Take time this weekend to honor those who served our nation and are no longer with us.
Vol. 55 No. 21
saturday, May 23, 2020
$1.25
Virtual 2020 Annual Shareholders meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 27 Board election to be held at later date; watch live on Riverbay Crawler
By ROZAAN BOONe
On Wednesday, May 27, Riverbay Corporation will hold a virtual Annual Shareholders Meeting at 7 p.m. after which the annual meeting will be continued to a future date for the purpose of conducting the 2020 Board election when it is safe to do so. The Annual Shareholders meeting will be broadcast live to the community on the Riverbay Crawler – channel 12 for shareholders on the master antenna (MATV) and channel 591 for Optimum subscribers. The agenda for the Annual Shareholders Meeting includes a President’s Report, followed by the Treasurer’s Report and then the Management Report. The sixth
place winner of last year’s Board election, former Director Leslie Peterson, will then be sworn in to complete the unexpired term of former Director Jerome Rice who resigned in March of this year. Ms. Peterson will hold the seat until the 2020 Board election is held, at which time, she must run in order for the opportunity to remain on the Board, according to the Riverbay By-Laws. According to the Riverbay By-Laws, the annual Shareholders Meeting must be held in May. Ordinarily, the election would be underway and the Annual Meeting would be held as usual in Bartow Center. This year, because of COVID19, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Stay at Home Executive Order in compliance with guidance from health officials, as (Continued on page 2)
CCPD makes major arrest Thieves possibly linked to a series of car-related thefts in the area By TORIeA McCAuselAND
On the morning of May 22, at approximately 2 a.m., the Co-op City Department of Public Safety apprehended two suspects who may be related to a large-scale vehicle theft operation that involves stealing car and motorcycle parts. Chief Riley told the Co-op City Times Friday morning, “I want to commend the supervisors, officers, and detectives involved in an observation arrest resulting in the apprehension of two suspects involved in the late-night theft of shareholder car parts and motorcycles.” While working surveillance at Garage 7, CCPD detectives observed a suspicious minivan enter the facility and take a motor
scooter. Under the direction of Lieutenants Warner and Hughes, CCPD units surrounded the area, blocking off Einstein Place. In an attempt to flee the scene, the suspects crashed into a CCPD vehicle, leaving one officer injured. A foot pursuit ensued when the suspects fled their crashed vehicle. Soon after, CCPD detectives and officers apprehended two of the suspects – the third suspect is still at large. According to Chief Riley: “The minivan used was reported stolen and has been recovered. The license plates on the van were also stolen out of Pennsylvania.” “Shareholders should know that as they
New York Primaries proceed See page 11 for story
Co-op City continues to lead the charge citywide in Census participation By BRANDON ORTIZ
One hundred percent participation in the 2020 Census is still the goal for Coop City, a feat that other areas in the Bronx and New York City as a whole, unfortunately, never get to for a variety of external factors. Data from the Census Bureau so far has shown that New York City as a region is below the national average in participation for the 2020 Census. Missing the mark by 10%, the city reported roughly a 50% participation rate compared to the national average of about 60%. However, Co-op City can count itself
as one of the few exceptions leading the way for the city. Approximately 70% participation has been reported from Co-op City’s seven tracts so far and still looks to improve as the deadline to respond to the 2020 Census was extended to Oct. 31. In 2010, Co-op City outpaced the rest of New York City with roughly 75% participation reported compared to the city average of about 67%, according to the Census Bureau. “The numbers you had in 2010, those were achieved by the beginning of May,” Claudia Sampson, Co-op City shareholder, (Continued on page 2)
were sleeping, the dedicated members of the Co-op City Department of Public Safety were out doing their jobs. Their swift and decisive action resulted in the arrest of predators looking to diminish the quality of life enjoyed by Co-op City residents,” he continued. In the winter of 2019, CCPD and the NYPD investigated several car-related heists in the area. At that time, a crew of thieves was removing various parts from Honda Accord Sport vehicles in the community. It has not been confirmed whether those crimes are related to Friday’s arrests. An investigation leading to the apprehension of the third suspect is underway.
Power Plant A/C Changeover By TORIeA McCAuselAND
Riverbay’s Power Plant began the changeover process from heat to air conditioning on Thursday, May 20, and is scheduled to be completed by May 28, when AC will be turned on. According to Anthony Ligato, senior director, Utility Assets, at the Power Plant, “The transition requires shutting down the heating system heat exchangers and getting the Riverbay chillers ready to deliver the chilled water for air conditioning to the convectors.” Along with working on getting air conditioning to residents, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Riverbay’s Power Plant continues to deliver reliable heat, hot water, and electricity to residents, as (Continued on page 2)
Public Safety needs your help
The Co-op City Department of Public safety is attempting to identify a person of interest involving a recent spike in car break-ins within Co-op City, four of which occurred in Garage 4, while the others involved cars parked along Hutchinson River Parkway opposite of and/or in the immediate vicinity of Building 32. Primarily, items in plain sight were taken. If you have any information or are able to help identify the person in these photos, please call the Public safety emergency dispatcher at (718) 671-3050. you may also leave a message on the Department of Public safety’s TIPs lINe, (718) 879-6311. Public safety accepts anonymous information. “Remember to park in well-lit areas, secure all personal items before leaving your vehicle and lock your doors,” said Chief Joseph Riley of CCPD. “Working in partnership, we can continue to maintain Co-op City as one of the safest communities in New york City.”
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Meeting
well as social distancing requirements, it is not possible to conduct an election in the same manner as previous years. In order to conduct the Election, the 2020 Election Committee and the Board, working with Riverbay General Counsel Jeffrey Buss, are considering proposed revisions to the 2020 Election Rules, in compliance with guidance from public health and governmental officials, to ensure that a fair election can be conducted in a manner which safeguards public health and safety. After the May 27th Annual Shareholders Meeting, the Board will meet again to discuss proposed changes to the Election Rules and the tentative schedule for conducting the election on a date after the governor lifts the Stay at Home executive order for the Bronx, NY. Until the governor modifies his executive order, and there are more concrete details on public health issues affecting the Riverbay community, a firm date for the election cannot be set. All shareholders are urged to tune in to view the annual Meeting of Shareholders on the Riverbay Crawler, channel 12 (MATV) and channel 591 (Optimum).
Changeover
well as responding to emergencies. Mr. Ligato told the Co-op City Times in the May 2nd edition, that amid the Coronavirus lockdown, the department continues to be proactive by installing new and essential power plant equipment to ensure reliable operations. Mr. Ligato said, “There have been very many impressive responses to emergencies during this COVID-19 event.” Most recently, Power Plant staff responded to and successfully repaired a high-temperature hot water leak in a valve pit close to Building 12 on May 19. Mr. Ligato said: “The Power Plant operations and maintenance staff continue to respond to emergencies to deliver the essential service needs at Riverbay. Everyone at the Power Plant understands the importance of delivering reliable heat, hot water, and electricity.” Power Plant staff are responding to all related emergencies and maintaining all domestic and dual
Census
Riverbay Board director and a Census volunteer, said in Councilman Andy King’s weekly virtual town hall meeting last Monday. “We started on April 1st (this year), and we are catching up to those numbers. By extending (the deadline) to the end of October, we are hoping that once we get back out into the community, we will be reaching some of the (other) communities...” “We have to let people know this census has to be done,” Ms. Sampson urged. In an article published on Tuesday by the independent and non-profit news outlet, The City, Riverbay General Manager Noel Ellison attributed Co-op City’s higher rate of census participation to the closeknit nature of the community as a whole. “Trying to encourage people to do the Census was a natural extension of the sense of community mission that we’ve been building up,” Mr. Ellison said in the article. Co-op City can also thank the role houses of worship have had in getting participation up for Co-op City and making sure shareholders are correctly informed and not deterred by possibly complicated rhetoric sometimes used to confuse those who did not use English as a first language.
In The City article that was published on Tuesday, Co-op City shareholder and CEO of the Bronx
Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020 (Continued from page 1)
Faith @ Work Common Pantry Distribution
Common Pantry members of Faith @ Work Christian Church will have a distribution on Thursday, May 28, from 9 a.m. to noon outside at the Dreiser Community Center breezeway (across from the hardware store). It will be pick-up and carry. Social distancing and face masks are required. Please bring your shopping carts.
Cooling Season
Air conditioning season will start by Thursday, May 28. All cooperators are urged to clean your convectors during this change- over period. Assistance is available to senior residents and those with disabilities. Please contact the Call Center, (718) 320-3300, select Option #2. Appointments on Wednesdays only.
Notice – Street Parking
Alternate side of the street parking rules will be suspended again beginning on Monday, May 25, to Sunday, June 17. Please make a conscious effort not to litter in the streets. We have limited staff available and are all responsible for the cleanliness of our community. While the governor’s Stay at Home order remains in effect, Riverbay Corporation is communicating with residents not only through the Co-op City Times, but also on the Riverbay Crawler (channel 12 on MATV and channel 591 on Optimum) and through Phone Tree notifications. Be sure to tune in and stay engaged.
Stay tuned in!
temp pumps for heat and hot water. Along with those duties, the staff is correcting pumps and drain failures that cause overflows in buildings, changing water pumps, and responding to emergency repair leaks. As far as his staff, Mr. Ligato said, “They have indeed been impressive by observing all the social distancing guidelines, working in smaller designated groups and going to alternate split shifts to reduce the potential for exposure of COVID-19. The team has indeed gone above and beyond.” Riverbay urges shareholders to clean their convectors during the changeover period, when the convectors are not in use for either heat or air conditioning. Senior residents and/or those with disabilities needing assistance should call maintenance via the Call Center, (718) 320-3300, select option 2. See page 9 for tips to clean your convectors. A video will also be available on the Riverbay Crawler, channel 12 on MATV and channel 591 on Optimum. (Continued from page 1)
(Continued from page 1)
Clergy Task Force, Angelo Rosario, also a Board director, described how the task force coordinated asking the leaders of roughly 20 houses of worship in the Co-op City area to call members and explain the importance of filling out the Census.
“We gave them a challenge.” said Bishop Rosario in the article. “People of faith are just people of faith — whatever their faith may be. Jewish faith. Hindu faith. Christian faith. And they know that this is a need.” Neighboring areas of the Bronx unfortunately do not share the same benefits a community like Co-op City does in how the right information is transferred. A major concern for residents of the Bronx, especially those who were born in other countries, has been the inclusion of immigration status in the 2020 Census. “There’s been an increased use of one’s immigration status as a form of intimidation,” Bronx Representative of the 14th district Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said during an August pop-up event in Parkchester promoting the 2020 Census. For the first time, the census has three options for people to respond: phone, online or via mail. To fill out the 2020 census online, visit my2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020 to fill it out with a Census Questionnaire Assistance representative.
Please dispose of PPE trash properly
Used gloves and masks must be disposed of properly in trash receptacles and not thrown on the ground on the property or on floors in residential buildings. This behavior is irresponsible and unsanitary and presents a health hazard to others. Please dispose of these items and all trash in the proper receptacles located throughout the community.
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
- no waiting time in the waiting area • Please make sure to come in only at your 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
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
NYC sees a 63% drop in child vaccinations
Thank you, Grounds department, for keeping Co-op City beautiful!
BY BRANDON ORTIZ
COVID-19 has many parents concerned for their child’s safety when it comes to the coming school year next fall. How will a normal school day look? How will new cases of COVID-19 be handled by schools? How can parents feel as close to safe as possible when it comes to allowing their child to attend class? These questions are all very important and ones that deserve answers as soon as possible but an unintended consequence from COVID-19 has also gone under the radar and deserves more awareness. During his daily coronavirus briefing on Wednesday, May 20, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio pleaded with parents across the city to continue vaccinating their children. According to data compiled by the New York City Health Department, there were approximately 63% less vaccinations being administered between March 23 and May 9 compared to that same window of time last year.
Riverbay Grounds department personnel planting flowers in prepared flowerbeds around the Einstein and Dreiser centers earlier this week to help keep Co-op City beautiful. The department, headed by director, Mike Ambo, continues to do its best with limited staff due to COVID-19 to maintain the curb appeal of the development. Mr. Ambo recently told the Co-op City Times, “…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.” Photos by John Crow
WE ARE OPEN!
“Children may be at relatively low risk from severe disease and death from COVID-19 but can be at high risk from other diseases that can be prevented with vaccines.” “I’ll give you a comparison, the same six-week period of time last year, 2019, almost 400,000 doses were administered in this city; in the six-week period this year, fewer than 150,000,” Mayor de Blasio reported. “So something has to be done immediately to address this and we intend to work with parents and families to do that right now.” The mayor called vaccinations “essential work” and mentioned the importance of vaccinations as a preventative public health measure. “A child who gets one of these diseases is likely to need to be hospitalized, and they’re likely to be more susceptible to contracting COVID,” Mayor de Blasio said. Equally important to note, during the press conference New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot dispelled the rumor surrounding the vaccination status of children and any kind of correlation it could have with the recent spike in multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) also being observed in young children. According to Dr. Barbot, there is no current indication that vaccinations are the cause for the recent phenomena. Late last month, the World Health Organization sent a dire warning of their own echoing the same urgency for continued vaccinations in children and reporting that their data revealed to them the same reality of a growing hesitancy to have kids vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The tragic reality is children will die as a result,” WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said. “Children may be at relatively low risk from severe disease and death from COVID-19 but can be at high risk from other diseases that can be prevented with vaccines.” The consequence of parents not vaccinating their children was recorded recently as more than 1200 cases of measles were reported in 30 states in 2019 with more than 75% of those cases being linked back to outbreaks in New York, the CDC found. Parents might feel unsafe being in a hospital during these times, but Mayor de Blasio reminded parents that they do not only have to go to a hospital facility to have a vaccine administered. Currently, the Vaccines for Children program offers free child vaccinations at over 1,000 NYC facilities for those who qualify. In order to make an appointment, parents and guardians should call their child’s healthcare provider or call 844-NYC-4NYC.
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
PS 153 Teacher Motorcade Over 50 cars left P.S. 153 on the morning of Wednesday, May 20, 2020, and drove along Baychester and Bartow Avenues and throughout Co-op City. Teachers in their decorated vehicles – with words like “We miss you” – blew their horns and waved to students who cheered from their buildings. Photos by Toriea McCauseland and John Crow
Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 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, 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.
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
to make sure that the data provided 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.
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.
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
CCPD urges residents to enjoy summer fun by the rules for Memorial Day weekend As we enter the Memorial Day weekend, it is a good opportunity to review summer rules. Residents can kick back, relax, and enjoy summer fun by the rules. This is a good time to focus on having good, safe summer fun while reviewing Riverbay Corporation’s rules. Please enjoy a safe a Happy Memorial Day weekend. Please follow local and national directions regarding the wearing of masks and social distancing to keep yourself and others safe. In Co-op City, it is most important that bicycle riders pay attention to Riverbay Corporation’s rules as they pertain to bike riding. Bicycle riding is prohibited in the areas near the buildings and shopping centers or any areas where it is posted that bike riding is prohibited. The reason for this is that bicycle riding in these areas presents a serious hazard to pedestrians. Cyclists need to afford the same level of consideration to pedestrians as cyclists expect from motorists. NYPD does issue summonses for traffic infractions committed by bicyclists. Persons observed riding bicycles in restricted areas may receive a Co-op City Community Complaint for “Bike riding in prohibited areas.” Community complaints can also be issued for “Ball playing in prohibited areas.” All community complaints carry a monetary fine which doubles for repeated violations. Parents need to make certain children are aware of these rules. Consuming alcohol in public is a violation of the law within New York City. Public Safety Officers issue New York City Universal Summonses for this violation. As with any other arrest, a Co-op City Community Complaint is also issued for Anti-Social Conduct in connection with the arrest. This complaint carries a monetary fine of one hundred and twenty-five dollars and doubles with repeated violations. Universal Summonses are also commonly issued by the Department of Public Safety for possession of marijuana and disorderly conduct. Disorderly conduct includes a range of behavior including fighting, being loud or boisterous or blocking a pedestrian walkway causing public annoyance, inconvenience or alarm. Co-op City community complaints are issued in these situations as well. Residents are reminded that barbequing is not permitted on any of the public areas of Co-op City. Strict guidelines set forth by the New York City Fire Department are in effect for barbequing only on terraces or townhouse patios at least 10 feet from combustible material. All building terraces are less than 10 feet wide ruling out the use of charcoal on building terraces. Therefore, barbecuing is not permissible in Co-op City. Propane tanks are strictly prohibited by the New York City Fire Department in any multiple family dwellings. Residents are also reminded that fireworks are illegal as well as dangerous. New York City put in effect a Zero Tolerance policy regarding the sale or use of illegal fireworks within the limits of New York City. Here in Co-op City, the Zero Tolerance laws are enforced by both the New York City Police Department as well as the Co-op City Department of Public Safety. New York City offers rewards of up to $1,000 to anyone who gives information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone caught selling fireworks within New York City. Call 3-1-1 with information. Co-op City residents are also subject to receiving a Community Complaint if they are arrested by any police agency within the geographical confines of Co-op City. (Continued on page 22) BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO
Public Safety Report
OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see the end of the employment listings for specific directions.
CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES There are no contract opportunities to list this week. Please check next week. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Public Safety Blotter May 10, 2020 – May 16, 2020
05-11-2020 – 140 Darrow Place A specialized conditions unit of CCPD was conducting an inspection when they discovered two males smoking marijuana. The males were arrested and issued Criminal Court Summons for marijuana. 05-12-2020 – 100 Debs Place A male was found loitering in the staircase and was issued a community complaint. 05-13-2020 – 600 Baychester Avenue CCPD officers conducting a building inspection smelled marijuana emanating from a staircase. While investigating, the officers saw a male flee and pursued. The male was apprehended and charged accordingly. 05-16-2020 – 120 Casals Place Two men were arrested on cross complaints after they began fighting over the elevator buttons. Both were issued community complaints and processed. 120 DeKruif Place Two males were found by CCPD officers in a stairway using marijuana. The males were issued Criminal Court Summonses and released.
(More Opportunities on page 11)
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Frustration
Director’s Viewpoint
Mary Pearson Secretary Missing Meals JASA used to serve lunch every non-holiday weekday to our social seniors in our three centers: Dreiser, Bartow and Einstein. For a week or so after Covid19 forced the centers to shut, seniors could come by and get bagged lunches from JASA workers and volunteers until the logistics of meal delivery could be worked out. That ended on March 30. In an effort to consolidate all of NYC’s food needs during the covid crisis, the job of providing meals to our seniors was taken from JASA and turned over to DFTA (Department for the Aging). That lasted for about two weeks. When DFTA was first hit with the responsibility of handling food for 44,000 seniors, they attempted to contain the task by first reaching out to the seniors who frequented the city’s senior centers most regularly – 26,000 of them. Unfortunately, DFTA took their data from the months of January and February, when the frailest of seniors would most likely not leave home for a meal. Before they could rethink the strategy, the task was passed on to the newly dubbed Food Czar, Kathryn Garcia. The mayor announced, just call 311 and tell them you’re calling for food for seniors and you’ll be moved right on through. I found that not to be the case. I called on behalf of one of my very frustrated neighbors to find out how on earth she could have slipped off the food delivery list for a second time. Another neighbor wanted to stop delivery but had no idea how to accomplish it. That’s because it is so confusing that even 311 representatives, I have found, have trouble figuring out which program (there are three different programs) is serving which senior. The homebound receive meals through the home delivered meals program aka Meals on Wheels via R.A.I.N. in partnership with NYC through DFTA. That system is continuing uninterrupted, I am told, for established pre-covid clients. The senior center meal delivery replacement system, the one that has gone through four switches in six weeks, is another program. I say four switches, because the senior center meal delivery replacement program seems to be back in DFTA hands. I’m 99% sure the senior centers are once again out of the equation because the word from at least one representative from DFTA, 311, and JASA is: they can accept no senior sign-up or re-sign ups at this time for food delivery. For any senior center registrant, if you’ve fallen off the list, there is no getting back on it, at this point. But there’s an alternate relatively easy fix. Relatively easy? No. Downright simple compared to its initial NYC Food Delivery Assistance roll out. I half-deciphered the instructions at the time, and it was a bit of a puzzle to say the least. The rules were — qualifying households could place an order once every 48 hours, but there was a schedule you had to keep to. Each order would contain two days of meals, two meals per person per day up to eight meals per delivery. You could not order after 11 a.m. Friday or before 11 a.m. Saturday. No deliveries would be made on Sundays but you could order on Sundays. But wait, there’s more! If you order before 11 a.m. any day but Saturday, you’ll receive the meals within two days. Orders placed any day but Friday after 11 a.m. will be delivered within three days of the order date. I know! Meals mixed with math! But now, easy peasy! Just call 311. Be a little patient. After the greeting, an automated voice will announce the parking rules of the day. Next, a voice will provide coronavirus information. But soon you’ll hear: For the GetFoodNYC food delivery program Express Lane, press 2. A new voice gives an overview of the program and says press 1 for a Bronx representative. Say you’re a qualifying senior who needs food deliv-
ery and they’ll sign you right up. Or go online. GetFoodNYC. Scroll down to NYC Food Delivery Assistance. There you can create an account for yourself (and your family) or for a friend. The best part, instead of having to call up every two days on the original jigsaw puzzle schedule, there’s a recurring delivery option. You can renew by the week, two or three week period, or monthly. Even though the site can be navigated in 109 languages (REALLY!) what a trip it was to reach this simple conclusion. Bon appetite! Is there a Phase I in Our Future? Did you see the news reports of all those young people congregating outside bars selling to-go drinks in Manhattan and the Bronx? In his weekend briefing the day after that first beautifully tempting Saturday, Governor Cuomo said, “People, get your drink and go ho-ome! Remember in the beginning weeks of the shut down, the Public Advocate was patrolling Brooklyn parks breaking up basketball games? Hey, Jumaane! You’re up!
If we ever want to start phase one of the reopening, we’ve got to continue nagging the young ‘uns. Two not so young ones were exiting the elevator — mask-less — as I stood waiting to enter. I guess they didn’t get the memo. Yes, people, the memo reads, corona cooties linger in the air in enclosed spaces. For how long? It varies. Can you catch covid-19 from it? Yes, under certain circumstances. It depends. Depends on what? We’ll tell you when we know. Who sez? Dr. Fauci, the CDC (Center for Disease, etc.), the WHO (not the Who, the World Health Organization), scientists and investigative reporters from Wuhan to Washington State to Wisconsin. The greatest percentage of newly infected New Yorkers, reports Gov. Cuomo, are people staying at home, not those going out to work, not essential workers. So how are they contracting the virus? When we know, you’ll know. Stay safe. I can be reached by voice or text at 718-219-2211 or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Recommended Convector Cleaning Procedures
With the spring change-over in progress at the Power Plant, shareholders are reminded to maintain their apartment convectors and to clean them regularly. During the summer months when air conditioning is provided, it is beneficial to check and clean your convectors regularly even if you don’t use them. Clogs occur as dust and debris accumulate in the convector drain lines and can cause backups and flooding which can damage floors and apartments below. Shareholders who are elderly or disabled and require assistance checking and cleaning their convectors, may contact Maintenance for assistance by calling the Riverbay Call Center, (718) 320-3300, select Option 2. Following the procedures recommended below, the potential for clogging will be greatly reduced and the efficient functioning of convector units will be facilitated. The procedures should be performed bi-weekly for maximum effect. A Co-op City convector cleaning video will be brodcast on the Riverbay crawler. The Crawler can be accessed on channel 12 for those on the master antenna (MATV) and channel 591 for Optimum subscribers. The video can also be found on YouTube. Cleaning Procedures Turn off the convector before cleaning by moving the power switch to the middle position. Remove the cover by lifting from the bottom and swinging out and up. Remove any debris (coins, leaves, plant soil, loose scale, etc.) from the upper drip tray (long pan) and lower drip tray (drain pan). Slowly pour one quart of hot water into the upper drip tray and check that it flows into the lower drip tray and down the drain. Do not continue to pour water if it doesn’t flow freely down the drain. If the water flows down freely, pour another 2-3 quarts of hot water into the upper drip tray to ensure a thorough cleaning. If the water does not flow from the upper tray into the drain pan, it is likely that the spout is clogged. You can probably use a ball point pen to remove the debris from inside the spout and clear the clog. If the water does not go down the drain of the lower drip tray, or becomes clogged, contact the Maintenance office immediately at the number listed below. Remove the filter located at the bottom of the convector unit to ensure it is clean. Clean filters allow for air to flow freely which is essential for the efficient operation of the convector. During the winter, filters may be vacuumed or washed. During the summer, they must be vacuumed only (a wet filter can cause dirt to coagulate in the summer and hamper air flow). For a replacement filter, please call the Call Center at (718) 320-3300, select option #2. The charge for a new filter is $4, money orders or checks are accepted. Replace the cover by placing it flat against the convector front, lift the cover top approximately 1 inch above the convector top and slide it down into position. Make sure the small hooks at the bottom of the cover slide onto the rail at the bottom of the convector. Hammering after 6 p.m., vacuuming after 9 p.m., music or TVs played very loudly at any hour, doors slamming constantly at all hours... these are just a few examples of what can disturb the peace of fellow cooperators. Noise complaints may lead to a fine. Please, let’s work together to make Co-op City a peaceful community. —CSO Department
MTA Real-Time Service Updates
The most up-to-date information on MTA service status is always available at www.mta.info. For immediate notice of service changes, sign up for email or text alerts at www.mymtaalerts.com. For weekend subway service changes, visit web.mta.info/weekender.
Co-op City has a new official website!
coopcitynyc.com
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.
Marc A. Goodman, EA Office Phone: 718-379-5217
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Changing with the Times
Director’s Viewpoint
Francine Reva Jones Assistant Secretary Dear shareholders, I hope that you and your loved ones are safe and well. Please be reminded that during this Coronavirus Pandemic, we should follow the directives of our mayor and governor, which are to cover your face with a mask, cloth, scarf or bandana and to wear gloves when leaving your home. We should also remain six feet away from other people. Although notices appear nearly everywhere, there are some people who refuse to comply. On the elevator, I noticed that a couple that entered after me had on no protective covering. I asked them about their masks and offered to give them one, but they refused, saying that they were just not wearing one today!! Had they gone into the elevator first, I would have waited for the next one. Remember to protect and strengthen your immune system. Being patient and waiting on line seems to be a major part of our lives during this crisis. Two weeks ago, I waited on the Amalgamated Bank line for three hours. Last week, it was half that time. I was so pleased that the Amalgamated executives added a third day to their schedule. It is truly a “people’s bank.” While patrons waited on line, bank personnel reminded us that we could use the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) to conduct business. That line was much shorter. She also offered applications for online banking, which would save time. At some of the other banks, customers can use the bank’s app (application) to deposit checks by using your camera phone to capture the front and back of the check and pressing “deposit.” There are many banking advances. Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher, is the source of the quotation, “change is the only constant in life.” The times are changing fast. For many seniors, this is a big deal. Some seniors like things the same familiar way
and have no desire to change. However, sometimes we are forced to change because certain things become obsolete. By occupation, I worked as secretary and used stenography and a typewriter. The typewriter changed to a memory writer and then a computer. The music industry has really evolved. I recall long play (LP) record albums that were played on a phonograph. Then came the single 45 records, followed by 8-track tapes, then cassettes, CDs, mp3s, etc. Nearly every adult can read. But, look at how far reading and learning have come. If you cannot read, you can purchase audio books or borrow them from the library. There are also mobile readers. A year ago, I never would have imagined that millions of American children would be learning all their lessons online. The NYC children who did not own computers were given computers when schools closed due to this pandemic. There are many online colleges as well. Consequently, book stores, like Barnes and Noble, have closed. The same thing is happening with brick and mortar department stores as more and more people shop online. Fortunately, in Co-op City, we have places where we can keep up with this rapidly-changing world, such as attending computer classes, smartphone classes, language classes, and more. If you prefer to learn at home, you can probably find these courses online. It is definitely a “different world.” The Riverbay Corporation and the Riverbay Board of Directors are also evolving. On May 27, 2020 at 7:00 p.m., there will be a first-time Virtual Annual Shareholders Meeting. Please tune in to channel 591 if you are an Optimum subscriber and channel 12 if you are on the master antenna (MATV). The advent of COVID-19 has halted some of the work scheduled to be performed in our community. With regard to the elevator modernization, this project will resume shortly. To the shareholders who requested a postponement of the work, please be reminded that the old elevators contain motors that are incorrect and unacceptable. They are also past
their life expectancy and it is a safety issue that they be changed as soon as possible. It was anticipated that residents would be inconvenienced by having to wait longer for the one working elevator and cooperators have been asked to allow themselves more time and be patient while this modernization project is accomplished. Cooperators continue to applaud the essential workers for their service by going to their windows or balconies at 7 p.m. to make a joyful noise using pots, pans, drums, whistles, horns, etc. to show their appreciation for their service. Kindly place your used masks and gloves in a receptacle rather than throwing them on the ground or floor so that our hard-working essential workers will not be forced to do more. Thank you. Happy birthday, Malcolm X El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, a/k/a Malcolm X, was a Muslim minister and human rights activist who was a popular figure during the civil rights movement. When he was incarcerated, he transformed his life with study. He is best known for his staunch and controversial Black racial advocacy, and was a vocal spokesperson of the Nation of Islam. Had Malcolm X lived, he would have been 95 years old on May 19th. Members of the African-American Association will commemorate by participating in the Harlem caravan. Parents and grandparents should teach your children about the legacy of this remarkable man. Condolences Father Lawrence E. Lucas (1933-4/18/20) was a Roman Catholic priest, human rights and civil rights activist, social justice activist, organizer, educator, and an author. In 2013, Father Lucas was the keynote speaker for the Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City’s Friends and Family Day event. A virtual memorial was recently held for him where folks highlighted their fondest memories of him and expressed how much they will miss him. Please stay safe and well. I can be reached at fjones@riverbayboard.com.
The Wright Agency Serving Co-op City for 39 Years!
NOW HIRING! Positions Available at The Wright Agency WE ARE HIRING FULL TIME AND PART TIME LICENSED LIFE INSURANCE AGENTS
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New Hours: Mon. & Wed.: 8:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tues. & Thurs.: 8:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday: 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
GREAT WORK ENVIRONMENT! BONUSES FOR LICENSED PRODUCERS!
Apply at: The Wright Agency (Allstate) We Are Conveniently Located Only Blocks From Co-op City!
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Riverbay’s Succession Rights summarized and updated for clarity Riverbay Corporation has summarized the Division of Housing and Community Renewal’s (HCR) rules and regulations on succession rights to avoid confusion or misunderstanding. HCR has specific rules governing transfer or assumption of ownership of apartments within Mitchell-Lama developments, which are spelled out in 9NYCRR Part 1727-8.1. “The Succession Rights Policy is intended to help a cooperator be aware of the protection provided to a family member or a ‘life companion’ in the event a cooperator moves or dies,” said Michael Munns, Riverbay’s Senior Attorney. “HCR regulations provide that eligible persons may continue to live in an apartment after the death or move-out of the cooperator. Our policy follows HCR’s rules and explains succession rights to Co-op City residents.” It should be pointed out that while new ownership can only be assumed in cases of move-out or death, only persons who meet all of the regulatory requirements may obtain leases and stock certificates in their own names as successors. According to the rules and regulations, succession of an apartment can only take place if the primary owner of the apartment moves out or passes away. As a general rule, whenever there is a change in the number of persons living in the apartment, Riverbay should be notified within ninety (90) calendar days of any such changes through the use of an Interim Affidavit Form, which can be obtained from their respective Cooperator Services Office (CSO). “It is critical for all shareholders to inform Riverbay of changes in the household occupants in order for those occupants to potentially have succession rights at some point in the future,” said Peter Merola, Riverbay’s Director of Finance. “The annual filing of the Income Affidavit accomplishes this, as well as filing an Interim Affidavit in between annual filings.” If the shareholder moves out permanently, any member of the primary shareholder’s family or life companion may request, in writing, to be named a shareholder on the lease and on the stock certificate. However, this person must meet certain requirements. “They must have resided with the shareholder in the apartment as their primary residence for a period of not less than two years, or for one year if the succeeding shareholder is a senior citizen or disabled person, immediately prior to permanent vacating of the apartment by the shareholder,” said Mr. Merola. “In cases where the occupancy or relationship is less than two years, the succeeding shareholder must have lived in the apartment from the inception of the tenancy or commencement of the relationship. The succeeding shareholder must have been listed on the Income Affidavit and/or Interim Income Affidavit during the relevant period of time.” Per HCR rules, the “relevant period of time” must be documented by no less than 3 affidavits and can be supported by either combination of 3 annual affidavits, or 1 interim affidavit plus 2 annual affidavits if the successor moves in between annual filings. HCR’s rules define “family member” as a husband, wife, son, daughter, stepson, stepdaughter, father, mother, stepfather, stepmother, brother, sister, nephew, niece, uncle, aunt, grandfather, grandmother, grandson, granddaughter, father-inlaw, mother-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law of the primary cooperator. Cousins are not defined family members and therefore are not eligible for succession under this rule. However, cousins can apply for succession under the DHCR rule of “Emotional and Financial Inter-dependence.” In addition to meeting the residency requirements in this case, a successor would have to provide similar evidence as in the case of a life companion. “Primary residence” is defined as the housing accommodation in which the person actually resides and maintains a permanent and continuous physical presence. Proof of such residency must consist of the Income Affidavit or Interim Income Affidavits together with other evidence, for example, certified copies of tax returns, voting records, motor vehicle registration and driver’s license, school registration, bank accounts, employment records, insurance policies and other pertinent documentation. At the same time, ‘life companion’ is defined as any other person residing with the shareholder as a primary resident who can prove emotional and financial commitment and interdependence between such person and the shareholder. Evidence of this can be the Income Affidavit or Interim Income Affidavit filed by the primary shareholder, as well as evidence of longevity of the relationship; sharing of or relying upon each other for payment of household or family expenses; joint ownership of bank accounts, personal and real property, credit cards, loan obligations, sharing a household budget for purposes of receiving governmental benefits; engaging in family type activities by jointly attending family functions; and formalizing of legal obligations by such means as executing wills, naming each other as executor and/or beneficiary, granting each other power of attorney, etc. The other avenue through which a successor can be named to the apartment is through death of the primary shareholder. If this is the case, the lease and shares of stock for the decedent’s apartment shall be surrendered to the Riverbay Sales Office by the decedent’s estate or survivors for redemption. This material can be placed in a sealed envelope, addressed to the Sales Office and deposited in the carrying charge box in either the Bartow, Dreiser or Einstein center. If there are no legal disputes, Riverbay will sell or transfer the shares to any member of the decedent’s family or life companion, as long as they meet all of the requirements as stipulated by DHCR’s rules and regulations. Mr. Munns stated that any family member or life companion of a shareholder
Opportunities
(Continued from page 7)
BY ROZAAN BOONE
who would like permission to remain in occupancy after the cooperator moves or dies should submit a written request within ninety (90) days to Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. 10475, Attn.: Succession Rights. “It is imperative that shareholders understand that no other types of stock transfers or lease amendments are allowed except those directed by statute or an appropriate tribunal or court of law,” said Mr. Munns.
New York Primaries proceed Submitting an absentee ballot
With the number of Coronavirus cases slowing down in the city, the need to protect oneself from the infection is still a top priority – along with staying safe while voting in this year’s state and federal primaries. All citizens are encouraged to stay home and consider filling out an absentee ballot. Election Day is on June 23 for state and federal primaries with early voting beginning as early as June 13. Residents can vote by absentee ballot if they cannot get to a polling location on Election Day. According to the Board of Elections, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the governor has issued an executive order allowing all registered and eligible voters to apply to vote by absentee ballot for the June 23 elections. The site says, “Voters affected by COVID-19 including the risk of contracting the virus, should check the box “Temporary Illness” as the reason for requesting an Absentee Ballot.” Voters can apply for an absentee ballot online, by phone, email, fax, and mail. Applications are available in English, as well as several additional languages. All completed Primary absentee ballot applications must be submitted by June 16. To apply for a ballot by phone, call 1-866-868-3692, or visit nycabsentee.com. For more information about absentee voting, you may visit https://vote.nyc/age/ absentee-voting. BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Please Do Not Throw Anything on the Ground Director’s Viewpoint
Daryl Johnson It would be disrespectful if someone went to your apartment and threw their dirty gloves or mask on your floor and then left. Therefore, I cannot see why some people think that they should throw these same items on our grounds. Keep it Clean According to the CDC, we had 1,435,098 people in the U.S. that had the coronavirus disease (COVID19) as of last Sunday, May 17, 2020. Furthermore, we had 87,315 people in the U.S. that died from this horrific disease. The CDC states that this disease can be transmitted in many ways. “It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. This is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about this virus,” according to their website.” Our workers do a very good job of keeping our community clean. So, for the most part, you will not find trash on our sidewalks and on our grounds. However, an exception to this statement has to be made when a person deliberately decides to throw trash on our grounds. And, from that point, complaints start. Nevertheless, what really happened? Well, the answer is that someone made a deliberate choice to create a dirty condition on our grounds. Thereafter, another person came by, saw the dirty condition, and then made a complaint that the grounds are dirty. Currently, the entire world is dealing with one of the worst pandemics ever. And, based on the above-cited information, lots of people are dying on a daily basis. However, these people that are dying are our family members, loved ones, friends, associates, co-workers, neighbors, and folks that we see every now and then. So, does it make sense that we would take our potentially-contaminated gloves and masks and throw them on the ground? Well, some people might say: “Well, they have workers that will pick up whatever I throw on the ground.” Nonsense! Look, first of all, respecting property and a community means that we’re going to do our job and not throw anything on the ground—period. Regardless, some people might say: “My gloves and mask are dirty. So, what am I supposed to do?” Well, if you look around, you’ll see that we have garbage cans all over this community. So, take a little walk and put those items inside of a garbage can. Bottom line: Our Public Safety officers can issue a large community complaint if they see someone throw items on the ground—littering. But, why does it have to come down to a police officer telling you to not throw your personal garbage on the ground? How do you think you will feel if you have to pay out money to resolve a community complaint—for littering? Why can’t a personal decision be made that we’re going to do things in a proper way? I don’t care how you look at this matter. It’s wrong to throw gloves, masks, or anything on the ground. So, please make a strong determination that you will always do the right thing and drop your gloves, masks, and other trash into a garbage can. Thank you. Still, Help Your Children Millions of children all over this country are at home now during this coronavirus outbreak. Some are receiving educational instruction from their parents and other loved ones. Then, some are bored and are receiving a limited amount of educational instruction at home. However, some parents are completely fed up with being at home with limited resources, their kids, and this entire situation. On day one of staying home with his child, one parent became so frustrated that he went online and wrote: “Wondering how I can get this kid transferred out of my class.” Again, that message was sent out by a frustrated parent. Then, one lady was with her four children for just 2½ hours. Thereafter, she wrote that “Teachers need to make more than professional athletes, CEOs, and all
of Hollywood combined. Never too early for a drink.” Next, a parent was on day 3 of homeschooling his two children. Then, he became so frustrated with them that he went online and wrote: “Homeschooling officially shut down. Teacher has quit,” he, as the teacher, wrote. There’s going to come a day when people are going to look at your sons and daughters and review the way that they work and conduct themselves. Thereafter, people will make judgments about them. So, it’s important that we do our best to train our children so that they can do very well in school and in all areas of their life. Therefore, we want to make sure that they’re doing all of their homework in a proper way. Homeschooling? Anger? Frustration? Never! Can we teach our children to be respectful? Can we get our children away from the television and their phone? Can we take time out of our schedule to teach them how to do math and other subjects?
Bottom line: Please continue to try to help your children. Close We have trash cans all over our community. So, please do your best to set a good example for everyone by throwing your dirty gloves, masks, and other items into a trash can. Lastly, please continue to show patience and love to your children. The good training that you give today will help them forever. Thank you. The administrative areas of Bartow have been shut down. So, please do not send a letter to me. However, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@riverbayboard.com. Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Co-op Insurance The Wright Agency: Serving Co-op City for 39 Years!
Riverbay Requires Current Co-op Shareholders to Obtain Coverage! Your Co-op is an Investment Worth Protecting! P r o t e c t i o n T o C o v e r Yo u r B e l o n g i n g s A g a i n s t : • Fire & Smoke • Water damage from plumbing
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• Low Premiums • Protective Device Discounts • Auto-Home Discounts
• Guest medical protection • Certain personal liabilities
• Theft Coverage • And so much more!
Other L ines of Ins urance: • Auto • Homeowners • Life
L ow Rates F or T h e E n t i r e Ye a r !
Licensed Staff
Nichola Ferguson Licensed Insurance Agent
Lawrence Newkirk Life Insurance Specialist
Albert Issifu Licensed Insurance Agent
America Borda Licensed Insurance Agent
Michael Garzilli Sales Manager
Not Pictured: Polly Heckstall Sr. Account Representative; Sandra Goldsmith Licensed Insurance Agent
The Wright Agency
Anthony Wright Agency Owner
FREE NOTARY SERVICE FOR ALL CO-OP CITY RESIDENTS!
We Are Conveniently Located Only Blocks From Co-op City! (near Eastchester Road)
New Hours: Mon. & Wed.: 8:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tues. & Thurs.: 8:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday: 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
1435 East Gun Hill Road Call Us Today!
718-671-8000
Courteous Staff! Convenient Hours!
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Cooperative spirit alive and well among Co-op City neighbors Director’s Viewpoint
Leah Richardson Dear shareholders, I would like to start by expressing my sincere prayer that all of our Co-op City residents are well and finding ways to cope with the new reality of the Covid-19 virus. I’ve talked to many of you and I have to say I’m glad to hear about the projects you have taken on (lemons into lemonade). However, the thing I’m inspired by most is the way our neighbors find ways to care for one another. The longer I live in Co-op City, the more I realize that we are truly a family. On the Frontline To all the essential workers, I thank you profusely for your role in making sure that our community is a safe and healthy place to be during COVID-19. You put everything on the line to ensure that our communities remain healthy and safe. You are the backbone of our society, and you deserve the utmost respect for it. I do not know where our country would be today without you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being there for our country and protecting our people. This pandemic has us all feeling more anxious and stressed, afraid to go outside and for some of us if we are going to be able to provide food for our family. Be compassionate According to sources, during these challenging times we can go through a range of emotions, and at our own pace. Feeling like you’re all over the place, a bit on edge or overwhelmed are completely normal reactions to a very abnormal situation. So too is needing to get on with things or taking time out for yourself. While Covid-19 continues to change our everyday lives, there are simple things we can all do to look after ourselves and others. • Be kind to one another; showing you care with a simple text, FaceTime, or call can make a big difference. • Stick to routines if you can; routines can sound
dull but they are great at giving our day structure in uncertain times. • Where you can, do more of the things that give your life value and meaning, e.g. connecting with nature or getting lost in a good book. • Calm your body and mind and focus on your breathing with excising • Take a digital detox; we all need downtime. • Get creative and get to know you. • This is a perfect time for us to create a kinder and more compassionate community. Spread peace, reconnect with others in your community, ask them if they need help or assistance. These are extraordinary times and there are so many ways this virus is impacting all of us. You don’t know what is affecting someone’s life making the current threat even worse. It’s important to respect people where they are at, and not blow off their concerns or drive fear where it doesn’t need to be. We are so fortunate to have so many ways to connect to help get us through this crisis together, but loneliness and anxiety are two huge concerns as we don’t yet know how long we will be practicing social and physical distancing measures. Reaching out to one another. Being patient and kind with each other. Listening to one another, respecting one another. These are the kinds of attitudes and actions that will carry us through. They cost us nothing, and yet they can make an impactful difference. Support is also available through the Anxiety Helpline 800-ANXIETY (800-269-4389) provides free national 24/7 support, information, and advice about managing anxiety and stress, including taking callers through breathing and relaxation techniques, and supporting callers to learn and practice anxiety management skills. Keeping you connected Building association meetings have been temporarily canceled but it doesn’t mean you cannot do a wellness check on your neighbor. Try virtual happy hours, whether it’s through FaceTime or Zoom. These have become really popular and while it’s not the same as having that physical presence, at least you’re seeing
NAACP Branch #2210
National and NYS Conference released official statement: “City of Boston and health partners around the country postponed the NAACPAnnual Convention planned for July 25-July 29, 2020 in Boston, MA. Please refrain from gatherings until at least July 1st. This request extends to NAACP general membership and executive committee meetings, unit committees, state quarterly meetings, Freedom Fund events, ACT-SO events and any other gatherings organized or sponsored by NAACP units.” Heartfelt condolences to all who 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! Lionel Richie Speaks on the Importance of NAACP on Jimmy Kimmel Live, visit naacp.org/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 wellbeing 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, April 28, postponed and rescheduled to June 23. Primary Early Voting is June 13 – June 21. For more information, email: elections.ny.gov/NYBOE/law /2020politicalcalendar.Rev. Remember: Politics control policies. Votes represent dollars. That’s why it’s important to vote. 2020 Branch Election Process & Calendar: Elected Officer positions: President, Secretary, Treasurer, Members at-large; Vice President, Assistant Secretary, Assistant Treasurer. Officers serve a term of two years, effective Jan. 1, 2021 – Dec. 31, 2022. Candidates for these positions must be dues-paying members in good standing by May 1, 2020 and remain current. 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. “The NAACP remains focused on the fight to ensure that the voice of our communities is never silenced.” –Derrick Johnson, NAACP President & CEO —Brenda Brown
another face and interacting with another human. Try reaching out to old friends you haven’t talked to in a while. I’ve done a few of these personally, you actually feel so much better afterward because you have that interaction with someone and it makes you realize that your friends are in the same boat as you. Use technology to your advantage. Safety First In a time of great concern for public health and limiting the spread of the Coronavirus (Covid-19), it’s incredibly important to embrace best practices for social distancing which is physically distancing ourselves (6 ft. is the recommendation) and limiting social interactions outside of the home. This can feel incredibly awkward and impolite, but it is necessary. It is getting warmer outside and we cannot afford to fall back. Reminder, wear your mask, gloves or bring a handkerchief, napkin or towel to open doors. On an elevator, try to use an elbow if possible or, again, a cloth, handkerchief or napkin. Same with railings. Just do your best to not expose your skin to direct contact with any surfaces that may be touched by other people. Make a habit of washing your hands as soon as you are in your apartment. Maintenance With so many people home, chances are there’s going to be an increase in maintenance requests. Because of limited staffing, Management has to prioritize emergency repairs above inconveniences. While you can still submit a non-emergency maintenance request, you may have to wait a little bit longer for it to be fixed. If it’s just something like a drip on your faucet, that’s not causing any damage. It’s more of an inconvenience and really not damaging anything or threatening your health and safety. If there’s a burst pipe or an electrical issue or something like that, your requests will be prioritized and someone will come and fix it. Management doesn’t want Maintenance workers just going in and out of different apartments and then potentially become exposed or expose other residents. Stay safe and be well…Thank you! You can email me at lrichardson@riverbayboard.com.
Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
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City-wide Coronavirus information, resources and updates BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND Stimulus payments, for SSI recipients The IRS began sending out Economic Impact Payments last month, while Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients who don’t file tax returns started receiving their payments directly from the Treasury Department in early May. According to Social Security, “People receiving SSI benefits who did not file 2018 or 2019 taxes, and have qualifying children under age 17, however, should not wait for their automatic $1,200 individual payment.” Social Security is advising the above recipients to immediately go to the IRS’s webpage at www.irs.gov/coronavirus/nonfilers-enter-payment-info-here and visit the Non-Filers: Enter Your Information section to provide their information. For more information, log onto https://www.irs.gov/ coronavirus/economic-impact-payments. MTA overnight closures The MTA recently announced subway closures from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m., beginning May 6 to disinfect and deep clean trains. According to the MTA, “During this overnight period, the MTA will intensify disinfecting operations, cleaning its fleet of thousands of cars and buses every night, and further testing new and innovative cleaning solutions, including UV, antimicrobials and electrostatic disinfectants.” Domestic violence help New Yorkers experiencing or who may be at risk for domestic violence must know that they are not alone. Professionals are available to help 24/7 through the state’s office of for the prevention of Domestic Violence. Please text, 844-997-2121; call, 800-942-6906; or visit opdv.ny.gov. New York paid sick leave Residents who have missed work because they were exposed to COVID-19 can claim paid sick leave. “If you have COVID-19 or have symptoms of the virus, use the sick leave you are entitled to and protect your fellow New Yorkers by staying home,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot. For more information, visit https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/covid19. 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 1-800-364-3065 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. JASA coordinates with DFTA on senior meal delivery Seniors in Co-op City can receive meals through DFTA’s new centralized meal
delivery program. According to Aisha Par- nals who are impersonating health officials. zation (WHO), and the New York City illon, Senior Director at JASA Senior Cen- Alert friends and family. Call 9-1-1 if they Department of Health. ters, “Any center members who were come to your door. Building deliveries (i.e., food, Stop&Shop store hours for cusreceiving meals in the last couple of months necessary supplies, or medicine) Building staff and residents should contomers 60 and older including new additions are on DFTA’s list.” Shoppers age 60 and over will be able tinue social distancing when receiving Seniors who have not received food, as deliveries are only made one day a week, to shop from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. daily; deliveries as well as entering and exiting should contact JASA’s main office at 718- designated entrances will be marked for the building. Opt to leave special delivery 320-2066. Ms. Parillon said: “The center those specific customers at local stores. instructions when placing orders to have staff are notifying their DFTA contacts and According to Stop&Shop’s press release: packages delivered to the apartment door DFTA is working to rectify these issues. “We’re making the decision to offer this to minimize person-to-person contact. For any new seniors who have not received every day of the week to allow for comSocial Security offices closed, offers meals from the centers at all but are now munity members in this age category to phone services only interested, they should call the center.” Sen- shop in a less crowded environment, which All local Social Security offices are iors are urged to leave a message so that better enables social distancing. They’ll closed to the public. According to their also be shopping prior to any other cus- website, individuals needing assistance staff can return their call. can: For more information on how to get tomers entering.” Use Social Security’s secure online servAccess-A-Ride changes rides meals delivered, please call the NYC Department of Aging at 212-244-6469 or “The MTA is no longer scheduling shared ices at www.socialsecurity.gov/onlinesercall 3-1-1. rides for Access-A-Ride.” AAR will still vices Although closed, New York City Contact your local office via phone to accept a personal care attendant and schools offer meals for all approved guest for travel with customers. “apply for benefits, answer your questions, As per the New York City Department “We will continue to aggressively disinfect and provide other services over the phone.” of Education, all NYC public schools, our full fleet of Access-A-Ride vehicles Already scheduled in-office appointincluding those in the Co-op City area will around the clock and work closely with, ments will be conducted over the phone offer three free meals a day for children and follow the guidance of, all our part- by a Social Security representative. Those that cannot complete business and families. Meal sites will be open from ners and public health officials at the state, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for children and city and federal levels,” said New York online should call Social Security’s national families, and 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for City Transit interim president Sarah E. phone number at 1-800-772-1213. adults. No registration or identification Feinberg. New York Public Library required. Now all NYPL locations are temporarAre you feeling lonely due to Co-op City residents can go to the folily closed until further notice, extending the outbreak? lowing schools for meals: Anyone experiencing anxiety, fear, the closures past the originally stated March • Harry S. Truman High School, 750 stress, depression, or similar emotions 31 date. While locations are closed, because of Coronavirus and needs support resources are available online, including Baychester Ave., Bronx, NY 10475 • M.S. 180 Daniel Hale Williams, 700 can contact NYC WELL 24 hours a day/7 e-books, research databases, and other days a week year-round. Call 888-NYC- resources available at https://www. Baychester Ave., Bronx, NY 10475 • P.S. 160 Walt Disney, 4140 Hutchin- WELL, text W-E-L-L to 65173, or chat at nypl.org/about/remote-resources. During nyc.gov/nycwell. For credible information this time, all due-dates for checked-out son River P’kway E, Bronx, NY 10475 • P.S. 178 Dr. Selman Waksman, 850 on COVID-19, reach out to trusted sources materials are extended until after libraries such as the CDC, World Health Organi- reopen. Baychester Ave., Bronx, NY 10475 New York City COVID-19 food assistance resources NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that New York City is taking steps to fight hunger during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who need resources and/or access Our Promiise to New to food should visit nyc.gov/getfood for & Curren nt Clients more information. World Central Kitchen distributes As We e Navig N ate in the Bronx Coron navirus Everyday, World Central Kitchen, Assemblymember Michael Blake, BeatYo our health and nd safety are stro, Bronx Drafthouse, Mott Haven Bar Pr ior ity #1 as w e all navigate & Grill, Bricks & Hops and HERE TO the Corona virus pandemic. HERE are distributing grab and go meals and doing meal deliveries for Seniors. For We fully understand that more information on times, locations and accidents will continue to any other additional information, contact happen; injuries i and deaths Assemblyman Blake’s office at 718-538Paul F. Oliveri, i Esq. sq will continue to be suf sufffered; 3829. Wishing good health for you Be aware! and injurious acts a of medical and your loved ones nes According to the New York City malpractice will w continue to Department of Health and Mental take place. Hygiene, people are knocking on doors pretending they are testing for CoronOliveri & Schw wartz, P..C. will contin nue to provide our avirus. Do not open the door for crimiclients, prospe ective clients, your friends, co-workers, relatives, family members and ne eighbors with accessibility to o our legal ser vicess, while taking necessar essar y precautions to o protect our clients ts and our staf stafff.
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Co-op City Democratic Club
As president of the Co-op City Democratic Club, I wanted to take this time to reach out to the entire community, and I trust that all of you are remaining healthy and safe. Not in most of our lifetimes have we faced an enemy as dangerous as the COVID-19 virus. This raging pandemic has found a way to bring word of the untimely passing of someone, or possibly even several individuals, that we have known, we have loved, or had great respect for. For over a month now, Co-op City families have been asked to participate by cheering for our First Responders, at 7 p.m. each evening. I hope that all of you are joining with me and my family, as we take a moment to thank them for sacrificing their lives to save ours. In my opinion, we cannot thank them enough for all that they have done, and all that they are continuing to do for our very survival. The final court decision allows the Democratic Primary Election on June 23, 2020. The Board of Election is mailing out applications to apply for Absentee Ballots, for voters who choose not to physically go to the Poll, due to the Coronavirus. Simply check the box for “Temporary Illness.” If you do not receive your application in the mail by June 5, call the Bronx Board of Election, (718) 960-0730, ask for the Absentee Ballot Dept. and request your application, fill it out and mail it back immediately. You can also use email: AbsenteeJune2020@boe.nyc. Co-op City Democratic Club will be supporting … As your Democratic Female District Leader, I proudly announce we will be supporting our incumbent elected representatives. We urge the community to support and vote for our Congressman Eliot L. Engel, N.Y. State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, N.Y. State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, and Anna Rodgers for Democratic State Committee Member. We have a good team that has been working extremely hard together for us. We are also endorsing Joseph Biden to become the next President of the United States. Please remember to stay safe. —Shirley J. Saunders
Adler Place Townhouses
The Adler Place shareholders thank Bishops Angelo and Nancy Rosario, along with Sonia Feliciano, for providing us with face masks. Thank you to Alfredo Ortiz, Belinda Wyatt, and Kenneth Graham for distributing the masks to the Adler Place Townhouses. We can be reached at adlerplaceassoc@gmail.com. Thank you. —Kenneth Graham
African American Association
African American Association meetings, gatherings and programs that it sponsors, now and until further notice are on hold for the protection of us all. We will return to room 15 of the Dreiser Center every second Saturday of the month with rousing topics and inspiring special guests as soon as the worldwide pandemic has ended! Malcolm X@95!!! The African American Association of Co-op City applauds the OAAU, Sons of Afrika, the December 12th Movement, Ilyasah Shabazz, (Daughter of Malcolm X) and the Shabazz Center for coming together to make Malcolm X@95 a powerful day for everyone to remember! Kudos to our own Francine Reva Jones, First Vice President of the AAA of Co-op City, for attending and driving for more than three hours along the cavalcade route (starting point: 26th Street between Malcolm X and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. At 1 p.m., they proceeded on Malcolm X Blvd. to 145th Street, cars adorned with red, black and green flags and posters like the one above. On to Frederick Douglas Blvd. and then to 125th Street, then to Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. to 135th Street and then circled the same streets and separated into three caravans which convened for a rally at the Apollo Theatre.) Hence, the December 12th Movement, a Black human rights organization based in New York City, who have organized political actions leading toward local and national mass mobilizations on racism, self-determination, reparations, quality health care, housing, criminal justice, and education. Their signature dynamic street rallies and marches and forums have included the NYC “Days of Outrage,” the annual Malcolm X ‘Shut Em Down’ marches in Harlem on May 19, the Million Youth March in partnership with the late Dr. Khalid Muhammad, and the first Millions for Reparations rally in Washington, DC. They have provided keynote speakers at our Black History Month, Kwanzaa and other gatherings hosted by the AAA. The African American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: Contact your respective instructor as indicated below for gathering updates: Belly Dance Classes – Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. Call Xonia, 646-301-9438. Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2; also first and third Tuesdays in Einstein Center, Section 5, 6 p.m. Fees are minimal. Call Cynthia, 917903-7073. Salsa Class – Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop, room #1. Call Keith, 917-5616211. Yoga and Zumba Classes with Meena – Saturdays at 9:30 a.m., in Dreiser Center, room #2. Contact Meena at 917-863-1507. Healing Drum Circle – Please continue to follow this article for updates. We leave you with this as a reminder of your strength: “A race of people is like an individual man; until it uses its own talent, takes pride in its own history, expresses its own culture, affirms its own selfhood, it can never fulfill itself.” – Malcolm X —Michelle Marbury
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Broun Place Townhouse Association
Good day neighbors. It is a fact wearing a mask has helped with the reduction of the spread of the COVID-19. So why are there so many people on the Greenway without masks? Masks protect you and others. Although we are practicing social distancing, those droplets are hanging out there and viable to spread those germs. We need the masks. Don’t forget handwash those masks too. Suds it up like you wash your hands, rinse and dry with a hair dryer. This does kill germs. Report the groups congregating on the Greenway that are smoking weed and drinking. Again, we express appreciation and acknowledge the masks received from Bishop Angelo Rosario, Board member, through Homeland Security, which we distributed. Hats off to our local commercial establishments in Bartow Mall for doing a great job to support social distancing and keeping shelves stocked. Did you know the pharmacy offers free delivery of prescription drugs for those over 65? Broun Place is having problems with people following safety rules and rules in general. Number one: personal cars are not allowed on the brickwork paths in the townhouse areas. It is hard to believe that someone had a personal car in front of their apartment. Only electric grills can be used for BBQ on patios and terraces. Saturday, May 16, a neighbor started a BBQ fire; it was a real danger. Thanks to Michelle Sajous and Leandra Peters and their team for thinking of unique ways of bringing folks together and occupied, i.e. The third Zoom meeting of building association presidents was held Monday, May 18, 2020. It was good to share, see and hear from our association presidents. Positive diagnosis? Then it is your responsibility to, without hesitation, contact Mr. Anthony Barzelatto, director of Riverbay Corporation’s Safety Department so that Riverbay can take quick necessary measures to sanitize and quarantine the central location. Use the sidewalk garbage pails for one-time use gloves and masks. The photos in the Co-op City Times of discarded gloves and masks on sidewalks and parking areas show dangerous and disgusting examples of lazy citizens. Neighbors, remember our community etiquette and place garbage in the appropriate bin, not on the concrete. Seems like fewer people are participating in “Clap hands for Caregivers.” When 7 p.m. rolls around we all need to get out and clap hands, cheer for our essential workers. This is an important way to show your appreciation. Please keep your participation up. We need to count our blessings living in Co-op City. Thank you to the staff at the Co-op City Times for continuing to bring us news and developing important, informational articles during this very difficult time. Join us in sending Birthday greetings to former cooperator, Diana Miyuki Kindaichi. Happy Birthday and many more. Remember, keep dancing and happier days are ahead. —Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar
Working Families of Co-op City
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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 until 1:30 p.m. each day. To find a location near you, text “NYC food” to 877-877 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 https://maps.nyc.gov/foodhelp/#map-page or https://www.foodbanknyc.org/get-help/ on the internet 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. Health Insurance Please review the following if your or someone you know has lost a job, health coverage or are uninsured: https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/, https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/IPANavigatorSiteLocations, https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/r esources, https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/node/41731. Defensive Driving Class The class scheduled for June 20, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. is still TBA because of the current health situation. Please return to this article for updates. Those taking the online class through Empire Safety Council – https://www.empiresafetycouncil.com/ – can use the promo code “Wright” for a discount. Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. Please stay safe. —D. Illis
Did you get yours? Because of the health crisis, Governor Cuomo has ordered a primary absentee ballot application be sent to every NYS voter. You should have gotten yours by yesterday, and if you didn’t, you can call 1-866-VOTE-NYC (1-866-868-3692) • State Senator Jamaal Bailey, (SD36) bailey@nysenate.gov, 718-547-8854. • Assembly Speaker, Assemblyman Carl Heastie, 718-654-6539. to check on its status. If you did receive your application, fill it out, check the box • Senate Majority Leader, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, 914-423-4031. “Temporary Illness,” mail it back and wait for your absentee ballot to arrive in the For city level issues, contact: mail. • NYC District 12 Council Member Andy L. King; Andy.King@council.nyc.gov, The eliminated, reinstated, and unsuccessfully challenged presidential portion of the primaryis finally, definitely and permanently re-reinsated. The June 23 pri- 718-684-5509. mary election for our district will offer choices for president, U.S. congress, state • Public AdvocateJumaane Williams, GetHelp@advocate.nyc.gov, 212-669assembly, and female and male AD83 committee positions. Sample ballots should 7250. be ready to view online by following the vote.nyc absentee ballot links. —Mary Pearson To recap: The presidential primary is back on and all registered, affiliated Democrats have three ways to vote in the June 2020 primary elections, 1) in person on June 23 at your usual poll site, 2) by early voting from June 13 through June 21 at a location still undetermined, 3) by absentee ballot, filled in and postmarked by June 16. Appearing on the ballot (still hanging on to their influence-wielding delegates) will be presidential candidates Joe Biden, Bernie Sanders, Andrew Yang, Pete Buttigieg, Amy Klobuchar, Tulsi Gabbard, Michael R. Bloomberg, Tom Steyer, Michael Bennet, Elizabeth Warren and Deval Patrick. You know who gets your vote. Progressive Causes 2020 Here are three issues currently receiving national progressive focus: 1) Save the US Postal Service, 2) Fight for hazard pay for essential workers, and 3) Make vote-by-mail elections easier nationwide. Add your voice to these and other federal level issues by contacting: • U.S. Congressman Eliot Engel, (NYCD16) engel.house.gov/contact-me, 718320-2314. • U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, www.schumer.senate.gov/contact/email-chuck, 202-224-6542. • U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, www.gillibrand.senate.gov/contact/email-me, 202-224-4451. For state level issues, contact: • State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, (AD82) benedettom@nyassembly .gov, 718-320-2220.
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Retirees of Dreiser Loop
With prayers, we will survive. Continue to read this article for up-to-date info on our opening, changes in schedules and what will be done to continue the plans and activities of the Retirees of Dreiser Loop. As I’ve mentioned, our days are getting better and we will be together soon and very soon. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. Our monthly membership meeting scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month is cancelled until further notice. Do not send checks for the below trip or theater event until further notice. 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 A.S.A.P; 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, 718320-0500. 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. 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. 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
Goose Island Seniors
To all my Goose Island family and friends, have a happy Memorial Day weekend. We want to remember all those heroes who gave their lives for our freedom. A big thank you to those serving in the military now and a huge thank you to those on the front lines of this pandemic. Let us also remember our family and friends who have touched our lives and passed on. Please stay safe. It’s a good idea to stay indoors but if you have to go out, please follow the medical professionals’ advice. You are in control of your actions. Please be wise. Because of the Coronavirus, the Senior Citizens’ Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. is still closed. We will reopen when we are totally convinced it is safe to do so. There are no activities, Bingo, Pokeno, Karaoke, Mahjong, trips, etc. To contact me, do not call the office; you may text or call my cell phone at: (347) 847-1941. Our e-mail address is goose.island @optonline.net. Sight & Sound “Queen Esther” April 23, 2020 was postponed until it is safe to go. The Sight and Sound Theatre sent an e-mail stating the show was cancelled. We have a credit to use when the office re-opens and it is safe to go. When they open, we can reschedule a later date for “Queen Esther” or request a refund. Cruise to Bahamas July 27 is cancelled. For more information, please call Yonna at (646) 579-1701 or Stephen at (347) 8471941. To all members Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of May: Jesse Seise, Edith Gitelson, Dorothy Drayton, Linda Singleton, Bernice DeCarmo, Edna Senior Williams, Mary Pilla, Gerald “Jerry-Robert” Ortiz, Karla Klaus, Josephine Betacourt, Vivian Melendez-Vasquez, Geneva Lindsey, Lonia Strong-Davenport and Clotilda Hartfield. Sick and Shut-In - Mary Pilla is at the Paramount at Somers Nursing Center, phone number: 914-5345474. Our condolences to Rosaura Cruz who lost her sister. May God comfort the family. Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, room 39, Bronx, NY 10475, the Section 5 Community Center; phone number: (718) 379-9613. Our office is presently closed. You may call Stephen’s ce11: 347-847-1941. These are unusual times. All our lives are disrupted. Let’s pray this will end soon. On behalf of my officers and me, try to stay safe. Good health to all. –Stephen Roberts, Sr.
CARRYING CHARGE BOXES For shareholders’ convenience, carrying charge boxes located in each of the Bartow, Dreiser and Einstein Centers remain open throughout the month for shareholders to deposit their maintenance payments.
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 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.
Learn how to Zoom Would you like to learn how to use Zoom for JASA activities and events? Register at 718.320.2066 for classes on 5/27 or 6/1. Classes are held via Conference Call, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. If you know how to use Zoom, call and register for a class starting in June. Space is limited for 10 participants. DJ Woody Join DJ Woody on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Facebook live and Zoom. Add DJ Woody Rosario on Facebook. Zoom information will be shared soon. Concerts every Friday, at 1:00 p.m. Please call to register at 718.320.2066. Join us on Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82906881632 Dial in phone number: 646-558-8656 Meeting ID on your phone: 829 0688 1632, then press # When asked for a participant ID, please skip this by pressing # again
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.
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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 is provided as soon as a 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.
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
AARP Chapter #4997
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are cancelling the two trips listed below. You will be notified at a later date on when and how we will refund payments. 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. A Friendly Reminder: We shall overcome this change to our lives. Please know you are thought of daily and wished brighter days. Just thinking: during your very busy days, take time to call one or two people each day. Just to say “how you doin.” We’re looking forward to seeing all of you soon. Good & Welfare: Please contact our Good and Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home. Reminder: Our monthly membership meeting, scheduled on the second Monday of each month, is cancelled until further notice. —Delores Debnam
Building 25 Association
Happy Memorial Day, enjoy, and remember, safe distance. 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. We continue to salute all 2020 graduating children of Building 25; parents, 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 May 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 COVID-19, 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. Closing with a quote to honor our first responders in the fight against COVID-19: “True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.” (Arthur Ashe) –Wanda Bailey
Building 8 Association
Wishing all cooperators to stay safe and be kind. Please keep your distance, wear a mask on the elevators and in the laundry room. There was an incident in the laundry room consisting of about thirteen people. Co-op police were called and advised cooperators of safety; 5 people only. CCPD quickly resolved the problem. We have some serious problems in the building, such as cooperators throwing articles from their windows. Cooperators notice this occurs in the front and back of the building. Please parents, talk with your children and request to respect your residency. Dogs urinating in the elevators, staircases and near the garden. Please just clean it up, especially now that Riverbay is short of staff. Quality of life in Co-op City is a major concern of many cooperators. Congratulations to all our graduating seniors! If you wish to post your child’s picture in the lobby, contact your building association. I would like to thank our building ssociation for treating our Maintenance staff, Co-op City police and Riverbay staff to a pizza lunch with soda and water, –Azalea McDavid
Building 27 Association
Neighbors, we wish you all to be safe and healthy. Please stay in, if necessary, make your plans for one given day. We are required to wear a face mask/coverage and will not be allowed in the supermarkets without a mask on. Only three persons on the elevator. Congratulations to all graduates from pre-school on. We wish all a safe and healthy summer. Please follow the safety guidelines. Keep hope alive and continue to focus on your dreams, you will get there. Do not let fear and anxiety become overwhelming. Recommendations via CDC. A: take breaks from watching TV 24/7, 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 morale. We appreciate the daily briefing from Gov. Cuomo and Mayor de Blasio keeping the people updated and informed. We look forward to the briefings, we have learned so much. Thank you, Riverbay essential workers There are more pictures of our workers, perhaps the History Committee will make a memoir album, and this would be worth a purchase. We wish them all and their families to be safe and healthy. When you pass by one, wish them to be safe and healthy. Our condolences to the family of Mr. Luis Salazar, director of Janitorial Service. We appreciate the priority of his standards for those whom he supervised, to make sure the buildings were extremely clean and that the cooperators were served properly. It has reflected in our building, we often say we have the best porters, and really hope they never leave us. Neighbors, Be Encouraged Neighbors calling and checking on each other. As we go through this crisis, engage in the positive messages of your faith to keep us strong. Most of us have cable TV, look at the Christian stations, also listen to Christian radio stations, let’s focus on the good news and we will feel better for it. Continue to be prayerful; we all will get through this together. It is just so heartbreaking to refer to names. We offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to our Co-op families who lost a loved one. Know that we are praying for you and for each other. To those who are ill, we wish you all a speedy recovery and stay safe and healthy. Happy birthday to those in 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 world peace and healing of the nations that the pandemic crisis will soon be gone. Be kind, thoughtful, genuine, prayerful and thankful. –H. Overman
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
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), the Co-op City Baptist Church will be conducting Sunday School, worship services, prayer services and Bible study classes via conference call line or video Conference using Zoom until further notice. You are invited to join us for Sunday Worship Service tomorrow at 11:00 a.m., via Zoom video conference: https://us04web.zoom .us/j/ 9623430102, conference ID 962 343 0102, password 788175, or Zoom telephone conference using call in number: (646) 568-7788; Conference ID 962 343 0102#,
Co-op City Baptist Church
Password 788175. Adult Sunday School is held at 9:00 a.m. You can join us via conference call line: 563-999-2090, Pin #660065. 1:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study, Zoom https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102, Conference ID 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 Prayer services shown below: 12:00 p.m., Thursday, Prayer Warriors 12:00 p.m., Friday Noon Day Prayer Service
Open Door Ministries
Traditional Synagogue
Due to the current Coronavirus crisis, services are canceled 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, no steps. Phone #: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon 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. The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue. The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to services. Please come by 9:00 a.m., so we can take out the Torah. The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbath ends on Saturday, May 23, at 9:06 p.m. Candle Lighting for Friday, May 29, 7:59 p.m. Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates, in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15.00 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, Edith Gitelson and Karla Klaus and all other members who will celebrate their birthday in May. For those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in May, 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
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. Please 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
Morning Joy Psalm 30:5 Weeping may stay overnight, but there is joy in the morning. It’s easy to be strong and hopeful when all is going well but what about when disaster strikes or when we feel like we’ve failed at something or are not understood by the people around us? Is your joy dependent on circumstances or on God who controls them? If we are unsure of where our joy comes from we will be tossed like ocean waves at every turn. Psalm 51:12 Give me back the joy of your salvation. Keep me strong by giving me a spirit of willing obedience. A “willing spirit” is one that is not in bondage but free and yielded to the Spirit of God, who ministers to and through our own spirit. It isn’t enough to confess sin and experience God’s cleansing; we must also let Him renew us within so that we will conquer sin and not succumb to temptation. –Warren Wiersbe Do you take joy or give joy? When you feel miserable and out of sorts does everyone around you also have to feel the same way? It’s difficult to have to tread lightly in your own home for fear of being offensive. Emotional abuse occurs when your behavior is controlled by the negativity of another person. Make someone smile today. Take a picture of a twinkie or a yodel. Hang a chandelier outside, have fun and refuse to cater to a dismissive spirit. Nehemiah 8:10 “Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy
choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the Joy of the Lord is your strength.” 11 The Levites calmed the people, saying, “Be still, this is a holy day. Do not grieve.” 12 Then the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them. The joy of the Lord is found on the road to restoration. God convicts us of sin, and often our first reaction is guilt and shame. But those feelings never come from God. Ezra the scribe gathered the people. He read to them from God’s book and ministers explained the words and their meaning to the people. Nehemiah 8:8 says, “They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.” Once the people understood, they wept. God’s Word was opening their eyes to the way they had failed Him, but Nehemiah was quick to remind them of who the Lord is. “They could delight in the joy of the Lord because he is a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate.” –NIV Quest Study Bible Contact Open Door Ministries by text 917-3344407 or email opendoorministries.net. Blessings in Christ, —Pastor Luis Ramos
Full sermon at Open Door Ministries YouTube Channel
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 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 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 cancelled due to the outbreak of the virus. However, our members and friends are invited to join us via the telephone conference call line at (712) 432-3900; at the prompt, enter access code 343284, followed by the # sign. Church Schedule Sunday School is now in session via conference call 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. Sunday Worship Service Begins at 11:00 a.m. via Conference Call. 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 conference call number above. Pastor Owens gave a very encouraging and inspiring sermon last Sunday entitled “Help Is on The Way.” He assured us that when facing adversity, if you pray and earnestly seek God’s face, rest assured that help is on the way; that God’s help is never too early, never too late but just when we need it. When you pray, knock on Heaven’s door, rely on the Holy Spirit to move, the moment you put your trust in God, help is on the way. In his sermon, he cited Psalm 46:1-3 which states “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea: Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof;” Matthew 7:7 – “Ask and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find, knock, and it shall be opened unto you;” and Matthew 21:22 – “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Indeed, we believe that God’s help is on the way. 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
Newsong Church
COVID-19 Relief Fund Though we’re thankful that this pandemic is beginning to slow down in our city, we can see the way it has affected many families in our community. Many are out of work, or are still sick and recovering, making it difficult to provide their family with the essentials. As a result, our church started a COVID-19 RELIEF FUND. This fund will help Co-op City families in need by giving those who qualify a grocery gift card. If you or your family are in need of food, please go to our website, www.newsongchurchnyc.org, and fill out our COVID-19 RELIEF APPLICATION. Due to high volume, certain terms and conditions do apply. If you would like more information about our relief fund, or are interested in helping us serve our community, please email us at CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org. We’re praying for you, Co-op City, and we’re in this together! —Pastors Mike & Cyndie Tolone
Building 22A&B Association
Hi, good news, the officials are easing restrictions on our outdoor activities. But go slow, don’t want an upswing of COVID-19. We have lost many cooperators in both buildings. Our sympathy goes out to all the families.I want tocongratulate everyone on following our officials’ instructions for keeping our distance.Wear your mask in elevators, laundry room andwhen you’reoutdoors; be safe. Laundry room etiquette Don’t put soiled laundry in baskets. Please return on time to retrieve your clothes, others are waiting to wash and dry, also please clean the filters for faster drying time. Mail Someone threw unopened mail in the trash can on the ‘A’side from the plastic file…you are committing a federal crime punishable by fine and/or imprisonment or both. Please check the file for your misdirected mail. Happy birthday to all. Prayers to all who lost loved ones. Look in on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. Thank you. –Betty Leak Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could cause you to receivea community complaint and fine.
Pentecostal Tabernacle
100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A Bronx, NY.10475 Please be advised that service in the sanctuary is on hold. However, services are held every Sunday morning online at 11 a.m. Prayer service are held every Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., and Bible study at 7:30 p.m. Prayer and Bible study will also be held Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. Please call 718-324-0334 or 646-345-6707 to get access code for the service. Focus: A Transformed life. The believer’s life is transformed by the power of God to a conquering lifestyle through Christ Jesus. (Romans 12:1-2 &10-18) I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God. (10-18) Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love, in honoring preferring one another. Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer. Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you, bless and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another, mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil, provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. The plan of God for salvation of mankind spans all of time, bears the price tag of the blood of Jesus, and offers all people a brand-new start. Paul expounded on these marvelous truths in the Book of Romans. We have read of the hopeless plight of sinful mankind, of the miracle of deliverance and of the joyous promise of restoration. In Romans, chapter 12, Paul gave some very practical direction about the application of this truth to our daily lives. It is essential that we understand foundational doctrines such as faith, justification, and divine guidance. But the Scriptures do not leave us to live our lives in the realm of the theoretical. This life changing gospel calls us to a place of commitment that will affect the way we live and how we interact with other people. It is important that we study the Bible every day, and when we meditate on the word, we will find grace, strength, joy, peace to overcome the trials of life. God’s grace is sufficient to keep us every day. Our duty is to remain faithful to God in whatever, area He has called us to work. Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. For further information, call Rev. R. Sibblies at 718-324-0334. —Rev. R. Sibblies
22
Public Safety
Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
Remember to stay safe this summer, especially near pools and beaches. It is likely that New York City Beaches will not be open for swimming over the Memorial Day weekend. In the next few days or weeks, some beaches and pools may be open for passive recreation without lifeguards on duty. Some beaches and pools may have lifeguards on weekends only. Be aware and alert to this fact. Use extra caution if going near closed beaches and other bodies of water if there are no lifeguards on duty. Be sure that children are made aware of the dangers of swimming alone especially in oceans or lakes. Have a safe and healthy Memorial Day weekend. Also be sure to buckle your seatbelt and avoid distractions when driving. If you plan to consume alcoholic beverages, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink or call a taxi. Police agencies throughout the country are stepping up DWI enforcement for the summer months between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Wherever you may travel, always be alert to suspicious persons or packages in high traffic areas. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or (718) 320-3300 press 1. 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 while maintaining 6-foot social distance when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street. Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. It is also important to remember that not all disabilities are visible. Someone who appears to be healthy may have a physical or developmental disability. May is awareness month for ALS, Allergies and Asthma, Arthritis, Cystic Fibrosis, Celiac Disease, Fibromyalgia, Hepatitis, High Blood, Huntington’s disease, Lupus and Lyme disease. This is a good opportunity to schedule an appointment for a physical exam. It is also a good opportunity to learn about these diseases or others which may affect your friends, family members or neighbors. May 31 is known as World Day No Tobacco Day. Use this opportunity to motivate yourself to take steps to quit or cut back on cigarette smoking or other tobacco uses. It is a good time to learn about your neighbors and embrace your differences and celebrate your similarities. Knowledge is power, the more you learn the stronger you become. (Continued from page 7)
If You See Something, Say Something!
Working Together To Keep Co-op City Safe! • Report any unusual or suspicious persons or activity to CCPD. • Do not allow strangers access to your building by holding the door. • Be aware of work being done in your building and when contractors are allowed to be on the premises. • Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked. • Do not leave packages or electronics in your car where they are visible. • Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD.
Emergency: 718-671-3050 or 9-1-1 • Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc
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Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
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FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION
Re-installation of any types of Blinds. Repair Closet Doors and Sell New Bi-Fold Doors! Serving Co-op City for over 25 years. “When you see me, You’ll know me.” Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week
Toll Free: 855-369-9936 ExecutiveExoticLimo.com ExecutiveSecurityProtection.com
Call Mike at: 718-974-1290 7/25
SPOONER
• Basic Cleaning $96 • Deep Cleaning $138 • Non-Medical Senior Care $90 • 4 Hour Min. + 8.78% tax • Bonded • 7 Days • Cash, Pay-Pal www.spoonercleaning.com 5/30 (718) 320-5112
PAINTING
Advertise in the Co-op City Times!
COMPUTER CONSULTANT, SALES & REPAIR Repair – Upgrade – Data Recovery – Virus Removal – Laptop Overheats – Cracked Screen – Broken Power Jack – Transfer your cassette tape music to CDs. Call James 646-281-4475, 718-324-4332.
8/22
Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form;
DECORATOR/UPHOLSTERY 5/30 5/30
MetroCard Bus/MTA Info The MetroCard bus will not be running until further notice. For more information, call (212) METROCARD. HOME IMPROVEMENT
1-800-479-2667 CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH
• ALL HANDYMAN SERVICES • VERTICAL & MINI BLINDS • SINK VANITIES • SPACE SAVERS • MATCHING HAMPERS • BATHTUB ENCLOSURES • CLIP-ON MIRROR FRAMES
Breathe Easy
• RANGE HOODS We BEAT • LIGHT FIXTURES Any • KITCHEN CABINETS • CABINET REFACING Quote! • COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS
Grout & Carpet Cleaning Co-op City Resident Specials
Elim in Bugsate
CO-OP SALES BLINDS! Vertical, Mini, Wood, Pleats
www.co-opsales.info DON’T PAY MORE AT YOUR LOCAL HARDWARE STORE!
5/30
ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE
If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by the following methods:
Call for rates! Ads starting at $8/week! 718-320-3300 x3384
JB RYAN C OMPUTER R EPAIR & U PGRADE
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-thespot decisions or to inform you about service changes. Remember, be smart, be safe. Hang up and contact the authorities!
5/30
CLEANING SERVICES
DOMESTIC SERVICE
Phone Scams – Personal & banking information
Closed • MTA Customer Service Center in Lower Manhattan • MTA Metro-North Customer Service Center in Grand Central Terminal. • MTA lost and found offices • MTA MetroCard Mobile Sales Bus and Vans
Open • The Station Master's Office at Grand Central Terminal • The OMNY customer service center will be operating at reduced hours. Starting at 5 p.m. Friday, March 20, the service center will be open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Due to the state's reduction in workforce amid the pandemic, there may be delays in response to FOIL requests. • We’re not currently processing online applications for our Paratransit Access-a-Ride service. Call 877-337-2017 and we’ll handle requests on a case-by-case basis.
Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Send an e-mail to: reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).
Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City
Co-op City is private property and therefore prohibits distribution of unsolicited advertising material to shareholders’ homes and/or property, including cars parked in the development’s eight garages. If you witness anyone depositing or distributing advertising material on Co-op City property, please call Public Safety at 718-671-3050. Be prepared to give the location and description of the person(s) leaving the material. All unwanted, unsolicited advertising material should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground causing litter. Thank you for your cooperation.
24
Co-op City Times / May 23, 2020
STOP THE SPREAD OF COVID-19! LEARN HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AND OTHERS AT HOME. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19? • The most common symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat and shortness of breath. Other symptoms include feeling achy, loss of taste or smell, headache, and diarrhea. • Most people with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) will have mild or moderate symptoms and can get better on their own.
WHO IS MOST AT RISK FOR SERIOUS ILLNESS? • People age 50 or older (people age 65 or older are at the highest risk) • People who have other health conditions, such as: Lung disease Kidney disease Asthma Liver disease Heart disease Cancer Obesity A weakened immune system Diabetes
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I GET SICK WITH COVID-19 SYMPTOMS? If you are sick with COVID-19 symptoms, assume you have it. When you are sick: • If you have trouble breathing, pain or pressure in your chest, are confused or cannot stay awake, or have bluish lips or face, call 911 immediately. • Call your doctor if you are age 50 or older or have a health condition that puts you at increased risk, or if you do not feel better after three days. • Always contact a doctor or go to the hospital if you have severe symptoms of COVID-19 or another serious health issue. • Do not leave your home except to get necessary medical care or essential food or supplies (if someone cannot get them for you). • If you must leave your home: Avoid crowded places. Stay at least 6 feet from others. Cover your nose and mouth with a bandana, scarf or other face covering. Wash your hands before you go out, and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer while outside. • Household members can go out for essential work and needs but should monitor their health closely.
If you or someone in your home is sick: • Create physical distance: Do not have visitors. Stay at least 6 feet from others.
Sleep head-to-toe if you share a bed with someone who is sick, or sleep on the couch. Keep people who are sick separate from those at risk for serious illness. • Cover up: Cover your nose and mouth with a bandana, scarf or other face covering when you are within 6 feet of others. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your inner elbow. • Keep it clean: Throw tissues into the garbage immediately after use. Wash your hands often with soap for 20 seconds, especially after you cough or sneeze. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you are unable to wash your hands. Frequently clean surfaces you touch, such as doorknobs, light switches, faucets, phones, keys and remote controls. Wash towels, sheets and clothes at the warmest possible setting with your usual detergent, and dry completely. Do not share eating utensils with others, and wash them after every use.
WHEN CAN I LEAVE MY HOME AFTER BEING SICK? • If you have been sick, stay home until: You are fever-free for three days without Tylenol or other medication and It has been at least seven days since your symptoms started and Your symptoms have improved • Reminder: New York is on PAUSE. This means that even if you have been sick, you should only leave your home for essential work or errands, or to exercise, while staying at least 6 feet from others.
NEED HELP? • If you are having a medical emergency, call 911. • If you do not have a doctor but need one, call 844-NYC-4NYC (844-692-4692). New York City provides care, regardless of immigration status, insurance status or ability to pay. • For more information, call 311 or visit nyc.gov/coronavirus. The NYC Health Department may change recommendations as the situation evolves. 4.20