13

• ALL HANDYMAN SERVICES • VERTICAL & MINI BLINDS • SINK VANITIES • SPACE SAVERS • MATCHING HAMPERS • BATHTUB ENCLOSURES • CLIP-ON MIRROR FRAMES

Breathe Easy

Co-op City Resident Specials

Elim in Bugsate

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

www.co-opsales.info DON’T PAY MORE AT YOUR LOCAL HARDWARE STORE!

3/25

Locksmith

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS Licensed and Bonded

SPOONER

DOMESTIC SERVICE

• Basic Cleaning $90 • Deep Cleaning $130 • Non-Medical Senior Care $80 • 4 Hour Min. + 8.78% tax • Bonded • 7 Days • Cash, Pay-Pal www.spoonercleaning.com 5/27 (718) 320-5112

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS

Advertise!

20% Off Any Lock Job!

Medeco • MultiLock • Wilson High Quality Labor, Low Price!

Call for rates!

NEW STYLE BLINDS

All Colors • Vertical • Minis • Woods • 2 in. Regulars • Wash, Tape, Cord Blinds

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION 7/15

Re-installation of any types of Blinds.

Repair Closet Doors and Sell New Bi-Fold Doors!

Serving Co-op City for over 25 years.

“When you see me, You’ll know me.”

Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290

3/25

Battle of Fort Stedman, Virginia

• RANGE HOODS We BEAT • LIGHT FIXTURES Any • KITCHEN CABINETS • CABINET REFACING Quote!

• COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

Grout & Carpet Cleaning

3314 White Plains Rd., Bronx, NY 10467

THIS DAY IN HISTORY MARCH 25, 1865

CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH

Cleaning Service

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

REUPHOLSTERING 718.881.7691

3/25

Co-op City Department of Public Safety (718) 671-3050 • www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc If you SEE something, SAY something!

On this day in 1865, Confederate General Robert E. Lee makes Fort Stedman his last attack of the war in a desperate attempt to break out of Petersburg, Virginia. The attack failed, and within a week Lee was evacuating his positions around Petersburg.

For nine months, Petersburg was under siege by the Army of the Potomac and the overall Union commander, General Ulysses S. Grant. The two great armies had fought a bloody campaign in the spring of 1864, and then settled into trenches that eventually stretched for 50 miles around Petersburg and the Confederate capital of Richmond. Lee could not win this war of attrition, but his men held out through the winter of 1864 to 1865. Now, Lee realized the growing Yankee army could overwhelm his diminishing force when the spring brought better weather for an assault. He ordered General John B. Gordon to find a weak point in the Federal defenses and attack.

Gordon selected Fort Stedman, an earthen redoubt with a moat and 9-foot walls. Although imposing, Gordon believed it offered the greatest chance for success since it was located just 150 yards from the Confederate lines–the narrowest gap along the entire front. Early in the morning of March 25, some 11,000 Rebels hurled themselves at the Union lines. They overwhelmed the surprised Yankees at Fort Stedman and captured 1,000 yards of trenches. After daylight, however, the Confederate momentum waned. Gordon’s men took up defensive positions, and Union reinforcements arrived to turn the tide. The Rebels were unable to hold the captured ground, and were driven back to their original position.

The Union lost around 1,000 men killed, wounded, and captured, while Lee lost probably three times that number, including some 1,500 captured during the retreat. Already outnumbered, these loses were more than Lee’s army could bear.

Lee wrote to Confederate President Jefferson Davis that it would be impossible to maintain the Petersburg line much longer. On March 29, Grant began his offensive, and Petersburg fell on April 3. Two weeks after the Battle of Fort Stedman, Lee surrendered to Grant at Appomattox Court House, Virginia.

Source: History.com

36

RICHARD M. ARRUCCI Co-op City Times / March 25, 2017

C PA a n d f o u n d e r o f C T C a n d A d v a n c e d Ta x C e n t e r s

October 23, 1936 - December 11, 2014

It's the rare person who can bridge both his personal and professional life with love and dedication. Richard Arrucci did both.

He loved his family, his loving wife Ada of fifty four years and his two children, Ella and Rich. He also loved his four grandchildren Alan, Michael, Emily and Danny. He treated and loved his son-inlaw, Alan, and his daughter-in-law, Patty, like his own children.

A testament of his passion and dedication for his work of 45 years in Co-op City comes from his loyal customers. He loved them and considered them as part of his extended family. He was always happy to be in Co-op City preparing and filing income taxes for his loyal and dedicated clients. Income Tax was his passion and his customers fulfilled his passion.

The Arrucci family thanks you for your dedication and continuing support. This world has been a better place because of him. He will always be remembered and never forgotten. We thank you Richard for a job well done.