Co-op City Times 4/25/20 by Co-op City Times

Vol. 55 No. 17

Saturday, April 25, 2020

$1.25

You are not alone. We’re all in this together!

City-wide Coronavirus information, resources and updates Stimulus payments, new tool for non-filers The IRS began sending out Economic Impact Payments as of last week. Although payment is automatic for most taxpayers, some residents may need to enter their information into the IRS’ system if they did not file or were not required to file during the 2018 and 2019 tax year. For more information, log onto https://www.irs.gov/ coronavirus/economic-impact-payments. Are you feeling lonely due to the COVID-19 outbreak? Anyone experiencing anxiety, fear, stress, depression or similar emotions because of Coronavirus and needs support can contact NYC WELL 24 hours a day/7 days a week year-round. Call 888NYC-WELL, text W-E-L-L to 65173, or chat at nyc.gov/nycwell. For credible information on COVID-19, reach out to trusted sources such as the CDC, World Health Organization (WHO), and the New York City and State Departments of Health. Domestic and gender-based violence during Coronavirus outbreak Individuals experiencing domestic and/or gender-based violence can access services 24/7 at nyc.gov/NYC HOPE or by calling 1-800-621BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

HOPE (4673). For emergencies, call 911. The city’s domestic violence shelters are still open for intake; call 1-800-621-4673 or for TTY: 1-800-810-7444. Unemployed due to COVID-19 If you are unemployed as a result of COVID19 and would like to find out about unemployment benefits, please visit https://access.nyc.gov/faqfor-pandemic-unemployment-benefits/. Retirement distributions According to the US Treasury, the CARES Act provides financial relief in a number of ways among which are retirement distributions and required minimum distributions. If you are 59½ years old and you are affected by COVID-19, you may withdraw up to $100,000 from your retirement plan or IRA without incurring the 10% premature distribution penalty. Penaltyfree distributions are those made after Jan. 1, 2020, and before Dec. 31, 2020. If you, your spouse or a dependent have been diagnosed with the virus or you are experiencing negative financial impact by being quarantined, furloughed, laid off, or working reduced hours because of the virus, if you are unable to work because of the lack of child care because of the virus or you had to close your business or reduce the amount of hours your business is open,

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R U OK and Phone Tree Applications (See pages 4 & 5)

Co-op City’s One Million Bubbles of Hope

Building 14 cooperator, Jeneal Vasquez, shared a message of hope and kindness as our global community faces new realities. Her contributing design to the “One Million Bubbles of Hope” campaign brings happiness to the Co-op City community (www.onemillionbubbles.org and visionsbyneal-Instagram/FB). We pray everyone stays safe, stay well and be a blessing to others. –submitted by Josie Ferguson, president, Building 14 Association

Finding the right help during COVID-19 BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Councilman King and CityMeals deliver 7,500 meals to Co-op City seniors

Councilman Andy King, along with Riverbay and CityMeals, distributed 7,500 meals to senior shareholders in all five sections of Co-op City on Sunday, April 19. Seniors arrived early to the basketball courts of Sections 1-5 to pick up food packages. Those who waited in the long lines (observing social distancing and wearing face masks to help protect themselves and others from COVID-19) each received two bags containing enough meals for a week, along with snacks. This was a collaborative project among the councilman, Riverbay’s Community Relations department and CSO – working cohesively to include visually impaired shareholders – and an incredible group of community volunteers who were called in or simply showed up to assist in the food distribution and to bring food up to the apartments of the visually impaired shareholders who were unable to come down to pick up their food packages. These volunteers included Riverbay Board directors and members of community and faith-based organizations as well as Riverbay executive management. (See flyer on page 5) Photo by Toriea McCauseland

COVID-19 has forced many aspects of everyday life to change but we should all be cognizant that each one of us is not alone in this fight. Many of us have had to deal with unforeseen circumstances because of COVID-19 that can seem overwhelming, but there are many resources available that offer assistance with unemployment, healthcare and even free meals. The US Department of Labor offers unemployment insurance for those who may have lost their job. Unemployment insurance can provide financial support for those who need help alleviating a job loss. In addition, depending on an individual’s circumstances if they are unable to qualify for unemployment insurance, they may qualify for what is called Disaster Unemployment Insurance, which operates in a similar way to unemployment insurance. To learn more or see if you qualify, the New York State unemployment insurance program can be reached at 888209-8124 or by going online at benefits.gov/benefit/1771. To see the entire list of options available specifically for COVID-19 relief, visit benefits.gov and click on the option at the top of the web page that links to the entire selection of assistance options. Some of the services offered include (Continued on page 4)

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Resources

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you may qualify for this distribution. Regarding required minimum distributions, if you are 70½ years old and required to take the minimum distribution from your IRA or retirement plan this year, 2020, you can choose not to without incurring a penalty. To read more about these financial relief and others now available through the CARES Act, visit the US Treasury at https://home.treasury.gov/policyissues/cares. Although closed, New York City schools offers meals for all All NYC public schools, including those in Co-op City, offer three free meals a day for children and families. Meal sites open from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for children and families with children, and 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for adults without children. No registration or identification required. Co-op City residents can go to the following schools for meals, Monday-Friday: • Harry S. Truman High School, 750 Baychester Ave., Bronx, NY 10475 • M.S. 180 Daniel Hale Williams, 700 Baychester Ave., Bronx, NY 10475 • P.S. 160 Walt Disney, 4140 Hutchinson River P’kway E, Bronx, NY 10475 • P.S. 178 Dr. Selman Waksman, 850 Baychester Ave., Bronx, NY 10475 JASA no longer delivering meals, DFTA stepped in Co-op City seniors registered in the JASA lunch program are now receiving daily meal delivery through the New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA). According to Aisha Parillon, senior director at JASA Senior Centers, “Any center members who were receiving meals in the last couple of months, including new additions, are on DFTA’s list.” Seniors who have not received food, as deliveries are only made one day a week, should contact JASA’s main office at 718-320-2066. Ms. Parillon said: “The center staff are notifying their DFTA contacts and DFTA is working to rectify these issues. For any new seniors who have not received meals from the centers at all but are now interested, they should call the center.” Seniors are urged to leave a message so that JASA staff can return their call. For more information on how to get meals delivered, you may also contact DFTA directly at 212-2446469 or call 3-1-1. NYC COVID-19 food assistance resources NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced that New York City is taking steps to fight hunger during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who need resources and/or cannot access to food themselves, should visit nyc.gov/getfood or call 311 for more information. World Central Kitchen distributes in the Bronx With the help of Assemblyman Michael Blake, World Central Kitchen has been providing “fresh, individually packaged, grab-and-go meals” for local families that can be picked-up from the community businesses and organizations below: • Beatstro, 135 Alexander Ave., Bronx, NY 10454 after noon. • Bronx Drafthouse, 884 Gerard Ave., Bronx, NY

10452 after 12:15 p.m. • Davidson Community Center, 2038 Davidson Ave., Bronx, NY 10453 after 11:30 a.m. • William Hodson Senior Center, 1320 Webster Ave., Bronx, NY 10456 after 11:45 a.m. • Greater Holy Tabernacle Church, 3780 3rd Ave., Bronx, NY 10456 after 12:30 p.m. • Morrisania Air Rights Senior Center/Andrew Jackson Senior Center, 3135 Park Ave., Bronx, NY 10451/325 E 156th St., Bronx, NY 10451 after 11:45 a.m. Social Security offices closed, only phone services available All local Social Security offices are closed to the public. According to their website, individuals who need assistance can: • Use Social Security’s secure online services at www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices • Contact your local office via phone to “apply for benefits, answer your questions, and provide other services over the phone.” • Already scheduled in-office appointments will be conducted over the phone by a Social Security representative. • Those who cannot complete business online should call Social Security’s national phone number at 1-800772-1213. COVID-19 Bronx testing sites Drive-thru testing by appointment only is available at various Bronx locations including Bay Plaza in the AMC Theatres parking lot, Lehman College parking lot, and the Bronx Zoo parking lot. Please call 1-800364-3065 to make an appointment. Walk-in testing is available at various Bronx hospitals including several Montefiore sites, Jacobi, Bronx Care (formerly Bronx Lebanon), and Lincoln Hospital. Please call 1-844-692-4692 to make an appointment. Be aware! The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has reported individuals are knocking on doors pretending they are testing for Coronavirus. Do not open the door for criminals who are impersonating health officials. Alert friends and family. Call 91-1 if they come to your door. To be tested, call one of the phone numbers listed above or one you receive from a credible source. Some unscrupulous individuals are also selling Coronavirus “cures.” There is no known cure or vaccine for Coronavirus. Stop&Shop store hours for customers 60 and older Shoppers age 60 and over can shop from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. daily; designated entrances are marked for those specific customers at local stores. According to a Stop&Shop advisory: “We’re making the decision to offer this every day of the week to allow for community members in this age category to shop in a less crowded environment, which better enables social distancing. They’ll also be shopping prior to any other customers entering.” Free car rentals for healthcare workers Hertz is offering free car rentals to healthcare workers throughout New York City until April 30. Accord-

Face mask distribution in Bartow Mall, Monday, April 27 Councilman Andy King and Brooklyn BP Eric Adams will be distributing face masks in the Bartow Mall on Monday, April 27, 2-3 p.m., while supplies last.

Income Affidavit submission Income affidavits are due by July 31, 2020. When returning your Income Affidavit forms, please place the original and yellow copy of the completed Income Affidavit and proof of your homeowner’s insurance in a sealed envelope and drop the envelope in one of the carrying charge boxes in Bartow, Dreiser or Einstein centers. Thank you for your cooperation. ing to an announcement made on Wednesday, March 25, “Healthcare workers can reserve a vehicle at 19 New York City-area Hertz locations so they can continue providing critical care to the community during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.” Contact your local Hertz center for more information. Access-A-Ride changes rides “The MTA is no longer scheduling shared rides for Access-A-Ride.” Access-A-Ride will still accept a personal care attendant and approved guest for travel with customers. “We will continue to aggressively disinfect our full fleet of Access-A-Ride vehicles around the clock and work closely with, and follow the guidance of, all our partners and public health officials at the state, city and federal levels,” said New York City Transit interim president Sarah E. Feinberg. Building deliveries (i.e., food, necessary supplies, or medicine) Building staff and residents should continue social distancing when receiving deliveries as well as entering and exiting the building. Opt to leave special delivery instructions when placing orders to have packages delivered to the apartment door to minimize personto-person contact. Community Board 10 Community Board 10 has postponed all board and committee meetings until further notice. New York Public Library All NYPL locations are temporarily closed until further notice. While locations are closed, resources are available online, including e-books, research databases, and other resources available at https://www.nypl.org/ about/remote-resources. During this time, all due-dates for checked-out materials are extended until after libraries reopen.

WE ARE OPEN! We support the community during these times and are still open in the event anyone has issues or emergencies.

• Following all CDC guidelines • All patients are brought in right away

• Please make sure to come in only at your - no waiting time in the waiting area

appointment time

• All staff is wearing PPE • All rooms fully sanitized after each patient, including waiting area.

CO-OP CITY FOOT CARE CENTER SECTION 5 • BUILDING 29C

4240 HUTCHINSON RIVER PKWY EAST

www.footanklerestore.com

(718) 671-2233

DR. KARIM A. BADAWY, DIRECTOR ALL FOOT AND ANKLE CONDITIONS TREATED Most Health Insurance Plans Accepted. 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire, Medicare, United Healthcare, HealthFirst and others. HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Thank you, Riverbay essential workers – Grounds and Maintenance Departments

The Grounds department continues to keep Co-op City looking good while getting ahead of schedule for the Spring season. According to Mike Ambo, Riverbay’s director of the Grounds department, “Although we’re working with a minimum staff due to COVID-19 and social distancing, our goal is to push for maximum production and to give our shareholders the same quality outdoors and way of life they are used to in the summer.” The Grounds department staff members are keeping the property clean, changing all 350 garbage cans seven days a week, and removing hundreds of used gloves and masks as well as other garbage from the community. Along with keeping the Co-op City grounds clean, team members are moving forward with beautifying the community during planting season. Mr. Ambo said: “We recently received the first half of our tree and shrub delivery for our 2020 planting season. Additionally, we have been weeding out and preparing flowerbeds and gardens for the planting of flowers, which will start next month.” Mr. Ambo told the Co-op City Times this week: “I want to express my gratitude

to all Grounds staff, Management, and union workers alike. Everyone stepped up to the challenge, continually serving the community with the same energy and enthusiasm they’ve demonstrated before the start of the COVID-19 crisis.” Although the Grounds department is working with a small skeleton crew, they have not fallen short on their work throughout the community – especially during their busiest season of the year. Mr. Ambo said, “With a crew like that, we can only continue to be successful in what we do, and I deeply appreciate them all for making life easy for me by them following all the safety procedures and getting the work done.” The Maintenance department stands ready to respond to emergencies in shareholders’ apartments and around the development. They too are among Riverbay’s front line essential workforce. At right above are Anton Barlovic (top) and Hugh Wellington (bottom), two Maintenance staff members we caught up with this week. Photos courtesy Grounds and Maintenance Departments

Phase 6 of elevator upgrades continues after brief pause Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

While New York City was on pause, so were capital projects at Co-op City, until now. As reported in the April 18 edition of the Co-op City Times, after a brief halt in capital projects, the Governor announced that construction would be allowed to continue throughout the city – that includes Co-op City’s elevator modernization project. After serious deliberation, Riverbay management determined the installation of elevators is an essential service for shareholders. And, as of April 6, Champion Elevator, the main contractor on the project, resumed work on their way to completing Phase 6. Rikardo Jakaj, Riverbay’s Contracts Administrator at the Power Plant, is the acting project manager for this massive undertaking in upgrading building elevators community-wide. He told the Co-op City Times: “Since the start of the project, 50 elevators have been modernized and returned into service. When phase 6, the current phase, is completed, we will have completed 60 elevators.” BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Help

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answers for frequently asked questions about critical benefit-related information and even direct links to apply for unemployment assistance. Equally important to remember is that there are options for New Yorkers who need assistance with their healthcare coverage. COBRA continuation coverage (from the 1986 Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) is a security blanket of sorts aimed to “provide temporary continuation of group health care coverage in certain situations it would otherwise be terminated,” as stated on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services website. Essentially, for employees who were covered under a group health plan but lost their job due to COVID19, they may be qualified to take advantage of the COBRA continuation coverage. To learn more about the program and see if you qualify, call 866-444-3272 or visit online at benefits.gov/benefit/4727. The Medicare and Medicaid programs are two more healthcare options available that can provide relief for those in need of healthcare coverage. Medicare normally provides health insurance for people 65 and older but the Medicaid program provides insurance to low-income families, children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with disabilities. For those who are interested in knowing which program they might be eligible for, visit benefits.gov/benefit-finder. The benefit finder tool also prescreens an individual so they can see all the programs they or their family may qualify for. Parents and those in need of a meal should be aware that Harry S Truman High School, M.S. 180, and P.S. 160 offer three, free “grab and go” meals daily for everyone Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Children and families are served from 7:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and adults from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. No registration, ID, or documentation is required to receive a meal and vegetarian and Halal options are available at all sites. Parents and guardians may pick up meals for their children as well. COVID-19’s restrictions on nearly all aspects of everyday life can cause a lot of stress and anxiety for anyone which is why it is important for everyone to remember that we are all going through this together. For people who may not have a close friend or relative, or who simply need some help finding their bearings during these uncertain times, nycwell.cityofnewyork.us offers free resources to help support mental health and anxiety. The website offers texting, calling and online chat options for those who wish to speak with someone as well as a search bar that can find services for various mental health needs. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a complete resource and information guide that is available for download on their website at nami.org. The guide offers information on frequently asked questions regarding COVID-19 and its impact on people affected by mental illness. The CDC offers resources as well on their website for daily life and coping with COVID-19. Visit cdc.gov/coronavirus and scroll down to the daily life and coping prompt to read more.

Whereas the overall project was on target prior to COVID-19, the current state of the city might leave room for ,possible delays. Mr. Jakaj said: “Phase 6 is scheduled to be completed by June; Champion is working hard to maintain that schedule. However, the schedule may be impacted by COVID-19 due to both twoweek delays and New York City Department of Buildings’ availability to provide an inspection to turn over the elevators.” Although Phase 7 will probably begin in June, Mr. Jakaj has already identified the next set of buildings that will start construction. Buildings 3A, 5C, 8, 9B, 14, 18, 20A, 31A, and 35 will be a part of Phase 7 tentatively scheduled to begin on June 1. The first round of the elevator modernization project began in January 2019 with the first newly modernized elevator completed in March at Building 11B in Section 2. At that time, renovations took 10-13 weeks – without current delays that might occur today due to the Coronavirus crisis. The Elevator Modernization project is a result of

findings from Riverbay’s elevator consultants who determined that motors installed back in 2001 were not adequate to handle the high volume of traffic in Co-op City’s high-rise residential buildings. Additionally, the current engines were manufactured by Frank Feniello, Modone company, which has since ernization Supervimoved their operations away sor with Champion from the east coast, making it Elevator, testing and even more difficult to obtain tuning the elevator replacement parts for the motors control system at 120 when needed, especially in Co-op City Blvd. Photo courtesy of emergencies. Rikardo Jakaj. Lifts in each building will be stripped so they can be upgraded entirely from the frames as well as relined. Champion Elevator will work on installing new doors, complete wiring and installing new fixtures, and much more. (Continued on page 18)

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

In Memoriam – Sandra Gumbs

With much sadness, we announce the passing of Sandra Gumbs on Saturday, April 18, 2020 at the age of 67. Mrs. Gumbs was predeceased by her husband, acclaimed Jazz pianist Onaje Allan Gumbs, who passed on Monday, April 6, at the age of 70. At the time of her death, Mrs. Gumbs had been a resident at Regency Extended Care Center in Yonkers, NY for the past five years. She and her husband had been married for 44 years and lived in Co-op City for about 40 of those years where they were beloved by neighbors. Linda Bannerman-Martin, one of Mrs. Gumbs’ two surviving sisters, said that her sister was an elementary school teacher specializing in reading in both public and private schools in New York City. She loved teaching. She was also very well-versed in Black history and culture. Mrs. Gumbs was an accomplished artist and natural crafter who, though she never received any formal training, could produce the most exquisite crafts. In fact, she and her younger sister, Janice, had a business together and she designed and hand-made Afrocentric coat pins for sale. She was also a very talented hairdresser and braider, visual artist, crocheter and calligrapher. Sandra Gumbs is survived by sisters, Janice Avant and Linda BannermanMartin, as well as a host of nieces and nephews. Funeral arrangements are pending and the family hopes to have a memorial for both Mr. & Mrs. Gumbs at a later date. Condolences can be sent to Linda Bannerman-Martin, 120 Elgar Place, Apt. 27D, Bronx, NY 10475.

Common Pantry to distribute food to JASA/Bartow clientele Tuesday, April 28

Ann Moncrieffe, director of the JASA Bartow and Einstein Senior Centers, reports that Common Pantry will distribute food on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 to those registered in the program who usually pick up food at the Bartow Center. Food distribution will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. outdoors from under the portico in front of the Baychester Library in the Bartow Mall. Everyone must wear a face mask and practice social distancing while waiting in line. Please bring ID and your Common Pantry card. Common Pantry will also register new applicants who wish to sign up for the program. You must bring ID with proof of address (program not limited to Coop City residents) and your income statement. Seniors must be 60 years and older. For single individual, income limit is $1,383; for couples, $1,870. Generally, if you qualify for SNAP benefit, you will most likely qualify for Common Pantry.

Thank you, Senator Bailey, for meals for Co-op City seniors On Tuesday, April 21, 2020 State Senator Jamaal Bailey delivered meals to ap-proximately 50 senior cooperators who were identified through JASA’s wellness checks. The seniors reported t hat t hey had not yet received any food. This information was relayed to Riverbay Community Relations director Michelle Sajous, who contacted the senator, and he acted to make sure the cooperators were served. Photos by Salvattore Morello

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Annual Income Affidavits Notice BY AVERIL JAMES-BONNETTE, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, FINANCE DEPARTMENT

The annual income affidavit process for Co-op City residents is currently underway. The Income Affidavit and related instructions were mailed last week to all cooperators required to file (excluded are new residents who moved into Co-op City after March 31, 2020, and those cooperators on the Section 8 Program). In response to certain concerns raised regarding the income affidavit requirement and the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), HCR has extended the deadline for the income affidavit process to July 31, 2020. This year’s income affidavits do NOT need to be notarized. Signed affidavits without notary acknowledgement are acceptable. New surcharges will be imposed effective Oct. 01, 2020 based upon data taken from your 2019 Income Affidavit form. Please note that it is essential that every cooperator submit their 2019 Income Affidavit in a timely manner. If you filed an application for extension in lieu of a 2019 NYS Tax Return, you are still required to submit your affidavit by July 31, 2020. Please estimate your income and identify as “Estimated Income.” File an amended affidavit once you have filed your tax return or you will be subject to the maximum 50% surcharge. Also, please note that Riverbay must be notified in writing with a copy of the extension form. In cases where there are two shareholders of an apartment and if one of the shareholders has permanently vacated the apartment, it is important that the remaining shareholder submit documentation to Riverbay Corporation as to where the vacating shareholder currently resides. Acceptable documentation could be: (1) driver’s license with current address, (2) copy of the apartment lease, (3) utility bill with current address. If this documentation is not submitted with the Income Affidavit, the income affidavit will be returned as incomplete and a 50% surcharge will be assessed each month until the documentation is submitted. The shareholder will be liable for all surcharges assessed, no credits will be issued for surcharges already assessed. Failure to complete and return the Income Affidavit form in a timely manner will result in the maximum surcharge of 50% of your basic carrying charges. You would then be required to pay the 50% surcharge for each month, through the end of the month you finally filed. In no event will credit be given for excess surcharges already assessed as a result of failure, neglect or refusal of the cooperator to file the Income Affidavit on a timely basis. The instructions being mailed with the Income Affidavit form include a cover letter and worksheet which will assist the cooperator in determining whether they are subject to a carrying charge surcharge. Cooperators are advised to read the material very carefully. As required by State law, copies of Income Affidavit forms will be submitted to the state for verification of income against filed tax return. Cooperators are cautioned, therefore, to make sure that the data provided 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.

come from their NY State tax return. This year, there will be no all-day sessions to assist cooperators in filling out their Income Affidavit forms. In addition, because of the coronavirus outbreak, shareholders will be required to drop off their completed income affidavits and insurance declarations in the carrying charge boxes. Please put in an envelope and clearly mark ‘2019 INCOME AFFIDAVIT’ on the outside of the envelope. Income affidavits can also be submitted by mail to the following address: RIVERBAY CORPORATION, FINANCE DEPARTMENT - ATTENTION: 2019 INCOME AFFIDAVIT, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Enclosed with the annual income affidavit packet is a letter from the Riverbay Risk Management department regarding the submission of co-op insurance declaration page or certified letter from your insurance broker or company showing that you have the required insurance coverage on your apartment. Please note that the insurance documentation must be submitted along with your annual income affidavit by no later than July 31, 2020 to avoid the assessment of $150 Community Complaint fine. Any questions regarding the insurance documentation should be addressed to the Risk Management department at (718) 320-3300, ext. 3388.

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

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

John Crow New Media Producer The Co-op City Times welcomes issueoriented 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. 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 Corp. 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.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 21 A, B & C Building 21 A, B & C

Building 21 A, B & C 100, 120 & 140 Bellamy Loop

Current Lease Expiration Date

May 31, 2020

New 3 yr. Expiration Date

May 31, 2023

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

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Public Safety Report

Co-op City Department of Public Safety urges residents to “Go green” and “Go safe” in honor of Earth Day

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO Earth Day was celebrated on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 and should be celebrated every day. Earth Day has been set aside as a day when we focus on what we can do to keep our planet clean and green. By making an effort to conserve our natural resources, we can make a difference in keeping the world clean and reducing global warming. Always look for a garbage can to throw away litter. Conservation and reduction of waste should take place all year long. While taking steps to reduce the use of electricity, we should also take steps to be sure we use electricity safely. Various activities usually take place during Earth Week focused on conservation and cleaning up the planet. Even though there are cancellations of activities everyone should do their part to keep the planet clean. Please make sure to properly dispose of masks, gloves, wipes or any other personal protection items. Always look for a garbage can to throw away litter. Garbage thrown on the ground can find its way into the storm drains and eventually into the waterways. Items that are not biodegradable post a serious hazard to marine life. Recycling is an excellent way to conserve natural resources. Everyone should “Reduce, Reuse, And Recycle.” Reduce the number of things you buy that will eventually end up in a landfill. Buy only those items you really need and plan to keep for a long time. Purchasing and using a reusable water bottle saves a great deal of money and keeps a great deal of waste out of landfills. Reuse things like plastic bags for other purposes after you bring them home. Many stores offer reusable bags for purchase to bring home your purchases. Free plastic bags are now a thing of the past. Consumers are charged 5 cents for paper bags statewide or purchase a reusable bag. This law was passed by Governor Andrew Cuomo and is great news for the environment. Recycle newspaper, cans, glass bottles and plastic containers. Co-op City works with the New York City Department of Sanitation to make sure that all recyclable items are collected and appropriately processed. Repurposing items is another good idea, cut pants that are too short into shorts or Capri pants, decorate and use a plastic container to store mail, etc. Give away items you no longer want or need to friends and family or Facebook groups. People should do what they can to reduce fuel consumption. There is always a desire to reduce dependence on foreign oil. Fuel conservation is always important. Throughout the nation, fuel prices have been temporarily lower than they have been for many years. Avoiding unnecessary trips is more important than ever despite the low fuel prices. Whenever possible, people should walk. Map out and combine errands to avoid trips out of the house. Consider purchasing a fuel efficient, alternative fuel or hybrid vehicle as your next vehicle. Newer technology has greatly improved the reliability of these vehicles. Residents can save energy by keeping windows closed when air conditioning or heat is turned on. Unplug phone chargers and plugs which have power converters. These plugs constantly drain energy and can also become very hot. Turn off lights and televisions when there is nobody in the room. Every small step you take throughout the year adds up at the end of the year. Consider replacing regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs or L.E.D. bulbs. Compact fluorescent bulbs use almost ¼ of the energy and also last much longer. Compact fluorescent bulbs are available now for use with dimmer switches and three-way lamps. Make certain that new appliances are Energy Star rated. These appliances use much less electricity than older appliances. Utilize holiday If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at (718) 671-3050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety.

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

Public Safety Blotter April 12 - April 18, 2020 April 13, 2020 – 100 Benchley Place CCPD responded to an apartment within this building after a male was found deceased. A preliminary investigation determined that the male expired from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation is ongoing. April 14, 2020 – 120 Bellamy Loop A cooperator was issued a community complaint for damaging property after an investigation determined that the respondent placed a piece of furniture in the staircase and spray painted it but got paint on the floor and walls. The respondent was issued a community complaint for damaging Riverbay property. April 16, 2020 – Asch Loop Townhouses CCPD officers responded to a townhouse location to investigate a domestic dispute. Upon arrival, officers were investigating the incident and discovered a loaded firearm at the location. As a result, the couple was arrested and charged with Criminal Possession of a firearm. April 17, 2020 – 140 Bellamy Loop CCPD officers responded to a report of a male-female fight. Upon arrival, a female was found with injuries sustained during an altercation with a male. Canvassing officers observed the perpetrator and were able to subdue and arrest him. The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment and the male was booked for domestic assault. 900 Baychester Avenue CCPD officers found a male who appeared to be unconscious behind the wheel of a car still in drive and found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and issued a Desk Appearance Ticket. April 18, 2020 -140 Benchley Place A male was issued a Criminal Court Summons for Public Consumption of alcohol. After a warrant check was conducted, the male was found to have an outstanding Felony warrant and was returned to Manhattan Criminal Court.

lighting only during the holiday season. Public Safety canvasses the community for lights remaining on past the holiday season. Eliminating unnecessary electricity consumption is good for the community and good for the planet. Safety is essential when using electrical appliances. Always keep liquids away from electric equipment. Never leave cords hanging near bathtubs, where they can easily be grabbed by children. Avoid putting things on top of electrical devices they could get hot and catch fire. Never use frayed cables. Do not crowd a multiplug socket; it creates a serious fire hazard. Be sure that unused outlets are covered with outlet protectors if young children live in or visit your home. Energy conservation and safety go hand in hand to improve the quality of life locally and globally. Earth Day is a good time to think about energy conservation plus safety as it pertains to using electricity. If everyone takes a few small steps the planet can stay clean and green for generations to come. Have a Happy Earth Week and always remember, “If You See Something, Say Something.” Be especially vigilant for persons trespassing on the roofs, alarms do sound when entry is made onto the roof. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained. Co-op City is a diverse community with people of all ages, abilities and characteristics. All persons should remember to respect each other and embrace their differences. Don’t forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street while practicing social distancing. Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. April is known as National Autism Awareness Month as well as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. This week is Oral Health and Neck Cancer Awareness Week as well as Dental Hygiene week. Make sure you floss and brush your teeth as often as your dentist recommends. Take this opportunity to learn about these topics and see what you can do to help. Knowledge is power, the more you learn the stronger you become.

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY There are no employment opportunities to list this week. Please check back again next week.

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Are We There Yet?

Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson Secretary

It is such an uncertain time. Nice to have a definitive answer to at least one thing. And the answer is, “no.” We are not there yet. And we don’t even know where “there” is. But we must make the best of what we’ve got. Peace of mind tops that list, and for me, it’s been getting a bit easier in the “High Anxiety” department. I made a shopping run last week (only to be told afterward by a neighbor that the store I went to takes and delivers online orders) and I was nowhere near the nervous wreck I had been just the week before. And it’s not solely because I was able to acquire a mountain of toilet paper. A lot of the lessening of my anxiety level has to do with our beautiful community. Every night at 7:00 p.m., we try to show our thanks with our clapping, banging, whistling, and hootin’ and hollerin.’ I look forward to hearing that first clanging break in the evening, and most nights (not all) I join in with gusto. We’re a bunch of town criers. “Here ye, hear ye, It’s 7 o’clock and we’re grateful that this day hasn’t killed our spirit.” It’s nice to noisily thank all responsible for keeping everything we need going. The water runs, the toilets flush, the garbage mysteriously disappears as usual, and that’s thanks to our porters, our Maintenance people and our managers. It’s also business not-quite-as usual for the Board. The second online meeting was held on April 15, and it went quite well. (We have lots of computer whizzes

on staff including our IT guy and our Board liaisons.) We received a state-of-the-complex business update from Management, much of which you probably read about in last week’s paper. I have some more details that some might find reassuring. But first, I want to backtrack a bit. Remember when the government shut down in 2018? Nah, not the first time in early 2018 over funding for the DACA kids. That one just lasted four days. I refer to the late 2018 early 2019 one that started three days before Christmas and ran till January 25. That one. It dealt with funding for “the Wall” and wound up being the longest U.S. government shut down in our history. In that one, 800,000 government workers were furloughed or required to work without pay. Co-op City’s Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer immediately took the initiative to freeze carrying charges for any of those furloughed Co-op City residents, allowing six months to “catch up.” So similar accommodations will be made based on individual evaluation due to COVID-19. So far, it looks like 95% of us have been able to pay our carrying charges in this first month since the official March 20 shut down. In fact, the percentage of those who automatically pay through Zego (formerly PayLease) recently rose to 34%. And it’s not too late to drop off this month’s carrying charges. The collection boxes in the three community centers remain unlocked throughout April. But for those of us suffering greater financial hardship through this time, Management is very understanding and willing to work with us. Please contact the Finance department to discuss your spe-

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cific situation if you have any concern about paying your carrying charges. A worried resident wrote me to say she had trouble reaching someone in Finance by phone. Perhaps a step was missed. I like to double check, so I called the normal switchboard number at 718-320-3300 (at 2:30 on Monday) and did as the prompts directed, which was to press #4 for Rent and Bookkeeping. (That’s the Finance department.) I got right through. I also asked if calls went to voicemail if unanswered live and the answer was yes. Hopefully, any future calls you might need to place through the Call Center will be similarly glitch-free. And now, here are a few miscellaneous bits: • Crime is down but noise complaints are up. Please… this is a time for consideration and also a time for tolerance. • Affidavits went out, but some (including me) haven’t gotten theirs yet. I don’t venture out to check the mail often though, having to suit up for the elevator ride, and all: gloves, brimmed hat, a bandana/face covering, yadda yadda. Mine might already be waiting downstairs for me. Completed affidavits are not due back till July 31, and this year they needn’t be notarized, so there’s still plenty of time. • I had a little trouble connecting to the new website coopcitynyc.com but once I got there…gorgeous! Be well. Stay well. Eat well. And try not to stress too much. I can be reached by voice or text at 718-219-2211 or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Working Families of Co-op City

Absentee Ballot Application Form/Absentee Ballots New York’s presidential primary election day has been moved to Tuesday, June 23. The country might have stomped out every last coronavirus particle by then, but I’m taking no chances, nor should you. Is there or isn’t there Early Voting this year? It’s still unclear. Some people may know for sure, but the poll site locator isn’t saying. To me, that spells: Absentee Ballot. Every NYS Democratic party affiliated primary voter can vote by Absentee Ballot in June, but first you’ve got to get your hands on a NYS Absentee Ballot Application form. (There is no Republican primary this year.) On the NYS Absentee Ballot Application form, box #1, where it reads: “I am requesting in good faith, an absentee ballot due to (check one reason):, I’ll be checking off “temporary illness or physical disability” as the purpose for the request… with impunity. By an extended executive order, Governor Cuomo has expanded the definition of “illness” to include the risk of contracting coronavirus. It’s called the “scaredy cat” re-definition or the “appropriately cautious” re-definition depending on your personal comfort level weighed against your personal invincibility quotient. So, anyone who wants an absentee ballot can apply for one now and avoid a long wait later. Vote by mail or take your chances on June 23 To start the process of voting by mail, go to the Board of Elections website — vote.nyc — to find the NYS Absentee Ballot Application form in a range of languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, or Bengali, all available to download and print out. Unable to download and print? A NYS Absentee Ballot Application form can be mailed to you by calling 1-866-VOTE-NYC (1-866-868-3692). The application will be sent to any address within or outside of the state. Either way, you’ve got to get a completed application form to the Board of Elections in time for them to mail you an absentee ballot for you to fill out and mail back to them within the Election Day parameters. There are time rules to accomplish all this but with present circumstances the way they are, just get the ball rolling already! What’s the hurry? The Postal Service is running low on cash and is being denied emergency funds during and because of the pandemic because Trump has a vendetta against Amazon owner Jeff Bezos and hates the arrangement Amazon has with the Postal Service. That’s one theory. Then there’s the “Voter Fraud” conspiracy theory regarding vote-by-mail that has some in a tizzy. It seems, full enfranchisement is bad for Republican candidates, so voter suppression is their go-to move. Two words: Wisconsin Primary. What’s any of this got to do with getting an absentee ballot application form right away? The Post Office is having enough trouble. Give ’em a break and get your paperwork done early. Just get your NYS Absentee Ballot Application form, fill it out and mail it to: Bronx County Board of Elections, 1780 Grand Concourse-5th Floor, Bronx, NY 10457. (It’s not really due till June 16, but get it done sooner.) Then they’ll send you an Absentee Ballot. Now I know June 16 seems like a long way off, especially for a procrastinator such as myself, but just print the darn thing out (or call for a form), fill it in and send it off. Then wait till you get your Absentee Ballot sometime around mid-May. Get it over with, do your civic duty, and save the last-minute frenzy for other procrastinators. Email mpjazz@optonline.net and/or text 718-219-2211. —Mary Pearson Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could cause you to receive a community complaint and fine.

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Hi, neighbors! Again, sincere condolences to the Childs family. As time has passed a memorial has grown at their door. Horribly and unfortunately their story is not unique. So many have given their lives to the Coronavirus, sincere condolences to all affected. Here, in Co-op City, if you have a positive diagnosis, it is your responsibility to contact Mr. Anthony Barzelatto, director of Riverbay Corporation’s Safety department, so that Riverbay may take necessary measures to sanitize and quarantine the location. That is the first priority of Riverbay Safety and Maintenance. If you have any questions regarding Grounds and their maintenance, please email me at Evalazaar2@gmail.com. Please read the Co-op City Times for announcements or information pertinent during this pandemic. The photos in the Co-op City Times, of what we described, the discarding of gloves and masks on sidewalks and parking areas, in last week’s press release, has got to change. We have many street litter cans, let’s use them for disposal of these items. Thank you, Riverbay, for continuing to do grounds and trash pickups. Personal distance walking has become popular, as has bike riding. Clap hands for caregivers is working, keep it up. Every evening at 7 p.m., come out and cheer our essential workers. Keep participation up. It feels good to acknowledge them. Cooperators, continue practicing social distancing and find ways to keep busy at home. Build on your former morning routine. Develop projects, keep pantry inventory, and play board games. These are real family fun. Put something between you and the remote. Social distancing is imperative, so confine yourselves and help stop the spread of the Coronavirus. It is disturbing that groups are still congregating as normal, smoking and drinking. Report them! It is a priority to dispose of your trash even better than before. Do not leave stuff you think is recyclable on the concrete at the dumpster pad. Place it in the appropriate bin. Thank you to the Board directors for continuing to help and support our huge population; normally we would be in the heat of the next election. Thank you to the staff of the Co-op City Times for continuing to publish our great newspaper. Although the language of the Census form doesn’t cover our Mitchell-Lama cooperative, for example, “Rent” means “Carrying Charge,” fill out the form. You can do it online too. At stake is the allocation of community funds which we want to support for the betterment of our community. Thank you to the unnamed workers who are sewing masks and gowns and have reinvented themselves by creating to fill in where it is most needed. Most important, and always, remember keep dancing and happier days are ahead. —Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

OPEN LETTER TO THE CO-OP CITY COMMUNITY MARC A. GOODMAN ACCREDITED TAX ADVISOR AND ENROLLED TO PRACTICE BEFORE THE IRS SERVING SECTION 5, CO-OP CITY AND THE BRONX SINCE 1972

DURING THESE TRYING TIMES, THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES IS MOST IMPORTANT. AS DIRECTED BY THE GOVERNMENT, MY OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED DURING THE COVID-19 EMERGENCY. I DO NOT FEEL THAT IT IS WORTH THE RISK TO MY CLIENTS AND MY STAFF TO POTENTIALLY HAVE SOMEONE EXPOSED TO THE VIRUS BECAUSE THEY WANTED TO FILE THEIR TAXES. TO ALLOW PEOPLE TO STAY AT HOME, I AM CONTINUING TO SERVE THE COMMUNITY REMOTELY. I AM ACCEPTING TAX INFORMATION FROM CLIENTS BY FAX, EMAIL AND BY MAIL. TAX INFORMATION CAN BE FAXED TO ME AT 800-427-5124, EMAILED TO MARC@GOODMANTAX.COM OR MAILED TO ME AT: MARC A. GOODMAN, BOX 647, NEW CITY, NY 10956. IF YOU FAX OR EMAIL, BLOCK OUT THE FIRST FIVE NUMBERS OF YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER. BE SURE TO INCLUDE A PHONE NUMBER WHERE YOU CAN BE REACHED, SO I CAN GET ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION I MAY NEED. AFTER YOUR TAX RETURNS ARE COMPLETED, I WILL MAIL THEM BACK TO YOU WITH INSTRUCTIONS ON RETURNING THE ELECTRONIC FILING FORMS TO ME.

RECOGNIZING THAT THESE ARE VERY TRYING TIMES FOR ALL OF US, ANY FEES DUE TO ME OR TAXES DUE THE GOVERNMENT CAN BE PAID ON JULY 15, 2020, AND IF YOU NEED A BIT MORE TIME TO PAY ME, THAT’S OKAY. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER. THE RETURN WILL BE FILED AS SOON AS I RECEIVE THE SIGNED ELECTRONIC FORMS, BUT ANY MONEY OWED TO THE IRS OR THE STATE WON’T BE DUE UNTIL JULY 15, 2020. IF YOU ARE DUE A REFUND FROM THE IRS, YOU SHOULD RECEIVE IT WITHIN 10 BUSINESS DAYS IF IT IS DIRECT DEPOSITED, OR 15 BUSINESS DAYS IF YOU WISH TO RECEIVE A CHECK. I HAVE BEEN SERVING THE CO-OP CITY COMMUNITY SINCE 1972 AND GIVING BACK IS IMPORTANT TO ME. I WILL NOT CHARGE MORE THAN $160 FOR ANY RETURN FILED BY CO-OP CITY RESIDENTS, PROVIDED YOU DO NOT HAVE SCHEDULES C, D OR E. ALL CREDIT FORMS, SUCH AS CHILD TAX CREDITS, EARNED INCOME CREDIT, COLLEGE TUITION CREDITS AND CHILD CARE CREDITS ARE INCLUDED IN MY FEE. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT 917-567-5755. STAY SAFE AND STAY HOME, IF YOU CAN. A SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL HEALTHCARE WORKERS.

Office Phone: 718-379-5217

Marc A. Goodman, EA

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Giving up is not an Option

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson Unfortunately, it was reported that we had two suicide cases in our community within the past few weeks. In one case, a male fell from a window. Then, a male died by a gunshot wound in the other case. Don’t Give Up A lot of people have talked to me about what’s going on in the world today. And, everyone has said the same thing: “I have never seen anything like this in my entire life.” So, lots of people are in a state of shock. For instance, who could ever dream that a worldwide coronavirus pandemic would occur in this year, 2020? Who could ever dream that this pandemic would overwhelm hospital systems all over the world? Who could ever dream that news outlets would be reporting that thousands of people would be dying on a daily basis because of this insane outbreak? Then, what about everyone wearing face masks and practicing social distancing? Next, we can go on and on with the economic news that millions of people have lost their jobs. And, that thousands of businesses may have closed their doors forever. So, truthfully, this horrendous virus has affected us in a horrible way. However, we need to make a strong internal declaration that we will remain strong. Moreover, we’re not going to let anything destroy our will to live and enjoy our lives. Now, please think back and ask yourself if you have ever experienced tough times before. Five years ago? Ten? Twenty ago? Well, if you’re like most folks, then more than likely you’ve experienced some difficult times. However, most folks that have been through the fire will tell you that they did everything possible to make it through those tough times. So, despite many problems, these same folks will say that they’re going to make it through these tough times also.

For instance, a lot of people—husbands, wives, children, and other family members—might have to be home on a 24/7 basis right now. So, will there be conflicts? Absolutely! But, being around your family during tough times is not a reason for a parent or anyone to give up. No, that’s not an option. Sure, negative thoughts will go through your head. Sure, some family members might completely dislike you. In fact, they might say: “I hate you.” Plus, you might have health and employment issues. Regardless, you still must never give up. Ever! You must instantly dismiss any type of thought that you should harm or kill yourself. Bottom line: Suicide is not the answer to your problems. Therefore, I want to make sure that you clearly understand this point. Also, I want you to please get professional assistance, if needed. So, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-2738255 if you need to talk to someone. Additionally, please call our Public Safety Department at 718-671-3050 and 911 if there is a need for emergency services. Lastly, I hope and pray that everyone reading this material will understand that we care about you and your family. So, please stay strong. Sure, times are tough. But, as a strong community, we’re going to get through these tough times. Lots of Unemployment - For Now The numbers are out and 22 million people are currently unemployed. So, on top of the outrageous coronavirus outbreak, millions of people are going to have to deal with unemployment issues. Now, some people might get nervous at this point and think that there’s no hope for them. True? No! Sure, a lot of businesses might be closed right now. But, do you think that big businesses like Macy’s and lots of other businesses are going just sit back after they’ve been given the approval to reopen? Absolutely not. In fact, smart business owners know that lots of people will be anxious to part with their money. So, they’ve taken out loans in anticipation for reopening their business. Therefore, will restaurants, bars, clothing stores, con-

struction sites, corporate businesses, and other types of businesses make a lot of money after these mandates are lifted? Absolutely. Law firms? Lots of lawyers know that they’re going to receive lots of calls about divorce, and other civil matters related to this coronavirus outbreak. So, please get that resume ready and get another job. Local Supermarket – In Trouble? Unfortunately, a large supermarket in our community has let some of their shelves go empty for an extended period of time. Now, yes, it’s possible that they might have had some distribution problems. However, the question is: Are they losing money? For instance, they had a very long line of customers waiting to go inside of their store about two weeks ago. Then, those customers found several sections of the store completely bare of essential home products. Next, just last week, there were no lines to get into the store. Nothing! Regardless, those same sections were still bare of essential home products. Then, shockingly, there were signs that stated that the seafood and deli sections were temporarily closed. Plus, there were several other sections of the store that didn’t even have regular food products. Bottom line: I want all of our stores to survive. So, I hope that they can get some good plans to get back on track. Close Everything is tough right now. But, being strong means that we’re going to think and do things in a positive manner. Moreover, we’re going to fill our minds with good material so that we will know how to deal with these types of crises without thinking about killing ourselves. Thank you. Questions or comments? Please send a letter to Daryl H. Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475/ Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Building 9 Association

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Salutations, Building 9 family. I trust you are well. I miss you all. For now, it is best that we remain separated, so that we can be better together later. It is with great sorrow that we offer our condolences to Scarlett and her family. Over the past few weeks, Scarlett lost her mother and her sister. Healing will come. 2089 Bartow Avenue Special Acknowledgements & Gratitude NOTARY During the early morning of Friday, April 17, an Bronx, NY 10475 PUBLIC anonymous donor paid for the groceries of seniors shopping at Peartree Mall Stop ‘N Shop. We thank the good Samaritan. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: On Sunday, April 19, Council Member Andy King • Tax Preparation (Individual, Business) sponsored food distributions in and around Co-op City. • Tax Planning (Know your current and future tax liability) We thank him. • Tax Resolution (Do you owe Federal or State more than $10,000? Call Us!) I remain most proud and appreciative of our resi• Audit Representation by a former Federal Auditor for over 25 years dent angels: Linda, Sherine, Gabriella, Wanda and oth• We’re more than Tax Preparers - We’re Tax Advisors ers who pick up mail, go to the pharmacy and super• Maximum Tax Refunds Guaranteed! market for our seniors; Rosie who “keeps an eye on” • Serving Co-op City for Over 45 Years our seniors who may not feel well; also, to those who transport our seniors to medical appointments during Coronavirus Tax Update these critical times. IRS Filing Deadline EXTENDED until 7/15/20 Thank you to Mitzi Cleare who was thoughtful PREPARER QUALIFICATIONS: enough to post a thank you card in the lobby for our • BS in Accounting • Call for an appointment. We are only seeing building staff who are doing a commendable job while • 50 hours of classroom training conducted 3 people per day. working a reduced schedule. Thank you to Evelyn If you can’t come in, we offer: by various professional organizations Mavins who has a knack for knowing how to make • Drop-off • Over 45 years of experience in preparing taxes everyone feel better. Evelyn posted several colorful • Mail-in: 2089 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 • Enrolled Agent (EA) designated by the IRS under and inspirational flyers in the lobby for our enjoyment. • Email: gsansone1@optimum.net the Department of the Treasury, Circular 230. • Fax: 561-431-0830 Our daily 7 p.m. public shout-outs to first responders have made us feel connected to a larger collective effort. I often mused that one day, we would look back come what we are going through now, and it will Please wear your masks and observe social dison our association gatherings and we would enjoy become part of someone else’s survival guide.”— tancing guidelines. fond memories of spending time with our friends and Unknown Eat well, stay hydrated, exercise if/when you can, neighbors. Godspeed. sleep well, take breaks from cable news, stay in touch people and think positive thoughts. “One day, we will tell our story of how we have over—Linda Collins with positive

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Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Louder, Prouder, For Them, For Us… Director’s Viewpoint

Michelle Marbury Honorable mentions and gratitude… Greetings and salutations to all… I’d like to start by saying “thank you” to our workers ranging from electricians to Maintenance engineers, porters, Janitorial workers, Co-op City police, Power Pant staff and all of the essential Riverbay staff including those working from home and in the offices who remain on duty to keep our community going, thank you. To our mail personnel and storeowners, we appreciate you as well. All of you who provide vital services to this community are this community’s heroes. “Thank you” again for showing that you care about doing not just adequate work, but that you care that the community survives by doing good work for us, here in the commu-

nity of Co-op City. In Memoriam, Prayer and Well Wishes To those who have lost loved ones, we give pause to their memory and pray for the strength of each family as you carry on for those who remain. Those who have loved ones in hospitals or nursing homes, we join you in prayer and well wishes that they remain healthy and whole. Those who are lonely, please know that you are not alone. 7 o’clock Salutations … Shareholders and residents of this great community, especially those staying inside so that our medical community and first responders can perform and carry out their respective jobs and services, a “big thank you” to you. Some of you had to choose your health and the health of others as you made the decision to stay at home to support the fight and flatten the curve to quell the progression of this awful disease ridden pandemic and at 7 o’clock every evening, you let everyone know that you are there and that you care.

Get Louder! Let’s make an effort to get even louder! Every evening at 7 o’clock, give a positive cheer for our community, our first responders, our CCPD, our porters, our Maintenance personnel, Power Plant workers, our essential staff in the office and at home! Let’s get louder and prouder for them and for us! Let this cheer be a signal of hope for each and every one of us who believe, that the positive change that we all need, is on its way. Let this cheer be a call to each building and building association, each club, each church, and every committee and every cooperator, to unite. Let us begin to really unite; unite virtually, by email, by phone and by any means necessary, but let us use this time, these cheers, and this energy, to communicate to each other, for each other until together, we all make it through. I can be reached at mmarbury@riverbayboard.com. Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals A FORCE FOR GOOD. When we know our value, we can demand our worth.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Branch #2210

Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, shelter at home and community health preventative recommendations, the branch office closed March 13 and all branch activities have been suspended until further notice. The National and NYS Conference offices will remain closed until May 15 and will continue to follow direction of NY Governor and Mayor. Heartfelt condolences to all whom have suffered loss of family, friends and neighbors. Let’s keep each other in prayer. What you do as an individual impacts all of us. We are all in this together. Wear a mask, gloves, wash hands, practice social distancing, kindness and compassion and stay home! The NAACP and BET have partnered to present a 4-part series titled Unmasked: A COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall Series which explores the COVID-19 Pandemic’s impact on communities of color, focusing on the health, emotional, trauma, economic toll, congressional response and how activists can apply pressure to ensure legislation is equitable. Join us, for information visit NAACP.ORG. Health Care is a Human Rights Issue! Co-op City needs an urgent care walk-in site or mobile testing van that provides rapid testing for the Coronavirus.

Census 2020: While at home we encourage you to “Be Counted;” fill out the Census form using your Census ID number previously mailed, and visit: my2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020. It only takes a few minutes and is vital for the well-being of our Co-op City community. Federal dollars affect programmatic activities for seniors, transportation, schools, health, hospitals, housing, infrastructure, economic reliefs, extended unemployment w/bonus and most recently the stimulus plan package. 2020 Political Calendar: Presidential Primary for April 28 has been postponed and rescheduled to June 23rd. Primary Early Voting is June 13 – June 21. For more information, email: elections.ny.gov/NYBOE/law/2020politicalcalendar.Rev. If interested in poll worker position, call 718-299-9017, Bronx Board of Elections, 1780 Grand Concourse, 5th Fl. Bronx, NY 10457. Remember: politics control policies. Votes represents dollars. That’s why it’s important to vote. 2020 Branch Election Process & Calendar: Elected Officer and Executive Committee Members At-Large positions include: President, Secretary, Treasurer, Members At-Large; Vice President, Assistant Secretary, Assistant Treasurer. Elected officers serve a

National Council of Negro Women

Prayer Line Our chaplain, Rev. Beverly Spruill, has been leading us in prayer and song on our prayer line via conference call. This prayer line is open to all as we lift up in prayer our members, families and friends as well as first responders and all essential medical personnel who play a crucial role in providing the services that we need in these extraordinary times. Our next prayer call will be today, Saturday, April 25, at 10 a.m. The call-in number is (712) 770-5577 and the access code is 594379#. Once the prayer has begun, please mute your phone and refrain from announcing your name that you are on the call. Executive Board Meeting Our Executive Board meeting has been re-scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at 11 a.m., via conference call. This will give us more time to filter down information from our national office regarding elections for officers and other changes that will affect our national body due to the coronavirus pandemic. Community Service On Sunday, April 19, a few members of NCNW and family members, assisted in a food giveaway for seniors with Councilman King and the Riverbay Corp. After the event concluded, members dropped off meals to 28 visually impaired residents of Co-op City. NCNW members and family members who participated included: Leslie Peterson, Leah Richardson, Akeisha Neely, Eilisha Neely, Marie Njie and Michelle Sajous. The group gave out 2,500 bags containing three meals each, a total of 7,500 meals.

Brotherhood Winery Unfortunately, due to the coronavirus pandemic, we will have to re-schedule our trip to the Brotherhood Winery and Resorts World Casino on Saturday, June 20. We will be reimbursing all payments that we have received. We are as disappointed as you are. Bethune-Height Recognition Program Our BHRP Luncheon scheduled to be held on Saturday, May 16, 2020 has been postponed. The new date is Saturday, October 3, 2020. It will still be at Russo’s on the Bay. icket and raffle money can still be mailed to: NCNW, Inc. Co-op City Section, P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. Grandparents’ Day Cruise Calling all Grandmas, Glam-mas, Grandpas, Family and Friends for a spectacular day dining, dancing and laughing as we celebrate Grandparents’ Day on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2020 as Spirit Cruises takes us around New York Harbor from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. For only $80, this is your day to enjoy yourself. Make checks payable to NCNW Co-op City Section and mail to PO Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. For more information, contact: 917-670-4012; 718-379-3788; 917574-6286. Tickets are non-refundable and will be given out at Pier 62 at boarding time, 11:30 a.m. Payment deadline is August 1, 2020. Social Media – Remember you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcity Bethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: www.ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com. —Joyce Howard

term of 2 years, effective January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2022. Candidates for these positions must be dues paying members in good standing by May 1, 2020 and remain current. August – Membership meets to determine date, time, location(s), paper type ballot, and number of persons on Nominating Committee for election. September – Membership meets to select Nominating Committee. October – Membership meets to select Election Supervisory Committee. November – Election Membership Dues: Annual membership dues are Adult, $30, and Youth, $10; checks/money orders made payable to: NAACP #2210, can be mailed to: N.A.A.C.P, Co-op City Station 75-3111, Bronx, NY, 10475. If it is your desire to make a financial contribution in any amount, it is most appreciative. Thank you for your continued support and for helping the NAACP advocate for a more just and equal America. —Brenda Brown

Pay your carrying charges online with ZEGO (Powered by PayLease)

Want to pay your carrying charges in a quick, secure and hassle free way? Just sign up with “Zego” (Powered by PayLease). Creating an online account is free and simple. Go to www.Riverbaycorp.com and click on the “PayLease” button located towards the bottom of the page. Click on “CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT” button and follow the instructions for setting up a “Zego” (Powered by PayLease) account. There are tremendous benefits when you pay your carrying charges online: • Online payments can be made via electronic check for free and via credit card for a small convenience fee. • Payments will be received in one business day. • E-receipt provided as soon as payment is made. • Make a one-time payment and or set up AutoPay for automatic payments to avoid late payments resulting in late fees. • A resident support center is available 24/7 for support and phone payments. • Secure and easy payment system. • Electronic payments cost less than checks, which helps save Rivebay shareholders’ money. • Paying online with “Zego” helps to increase your credit scores • Current month carrying charges can be paid online up until the last day of the each month. If you need additional information, please call the Finance Department (Bookeeping section), 718-320-3300.

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020 Please stay at home unless absolutely necessary to go outdoors (i.e. to a doctor’s appointment, or replenish food supply). Wash your hands often, cover your face, and keep hydrated. Be in contact with family members via telephone, email or Facebook only; no friendly visits. We’re looking forward to seeing all of you. Good & Welfare Heartfelt condolence to Regina Usher on the loss of her husband, Allan (Cowboy); to Daisy YoungAnderson on the loss of her sister-in-law, Jacqueline Anderson (Carl’s sster); her cousins, Miriam Salmon and Bishop Irving Smith; and to Jessie Johnson on the loss of her brother, Claude Ferguson. Get-well wishes to Agatha Edwards. Please contact our Good and Welfare coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family member who has passed or if one of our members is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home. Our monthly membership meeting, scheduled on

Black Forum of Co-op City

Emergency Food Pantry The Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry remains closed until further notice. This is due to the current outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Below are resources to explore if you or someone you know needs food assistance and other benefits. Three Free Meals Daily Free meals are now available to anyone in New York. The city has 435 sites spread out around the five boroughs where people can get breakfast, lunch and dinner all to go, free of charge. Children and families with children can pick up food between 7:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. while adults with no kids can pick up food from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. each day. To find a location near you, text “NYC food” to 877877 or visit https://www.schools.nyc.gov/freemeals. No one will be turned away. All adults and children can pick up three meals at one time. Vegetarian and halal options are available at all sites. No registration or ID required to get the meals. Dates, locations and menus are subject to change. Additional Food Resources Consider visiting www.foodbanknyc.org/get-help/ or call 3-1-1 to find soup kitchens and food pantries which may be open. The list is subject to change without notice. Call the agencies ahead to confirm their services and hours. Visit nyc.gov/getfood for home delivery and other free food options for you or someone else who may benefit. HRA Benefits The following information was shared with us by NYC Department of Social Services. Clients who would otherwise be required to recertify their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)/Food Stamps or Cash Assistance (CA) cases do not need to do so at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, all clients have no need to call the department’s offices to recertify. Recertifications are postponed and clients will get a letter in the mail when it is time to recertify. Benefits will continue. New Yorkers applying for HRA benefits can do so through the ACCESS HRA website. Call 3-1-1 if the website cannot meet your needs. HRA accepts applications for benefits such as SNAP and cash assistance. Defensive Driving Class The April 11 and May 9 classes are canceled due to the Coronavirus. The June 20 class from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. may or may not be canceled because of the current situation. Students are welcome to register for the class with the understanding that it may be cancelled. Those interested can call 718-320-8035 to leave a message. Please leave your name and phone number. Check back to this article for updates. Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. Please stay safe. —D. Illis

AARP Chapter #4997

the second Monday of each month, is canceled until further notice. Do not send money for the below trips due to the center closures. Check this article for any cancellations /changes to the below travel events. 2020 Tour Plans: July 16 to 19: Ocean City, Maryland; 4 days/3 nights; guided tour of Assateague Island; evening entertainment at the Red Rooster restaurant; sightseeing boat ride; shopping at Tanger Outlet; gambling at Ocean Downs Casino; $789/person, double; $1,064/single; $50 non-refundable deposit due when signing up. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718-379-7962. Dec. 29 to Jan. 2, 2021: New Year’s Parade Extravaganza (California); 5 days/4 nights; $2,659/person, double occupancy; $500 non-refundable deposit due when signing up. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718-379-7962. When signing up for the above trips, please give

your name, phone number and a deposit. Checks/money orders made payable to AARP Chapter 4997 with the name of the trip in the memo section of your check/money order. Room 0, Dreiser Community Center, is open Monday or Thursday, noon to 3 p.m. for checks to be dropped off in an envelope w/group/trip leader name. They may be mailed to the group/trip leader. —Delores Debnam

COVID-19 Tips 1) Wash your hands for 20 seconds. 2) Wear plastic gloves and face mask. 3) Practice social distancing, at least 6ft away other people. 4) Disinfect all areas in your house.

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Practicing Small Acts of Kindness Director’s Viewpoint

Claudia Sampson Hopefully, we’re still remaining home, those of us who are able to do so, and staying safe and healthy until May 15 as part of the NY State PAUSE initiative mandated by Governor Cuomo to flatten the COVID-19 pandemic curve. As the epicenter of the virus’ devastating impact, New Yorkers are demonstrating both resolve and resiliency. In fact, just this past Sunday, April 19, Riverbay Corporation, some Board members and community-based organizations, in conjunction with NYC’s ‘Meals on Wheels,’ Councilmember Andy King and intrepid volunteers helped distribute over 2,500 grab ‘n go bags to residents in need of food. We practiced social distancing, wore masks and gloves and practiced small acts of kindness to ensure that our seniors received nourishment. Kudos to Andy King, Michelle Sajous, Leandra Peters, Noel Ellison and so many others who demonstrated true servant leadership and compassion for our beloved seniors during a most challenging time. Someone Cares For You Speaking of caring for others in need, Congress passed the CARES (Coronavirus Aid Relief & Economic Security) Act on March 27, 2020. With over $2 trillion in this relief legislation, this package offered some assistance to American workers, families and some small businesses. Unfortunately, given that the bill was loosely written, many corporations and hedge funds with savvy accountants and clever financial advisors received millions in aid as opposed to the smaller businesses such as salons, barber shops, restaurants and micro-businesses who aren’t as well-connected to banks and financial providers. Hopefully, with the next round of funding set to be released by Congress and approved by President Trump, hospitals, nurses, first responders, sole proprietors includ-

ing minority businesses & women-owned businesses will get a chance to access much needed stimulus aid to help them survive the debilitating COVID-19 pandemic’s impact and rebuild our communities. One can only hope that stricter guidelines and vigilant oversight will be in place to ensure that those who truly are in need are better served this time around. Stimulus relief is on the way Million of adults in the U.S. who are citizens or permanent residents with a Social Security number will receive payments automatically or by mail from the IRS in the amount of $1,200 as part of the federal government’s economic relief plan to ease COVID-19’s impact. Eligibility is based on your reported gross adjusted income from your 2019 return, if you’ve already filed, or on your 2018 tax return, if you’ve not yet filed for 2019. The stimulus relief money will be directly deposited into your bank account, if the IRS already has that information from your tax return. Otherwise, a check will be mailed to your address on file with the Social Security Administration. If you receive your check by mail, you can deposit it in your bank account by using a mobile deposit banking app on your phone without having to leave home. Here are some important stimulus relief facts: * Individuals with annual adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less will receive $1,200 starting April 15 * Married couples will get $2,400, if their combined income is under $150,000 * Families will get an extra $500 per child 17 years and younger * The amounts people will receive will be reduced on a sliding scale for individuals making up to $99,000, and married couples up to $198,000 * Those filing as head of household and earning up to $112,000 will get $1,200 and $500 per child. The amount those adults receive will decline on a sliding scale for those earning up to $136,500 * Those receiving Social Security benefits will get

Building 27 Association

Neighbors, we wish you all to be safe and healthy. Please stay in. If necessary, make your plans all for one given day. Follow all instructions that are available to you. We are now required to wear a face mask/coverage, only three people on the elevator. Hang in there, this too will pass. Medicare.gov Medicare is sharing managing stress during this crisis of the pandemic. While we stay home don’t let fear and anxiety become overwhelming. Recommendations via the CDC says, A: take breaks from watching, reading or listening to social media; B: connect with others via phone calls, texting and technology; C: Take deep breaths, exercise, and search for comedies via TV, laughter is good for the soul. Coronavirus Testing Site The testing site has been up and running. It has bright neon signs to direct those with an appointment. The state Troopers are assigned to receive the appointments. They seem to be quite organized; this is great. I shared this information and a couple of people did make an appointment. The prayer is that every appointment test will come back negative. Neighbors Neighbors, calling and checking on each other, the kids if out of school, you do not see them. We are becoming more aware of what is needed, To now wear a mask, you can use a scarf, and we are paying attention to the distancing. Our Mayor and Gov. Cuomo are giving us daily briefings, trying to offer hope. We thank them. Building 27/Cooperators We understand Riverbay offices and centers

are closed. We have shortage of porters and we are in this together, let’s do our part in helping to keep our building clean. Be appreciative, because we do have the best porters and we wish them to be safe and healthy. The Co-op City Times are neatly stacked on the lobby floor, so take copies of the newspaper to your floor for your neighbor as a kind gesture. Be Encouraged We all have been touched by this Coronavirus in family, neighbors or someone we know, but be prayerful, be encouraged, we will get through this. Clap! Think about those who are on the frontline, the doctors, nurses, police, our porters, our postal clerks, so many to thank. The essentials workers who are keeping Riverbay operating; when you pass by one, take the time to wish them to stay safe and well, also to thank them. We offer sincere sympathy to our Co-op City families who lost a loved one. Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. Contact Lydia Rondon, at 718-583-3040 to share news of illness, passing of a neighbor or if one is in a nursing home. Pray for peace and healing of this nation and the world. Be kind, thoughtful, genuine, prayer —H.Overman

Neighbors, please remember to curb your dog.

It is the law!

the $1,200 as long as their income does not exceed the limits. If you didn’t file a tax return, the information from your SSA 1099 form will be used to issue your stimulus relief funds For low income residents with a Social Security number who are not required to file a tax return, the IRS has added a button on their website labeled ‘Non Filers_Enter Payment Info Here.’This link will allow people to add their mailing address, information about a spouse or children, their Social Security numbers, and their financial institution’s account routing numbers, so the funds can be deposited directly. If they don’t have an account, a check will be mailed to their address on file with Social Security Administration. In general, the stimulus checks will not be taxable, with some exceptions For trusted information and updates about IRS payments, visit irs.gov/coronavirus Beware of scammers Keep your eyes and ears open for scammers trying to cash in on the economic impact payments (“stimulus checks”). Some of them may use official-looking fake check to steal from you by tricking you into giving out personal information. Know that: * Checks are not in the mail – yet * The IRS will not send an overpayment * The IRS will not call, text or email you Complete your Census now These are tough times for all of us. Help your community receive the federal funding it needs for the next 10 years by taking 10 minutes to complete your 2020 Census. Hospitals, schools, roads, transportation and more all receive the federal funding based on Census data. Complete your 2020 Census. We’re counting on you. Go to My2020Census.gov. Stay home, be safe and remain healthy. Wishing you all the best. Please reach out to me at csampson@ riverbayboard.com, and share your thoughts and comments.

Building 25 Association

Special thank you to all who participate in clapping for our first responders by standing on their terraces, in and around the community at 7:00 p.m. every evening; what a mighty thunderous sound we make. Please be advised, due to the COVID-19 outbreak-social distancing, we are not allowed to collect names in the lobby as we did last year for our graduating children of Building 25, so an email was sent out to members of Building 25 Association to start providing their children’s name(s) so that they can be entered in the Co-op City Times in honor of their graduation year 2020. This week’s congratulations Damari Richards, twelfth grade, graduating from Bronxwood Preparatory Academy and Antwanyha Beckford, twelfth grade, graduating from Frederick Douglass Academy 1. Great job, Damari and Antwanyha!!! We would like to salute all 2020 graduating children, you may continue to submit your children’s name(s) through our general email address building25ca@gmail.com, so that they too may be honored in our Co-op City Times article. We wish all neighbors born in April a happy birthday, and for those who have been under the weather, we hope you get better soon. Our building association meets every third Tuesday of the month generally from Sept. through June, however because of COVID19, our meetings have been postponed until further notice. Please keep an eye out for updated postings outside your elevators. In the meanwhile, you can log onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com and address your concerns or comments to any or all members of Building 25 Association. Carol Eilets, treasurer, has also postponed the collection of our building association annual dues until further notice. Remember “Success is no accident, it is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all love of what you are doing or learning to do.” (Pele) “By perseverance the snail reached the Ark.” (Charles Spurgeon) —Wanda Bailey

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475. Tel. 718-324-0334. Please be advised that services in the sanctuary are on hold until further notice. A word of encouragement to everyone during this time of crisis. In this time of a dangerous health crisis, churches, schools and most businesse, have been closed. Parents are finding it hard to cope with added responsibility. Children who would normally be in daycare and school, are now home taking part in the remote learning program, so that students don’t fall behind academically. Along with that, some parents have to take care of an elderly mom or dad. Some people have to transition from working in an office to working remotely from home. As you could imagine, this has taken large toll on many teachers and parents. Now more than ever, teachers and parents have to work together more than ever with educating our youth. However, I would like to take time out to encourage everyone to remain strong and courageous. This too will pass with the help of

Church of New Vision

Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation pray blessings and peace for Co-op City community at large. Heavenly Father, our world is in crisis. Lives have been taken, families are grieving, and our hearts are broken. Lord, help us to draw near to you, to find our hope in Jesus, to pray fervently, and to seek your mercy for all. We need you in a great way Lord, and we call on you to be in the midst. May we encourage one another to praise God in this difficult place, stand, believe, trust and have faith that God is working it out even if we don’t see or understand. With Thanksgiving in our hearts, thank God for His mercy and grace. Remember, no matter what is going on in the world around you, God is in charge! Faith tells me that no matter what lies ahead of me, God is already there. Let us keep our mind stayed on God. In these and all things we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen! All are invited and welcome to join us Sunday worship service, 11:00 a.m., can be viewed on Youtube, type in Kenneth Hodge. Wednesday prayer service, 7:00 p.m. via telephone conference line by calling 1-646-769-9900, then enter access number 3099388. Once prayer has begun, please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity. Sunday, April 19, Worship Service Theme: God’s Promise and Provision for Perfect Peace Scripture: Isiah 26:3-4 (Exodus 14:14; Prov. 23:7; Phil 4:6; John 14:27; 1 Thes. 5:23-24) Announcement: Pre-Mothers’Day Sight & Sound “Queen Esther” trip scheduled for Thursday, May 7, 2020 has been canceled. We received an email of the cancelation of all shows through April 30 and our Governor extended shelter at home through May 15 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Payments will be refunded once all paperwork is received and the church reopens. In the meantime, those who made payments please provide your name, address, phone number to: cnvsm115@gmail.com or call 718-671-3748 or 917-587-5057. The Niagara Falls, Canada, trip scheduled for July 21-24 has not been canceled. Remember, we will follow the Governor’s travel directions. Mailing Address: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, NY 10475. —Brenda Brown

IMPORTANT! Flushing wipes or paper towels down the toilet will lead to clogged pipes. Only toilet paper should be flushed.

Pentecostal Tabernacle

our great god and king. Parents, please be encouraged knowing that the teachers also have added responsibility working longer hours than they normally do in the classroom. Teachers, we love you and appreciate the work that you all are doing. Having your daily schedule with your students and conferences with your staff. Many have lost family members, friends, loved ones, co-workers; we give our condolences to you all. To all the men and women in the security team and the entire staff of Co-op City, we want to let you know that we appreciate your service in keeping our city safe. I encourage everyone to find some time to read the Bible with your family daily especially the young children. Proverbs 22: 6 Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old he will not depart from it. God is faithful to those who turn to him in humility and prayer. When you turn to the Lord in humility and prayer you can have full confidence that God will respond.

As he informed Solomon, humbling yourself and praying will get the attention of heaven. Then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. [2nd Chronicles 7:14] God could choose to move at any moment on your behalf. In fact, He could keep the battle from coming your way. However, He often chooses not to do so. Instead, He waits to see what your response will be when the struggle comes. He also waits to see what role pride will play when you are confronted with the blessings He sends your way. He will resist you if you allow pride and arrogance to lead you. But if you willingly choose to humble yourself and pray,He will be faithful to you and deliver you. We must not wait for god to humble us. It is better for us to learn to humble ourselves and pray, choosing to rely completely upon the Lord. —Rev. R. Sibblies

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family continues to pray for Co-op City, NYC, the United States, and the world at this time of crisis. Due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus (Covid19), and the precautionary measures that are being recommended by the authorities, the Co-op City Baptist Church will be conducting Sunday School, Worship Services and Bible Study classes via conference call line or video conference using Zoom until further notice. Zoom https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 is 962 343 0102, Password 788175 Call in number: (646) 568-7788 Conference ID 962 343 0102# Password 788175# Our Weekly Schedule 9:00 a.m. Sunday Adult Sunday School - Conference -all Line, 563-999 2090 pin #660065 11:00 a.m., Sunday Worship Service Zoom https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 is 962 343 0102, Password 788175 Call in number: (646) 568-7788 Conference ID 962 343 0102# Password 788175#

1:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study Zoom https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 is 962 343 0102, Password 788175 Call in number: (646) 568-7788 Conference ID 962 343 0102# Password 788175# Please use the Conference Call Line, 563-999-2090 pin #660065 for schedule items below 12:00 p.m., Thursday. Prayer Warriors 12:00 p.m., Friday Noon Day Prayer Service 7:30 p.m., Friday Evening Prayer Service Please keep each other in your prayers and be wise in your decisions. God will strengthen us as we travel through this storm. Stay safe. GOD is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry. –Hattie L. Lucas

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Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators. Thank you: During this pandemic that is affecting our community, city, state, and country, we would like to say thank you to all first responders and essential workers. We appreciate everything you are doing to help us get through this trying time. The Building 10 Association would also like to thank husband and wife duo, Michael and Sybil (B10C) who handed out face coverings to fellow cooperators. New Cooperators: Welcome all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next general membership meeting. Covid-19: During this trying time in our country please be safe, stay healthy, and wash your hands. Please check on your neighbors. We will get through this! Laundry room etiquette: Please remove your laundry from the dryers and washers promptly at the completion of the cycle so others can use them. Let us clean up after ourselves while using the laundry; other people need to use the machines. Facebook: The Building 10 Association is on Facebook! The page is “Building 10 ABC Association.” Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10. Email Address: The Building 10 Association’s email address is Building10Assoc@gmail.com. Please use the email to contact the building association with your concerns and suggestions. We would like to wish all April babies a very happy birthday. To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery. To all who have lost a loved one recently, we give our deepest condolences. Have a great week. —Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Blood is urgently needed!

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

To our members and friends, please know that you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. With all of our prayers we will survive. Please stay home… Call, e-mail, or go on Facebook with family and friends to keep in touch. Heartfelt Condolences to Regina Usher on the loss of her husband, Allan (Cowboy); to Daisy Young-Anderson on the loss of her sister-in-law, Jacqueline Anderson (Carl’s sister); her cousins, Miriam Salmon and Bishop Irving Smith; and to Jessie Johnson on the loss of her brother, Claude Ferguson. Get-well wishes to Agatha Edwards. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. FYI: Our monthly membership meeting scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month is cancelled until further notice. Reminder: We are in the process of updating our Membership Roster. If you have a change of address or new telephone or cell phone number, send us a note – Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, room 19, Bronx, NY 10475, Attention: Delores Debnam. Also include an email address. We are planning to “keep in touch” before and/or after our monthly meeting. Reminder: Do not send checks for the below trip or theater event until further notice. Check this weekly article for changes/cancellations. Travel Events: (price includes Coach bus located on Dreiser Loop, front of H&R Block) • July 1 – July 3 (Wed.-Fri.), Dover Downs Casino. Price: $380/double; $470/single; $100 deposit due ASAP; double: $140 due April 6; $140 due May 4; single: $185 due April 6; $185 due May 4. Contact: Serita Grayson, 347-564-5722/Barbara Williams, 718-320-0500. Theatre Committee: (price includes van transportation from Dreiser Loop, in front of Rehab Center) • Sept. 10 (Thurs.), “9 to 5,” Westchester Broadway Theater. Showtime: 11:00 a.m. Price: $85. Deposit, $40, due to hold your seat. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671-4949. Attention! The RETIREES need experienced part-time, freelance drivers with a CDL license with passenger endorsement with at least three years’ experience and a clean driving record. A stipend can be expected for each trip. This position requires transporting members and friends to and from special events within the Bronx as well as to outer boroughs. Please call Dorothy Byrd, 646-842-2458, and leave your name, telephone number and a brief message. —Delores Debnam

Scheduling Activities Calendar All activities have been canceled until further notice due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) health crisis. Please follow all the recommended, necessary protective measures to help prevent the spread of this virus.

All JASA trips, activities and meal deliveries are suspended until further notice. Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 Einstein Center (718) 671-5161 For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corp.

Goose Island Seniors

Because of the Coronavirus, the Senior Citizens’ Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. will be closed until further notice. There are no activities, Bingo, Pokeno, Karaoke, Mahjong, etc. Do as the medical experts say: Stay home as much as possible. If you have to go out, please cover your nose and mouth with a mask or scarf or anything that can do the job and wear disposable gloves whether you have the virus or not. Stay at least 6 feet away from others. To contact me, do not call the office; you may contact me by text or call 347-8471941. Our e-mail address is goose.island@optonline.net. Sight & Sound “Queen Esther” – April 23, 2020 is postponed until it is safe to go. The Sight and Sound Theatre sent an email stating all shows are cancelled now until May 15. We have a credit to use when the office opens, and it is safe to go. When they open, we can reschedule a later date for “Queen Esther.” Those who paid will automatically be on the list to go. Cruise to Bahamas – July 27 returns August 5, 2020 on Carnival Cruise Line’s “Sunrise” ship. There is no word on postponing. We are not accepting any more reservations. Ship will be leaving NY and making stops at Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos, Nassau, Bahamas and Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Final payment: April 15, 2020. For more information, please call 656-579-1701 or 347-847-1941. To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of April: Guinette Romaine, Wendy Berch, Alfonso Gonzalez, Iona Foote and Myrta Willems. Sick and Shut-In – Mary Pilla is at the Paramount at Somers Nursing Center; phone number, 914-5345474. Edna Trujillo is recovering at home. Archangel Ortiz is doing much better at home. These are unusual times. All our lives are disrupted. Let’s pray this will end soon. I miss our Goose Island family. On behalf of my officers and me, try to stay safe. We will meet again when this is over. Good health to all. —Stephen Roberts, Sr. Co-op City Public Safety Dept. Emergency: 718-651-3050 Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330

All NYPL locations will be closed until further notice. During this time, fines are suspended and due dates are extended. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Please make sure to check out our array of online resources at nypl.org.

www.ccpd.us @CCPDnyc

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Community Protestant Church

The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. During this dark season, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family continue to lift up in prayer our community, city, state, nation and the world, especially all those affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Our regular church schedule has been canceled due to the outbreak of the virus. However, our members and friends are invited to join us via call conference at (712) 432-3900; at the prompt enter access code 343284 followed by the # sign. Sunday school is now in session via call conference at the above number every Sunday at 9:00 a.m. Sunday School is really a part of our history, and because someone cared and was concerned enough, many of us benefitted and know its value. Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. (John 10:10) Sunday worship service begins at 11:00 a.m. via call conference. Everyone is invited to call in and be a part of this special moment set aside each Sunday morning to be in the presence of God. We will be delighted to blend our spirits with yours as we bend both body and soul before our Heavenly Father. We encourage you to spend time with God, and if it be His will, with us at Community Protestant. Noon day prayer at CPC on Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m., you are cordially invited to call in for noon day prayer at CPC, an hour of power, prayer, praise and testimony. Bible study on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Please join us via the call conference number above. A Prayer of Consolation (Author Unknown) There is never a day so dreary but God can make it bright, And unto the soul that trust Him, He giveth songs in the night There is never a path so hidden, but God can lead the way, If we seek for the Spirit’s guidance and patiently wait and pray. … There is never a life so darkened, so hopeless and unblessed, But may be filled with the light of God and enter His promised rest. There is never a sin or sorrow, there is never a care or loss, But that we may bring to Jesus and leave at the foot of the cross Until we meet again, pastor Owens and our church family pray that God will be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; that his way may be known upon earth, and his saving health among all nations. —Evan G. Mitchell

Traditional Synagogue

Due to the current Coronavirus crisis, all services are cancelled until further notice. General information The Traditional Synagogue is in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the ground floor of Building 27B, it is handicap accessible, with no steps. Phone: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message. The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 9:00 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush. Due to the current coronavirus crisis, services are cancelled until further notice. The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue. The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help the synagogue’s finances. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to services. The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbath ends on Saturday, April 25, at 8:38 p.m. Candle lighting for Friday, May 1, 7:33 p.m. Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates, in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel Tov, to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue. To all members Happy birthday to all members who will celebrate their birthday in April. For those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in April, please send me your names and I will add them to the list. Fun and Games After services and Kiddush, some men and women play Rummikub. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health. —Bruce Gitelson

Open Door Ministries “Change what you Plant” Full sermon at Open Door Ministries YouTube Channel

Dr. Charles Stanley: “You reap what you sow, more than you sow, and later than you sow.” There is a universal principle that whatever we put into our work, our lifestyle and other areas of life will be rewarded. Long hours of study lead to advanced degrees. Days spent building a business leads to higher income. Time spent exercising provides a healthy body. What about time invested in honoring God as he desires it? Not our way, but His way. Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked (will not allow Himself to be made a fool, ridiculed, treated with contempt or allow His precepts to be scornfully set aside); whatever a man sows is what he will reap. 2 Chronicles 15:1 The Spirit of God came on Azariah. 2 He went out to meet Asa and said to him, “Listen to me…the LORD is with you when you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you. 3 For a long time Israel was without the true God, without a priest to teach and without the law. 6 One nation was being crushed by another and one city by another, because God was troubling them with every kind of distress. 8 When Asa heard these words and the prophecy he took courage. God is calling all of humanity to seek Him and enter a relationship of mutual love and respect with him. He says that if we seek Him, we will find him. But we’re too busy. Luke 14:16 Jesus said: “A man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. “But they made excuses. One said, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’19 “Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’ 20 “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’ 21 “The servant reported this to him. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, crippled, blind and lame.’ 22 “‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’ 23 “Then the master told him, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full. 24 Not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.’” Rejecting God’s offer is accepting all that is left over. Without God there is no true peace, no true prosperity, no true health. We can only expect what the world and the devil offer. Contact Open Door Ministries by text 917-334-4407 or email opendoorministries.net. Blessings in Christ, —Pastor Luis Ramos

Newsong Church In Christ Jesus we have it all – Part One 1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons. –Philippians 1:1 (ESV) If there’s a book in the Bible that every follower of Jesus should be reading it’s the book of Philippians. Philippians is our guide to finding joy in these troubled times. There’s a difference between “happiness” & “joy.” Happiness is connected to our circumstances. Joy is connected to Jesus. There’s a supernatural joy that every Christian can have no matter what circumstance they may be facing and the theme of Philippians is having joy no matter what! In the world we will be unhappy, but in Christ we have it all! Here’re a few things to find joy in today! In Christ, every sinner is a saint When we look at those two words, we probably identify more with being a sinner than a saint. That’s because when we hear the word “saint,” we think of somebody like Mother Teresa, or another extra holy person and we know that we don’t even come close to them (am I right?) But the Bible has a different definition of a saint. A saint isn’t a “near perfect” person, a saint is a forgiven person. Once we come to Jesus, sin may describe some of the things we do, but it doesn’t describe who we are in Jesus. In this body, we may sin some of the time, but in Christ, we’re a saint all of the time! It’s not based on what we do, but on what Jesus did for us! When we trust in Jesus for our salvation, we’re given a new identity as a saint. I now have a new victory over sin by the power of the Holy Spirit living in me! Talk about joy! In Christ, every saint is a servant If a saint is becoming a follower of Jesus then becoming a servant of Jesus is a byproduct of following Jesus! Let me put it this way…we serve a God who serves us! Jesus is a servant. If our God is willing to humbly serve us then it must be a joyful thing for us to follow in His example and serve others. How did Jesus serve us? He gave His life as a ransom for us. In other words, He lived the perfect life that you and I can’t live. He paid the price for our sin that you and I couldn’t pay, and He purchased our salvation with His own blood. He died, He rose, He’s seated on His throne in Heaven, He’s in control, and He’s still serving us, interceding for us, and one day He will return for us! We find joy, when we help meet the needs of those who need help! Find the joy of the Lord today! Join us this Sunday! Live-Stream at 11 a.m., Facebook.com/newsongchurchbx/ For more information, please go to our website, www.newsongchurchnyc.org. —Pastor Mike Tolone

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

Thunderstorms and heavy winds uproot trees throughout development On Tues., April 21, shareholders received Phone Tree notification from Riverbay about bad weather for the area that included a tornado warning and heavy winds. Shareholder Stuart Basem captured pictures of the aftermath that left fallen trees throughout the community. According to Mike Ambo, director of the Riverbay Grounds department, during last week’s heavy winds, seven trees were lost and several more were compromised. Although they did not fall, they were leaning. Grounds staff removed the fallen trees and were in the process of straightening and staking the leaning trees when this week’s storm uprooted 9 more trees and compromised several more. Photos by Stuart Basem

Co-op City shareholder brings display of solidarity to NYC Across America and the world, popular statues of historical figures and icons are having masks placed on their faces in an effort to raise awareness about social distancing and stopping the spread of COVID19 by using proper protective equipment like face masks. Co-op City shareholder and X Gallery curator, Lisa DuBois, felt it was important to bring this movement to New York City and decided to spread awareness by placing masks on statues of historic figures in Harlem and creating a collaborative series that will feature other artists’ work. Ms. DuBois calls the series the “Awareness Through Conceptual Art Project COVID-19.” “When people do not take precautions, it costs lives,” Dubois said in an article published in the New York Beacon. “Statues of famous people remind us how the life of one person can alter the lives of so many people.” Lisa DuBois The X Gallery is currently holding open submissions for artists to submit their own photos of statues wearing protective masks. Submissions can be a collection of five photos depicting life during quarantine or six to ten photos of a statue with a protective mask. There is also an additional option, for those who may choose to take a photo of a statue wearing a mask, to submit a video describing why that particular person’s contributions to the world are so important. DuBois started her career as a photographer and photo editor before ultimately opening the X Gallery in central Harlem back in 2017. DuBois founded the X Gallery because she felt there was a lack of exposure for local artists in New York City, more specifically Harlem, and saw the opportunity to create a space that could properly display the local talent. What initially began as a one-year experiment blossomed into three as support and feedback for the exhibitions grew. Now, the X Gallery is hoping to bring the artists of New York City together by having their work displayed as part of the “Awareness Through Conceptual Art Project COVID-19” series. For more information on the project or submission guidelines, visit xgallery.nyc/awareness-art. Send questions or submissions to gallery.nyc@ gmail.com. BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Elevators

(Cont’d from page 4)

In fact, the new “state of the art” elevators will have modern equipment, lighting, and cameras. The interior of the new elevator cabs will have a more contemporary look with wood paneling and an illuminated push-button panel that is more accommodating for visually impaired and shareholders who use wheelchairs. Similarly, new safety features will include improved communication systems that will allow Public Safety to see inside the elevators via cameras and communicate with occupants during emergencies. According to Mr. Jakaj, “There are a total of 16 phases. So, after phase seven, we will have nine more to go. The project is scheduled to be completed by August 2022.” Now that Phase 6 of the elevator modernization project continues during a time when fewer shareholders are in and out of the buildings amid the Stay at Home order issued by local government during the current COVID-19 crisis, Riverbay management is urging residents to practice safety and social distancing when riding the elevators – no more than three people to an elevator at a time, wear face masks, and stay safe.

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

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If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by the following methods: Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish);

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Send an e-mail to: reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Phone Scams – Personal & banking information

Shareholders are reminded they should not divulge personal identification or banking information to anyone they do not know. Scammers use technology to make their phone calls appear as though they are coming from legitimate government agencies, utilities and places of business including Riverbay Corporation and the 45th Precinct. Please do not respond or give your personal information. Hang up and use the phone number or email you have on file for your personal banking institutions or other contacts to verify whether the call was legitimate or not. As we’ve reported previously, most reputable businesses will not contact you by phone to request information, pressure you into making on-the-spot decisions or to inform you about service changes. Remember, be smart, be safe. Hang up and contact the authorities!

Proper disposal of used gloves Throwing used gloves or masks on the ground is unsanitary and creates a health hazard. Please dispose of these items and all trash in the proper receptacles located throughout the community.

Co-op City Times / April 25, 2020

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