Co-op City Times 06/27/15 by Co-op City Times

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

Public Safety begins training in the use of body cameras

Vol. 50 No. 25

Resolution #14-35, Competitive Bidding for General Manager/ Managing Agent

Saturday, June 27, 2015

Full implementation expected to begin later this summer

BY BILL STUTTIG

The process of equipping Co-op City Public Safety officers on patrol with body cameras began in earnest this week as more than a dozen supervisors, including Lieutenants, and Patrol Sergeants, received training on the use of the cameras and related equipment.

The training was provided by representatives of Taser International, Inc., the firm who is selling the technology to CCPD for use in Co-op City. Also earlier this week, high ranking CCPD management, including Chief Frank Apollo and Captain James (Continued on page 2)

A representative from Taser International Inc. trains Public Safety supervisors in the operation of recently purchased body cameras and their related software. The training will be passed onto each officer before the cameras are put into use – very likely sometime this summer. Photo by Bill Stuttig

Riverbay Construction Dept. undertakes concrete ‘facelifts’ BY JIM ROBERTS

Rather than wait for a new outside contractor to complete major repairs still needed at the Dreiser and Bartow shopping centers, workers from the Riverbay Construction Department are pitching in to repair concrete steps and other projects. Steps near the Bingo Hall and Dunkin’ Donuts in Bartow were repaired in late June and other work should begin in the next couple of weeks to repair the long stairway lead-

ing down into the plaza behind the Bartow Administration building. Work to complete all the opened up areas on the west side of the Dreiser Community Center is also on the list for completion. “Once we finish in the front of Bartow, we’ll start working on the back steps,” said Tony Rasulo, Riverbay’s Director of Construction. “Right now, we have six men, so between finishing all our other work that comes along

25¢

Dear Fellow The Interviews President’s Message Shareholders: At the end of the In June, 2014, the Ad Hoc Committee Riverbay Board of leveling process, 3 Directors took the companies were recPresident initiative to start the ommended based on Competitive Bidding Protheir answers to a fixed cess for a Managing Agent. question and scoring sysIt was fairly obvious upon tem developed by the comreview of the Balance Sheet mittee. During the 2nd and Income State-ment that round of the search prothe approved Managing cess, this time including Agent had compiled a histhe full Riverbay Board of tory of poor performance, Directors, the 3 candidates including misconfiguring were asked if they underthe design and build of our stood the scope of the $85 million Power Plant work before being asked facility. specific management proThese and many other ject questions. After 2 to 3 revelations set forth an exhaustive hours of interviewing the limited process starting with the formation of onsite staff each provided, the Riveran Ad Hoc Committee for new manbay Board of Directors in deliberation agement which spent hundreds of and good faith could not recommend hours of preparation, documentation any of the companies presented. and interviews of prospective candiWhen the onsite candidates were dates. Simultaneously, these same asked to answer specific questions as Board Directors and Riverbay’s it relates to Residential Property ManGeneral Counsel spent a great deal of agement of a Mitchell-Lama developtime investigating, deliberating and ment, they were grossly unprepared or cleaning up the mess left behind by our suspended Managing Agent. (Continued on page 4)

Cleve Taylor

Co-op City participates in Con Ed demand response test BY ROZAAN BOONE

This past Wednesday when temperatures peaked at about 90 degrees in New York City, Co-op City participated in an electrical load shedding event called by Con Edison in which Riverbay was asked to reduce electrical load between 4-5 p.m. In response, beginning at 3:30 p.m., the Riverbay Power Plant shut down the lights in the community’s 8 parking

garages, the laundry rooms in the residential buildings were closed and one elevator in each building was taken out of service. At the power plant, the emergency diesel generators, which are designed to help restart the plant in an emergency, was also used in this demand response test to export more power to Con Ed. All of these measures (Continued on page 8)

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Holiday closings and Co-op City Times deadline notice Riverbay offices will be closing early at 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 2nd. In celebration of Independence Day, all Riverbay offices will be closed on Friday, July 3rd. Because of the holiday-shortened work week, all Co-op City Times deadlines will be strictly enforced. Directors’ viewpoints and weekly articles from building associations, clubs & organizations not received by 5 p.m. on Monday, June 29, will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, July 4th edition of the paper. Emergency services will be available. For Maintenance, please call (718) 320-3300, and press option “3.” For Public Safety, please call (718) 671-3050. Have a safe and enjoyable July 4th holiday weekend!

Hoops Upgrade … The refurbishing of the basketball courts — including new clear backboards, two newly repainted regulation-size courts — and handball courts in Section 5 was completed earlier this week. In July, the courts adjacent to garage 4 in Section 3 will be refurbished in a similar fashion. The Construction Department said that the exact dates of when the work will be performed will be announce d shortly. The work will require the closing of the courts for approximately two days. Photo by Bill Stuttig

Body cameras Keappock, received training on the storage and management of the data collected through the cameras. On April 22nd, the Riverbay Board of Directors unanimously approved a resolution calling for the placement of body cameras on Co-op City Public Safety officers which, when their use is fully implemented on a daily round-theclock basis, will make CCPD more technologically advanced than most major metropolitan police departments in the nation. A detailed policy governing the exact use of the cameras, including under which circumstances will the officers activate the cameras and how the images captured on the cameras will be stored and used for future reference has been prepared over the past several months and currently the Riverbay Legal Department is reviewing that policy and fine tuning it. Apollo said that he expects that process to be completed in a few weeks and at that point he expects full utilization of the recently-purchased cameras to begin. Chief Apollo has been researching and lobbying for his department’s use of body cameras since 2013, well before the recent string of tragic incidents involving violent confrontations between municipal police officers and the public.

Facelifts

every day, we should be able to start on the back stairways after the Fourth of July.” Riverbay will also purchase all the split face blocks for the lower plaza of the Bartow courtyard area, which have to be made to order, and work will be done to install those blocks on the two end walls. The outside contractor who is eventually hired to finish the block installation work will then use those blocks, speeding up the process and saving money. Bricks needed for the Dreiser Center work will also be purchased in bulk now to save money. “We believe we have enough inhouse talent to take on portions of the project to save us money in the long run,” said Noel Ellison, Interim General Manager of Riverbay. “We’ve had

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015 (Continued from page 1)

“The fact is,” Apollo said recently, “Co-op City now has this advanced technology before many, if not, most major metropolitan police departments. I have done research on this up to and including the most recent tragedy in Baltimore where a man died while in police custody. In the case of Co-op City and to the credit of the Board, we are not waiting for a tragedy. I think it is historic that they passed this program before most other agencies. Even the NYPD does not have a full body camera program in place yet.” The resolution, as submitted by President Cleve Taylor and seconded by Director Helen Atkins in April, calls for the purchase of body cameras, related equipment, a five-year maintenance program and licensing all at a cost of slightly more than $48,000. The cameras and maintenance program have been purchased from Taser International, Inc., one of two camera technologies tried out by the Public Safety Department during two limited thirty-day trial periods this past winter. Apollo said that Taser won out because their product met both the needs and budgetary constraints of the department. A representative for Taser made a presentation before the Riverbay Security Committee last December and the

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couple of people retire from the Construction Department, so we’re looking to bring in people with specific skills so we won’t constantly have to be managing contactors when we could be managing ourselves.” The major repair work that started last year in Bartow and Dreiser had to be halted in Bartow after the brick work was removed and significant damage of the steel structure was discovered. A new engineer was hired and discovered that the repairs will also entail asbestos removal as well. All that new work will be bid out for a new contract. “The re-bidding is a process unto itself,” Ellison said. “In an effort to move the work along and take away some of the eyesores, our guys will fill in and make this happen now.”

Staircase scheduled for repair at the rear of Bartow Community Center this month. Photo by Jim Roberts

committee decided at that time to allow a 30-day trial of the limited use of the body camera technology with Taser providing the cameras free of charge. A month later, another 30-day trial period was approved using the camera technology from another firm. Chief Apollo said that a total of 25 body cameras have been purchased since the Board’s unanimous passage of the resolution authorizing the use of cameras by officers. Once the Riverbay Legal Department approves the final policy governing the use of the cameras by officers in Co-op City, all officers will be trained by their supervisors on the understanding of that policy and also the proper use of the cameras. Apollo added that many officers gained experience with the preliminary policy and the operation of the body cameras with the two month-long trials periods earlier this year. During that trial period, the department experimented with varying types of cameras, including two types provided by Taser – one that is worn on the officer’s chest and the other that attaches to a uniform collar. Apollo said that it was decided then that the chest camera best suits the department’s needs. During the vast amount of time that each officer equipped with a camera is on patrol, the cameras will not be

turned on. The cameras are only activated when – at the discretion of the trained officer – he anticipates the escalation of a confrontation which may require intervention by that officer or other officers. The cameras can be activated with just the push of a button and they have the ability to record activity that happened even as long as 30 seconds before the camera was even activated, according to the presentation made by Taser in December. Ever since the tragic results of two highly-charged and fatal police encounters last summer – one in Missouri and one on Staten Island — police body cameras have increasing been utilized by local police forces to possibly create a more accurate record of confrontations between the public and police. President Barack Obama advocated for increased use of body cameras and increasing federal funding for making such technology available to local police departments as public outrage increased over fatalities stemming from confrontations between police and members of the public. Numerous additional tragic confrontations and controversies have arisen over the past few months, including Baltimore, further increasing the call for body camera technology throughout the nation.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

2nd Combing Co-op City

FRONT PA G E

Retirees of Dreiser Loop awards scholarships to five outstanding June graduates

Tunes on Tuesday set for July 7 premiere

The Riverbay Fund will kick off its summer concert series with Tunes on Tuesdays on July 7, 7-9 p.m. on the Section 1 Greenway featuring Tony Lewis & Friends. Bring your chair or blanket and join the party.

Wicked Wednesdays begin July 8

The Riverbay Fund’s summer concert series, Wicked Wednesdays, will begin on July 8 on the Section 5 Greenway with Jazz vocalist Antoinette Montague. Bring your chairs and come join the fun.

Farmers’ Market returns

The Farmers Market will return on July 8 on Aldrich Place next to the firehouse from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stay tuned for more information.

Senior Prom Tuesday

Riverbay Corporation and CenterLight Health Systems are co-sponsoring the 5th Annual Senior Prom on Tuesday, June 30, 2-5 p.m. in the Dreiser Auditorium. Attend for an afternoon of dancing, giveaways and refreshments. Dress to impress. Admission is free. For information and to RSVP, please call Carmen Cruz lee at (718) 519-4072.

The Co-op City Times will be delivered as normal next Saturday, July 4. Have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day!

Read and follow the Co-op City Times online at http://issuu.com/ cctimes

Imani Russ

Bekeri Bousso

The Retirees of Dreiser Loop, Inc. held their 43nd Annual Luncheon on Wednesday, June 17, at the delightful Marina Del Rey in Throggs Neck. As usual, the affair was well attended and the guests danced to the music and sounds of Carol/DAD Productions. Distinguished Service Awards were presented to Jo Ann Daniels-Harris and Elinor Gordon (posthumously) from the Retirees; the Special Congressional Recognition Certificate was received from Congressman Elliot L. Engel and Certificate of Merit from Assemblymen Carl E. Heastie. Mrs. Gordon’s awards were accepted by her Pastor, Rev. Calvin E. Owens. The second highlight of the afternoon was the recognition of the scholarship

BY LESLIE PETERSON

Gianni Gabriella Thompson

Quiana Harrison

awardees for 2015. The organization has presented scholarships to graduating grandchildren, great grandchildren or great great grandchildren of active members of the retirees for several past years. We are so grateful to our co-sponsors, Mr. James Alston, and Ms. Patricia Myers of McCall’s Funeral Services, and Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Granby, Granby Funeral Services, for their continued generous support of our scholarship program. Updates from alumnus Kevin Scott Jr., grandson of Lois and Raymond Scott, and Ashanti Samuel, granddaughter of George Upton, were received. Congratulations to our 2015 awardees: • Imani Russ is the granddaughter of Mary Askew. She is interested in pursuing a degree in Environmental Science.

• Bekeri Bousso is the grandson of Frances Wright. Currently, he is still reviewing college institutions where he will pursue a career in game design or graphic art. • Gianni Gabriella Thompson’s grandmother is Dorothy Harris. She will be attending Delaware State University where she will pursue a degree in business administration. • Quiana Harrison is the granddaughter of Virginia Stewart. Her goal is to attend Sexton Hall University and pursue a degree in nursing • Our last awardee is Aniya Raquel Villafane, the granddaughter of Ruth Romel Gonzalez. She will be attending Darton State College in pursuit of a Veterinarian Medicine degree.

Section 2’s Fun in the Sun

The weather threatened to dampen the day, but it did not dampen the spirit of the youth and families of our community who came out and had a fantastic time at the 4th Annual Summer Fun Day hosted by Section 2 Buildings 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14. The Presidents of these building associations, Jerome Rice, Maxine Sullivan, Deborah Henry, Sonja Maxwell, Leslie Peterson and Josie Ferguson, along with special assistants Gail Sharbaan, Denise Shelley, Valerie Gunn, Tiny Wood and Sonia Soto, and a host of volunteers, all pitched in to assist making this a great event despite the weather. A special “thank you” goes to Director Daryl Johnson who braved the elements and thrilled the kids when he participated in the Dunk Tank. They lined up, they tried and eventually down he went several times to the yelps of the parents and kids. A special “atta boy” to Dell from Cooper Place Townhouses, who taunted the crowd daring them to “dunk” him. The kids stepped up one by one and many were successful in dunking him and were proud of their accomplishment. Juan Ortega was, as always, very entertaining playing the Salsa and Meringue tunes that wowed the crowd and had the Salsa contestants dancing to win the coveted prizes. DJ Val always

does a great job and really had folks going with her “Name That Tune” choices. The kids did a great job with musical chairs, but the most challenging and humorous was the adult group of musical chair participants. Congratulations to interim GM Noel Ellison who won the challenge. Assemblyman Michael Benedetto stopped by and shared some treats with us. We thank him for his continuous support, along with Congressman Eliot Engel. Additional supporters were Stephen Kaufman, Stop and Shop, Peartree Mall, Amalgamated Bank, Wright and Wright (Allstate), Bob’s Discount Furniture, Fairway Foods, Associated, Peoples United Bank, NYPD Community Affairs, CCPD, Department of Sanitation and the Fire Department, who delighted the kids and treated them to seats on the truck and fire hats. Winston Dinkins of Velocity excited everyone with some of the best track races while

Aniya Raquel Villafane

Jesse Williams of JGC/Skills and Drills provided basketball coaching tips and games for the youth. These activities could not take place without the assistance of Michelle Sajous, Director of Community Relations, and Donovan Plummer, Director of Grounds. If anyone was overlooked, please accept our gratitude for your help and commitment as we continue to make this a united community.

President’s Report

unresponsive. The staffing they were providing simply did not meet the standards needed to complement the professionals already working at Co-op City and those areas we have identified for change. The one key component that the Ad Hoc Committee did not see during their phase of the deliberations were the individuals that these 3 finalists would send here to manage our 15,372 unit cooperative, 3 shopping plazas, 40 megawatt co-generation Power Plant, 8 garages and 1,065 employees. The Board of Directors insisted that we meet and hear from those onsite staff. Winn WB LLC 1. Winn WB Limited Liability Corp. - showed up with no onsite managing staff to the interview. They told us, “Give us the contract first, then we will go out and hire the people.” This attitude was brought to the interview after our detailed site visit to their premier Mitchell-Lama cooperative, Concourse Village, 161 Street, Bronx, New York exposed undesirable curb appeal, and complaints from shareholders of poor maintenance and janitorial services. Carrying Charges were 27% higher than Co-op City. Some of the claims made in the 300 page glossy management presentation and booklet were unsubstantiated. Synopsis: In my opinion, WB lacked onsite demonstrable property skills and personnel to manage Co-op City. Our property management sources later advised me that Winn WB LLC was attempting to poach employees away from their jobs to try again for the Riverbay contract. In my opinion, the attempted poaching of Riverbay employees by a professional management company is not a good way to start a relationship. First Service Residential 2. First Service Residential, Inc. - brought 2 people to the interview and, in my opinion, they were the wrong people for our business model (i.e. an Asset Manager and an Engineer with no Power Plant experience, yet he stated he would oversee the complexities of our 40 megawatt co-generation facility, not a credible claim since he had no experience in the design and build of power plants, the transmission of electricity, the purchase of high volume natural gas and fuel oil on the futures markets. The Asset Manager seemingly would be dependent on the people downtown in Manhattan to make decisions for him; and did not impess me during the interviews. Conceptually, they did not come to the meeting with a clear understanding of the economies of scale inherent to a large operation with 1,065 employees and a $75,000,000 payroll. Co-op City primarily needs residential property management. The regulatory nature of the property under Mitchell-Lama legislation and our Limited Dividend corporation tax filing makes asset management a secondary function handled by our Finance Department. Their business model called for outsourcing to subcontractors many of the key services, repairs and maintenance needed at Co-op City. Riverbay history has proven that in many key areas, our scale allows us to do the work in-house at significant savings to the cooperators. They claim their “offsite personnel” would be working a percentage of time for us in their offices in downtown Manhattan. However, when I interviewed their “off-site” Construction Manager, who claimed he would oversee all of our capital projects, he was not a licensed Professional Engineer and did not even have an OSHA 30 hour safety training certificate. The “off-site” First Service Manager who would be responsible for NYS Mitchell-Lama properties, was not, in my opinion, adequately experienced. Synopsis: I have a problem with the outsource model and property managers who ask for $1,600,000. They sent Riverbay only 2 people to actually manage Co-op City and said they will remote manage from their Manhattan offices; this would be included in their fee. In my opinion, the concept of offsite management would not work for this large of a structural and residential development. Our size and complexity deserve better. The Riverbay Board of Directors is responsible for the supervision of Management. The Board would have to spend an inordinate amount of time and resources to insure that Co-op City was receiving value from the staff working in Manhattan. Setting up the internal controls to monitor the activities of offsite personnel would be counterproductive. I assure you, our 186 Riverbay professional supervisors will most likely not be calling someone in Manhattan to resolve a cooperative issue.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015 (Continued from page 1)

Compass Rock Limited Liability Corporation Corporate profiles: Fortress Investment Group LLC (NYSE:FIG) owns CW Financial LLC which owns Compass Rock LLC. Fortress Investment Group is a LLC formed by the merger of the old Nomura securities firm and Fortress. This group is composed of the wealthiest people in the world. These high net worth individuals invest billions of dollars into pooled investment vehicles and take advantage of certain opportunities through various hedge funds and funds. Fortress Investment Group and its subsidiaries specialize in takeover of distressed and undervalued property. Fortress Investment Group are billionaires put together as a group. They brought Peter Cooper Stuyvesant Town under the guise of CW Financial LLC for $3.5 billion. CW Financial LLC then went out and hired managers from other companies and then formed Compass Rock LLC in 2012 to manage their Stuyvesant investment. Fortress Investment Group buys property from Wells Fargo bank. 3. Compass Rock Limited Liability Corp. - brought 3 on-site people. One, in my opinion, was unqualified to supervise a 40 megawatt co-generation facility (he had a refrigeration license and no experience in design and build of a power plant, transmission of electricity in large facilities or purchase of natural gas) and he was not a Professional Engineer (P.E.); one individual was qualified as a GM and displayed enough forward thinking to be a worthy individual; and an attorney who claimed he could do the work of labor counsel, landlord-tenant counsel, corporate counsel/Legal Department and part of Smith, Buss and Jacobs (SBJ) work. Riverbay Corporation’s original bid documents required a minimum of 5 years’ experience for each of the companies bidding. Six months after the deadline for submitting bids documents and upon review, it was revealed that Compass Rock LLC only had 3 years of experience. The Board of Directors was notified that Wells Fargo Bank, HUD and HCR had gotten together and changed the rules to accommodate Compass Rock. In my opinion, this clearly gave them an edge over other bidders by forcing the Board to consider them above the others. This secret waiver of the bid documents’ 5 year experience requirement was not revealed to other pre-bidders. Compass Rock LLC also recommended that the Riverbay Corporation go back to the practice of allowing workers to punch in 15 minutes early or 15 minutes late without paying the overtime. This is the same Federal Fair Labor Standard violation that cost Riverbay $7 million. It is my opinion that if a firm wishes to bid on a project, they should at least come to the negotiations with the correct staffing personnel. In my opinion, all of the bidders underestimated the sophistication of the Riverbay Board of Directors and our $215 million operation. Riverbay has approximately 185 administrative staff, many with graduate degrees, operations licenses, residential property certifications and many years of experience. The Riverbay Corporation is one of the largest employers in Bronx County and should hire what we need to advance our corporate goals. Pricing for Services The pricing of the 3 finalists all appeared to be a takeoff of Marion Scott’s previous contract amount of $1.6 million, plus additional fees. The glossy management booklets, for the most part, were boilerplate except for the insertion of the word “Riverbay.” The lofty goals would not be realistically attainable under the MitchellLama rent guidelines for a stay in place community such as Co-op City. In my opinion, no bidder had adequate experience managing a comparably sized MitchellLama development with the scope and complexities needed for Co-op City. The Ad Hoc Committee invited Wells Fargo, HUD and HCR to be part of observing, interviewing and supervising the entire management search process, however, all three chose not to participate. That is very unfortunate because if they had seen the lack of services these companies were offering, I am sure they too, like any reasonable person would have come to the same conclusion. Basically, it would have been a training mission, where the student sets the standard after seeing the

teacher’s notes, and at a price tag of $1.5 million plus to our shareholders. Economies to Scale Our former General Managers, now serving as interim GM’s, have more onsite, large property residential management experience than was presented by WB Winn, Compass Rock, and First Service. I am sure these companies may present a valuable service to smaller operations around the metropolitan area where going out and hiring dedicated staff becomes cost prohibitive. Here at Co-op City, that is not the case. The fixed costs here are higher than the low marginable return offered from hiring a managing agent with services we are already preforming, thus adding to their profit margin would be counterproductive. Our former general managers Peter Merola and Noel Ellison, now interim GM, each with 29 and 30 years’ experience at the world’s largest cooperative, have done a good job holding down the fort without any clear direction from the Board. They have more experience running a large Mitchell-Lama development like Co-op City than any of the companies that were interviewed, hence the attempts of several of the companies that submitted bids to poach Noel Ellison away from us to work for them! There is money allocated in several areas of the Riverbay Corporation’s budget to hire the ProjectSpecific Management Personnel needed to fill and strengthen the administration line in Co-op City. The cost of hiring will be lower than the cost of contracting. It is my opinion these new executives should be of the highest qualifications and skill level. Riverbay may then be able to reach a marginable amount of success while keeping the carrying charges low. Below are some ideas I’m throwing on the table. They have not been finalized by the interim GM’s and the Board. Areas of address: • Director of Internal Audit, i.e. CPA ( w/ experience and credentials) • Executive Director of Computer Services, i.e. M.S. Computer Information Sciences (w/experience and credentials) • Executive Director of Construction, i.e. M.S. Civil Engineering (P.E. experience and credentials) • Executive Director of Contracts & Purchasing, i.e. B.S. (CPM Certified Purchasing Manager) • Executive Director of Power Plant, i.e. M.S. Power Systems Engineer (P.E experience and credentials) • Assistant Director of Accounting, i.e. C.P.A., and/or B.B.A. and/or MBA in Accounting • Executive or Asst. General Manager, i.e. MBA or comp. education and verifiable work experience credentials and ability to think, present, lead and execute There is enough money in the budget to make this happen, with very little reallocation on the $1.5 million we have budgeted for Managing Agent, thus resulting in a savings. Since November, 2014 to present, Riverbay’s managing agent savings is $1.1 million with no diminution of services and quality of life. This makes business economical sense for all parties involved. We are also implementing succession planning for all the departments within the corporation. A few key Management Directors are considering retirement which would allow a smooth search and transition period, albeit at a tremendous loss of institutional knowledge. Assurances from the Board In closing, I believe the Riverbay Board of Directors would support a semi-annual independent management review that could be prepared by a Certified Public Accounting firm or any other entity decided on to add comfort to the Division of Housing and Community Renewal, Lending Institution and the shareholders of Co-op City. This level of confidence in our staff and the transparency it would provide is unparalleled in the housing industry. We fully realize that the Riverbay Board of Directors can only perform its due diligence through a documented process and recommendations to the Division of Housing and Community Renewal for a Managing Agent. The Board of Directors has sought the cooperation of the HCR, HUD and Wells Fargo bank, however, they have been uncooperative and do not want to take the time to talk to us. However, they will take our money and interest payments.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

It’s happening in Co-op City

Juneteenth Celebration

The Retirees of Dreiser Loop’s Humanitarian Committee held their first Juneteenth celebration last Saturday, June 20, in the Dreiser Auditorium C. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was issued on September 22, 1862, and became effective on January 1, 1863, the slaves in Galveston, Texas did not get the news that slavery had been abolished until June 19, 1865, hence the name of the celebration, Juneteenth. Saturday’s celebration, which was produced by Joan L. Murrel, told of some of the struggles and many of the achievements of African-Americans through Fashion and Dance. The event was well attended and featured a number of notable performances. Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

Fun In The Sun

Above are some of the exciting highlights from last weekend’s Section 2 Fun in the Sun. Photos by Elena Marrero

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Co-op City Times

Letters to the Editor To the Editor: To my Co-op City shareholders, friends and supporters, I was out of town. That is why I didn’t send a thank you note earlier. While I did not succeed in getting elected to the Board of

Thank you for your support Directors, I want you to know that I have not and will not give up in addressing our quality of life issues to make Co-op City a greater place to live in. I will stay active more than ever. I wanted to say that for the people that won, I wish them

the best of luck. I want to let you know I will be looking forward to the next election, and, in the mean time, let’s stay in contact. Again, thank you for your support and God bless all of you. —Peggy Stewart Diaz

ily members and so articulately, they spoke their prayers of forgiveness for the depraved person who pulled the trigger. Let us all join together and go forward and learn from it too. Take a look at Co-op City for diversification and see how we live together. Hate and extremism can never be the winner. Many Black churches held emotionally charged services Sunday, June 21st, and many spoke of this horrible

event while trying to gather to celebrate fathers. One way to honor is to teach respect and we are all the same under our beautiful and varied skin colors. Perhaps during summer vacation, we can think of many ways to encourage our children to learn about different cultures. We are part of the painful healing process even just days after the gunman’s rampage left nine people dead. —Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

So many unanswered questions

To the Editor: On Thursday morning, June 18th, 2015, this nation once again awoke to the news of another horrific mass massacre of our fellow citizens by the hands of a coward. The racially motivated murder of 9 church goers in a Bible study group at the historic Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina is beyond any level of words and comprehension in a civilized society. How many more times do we, as a civilized society, have to be confronted with this type of vicious evil? How many more times will our schools, our shopping malls, our movie theatres, our campuses and our houses To the Editor: I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Co-op City Times for doing an awesome article on my son, Matthew Miller, especially in a time when we pick up our daily newspapers and read often about youth violence and crime and very few positive things many of our youth are doing in their communities. As a school teacher and a dean for over 27 years, I

of worship, be the target of such pure and twisted evil that is beyond any level of comprehension? How many more sanctuaries of our lives must be stolen from us? How many more times do we have to bury our children, our spouses, our mothers, our fathers, our family members, our neighbors, our fellow Americans? How many more times do we have to wake up to news of another slaughter of innocents in our nation? How many more times do we have to sit down and try somehow to explain to our children what and why this evil act happened? How many more heartaches, tears

and unanswered questions as to the madness that is going around us that all must endure as it rips another hole in the heart and soul of all of us as a civilized society? Once again, another shred of my heart and soul has been torn from me, as well as countless others. My faith in our beings, in our roles, actions and responsibilities in moving forward to make our society more equal, more peaceful and more hopeful for future generations is once again shaken to my very core. Our tears flow once more, our hearts break once more, and our questions once again go unanswered. —Mark P. Bruh

With much gratitude have seen first-hand violence and bullying of young students. Our comm-unity has a bright spot called Martial Way Kung Fu Training Center. This school offers so much for our youth and for adults as well. The youth in this program are awesome as are the owner/chief instructor, Chris Robinson, along with his highly dedicated staff. Ask any parent who has a child there how this program

Riverbay Holiday Closings Riverbay Administrative offices will close at 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 2nd. All Riverbay offices will be closed on Friday, July 3rd for the July 4th holiday. Emergency services will be available. For Maintenance, please call (718) 320-3300, and press option “3.” For Public Safety, please call (718) 671-3050.

has positively impacted on their child in many ways. Let no one bad mouth our community because we do have many great kids here doing constructive, positive things. Let’s support these activities to better our community. Thank you, Chris Robinson, for greatly helping my son, Matthew, to achieve his goals. —Michael Miller

Help wanted

Audit Committee volunteers

The Riverbay Board’s Internal Audit Committee, chaired by Director Andrea Leslie, is seeking volunteers. Residents who have CPA and CIA certifications and who are available to serve on the committee are urged to contact Director Leslie at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or by calling the Riverbay Board of Directors’ office at 347-913-4224.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 21 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.

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Bill Stuttig

Associate Editor

Jim Roberts

Business Manager

Hate can never be the winner

To the Editor: At the same time as we honored and saluted our fathers last Sunday, we are compelled to pay tribute to the victims, their families and the congregation members of the historic Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Charleston, South Carolina. At services, Sunday, June 21st, the survivors of that day bravely found ways to cope with the senseless killing of their friends and fam-

Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. (718) 320-3300, ext. 3375 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Building 21

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr. Expiration Date

100, 120 & 140 Bellamy Loop

May 31, 2015

May 31, 2018

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be handsigned by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the authors. Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp. Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corporation of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available. The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.

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

Public Safety Report

CCPD urges residents to enjoy a Fourth of July free of illegal fireworks BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

The Fourth of July is a great time of the year to enjoy the summer and reflect on America’s Independence. The use of illegal fireworks has, unfortunately, become associated with this holiday. Illegal fireworks present serious risks of injuries resulting in trips to the emergency room. Children are especially at risk for injuries from illegal fireworks. Fortunately, professional fireworks displays are plentiful this time of year and provide a safe and breathtaking alternative to illegal fireworks. This year, the Riverbay Fund presents Fireworks on Friday, July 3, to be viewed from Greenway 3 located between Buildings 10 and 25 opposite the Little League fields located on Co-op City Boulevard. The fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. Bring a chair and join your neighbors for a fun-filled evening. Residents who live in the area and usually park on Co-op City Boulevard from Bellamy Loop to Peartree Avenue, please be advised that there will be no parking on Friday, July 3, from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 midnight. Vehicles are subject to being summonsed and towed at the owner’s expense. In addition, Co-op City Boulevard from Bellamy Loop to Peartree Avenue will be closed to all vehicular traffic from 8:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. These restrictions are in place to ensure safety and prevent property damage. There are numerous fireworks displays throughout the Tri-State area all summer long. These fireworks displays are an excellent alternative to using illegal fireworks. On Saturday, July 4, at 9:00 p.m., Macy’s presents fireworks from the Brooklyn Bridge with prime viewing locations along the East River from elevated portions of the FDR Drive which will be closed to vehicular traffic on this date. You can access the elevated portions of the FDR Drive from Houston Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, 42nd Street, Broad Street ground level, Old Slip upper level, Pearl Street and Frankfort Street. Fireworks are shot 1,000 feet into the sky also creating excellent viewing areas from locations in Brooklyn, Queens, New Jersey and Staten Island. This year’s fireworks are being held on the Hudson River and Macy’s 39th annual fireworks and is titled “BRAVE” and features an exclusive song, “America,” by Gloria Estefan. The fireworks will be simulcast on 1010 WINS. The musical score is perfectly timed with the fireworks display. The fireworks will also be televised on NBC, channel 4, starting at 8:00 p.m. This year’s show features artists Meghan Trainor, Kelly Clarkson, Flo Rida, Brad Paisley and Dierks Bently. For more information on this show, text JOIN to 62297. While it is nice to see the fireworks live, in front of your television provides the optimum viewing location with none of the hassle. Whatever you do, do not drive into New York City on July 4th. New York State is one of five states in which all fireworks are illegal for use by the general public. The other four states are Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island. The number of states completely banning illegal fireworks increases every year as injuries increase. Rhode Island was the last state added to this list because of an indoor fireworks display (Continued on page 31)

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

Tell your friends, relatives and employers about:

2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 • 718-320-3300 Riverbay Corporation is an equal opportunity employer.

For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbay corp.com; AND Barbara Penn at Bpenn@riverbaycorp.com. Please note that emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see bottom of the employment listings for specific directions.

CONTRACT SUMMARY

There are no contract opportunities this week. Please check back next week.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

New Job Posting: Open to All applicants from June 25, to July 6, 2015 • Job Reference #: 15-38

Porter position Restoration Department THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION. Ideal employee will be responsible for the day-to-day responsibilities duties including, but not limited to, numerous cleaning and restoration duties, such as washing, sweeping, mopping, waxing, buffing and stripping of VCT and wooden floors. Responsibilities include cleaning assigned apartments, compiling and depositing trash into compactor refuse. This individual will be lifting heavy items, perform overall cleaning and remove debris from apartments and other assigned areas. This employee will also need to respond to emergencies (floods, etc.) throughout the Co-op City complex, as well as the completion of other assignments from supervisor(s) as necessary. Job Description: Ideal candidate will: • Service and clean apartments and surrounding areas. Gather and empty trash. • Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, or scrubbing. • Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment to prevent damage to floors and fixtures. • Mix water and detergents in containers to prepare cleaning solutions, according to specifications. • Clean windows, glass partitions, or mirrors, using soapy water or other cleaners, sponges, or squeegees. • Notify managers concerning the need for major repairs or additions to building operating systems. • Requisition supplies or equipment needed for cleaning and maintenance duties. • Dust walls, machines, or equipment. • Strip, seal, finish, and polish floors. • Clean fixtures. • Move heavy furniture, equipment, or supplies, either manually or by using hand trucks. • Remove snow from sidewalks, driveways, or parking areas, using snowplows, snow blowers, or snow shovels, or spread snow melting chemicals. • Monitor building security and safety by performing tasks such as locking doors after operating hours or checking electrical appliance use to ensure that hazards are not created. • Performs other duties as assigned. Job Requirements: HS Diploma or equivalent is a plus; Candidate should have a working knowledge of janitorial equipment, tools, and material; Applicant must have ability to walk for long periods of time, twist, kneel, push, stoop, climb ladders; work in inclement weather, as well as lift and carry up to 80 pounds; Must be available for emergency work; Must be able to read and write in English; Bi-Lingual is a plus. Testing Requirements: Drug Screening Test, Background check. Days and Hours: Days and hours of operation will vary on a flexible schedule. How to Apply: Applications are given out at the below address from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ________________________________________ Open to All Applicants from June 23, 2015 to July 1, 2015 • Job Reference #: 15-37 Public Safety Lobby Attendant Ideal candidate will perform as liaison to the Public Safety Department, by monitoring building lobby

activity; interacting with cooperators and visitors; reporting emergencies as necessary and maintaining a daily log; and other duties as assigned by a supervisor. Candidate must be detail oriented coupled with excellent customer service skills. Job Description: Ideal candidate will: • Monitor entrance and departure of employees, residents, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises. • Record daily activities and irregularities in public safety log books, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences. • Call Co-op City Public Safety in cases of emergency, such as fire or presence of unauthorized persons. • Report alarms and investigate disturbances within the confines of the building’s lobby. • Observe visitors, patrons, or employees to preserve order and protect property. • Answer questions, and provide information to employees, residents, visitors, and other persons during non-business hours. • Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and call Co-op Public Safety to evict violators from premises. • Perform other duties as assigned. Job Requirements: HS Diploma or equivalent is required. College degree is a plus; Successful candidate will have 6 months to a year of customer experience; Candidate should have a working knowledge in Microsoft Office; Applicant must have ability to sit or walk for long periods of time, twist, kneel, push, stoop, as well as lift and carry up to 20 pounds; Must be available to work mandated overtime during emergency situations; Must be able to read and write in English; BiLingual is a plus. Testing Requirements: Drug Screening Test, Background check. Days and Hours: Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 12 p.m. How to Apply: Applications are given out at the below address from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All applicants are advised to submit a resume along with the application ________________________________________ Open to All Applicants from June 19, 2015 to June 29, 2015 • Job Reference #:15-34 Air Conditioning Season CSO Clerk Cooperators Services THIS IS A TEMPORARY POSITION. Ideal candidate will be assigned to one of Riverbay’s on-site Cooperator Services Offices. Ideal candidate will perform all secretarial duties; including typing, filing, answering phones, data entry, and general support of office managers, including maintaining the rental and termination of hall closets. Selected person may assist in creating correspondences and flyers for their respective office. Applicant may work via telephone, twoway radio, and email in addition to communicating in person with various other field supervisors, departments, vendors and managers alike. Candidate must be detail oriented coupled with excellent customer service skills. Job Description: Ideal candidate will: • Operate office machines, such as photocopiers and scanners, facsimile machines, and personal computers.

Applications are given out at the following address from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Riverbay Corporation Administration Office, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475; OR Resumes can be faxed to 718-320-3672 with the Job Title and Job Reference # on the TOP RIGHT CORNER of the resume. *Riverbay Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer* (Continued on page 31)

8 As I finish my first year on the Board of Directors, I am happy with the accomplishments since May of 2014. As a Board, we had many challenging moments and decisions. We had many personalities and viewpoints; but this Board has come together over the past year. There were issues that were highly debatable, and I’m happy to say that as a democracy, the majority decided every decision. I’m proudest most of my fellow Board members who through difficult times, worked through incredible challenges. We grew as Directors and as a Board. My call to my fellow Board Directors for this year is one Board with one voice. Our community called for us to work together and I believe we have made great strides in reaching that goal. So exactly what were we able to accomplish over the past twelve months? 1. Suspend MSI as managing agent 2. Search for a manager while we were able to evaluate our needs and future directions 3. Drop the painting contractor who I believe was overcharging us 4. Brought painting in-house with projected savings of $800,000/year 5. $8.5 million/year in insurance contract bids brought before the Board for the first time in fifteen years 6. Eliminated no show/non-working employees saving Riverbay roughly $500,000 7. Opened Board meetings 8. Televised Board meetings, Town Halls, Candidates’ Forums and public events

Load shedding

were kept in place until 5:30 p.m., after the test was over. “All of the staff at Riverbay performed excellently in the short notice given by Con Ed to respond to this test which will result in savings to the cooperators,” said Brian Reardon, Director of the Riverbay Power Plant. Energy Spectrum is an approved demand response aggregator and also a New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) interface party so the company works with Riverbay to try to obtain the maximum benefit for the cogeneration plant from different programs available to the facility. According to David Ahrens, Managing Director of Energy Spectrum, Riverbay is enrolled in 2 different Con Ed demand respond programs. The Distribution Load Relief Program (DLRP) rewards Riverbay for the ability to export into the grid. It is an emergency program that is activated when there is a critical need on a local network, and in this case, it’s the Parkchester Network. The event called this week was the summer test for the program. “Since this is an emergency program, there’s only a 2-hour advance notice,” said Ahrens. The second Con Ed demand response program that Riverbay is enrolled in is the Commercial System Relief Program (CSRP), which is a peak system relief program, and upon request, provides load relief for Con Ed on the hottest days. Ahrens explained that CSRP events are generally called when the system peak is forecasted for the next day to be 96% or higher to what the peak forecast is for the summer.

Year in Review

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Linda Berk

Director’s Viewpoint First Vice President

9. Established a Disabilities and Accommodations Com-mittee to meet the needs of the disabled and educate our community 10. Strengthened our financial position leaving us less vulnerable from unexpected expenses 11. Established interim GMs who will reorganize the company to improve efficiency, lower cost and move forward as a modernized 21st century corporation. 12. Digitized the Board memos, reports and resolutions enabling Directors to be efficient, productive and thorough in fulfilling their responsibilities. Some of what I wasn’t happy about includes the following. However, I can say I am happy with how we handled disappointing and difficult situations. 1. Cablevision bulk deal not voted in by the needed majority. While I believe we left $8 million a year on the table in an environment where we, as a community, will be watching cable TV for the next five years, I am happy that people did at least vote. 2. I am disappointed it took two days to get a quorum for the Board of Directors elections. This, however, has motivated the Board to review our voting (Continued from page 1)

“We expect this test in July or August for that program,” he said. For the CRSP test, there is a 21-hour notification window to participating facilities such as the Co-op City cogeneration plant. This is the fourth year that Riverbay has participated in these Con Ed demand response program, and so far, the Riverbay Finance Department reports that the community’s shareholders have earned a total of $ --- from the tests over the course of those 4 years. “We thank all of the residents for cooperating on Wednesday,” said Ahrens. “It helped Riverbay to maximize its ability to get the incentives under the program.”

process, which I believe will bring about a modernized, lower cost and more robust voting process. I’m sure I may have left something out of this review. But what I do know is that we have begun a process of taking back control of our own community. We have provided transparency like we haven’t had in decades. We have a lot more to do and a long road to travel to get it done, but we have a Board dedicated to working together for the benefit of the entire community. I’m excited about the year ahead. Community Engagement When Co-op City was conceptualized and built, it was a project that was so unique, it has never been replicated. We were a forward thinking community in the early years of this development. And, I am encouraged that we can return to our uniqueness and forward thinking ways. I believe that now we have the best chance to recapture a sense of pride and an exemplary residential community that leaves no one behind! We should be an inclusive community; transparent, respectful and thoughtful of all who live here. We are working to improve opportunities for our young people, seniors, the disabled, employees and the infrastructure that will run efficiently and smoothly with new technology. To do all the things this Board would like to do will require a lot of time and commitment by not only Board Directors, but also the community. We have heard the community and we have seen cooperators step up and join

the many committees that monitor and improve the various aspects of running this city within a city. I am excited to see my fellow shareholders involved in these efforts. I encourage more engagement and involvement from more cooperators as we move forward. To spread the workload will help us to keep an energized effort, the results of which we all can enjoy! Summer of 2015 Co-op City has so much to offer in the summer with its greenways, ballparks, tennis courts and walking paths. I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy this beautiful campus. Make the best of every minute, before we know it, we will be back inside sheltered from the cold! Our Fourth of July fireworks, on July 3rd, is like no other in the City of New York, with the exception of the Macy’s fireworks. This year’s should be bigger and better than previous years. We have Tunes on Tuesdays, Wicked Wednesdays and community fairs. All of this is for you, so make sure you get out and enjoy these events. When the Co-op City Times posts the calendar of community events, cut it out and post it on your refrigerator so you don’t forget not one event. If I’m in New York, I will be at the events. I look forward to seeing you there. Enjoy your summer and be safe as you travel. I continue to be interested in your thoughts. You can contact me at lberk@riverbayboard.com or Board of Directors office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

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

accept most health insurance plans

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

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

10 Those of you who have answered my call for volunteers encourage me to keep on working for YOU. Thank you. I am sure that cooperators are hoping for the best when it comes to how our corporation is managed. I am also, and do support the idea of keeping our experienced staff as General Managers and bringing in experts as needed to ensure we have all departments functioning at their highest level possible. Meeting With Congressman Engel This Director attended the meeting with Congressman Engel, who lived in Co-op City for many years. He will be arranging a meeting with all our oversight governmental agencies. The corporation will be in a position to show our strengths and our needs and ask for their suggestions. The majority of us have no fear that the state or city will come in and take over, etc. We are pay-

Hope and healing Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Evelyn Turner

Director’s Viewpoint Second Vice President

ing our bills and addressing our issues as they come up. Remember, we have structures that are over 40 years old and things fall apart. The same goes for our bodies and health. A special thanks to Board member Rod Saunders for making this meeting happen. We Are Losing Too Many Youth The calls are coming in daily about arrests of males and females of all ages. This Director is hoping that the Board approves a temporary space for the Riverbay Fund to open the "Co-op City

Public Safety increases its vigilance around community’s Houses of Worship Houses of worship that operate within or on the border of Co-op City, providing a place for religious observance for thousands of Co-op City residents of many different faiths received extra protection from Public Safety officers this past weekend and will for the immediate future in the aftermath of the tragic church shooting and murders in South Carolina, on June 17th. According to a directive issued to all Public Safety officers and supervisors by Chief Frank Apollo, Commanding Officer of Public Safety, officers assigned to patrol any of the three community centers in Co-op City, out of which several houses of worship operate on a weekly, and in some cases, daily basis, Chief Apollo directed those officers to pay extra attention to houses of worship whenever there is an event or meeting of any particular religious organization within the community. In explaining his department-wide directive to the Co-op City Times, Chief Apollo said that it did not come out of any specific threat within the community, but only out of responsibility for caution and respect for the protection of worshippers who he called a vital and significant segment of the community. In making the order, Chief Apollo explained to the department’s personnel: “Please be advised that the Charleston, South Carolina church shooting has left the nation in shock and deeply saddened. As law enforcement officers, we should always look at the sensitive side of law enforcement during our daily interactions with people and take note of situations such as the South Carolina shooting and how it equates to our continued efforts with keeping people BY BILL STUTTIG

in the Co-op City community safe.” In his written directive, Apollo then ordered that all officers assigned to patrolling community centers and malls pay visits to all houses of worship in their assigned center and to learn and duly note when all services in the center begin and end. Officers have also been directed to regularly interact with all religious leaders operating out of the centers and to provide a visible presence near the location of all services within that center when worshippers are entering and leaving that regularly scheduled religious observance and to also make certain the leaders of that service know that an officer will be nearby. Officers assigned to centers where houses of worship hold events on a daily basis or several times during the week — such as morning or evening prayer services, Bible study, or support groups — have been asked to know the schedule of events for each day, check on those religious organization’s location at least twice each day and, when possible, briefly interact with all religious leaders onsite each day. For the two large churches that operate on the border of Co-op City, St. Michael’s Church on Co-op City Blvd. near Section 1 and United Methodist Church adjacent to Section 5, patrol or sector cars operating in those areas are directed to, when possible, provide a presence outside those churches when parishioners are both arriving and leaving services each Sunday. Apollo’s directive went into effect on the weekend immediately following the tragic shooting in Charleston and will stay in effect until further notice, Apollo said in issuing his directive, which took immediate effect on June 19th.

Youth & Community Enrichment Center” at a smaller site before the summer ends. I believe in my heart of hearts that once we get the space, many of you will support it financially. We have a program designed and ready to implement. Maybe being a social worker causes me to take things so personal. In my opinion, it makes NO sense that we are not doing more to save the next generation and that a government agency is dragging their feet with approving the space at the former Bingo Hall. What is it that they don't get? These young lives coming up today in Co-op City matter and we need to get them off the benches and halt these wanna be gang bangers and bullies. We need to support and encourage our scholars and nerds. Your prayers are needed and appreciated. Healing The recent massacre in South Carolina

has broken many hearts, especially those from the state of South Carolina. We need to deal with issues of white supremacy and institutional racism. We need to have cultural diversity meetings and discussions, as people of color are here to stay. We must deal with the fact that some Americans have nothing but fear and anger in their hearts. How do we heal even when justice seems far away? How do we protect ourselves? In my opinion, we need to turn mourning into positive action. Community Garden Thanks to cooperators for the time spent at our Community Garden. It's so beautiful and we should all take a walk to our garden and dig in some dirt. It can relieve stress. Please contact me with any concerns at: Evelyn M. Turner, evelyntinez@ aol.com, 917-324-1033.

The Executive Board of Building 32 Association wishes to thank all of you who joined us at our fundraiser casino, wine, and Golden Corral trip. We hope you all had a great time! Section Five Fun Day Volunteers are needed to ensure that the Fun Day, scheduled for August 22, is a resounding success. To volunteer, contact

Ms. Eleanor Bailey at (718) 379-7754. Other Stuff There are no events scheduled during the summer, but come fall, we are planning another cake sale, flea market, and some trips. Any suggestions are appreciated, so speak to any Executive Board member with your ideas. –Lorna Smith

Building 32 Association

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

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

Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted. HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted. We participate in Postal Workers, Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Verizon Workers, 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire Plan, Medicare, Travelers, United Health Care and many other union and major medical plans. Se Habla Español MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Correcting Some Misconceptions Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

On November 28, 2012, Riverbay signed a multiparty agreement with Wells Fargo bank, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the state Housing and Community Renewal Agency (HCR). Since then, state officials, Board members, and cooperators have made assertions about what the details of the loan, collected in a three-volume document, say regarding the management of Riverbay Corporation. Some of those interpretations do not square with the actual wording of the agreement. Here are the three references in those volumes that address the issue: 1. From HUD’s Multi-family Security Instrument, Section 18, Preservation, Management and Maintenance of Mortgaged Property: [Borrower] “(e) shall provide for qualified management of the Mortgaged Property by a residential rental property manager.” 2. From HUD’s Regulatory Agreement: “21-Management Agreement. Borrower shall execute a management agreement or other document outlining procedures for managing or operating the Mortgaged Property. Such agreement or document must be consistent with Program Obligations. Borrower and the management agent shall submit and maintain a current management certification meeting standards consistent with program obligations.” 3. From Section 6 Management Agent Review: “(a) Subject to Paragraph 6(b), all changes to management agent will require approval by HUD in accordance with Project Owner’s/Management Agent’s Certification form HUD984-39-B, and DHCR; (b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, DHCR reserves the right to terminate the management agent and management agreement in accordance with the Regulations.” HUD/HCR Allow Self-Management None of these stipulations rule out

Bernard Cylich

Director’s Viewpoint Treasurer

self-management as an option for Riverbay Corporation. In fact, both HUD and HCR regulations allow for self-management. In HUD’s Handbook, Chapter 2, “Approval of Management Agents,” Section 2.3 describes four types of management agents (this term is applied to all four types). 1. Owner/Manager: the owner and management agent are the same business entity. 2. Identity of Interest Management Agent: owner of the property is also owner of the property management firm. 3. Independent Fee Agent: Management company 4. Project Administrator: a staff member receives a salary, rather than a management fee, to oversee the day-today operations of the project. Note that 1, 2, and 4 allow some form of self-management. HCR Section 1729-13, Self-management Housing Companies, provides specifics for self-management: (a) The housing company must submit to the division (1) Names, titles, job description, qualifications of the staff who will manage the project and the prospective salaries of those staff who are paid directly in whole or in part with housing company funds (2) Site managers’ certifications (3) Organizational plan (4) Operational plan (5) Affirmative action plan (6) (b) If the housing company determines that it seeks to change from

PARKING NOTICE Please be advised that specific sections of Garage # 6 will be under construction and closed as of Monday, June 29, 2015.

The locations are as follows: • Both ramps ascending and descending from the roof will be open • The D-side of the 4th, 5th and 6th floors will be closed • The 5th - 6th floor up ramp will be closed • The 5th - 4th floor down ramp will be closed • The 6th - 5th floor down ramp will accommodate two-way traffic • The 4th – 5th floor up ramp will accommodate two-way traffic • The 3rd – 4th floor up ramp will be a dead end • The 3rd floor, right side will accommodate one way traffic • The 4th – 3rd floor down ramp will accommodate two way traffic • ½ of the A- and C-side of the 4th, 5th & 6th floors will be closed • ½ of the B-side of the 4th, 5th & 6th floor will accommodate two-way traffic Please ensure that your vehicle has been removed from the above mentioned location no later than 7 a.m., Monday, June 29. If not, your vehicle may be towed at your expense. We ask that you please drive slowly, cautiously and adhere to the posted traffic signage. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you in advance for your cooperation.

PARKING NOTICE Please be advised that specific sections of Garage #1 will be under construction and closed as of Monday, July 6th.

The locations are as follows: • The roof will re-open and accommodate two-way traffic • The roof down ramp will be a dead end • The D-side of the 4th, 5th and 6th floors will be closed • The 5th - 6th floor up ramp will be closed • The 5th - 4th floor down ramp will be closed • The 6th - 5th floor down ramp will accommodate two-way traffic • The 4th – 5th floor up ramp will accommodate two-way traffic • The 3rd – 4th floor up ramp will be a dead end • The 3rd floor, right side will accommodate one way traffic • The 4th – 3rd floor down ramp will accommodate two way traffic • ½ of the A- and C-side of the 4th, 5th & 6th floors will be closed • ½ of the B-side of the 4th, 5th & 6th floor will accommodate two-way traffic Please ensure that your vehicle has been removed from the above-mentioned location no later than 7 a.m., Monday, July 6th. If not, your vehicle may be towed at your expense. We ask that you please drive slowly, cautiously and adhere to the posted traffic signage. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you in advance for your cooperation.

employment of a management agent to self-management, it must submit a management plan comprised of all the requirements above . HUD, as well as HCR, requires that “the project owner is responsible for seeking out and selecting a management agent ...subject to approval by the authorizing agency.” The Board’s Ad Hoc Management Search Committee The Board’s Ad Hoc Search Committee for General Manager or Managing Agent scrupulously followed every part of these regulations. The committee prepared a Request for Proposal document, which was approved by HCR, HUD, and Wells Fargo, seeking proposals from candidates for general manager or property managing companies. Ads requesting proposals were placed in various newspapers and posted on the Internet. No proposals were received from candidates for the GM position, and only eight property managers (managing companies) submitted proposals. As I’ve reported previously, the committee interviewed five of the eight managing agent candidates. It determined that three of the eight applicants should be recommended to the Board. The committee visited project sites of the three recommended management agents. One of these companies manages the largest M-L co-op complex of all the applicants. The second is the largest management company in the city. The third manages the largest single rental property in the city. Board Finds Managing Companies Inadequately Equipped After many hours of interviewing the three candidates, however, the Board did not consider any of them to be capable of supervising our 1,065 employees, of processing our $75 million payroll, and of running the complex tri-generation plant. Since the former managing agent, Marion Scott Inc., was suspended last

fall, the 27 department directors, under the supervision of our interim managers, Noel Ellison and Peter Merola, have administered Co-op City without a hitch. They have weathered a severe winter, the Legionella scare, pipe breaks, and other emergencies. They began to correct potentially ruinous violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act. Carrying charges have been collected, and bills have been paid, including mortgage payments to Wells Fargo. The cost of painting and plastering has been substantially reduced – a potential savings of $800,000 annually. The fact that move-out rates have been reduced from 65 per month to 42 per month indicates cooperator satisfaction with the delivery of services. Are there weaknesses in the governing of our corporation? There are, and the interim managers, as well as the Board, recognize them. In fact, Riverbay can save at least $1 million annually by not hiring a management company. The money can be applied, instead, to dealing with the problems we have identified. Turning to specialized professionals, where needed, would be another important step. Present Staff Has Demonstrated Its Ability In declining to hire a property management company, the Board has not sought to take an adversarial position with HCR, HUD, or Wells Fargo. Rather, the Board simply has not found a company it considers qualified to manage our large, complex community. We look forward to meeting with the agencies and the bank to review our efforts and our recommendations. We think our present staff has demonstrated its ability to manage our community far better than MSI did. We believe that if our existing staff is allowed to remain, according to rules set forth by the agencies and with their close monitoring and supervision, the staff here will be fully capable of running our community.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Washing machines update – and more

Dear cooperators, Summer has arrived and I hope you are enjoying the pleasant weather we’ve been experiencing lately. I trust that all FATHERS were appreciated on Father’s Day last week. As promised, the clear glass for the Wascomat washing machines has arrived and the installation has begun. Buildings 10 and 20 were the buildings involved in the survey and the clear glass was installed in those buildings on June 19th. The laundry rooms of eight additional buildings are schedule to be serviced by June 29th. Mr. Joe Boiko, head of Special Projects, is overseeing this assignment and is expected to proceed without a hitch. Thank you, cooperators, for your patience. Juneteenth There were several community activities happening last Saturday and, unfortunately, I was unable to attend them all. Juneteenth denotes a time in American history when, following the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862 and effective January 1, 1863, ending the practice of slavery, the news was only officially announcement to the Texans on June 19, 1865 in Galveston, Texas. This was cause to rejoice and celebrate the event. Many continue to celebrate Juneteenth today. On June 20th, Mrs. Joan Murrell, who heads the Humanitarian Committee of the Retirees of Dreiser Loop, produced a Juneteenth program that was truly outstanding. Rev. Robert Smith opened the program with a prayer and I was honored to be asked to perform the Libation Ceremony. The Retirees’ President, Delores Debnam, was the Mistress of Ceremonies, accompanied by Jay McKenzie. Ms. Debnam asked for a moment of silence in memory of the nine parishioners who were shot and

Greetings to all of our Post members who are homebound and recovering from various medical operations. We wish you a speedy recovery. Happy birthday to all of our members who will be celebrating their birthday this month. Our Post is always looking for new members to join so if you are a VETERAN from any branch of the military, stop by. Bring your DD214 with you. Post 1871 is located in Section # 5 in the Community Center, in 135 Einstein Loop, Room 41. Our office telephone number is (718) 3208165, and our email address is post1871@optimum.net. There won’t be any meetings at the Post for July and August. All meetings will resume in September, but

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Francine Jones

killed in the historic Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C. The children of Reverends Frank and Deborah Jenkins were present to render a recitation. Many of the Retirees’ members were involved in this musical production featuring recording artists from the past, including Nina Simone, Paul Robeson and other Jazz artists. The Bartow Swingers contributed a powerful dance performance. Thereafter, everyone socialized, enjoyed refreshments and ended the day with lively dancing. Thank you, Joan, for a lovely and meaningful afternoon. Rivers Run Community Garden On June 21st, Board Director Leslie Peterson and the active members of the Rivers Run Community Garden sponsored a “Make Music” day, which included singing, selling baked goods, raffle prizes and more. The home baked items were very tasty. Being a former active member of the Garden, I was presented with a garden bed, which I intend to share with others and to reap nutritious results. Many thanks to the Garden leaders. Meeting with Congressman Eliot Engel I trust that the meeting of some Board Directors, counsel, managers, etc. will bring about some of the expected results needed in our community, especially regarding the future management of Co-op City.

Over the past weeks, there has been much controversy over the hiring of a management agent versus self-management. I participated in some of the early meetings of the Management Search AdHoc Committee, headed by Director Bernard Cylich. I must say that he and Director Linda Berk, along with attorney Jeffrey Buss, did an outstanding job of meeting with management agents, reading proposals, vetting, interviewing, etc. At the Emergency Open Board Meeting on May 28, 2015, Board President Cleve Taylor expressed the desire that Co-op City should be self-managed. Since the suspension of Marion Scott Real Estate in November, 2014, the Knowledge Team and then the Interim General Managers, Noel Ellison and Peter Merola, worked diligently and effectively running Co-op City while the Ad Hoc Committee searched for a new management company. The selected three, First Service, CompassRock and Winn WB, lacked experience or staffing in areas that we needed, such as a Power Plant engineer. Mr. Noel Ellison, Interim General Manager, recently promoted a deserving employee from within the Riverbay Corporation. I feel that this is what should happen. Should the IGM’s find that the corporation does not have the needed expertise among its employees, then hiring from outside is the option. I continue to be hopeful that the officials of HCR, HUD and Wells Fargo will see it our way. Congratulations Congratulations are in order for the former Parking Facilities Manager, Warren Mitchell, on his much-deserved promotion by the Interim General Managers. His title is now Assistant General Manager in charge of Residential Sales, Commercial Leasing and Marketing. In my dealings with Mr. Mitchell, he has always been

accommodating and considerate. It is encouraging when an Interim General Manager recognizes the special talents and abilities of employees and advances them when it is warranted. Congratulations also to the Velocity Track & Field Coach, Winston Dinkins who was highlighted as an “Unsung Hero” in one of the local newspapers. Mr. Dinkins was the former assistant track and field coach of the Zodiacs Track Club. After many years with the Zodiacs, he decided to branch out on his own and has thus far done a commendable job for the children of our community. I wish him continued success with the good work he has done, as the Co-op City families really need the positive guidance from leaders like him. Black Music Month The month of June has been designated Black Music Month and on Saturday, June 27th at 4:00 p.m. in the Dreiser Community Center Auditorium, The Drammeh Institute will present “When Dignity Prevails,” featuring traditional and contemporary African musical performances. Admission is free. All are welcome. Fireworks The Community Relations Department and The Riverbay Fund continue to present appealing community events. On July 3rd, there will be Fireworks and entertainment on Greenway 3 (opposite the Little League Field). Bring out your family, friends and chairs, and enjoy! If you have other plans for the July 4th Independence Day holiday weekend, please be safe. Don’t drink and drive. Don’t text and drive. Doing this will put yourself and others in harm’s way. Contact I can be reached at: Francine Jones, Board of Directors, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or call 718-671-5957.

Room 41 will be open for all the Post members who like to play pool, watch TV or just hang out with other Post members. The yearly dues for 2016 will be $50. If you have your dues handy in September, see our finance officer, William Gordon, and he will be glad to collect your dues. Now that the summer is here, you will be cooking out and if you don’t want to get sick, everyone should practice good hygiene and guard against food contamination. Your best defense is to wash your hands with soap. There are certain times when hand washing is particularly important. To protect your health, and that of others, you should wash your hands after using the toilet, after changing

diapers or helping a child to use the toilet; before and after treating a wound or cut; before and after being with someone that was sick; before preparing, serving, or eating food; after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose; after touching an animal or animal waste, and after handling garbage. All of the above things will help you have a great summer. Know that our Post flag has been folded. It will be displayed in a flag case in Room 41 for everyone to see. Don’t look for any more information in the Co-op City Times because I will be on vacation. I will come back in September to inform you about the September meetings and any other information that must be

passed along. Did any Post member who was at the General Meeting on June 20, happen to pick up a “DRESS CAP” at the meeting by mistake? Post member Armstrong is looking for that dress cap. If you happened to pick it up, please return it to the Post. I trust all of our Post members had a great FATHER’S DAY with your family and friends. Quote for the day: Ladies when someone gives a king, don’t reshuffle your deck of cards for a joker. Q: Why don’t mosquitoes suck FAT instead of blood? This information was provided to you by your Post information officer. —Richard I. Lawson, Jr.

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

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June 30th is Right Around The Corner Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

With the imminent threat of a default on our mortgage and the possible removal of our board, we had to temporarily cool things down by attending a nice 'Fun Day' last Saturday. But, what happens next might be troublesome. A Few More Days to Go The clock was ticking last Saturday during a 'Fun Day' on Casals Place. And, throughout the community, our cooperators were asking a big question: "What's going to happen if we default on our mortgage?" At this point, we're not certain. But, HUD and HCR want us to get a management agreement signed by June 30. If not, then, we could default on our mortgage agreement. In our case, the default would be for non-monetary reasons. Still, a default is a default. And, lenders will seek remedies to cure a default. One remedy could be the removal of some, if not all, of the board members here. Thereafter, these agencies could install their own board. This might be a huge problem for us because a new board made up of outsiders could act in an inconsiderate manner and issue several carrying charge increases to us. Then, they could simply stop caring for this place. This is one of the biggest concerns that I have about this entire matter. On the other hand, our board has placed a lot of confidence in our local politicians to come to the rescue and prevent this possible default. So, some other concerns right now are: Will these politicians be able to stop HUD and HCR from declaring a default on one of the largest loans for a Mitchell-Lama cooperative housing development? Will they be able to stop the possible

removal of this entire board? We will find out in the next few days. Management Agent Agreement As mentioned before, I would like for us to save $1.5 million and have a selfmanagement team here. But, we are dealing with a stacked-up, 12-inch mortgage agreement that might be bulletproof. So, the best approach, in my opinion, is to work out an agreement with a management company and then sign it. Will they be able to bring the experienced professionals that we want right now? No. But, our agreement could stipulate exactly what we want. And, adjustments can be made to their fee that will reflect their listed personnel and other factors. Plus, we can issue a 1-year contract that is based on performance. So, that contract will not be renewed unless they hit every single target that's listed. Now, do I believe that a management company will work in this manner and help us to achieve our goals? Yes. Can we get this agreement done before June 30? Absolutely yes. Case closed! Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE, Pronounced SCREE) Can you imagine having your previous carrying charges restored and never

Buildings 30 A and B association room will be closed for the summer. Just because the room is closed for the summer doesn’t mean nothing’s going on. Come out to the Greenway every Wednesday for Wicked Wednesday starting July 8th. Also, don’t forget Saturday, August 22 when Section 5’s block party, Fun in the Sun, will be held. There will be lots of free goodies. At our last building association

meeting, we honored James Parker with a plaque for his service to our buildings. At the meeting, the new board for the building association was elected, the same as the old. Those who are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and new additions, have a happy and blessed time. Those under the weather, get well soon. To all my fellow cooperators, have a great summer. See you in September. —Linda Werner

On June 11th, our last meeting before the summer break. We had as our guest speaker Mr. Edgar Perez, Director of Restoration. Thank you for giving us some excellent information and answering many of our questions. Event During our summer break, we will have our presentation for Building 4 Scholarship Award winners on August 1st at 11 a.m. Also, on August 1st at 1 p.m., we will have our annual ice cream social. So stop by and have an ice cream cone. Trip Come join us on our trip to Ace In The Hole Brownstone in Paterson, N.J. on September 19 to see a tribute to Tina Turner, What’s Love Got To Do With It and comedian Melvin George II. There

will be a family-style luncheon, two complimentary drinks and unlimited soda. Oh, don’t forget the boutique corner. Cost only $80. A $25 deposit is needed to hold your seat on or before July 11th. Additional payment can be $30 by August 2nd, and $25 by September 8th. Note: All money is due by September 8th. The bus will leave from 120 Donizetti Place at 9:30 a.m. Please be on time. For more information, please call Yvonne at 718-6716922, Diane at 347-275-7565 or Mary at 718-671-0425. Happy birthday to all June born. Get well wishes to our sick and shut-in. Have a great summer. Don’t forget, this is our home. If you see something, say something. —Yvonne Burrus

Daryl Johnson

Director’s Viewpoint

Buildings 30A and B Association

Donizetti Building 4 Association

No Co-op City Times? Call 347-439-5632

on Saturdays ONLY, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

having to worry about a carrying charge increase for as long as you stay in a program named SCRIE? You will not even have to pay for this current 4½ percent increase. This is possible if you meet these six requirements. 1. You or your spouse live here. 2. You or your spouse were the head of household. 3. You or your spouse were 62 years of age or older. 4. Your combined household income did not exceed $50,000. 5. You spent more than or equal to one-third of their monthly household income on carrying charges. 6. You are not on any other carrying charge program, like Section 8 or DRIE. Now, I reprinted these requirements because some cooperators have not yet signed up for this SCRIE program. And, after the deadline, they're going to be stuck paying for this increase for as long as they live here. So, please go to Bartow as soon as possible and pick up an application at our finance department or at JASA's offices, 718-320-2066. We even have online applications on page 1 at riverbaycorp.com. Thank you. Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE, Pronounced DREE) Cooperators with disabilities can also avoid this 4½ percent increase and future increases by enrolling in a program named DRIE. Similar to SCRIE, you can have your current carrying charges frozen for as long as you stay enrolled in this program. We have applications in the same areas that the SCRIE applications are located. Also, cooperators that would like to sign up for the DRIE program can go to our finance department and speak to Linda Pujols, 718-320-3300 x3371.

Fun Day We had an amazing time at last week's 'Fun Day' on Casals Place. They had food, speed races for the kids, music, other events, and a water dunk tank. Here's how the latter event went down. A long line formed and our cooperators had to throw a softball to hit a large red button. And, as I was positioned on the dunking seat, the crowd was yelling out, "Daryl, you're going down." And, I said, "No way." Then, boom. I went down into a huge bucket of water on about six separate occasions and had a great time. So, I want to thank our cooperators, Director Leslie Peterson, Section 2, the Building 13 Association, Public Safety, the FDNY, and everyone else for having and participating in this Fun Day event. This was one of the nicest events ever. Close As you can see, we can avoid this unnecessary default and help our community if we work together. Thank you. Questions or comments? Please send a message to: Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, please send a message to me at darylhjohnson@optonline.net (Please double-check the spelling of this address.) Also, please call me at 718671-4544 if you don't receive a response from your message. You can also join me on Facebook by typing in: Daryl H. Johnson. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Co-op City Sports

Velocity Track Club New York

Velocity Track Club New York wishes to thank the Retirees of Dreiser Loop for the generous monetary gift. The Retirees of Dreiser Loop, Inc. held its 43rd Annual Luncheon at the Luxury Marina Del Rey Catering Hall on Wednesday, June 17th. Velocity Track Club was invited to their annual luncheon and that’s where we were presented with a much needed generous monetary gift. It was a lovely affair with great food, music and company. The Retirees of Dreiser Loop, Inc., we thank you! I, Winston Dinkins, wish to thank Michael Horowitz and the City News for the lovely article about me in the June 18th City News. I was moved by the kind words and the many nice phone calls I received from others reading the article. I embrace the idea of highlighting the Unsung Heroes in Co-op City, especially if the children could somehow benefit from it. I hope these types of articles continue because there are so many unsung heroes in Co-op City who has been helping children for as long as I have or

longer, such as Lorraine Alexander of the Tennis Organization, Ivor Bascomb of the North Bronx Sport Federation, Thomas Francis of the Zodiacs Track Organization, Michael Velez of the Eclipse Track Team and was once part of the Baseball Little League. Plus, there are also many more unsung heroes who help children in non-sport activities. Hopefully, these articles continue and somehow the children of these unsung heroes may benefit. Thank you, Michael and the City News. On Saturday, June 20th & 21st, we competed in the 2015 USATF New York Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships and Regional Qualifier at Ichan Stadium, Randall Island. The top eight (8) individuals and relay teams in each event of each age division will advance to the USATF Region 1 Junior Olympic Championship (July 9-12 Fritchburg State University - Fritch-burg, Mass.). USATF Junior Olympic medals will be awarded to the top three (3) individuals and the top three (3) relay teams

The National Chair of National Council of Negro Women, Ingrid Saunders Jones, extended this message concerning the tragic event in Charleston, S.C.: On behalf of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), we offer our deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the people and state of South Carolina, the city of Charleston, and the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church Family for their loss. We join the President of the Bethune-Leonard NCNW Section, Charleston, SC, Ms. Kia Brown and the Interim South Carolina State Convener, Ms. Andrea Casey in offering our thoughts and prayers to all affected by this tragedy. We in the Co-op City Section of NCNW echo the feelings expressed by our national leader. Even though we do not have formal membership meetings during the months of July and August, the Executive Board and various committees continue to carry on the business of the section. Members are reminded of the NCNW Northeast Regional Leadership

Training Conference that will take place October 30-November 1, 2015 at the Crystal Springs Resort in Vernon, NJ. All NCNW sections in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts will be meeting to discuss such topics as Membership, Section Operations, Protocol, Programs and Finance. All members of NCNW Co-op City Section are invited to attend. Please contact President Dorcas Lay if you are interested in attending. We will be sponsoring a perfect one-week vacation trip to Florence, Rome and Venice, Italy from September 11-18, 2016. Our trip will include seeing the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo’s David, gondola ride on the Venetian canals, St. Mark’s Square and Doges’ Palace and so much more. A delicious Italian dinner with wine at a famous restaurant awaits you on the first day in each city. For more information, call: 718-320-2366 or 718655-9034 or 718-538-8606. Get well wishes to our Good & Welfare Chair, Sadie Gilmore. —Joyce Howard

NCNW

Velocity Track Club’s ladies behind the scene to make us a better team.

in each event of each age division. With one of our hardest competition this season, we were still able to muscle out 26 medals (5 gold, 10 silver & 11 bronze), plus 28 athletes qualified for the Region 1 Junior Olympic Championship. We had many athletes break their PR (personal record), which is the theme for this season. The following athletes PR’d and medaled: Dontae Lindo, 2 silver medals & PR. Brianna Burrell gold medal & PR. Nariah Mathis silver medal & PR. DaiJon James silver medal & PR, Kristen Cadiz-Domville gold medal &

PR. Athletes that PR’d were: Desiree King, Shantae Leach, Julian Caldwell, Pierce Parker, John Strick-land, Aysya Brown and Matthiaus Love-Anderson. Great job, student athletes! Velocity Track Club New York is a 501C3 not for profit. 100% of your donation will go to help our children. For additional information, you can go to our website, Velocitytrack.org, or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins at 914-441-6196 or email me at watclt @aol.com. —Winston Dinkins

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Building 13 Association

Congratulations to all those who graduated. Continue to study and do your best. Have a great summer and be safe. Congratulations to the parents, the graduation is your reward also!! The weather threatened to dampen the day, but it did not dampen the spirit of the youth and families of our community who came out and had a fantastic time at the 4th Annual Summer Fun Day hosted by Section 2 - Buildings 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14, Jerome Rice, Maxine Sullivan, Deborah Henry, Sonja Maxwell, Leslie Peterson and Josie Ferguson, along with special assistants, Gail

Sharbaan, Denise Shelley, Valerie Gunn, Tiny Wood and Sonia Soto and a host of volunteers who pitched in to assist making this a great event despite the weather. We want to thank Director Daryl Johnson. Despite the clouds in the sky and the hidden sun, he braved the elements and took a seat on the Dunk Tank throne. His participation in the Dunk Tank thrilled the youth as they took aim and tried to dunk him in the water. They lined up, they tried and eventually down he went several times to the yelps of the parents and kids. A special thank you to Tiny

Wood and his daughter, Falay’Sha DeJesus Wood, for their generous contribution to both Summer Fun Day and the Make Music Event held this weekend. Foxwoods and the Tanger Outlet Stores Trip is scheduled for October 3, leaving from 100 Casals Place at 8:00 a.m. The cost is $65. First payment of $35, due June 30; 2nd payment, $30 is due on August 28. The Tanger Outlets includes over 80 brand name stores such as Coach, Crocs, Easy Spirit, Eddie Bauer, JCrew, Kids Apparel, Michael Kors, NY & Co., Old Navy and Torrid, to name a few. So you have

shopping, dining and gaming. The trip will include the casino with bonus, luncheon buffet and shopping with discount booklets. Join us and have some fun! Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to: Bldg. 13 Assoc. Inc., 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. For information, contact Gail Sharbaan at 718-671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370, our website: http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Thanks for making our team work. —Leslie Peterson

On Broun Place this past week, we especially thank Congressman Eliot Engel for keeping in touch and responding to one of our main concerns voiced at our May meeting. That was regarding our U.S. Post delivery service problems. We have received a copy of a letter sent to Congressman Engel that he forwarded to us. Please let us know how the mail delivery is going for you, especially regarding accuracy. Reverend Grace Emanuel, Recording

Secretary, has brought news to our attention, about a new program for young women. This program especially encourages young women to participate. There are many aspects to computer education. The execution of folks creating apps and games lacks a female presence. If you are interested in that training, parents, if you want to open your child to that opportunity, get the information. Rev. Que English and the Bronx Clergy Roundtable invite you to call:

718-231-1033. Get the information over the summer and decide. This program begins in September. We are following up on the news regarding illegal dumping at our dumpster pad and want a camera to be placed so that the person(s) will be caught. What is wrong with some people that have to litter in our community and affect our quality of life? We ask that you be vigilant, call Public Safety, 718379-3050 and CSO or even drop your

president a note, if you witness community abuse. Congratulations to all our proud graduates and their families and continued success. As we begin Summer 2015, keep saturated and keep cool! Thanks again to the Broun Place Executive Board and Lana and Jesse for all their continued help. Please share your tidings with Eva or a member of our board. —Eva Lazaar

Hello friends, neighbors & cooperators of Building 17 Association. The Executive Board would like to express our deepest sympathy for those we have lost during the past year. Our thoughts & prayers go out to their families and loved ones. We would also like to welcome all new move-ins to our association meetings. We held our last meeting of the sea-

son on June 8th. Our next meeting will be in September and all are welcomed. For emergencies and other business, you can call your executive board. Names are posted on our bulletin board located in lobby. Savor the day 1-day bus trip to Washington, DC, Saturday, August 22nd. Cost of trip, $100 per person. Absolutely no

refunds. Lunch upon arrival at Old Country Buffet (all you can eat). Then tour of Martin Luther Ling, Jr. Memorial & African-American Civil War Museum. Trip leaving from 120 Alcott Place, 7 a.m. sharp. Leaving DC at 5 p.m. Home by 9 p.m. For tickets or more information, please contact: James Payne, 917-992-5068;

Barbara Johnson, 718-671-4992; June Grimes, 718-320-0503; Elizabeth Roach, 718-671-5360; and Betty Thomas, 718379-4974. Have a safe & healthy summer! Remember, if everyone did a little, no one has to do a lot. Reminder – if everyone did a little, no one has to do a lot! —James Payne

Defensive driving returns in September Black Forum defensive driving course is on hiatus until September 12. Classes are held in Rm. 1, Dreiser Community Center, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to 4 points from your driver’s license. Sound Off, Co-op City, coming soon We will be starting Sound Off, Co-op City, for all cooperators to discuss and debate issues of particular relevance to living in Co-op City, matters that affect our quality of life, social interactions, education, commercial, jobs, and other topics. Meetings will be held once or twice a month. More to follow. Tentative start in early September. If interested, please call (718) 320-8035. Black Forum Aerobics and Zumba It’s time to get in shape, get healthy and feel healthy. Aerobics classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays; Zumba on Thursday. Classes are in the Dreiser Aud., 7:30 p.m. To register, please call (718) 320-8035. Nominal fee for each class. Black Forum’s Lyons Mane Track Club Register now for the Black Forum Lyons Mane Track Club. Youth ages 818. Please call (718) 320-8035 for more information.

Do you like fishing? It’s relaxing, challenging and healthy eating. If you are interested, please give us a call at (718) 320-8035. Cooking classes coming If you enjoy cooking or would like to learn how to prepare healthy meals for yourself and your/or your family, please give contact us at (718) 320-8035. Food distribution sites On Thursdays, residents of Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Likewise, residents of Building 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. on Thursdays to pick up food. For information, please call (718) 320-8035. Male volunteers needed If you are a teenager aged 16-20 and live in the Dreiser Loop or DeKruif Place area, and have some time to volunteer with us at least 2 days a week, please call (718) 320-8035. Emergency Food Program We are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., Room 20 in the Dreiser Center. Also, due to budget constraints and shortage of available food, you must live within zip code 10475 to participate in this program. You must also have your card with you and bring two clean plastic

shopping bags. Please also have your current photo ID such as a non or driver’s license or any photo ID card with proof of address. You will then be issued a card in order to pick up food in the future. We Need You - Join Us Today Membership is $5 per year/person. Call (718) 320-8035 or write to Black

Forum, P.O. Box 563, Bronx, NY 10475; email: coopcityblackforum @gmail.com or tonyshome10475 @gmail.com. Help us keep independent community organizations alive in Co-op City. Everyone is encouraged to join. Call or visit us, Room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center. —Tony Illis

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Building 17 Association

Black Forum

Fundraising drive for Co-op City black sash

In last Saturday’s Co-op City Times, Matthew Miller, a 13 year old black sash who lives in Co-op City was profiled. Matthew was nominated for induction into the U.S.A. International Black Belt Hall of Fame in the youth division. The Millers’, residents of Building 22, are asking for donations to help offset the costs of travel and accommodation so Matthew can attend the 28th Annual 2015 Global Leadership Conference & U.S.A. International Black Belt Hall of Fame induction nomination in Pittsburgh, PA from November 13-15, 2015, as well as some of the cost of his summer camp and yearly tuition for his Martial Arts classes so he can continue to train and achieve his goal, which is to be the best he can be. Those who would like to donate can make checks payable to “Matthew Miller,” and mail to Michael Miller, Bethel Temple Church, 2466 Webster Avenue, Bronx, NY 10458. A GoFundMe account has also been established for online donations at http://www.GoFundMe/lneim0.

If you SEE something, SAY SOMETHING!!! 718-671-3050 • Co-op City Public Safety

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Committee Reports

Commercial Leasing May, 2015

Disabilities and Accommodations Committee Report - May, 2015

mer, but will resume in September with a meeting and formation of a committee for this event which will take place next year. Thanks again to Ms. Peterson who made a great presentation. Thanks also to Michelle Sajous who helped us arrange for Ms. Peterson to come. Hope you all have a wonderful summer. See you in September. —Carlyn Jones

This was the last meeting of the year and a wrap up session. To follow is a review of the recommendations from the committee to the Board. 1. The committee established a set of goals and mission statement for the upcoming year. The first and foremost important goal for the committee is to establish an evacuation plan for the disabled in Co-op City. It is the committee’s objective to establish a comprehensive evacuation plan that can be used as a model for other municipalities. 2. Two very focused committee members were made Deputy co-Chairs to assist with the many responsibilities associated with the committee’s activities. 3. Recommendations were made for wheelchair-bound evacuation chairs; one for each section to provide a way for wheelchair-bound cooperators to be leveraged down the stairs when the power and/or elevators are out. 4. We determined that it was critical to provide some form of education to our community on the nuances of the variety of disability situations people live with every day. We thought it was very important for the community to realize that not all disabilities are visible. This is a particularly sensitive issue in our community with the companion dogs now allowed in order to be ADA compliant. 5. The committee agreed to put more material in the CC Times on the activities and recommendations of the committee to keep the community informed and involved. 6. The committee recommended to the Board to have close captioning in televised events to include the hearing impaired. This recommendation has been taken under advisement and the audio/video department is working on acquiring the software to broadcast with closed caption. 7. The committee met with Chief Apollo and his EMT staff Lt. to coordinate a more robust R U OK database.

The committee was happy to see that CCPD had a program in place that was developing and contacting the list of over 300 residents to insure they were OK. Chief Apollo was very willing to work with the committee in any way possible to service those residents with any disability. 8. The CCPD and DAAC will staff two tables side by side at the June 6th community fair to distribute information, flyers and to register additional people in the R U OK program. 9. The committee is recommending to the Board that Riverbay waives the door replacement fee if a cooperator’s door is forced open because of no response to the R U OK program. CCPD believes that we could get more people to register for the program if they were not concerned about the cost of replacing their door if it needs to be forced open. The committee believes strongly that when there is a chance of a life and death situation, the resident should not have to worry about such cost. Committee member Cheryl Silvera has coordinated a one of a kind for New York City Disability EXPO cosponsored by Riverbay and the Church of the Seventh Day Adventist. It will be held in the Dreiser auditoriums on Sunday, June 7th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. There will be over 70 vendors participating and a children’s experience, collaborative arts room, a calming room and a series of presentations on various subjects, including the main speaker on Sex Trafficking at 1 p.m. The event will open with our local elected officials at 10 a.m. DAAC has actively participated in assisting Cheryl with this endeavor. The committee adjourned with the anticipation of having small meetings over the course of the summer so as not to lose any momentum for these critical matters. —Linda Berk, Chair

ticipation. Juneteenth commemorates the nineteenth day of June, 1865 when the abolishment of slavery in all Confederate states was put into action by military order and execution. June is graduation month for many young people in our community. We hope that every graduate will be going to college as a step toward building an illustrious career. We awarded the 2015 Francis Williams Scholarship Award to Daniel Stremt, a student of the High School of American Studies at Lehman College. He is a young man with a wonderful future ahead of him and a young man who grew up in Building 19. We are all proud of him. Cooperators, it has been a stressful year here in Building 19, and in the Co-op City community. We have sur-

vived the opening of the new mall; we experienced a flood in our basement; we learned about the pathology of Legionnaire’s Disease; we had information sharing sessions with Riverbay Corp. We were given an increase in our carrying charges. Many families suffered the loss of loved ones. We offer our sympathy and condolences to the Feliciano, the Jenkins, the McDavid, and the Ryans families. But through it all, we continue to strive forward to build good relationships with our neighbors and contribute to the betterment of Building 19 and to Co-op City. Please try to recall the good things in our lives and in the lives of our neighbors - the new grandchild in the family; the beautiful wedding and the

start of new extended families; the new apartment; the new high school graduate who will be going away to college in September; the new dance step just learned, the new orchid that just bloomed today in my flowerpot. Life is full of wonderful things, as well as trying things. May the wonderful things in life bring you joy, and the trying things bring you strength. The Organizing Committees of the Building 19 Association will be off for the summer. Please continue to stay friendly and say hello to each other. Continue to keep Building 19 a home you are proud to live in and come home to. Have fun for the summer, and stay safe. We look forward to meeting with you again in September. —Lillie Hall

This was the last meeting of the year and a wrap up session. To follow is a review of the recommendations from the committee to the Board and the Director of Commercial Leasing. 1. Conducted a cooperator’s survey of the three malls. Results will be posted in the CC Times in the next couple of weeks. There is a need to conduct a survey of the merchants to get a better understanding of their situation and what Riverbay may be able to do to help attract more business. 2. Instituted a Merchants Corner to start in the CC Times highlighting a retailer each month to give a detailed report on their services, specialties and hours to help them get more business and help the community know what services are available in the malls. 3. Not interested in the McDonalds offered for Dreiser Mall 4. Interested in an Urgent Care facility in the space for the old Pharmacy in Dreiser Mall 5. Interested in replacing the pharmacy that closed in Dreiser Mall Accomplished 6. Concern about vacant space in Bartow and suggested many options for the old Palumbo space, most of which were restaurants. 7. Recommended to the Board of Directors to replace signage in Dreiser Mall. Old signs were removed and there is no directory of shops.

8. Recommended to the Board of Directors to modernize the signage in Bartow Mall, particularly the main sign on the street which looks worse since the opening of the new Bay Plaza mall. 9. Currently, Einstein Mall is at capacity 10. Dreiser Mall has a new pharmacy with a potential urgent care facility moving into the old pharmacy space. The committee had recommended the Dreiser Auditorium renovation project be restarted. There was money set aside for it in the budget and the Borough President’s office has offered to assist in the renovation project. Currently, there is a bid out for an architect to design the space. 11. Bartow Center has a new location for the Chinese Buffet that will move into the combined spaces of the old Seven Seas and Palumbo Bakery. A new restaurant will occupy the street level space of the Chinese Buffet. They will construct a new façade and include a sidewalk café. 12. In addition to recommending the Board upgrade the signage in the Bartow and Dreiser Mall, it is also recommended that the corporation should upgrade the exteriors of the malls as soon as possible. The committee adjourned for the summer with the anticipation of some goal accomplishments over the summer. —Linda Berk, Chair —Helen Atkins, co-Chair

In case you missed our June 9th meeting, we are planning to have a Block Party in Section 1. We had a wonderful guest speaker, Ms. Leslie Peterson of Building 13, who laid out the plan to us for such an event. As she explained, there will be a lot of work and planning involved. We will need volunteers from Buildings 1 through 5. We are closing down for the sum-

Greetings, cooperators. On Saturday, June 20, the Building 19 Association held our Annual June Celebration. I want to thank all those who attended and I hope you enjoyed the evening. Our June celebration was held as a recognition and appreciation of all the wonderful celebratory days that happen in June. Father’s Day is the highlight of June, and to all the fathers we know and love, I hope your Father’s Day was great. Building 19 Association drew the winning name for our Father’s Day lottery raffle. Congratulations to V. Ryan, who was the winner of the lottery board. We also talked briefly about the celebration of Juneteenth. This day is celebrated in many states with parties and parades and great community par-

Building 2 Association

Building 19 Association

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Black Music Month – Today, Saturday, 6/27, 4:00 p.m. in Dreiser Center Auditorium, the Drammeh Institute will present “When Dignity Prevails,” featuring traditional and contemporary African musical performances. Free admission. All are welcome. The association sponsors the following ongoing programs and encourages your participation. Summer Day Camp – Registration is still open for the Association’s Summer Day Camp beginning 7/6 until 8/21. Call 347-791-7104 or 347-368-8629. Adult Study Group – The Institute for Youth meets on the 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:00 p.m. The Book Study Group meets every 3rd Sunday, 1:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 15. Call 718-379-5555. Yoga & Pilates Mat Classes – Tuesdays, 7:15 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. #2. Call Meena, 718-6718364. Music, Rhythm & Dance – Most Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. 15; most Saturdays, 10:00 a.m., Dreiser Center, Room #2. Call Keith, 917-5616211 or Iris, 917-838-7723. Belly Dance Classes – Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. #2. A fun and healthy way to stay in shape! Call Xonia, 646-301-9438. Ms. Wilson invites all to attend the year-end cele-

African-American Association bration of the Belly Dance Class on Wednesday, July 8th at 6:45 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room #2. A $4 donation would be appreciated. Evening Line Dance Classes – Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. #2. Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music. On July 11th, there will be a Line Dance Showcase that you won’t want to miss. Call Cynthia, 917-9037073. On June 13th, the Scholarship Committee coChairs, Sandra Mitchell and Martha Barbosa, reported awards to Wesley Moore graduating Fordham High School for the Arts with a 95.8% (A) average to attend Medgar Evers College to study Business Management and Performance Studies. And, Simone Brown graduating from The Brearley School with an A- average to attend Amherst College to study Biology. They received $400, a Hidden Colors dvd and a Certificate for Academic Excellence and Community Service. We wish them the very best in the fulfillment of their endeavors. Elections were held and the following are the newly elected 2015-2017 Association officers: President: Reva Jones (temporary) First Vice President: Deborah C. Nelson

Second Vice President: Augusta Terzol Recording Secretary: Mercedes Terzol Treasurer: Iris Steele Assistant Treasurer: Sandra Mitchell Appreciation is extended to the out-going officers, including Ebony Raé Lambright and Kevin Lambright. Sandra Mitchell has served as Treasurer since 2007 and will continue as Assistant Treasurer. Kevin Lambright has served since 2009 and Ebony Lambright since 2013. It was a pleasure having them. General Membership Meeting – There will be a summer recess and all will be informed of the next general membership meeting in September in Room 15 of the Dreiser Community Center. If you are unable to attend the meeting, please read our weekly column for updates. Also, if you wish to join or update your membership, please send a check or money order (DO NOT MAIL CASH) of $15 for a single membership or $25 for families to: African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. From March-July, the dues are reduced by one-half. Donations are welcomed. Like us on Facebook: CoopcityAfrianamericanassoc. —Francine Reva Jones

much fun that time was slipping away so fast. We rounded out the night with fresh brewed coffee and cake. Thanks to everyone for joining us. Remember our fish fry is Sat., June 29 from 12:00 p.m. until we are sold out. Our next meeting will be in Sept. Have a safe summer. —Teri-Ann Garcia

Our last association meeting was Monday, June 22. Our next meeting will be September 28th. The association wishes everyone a happy & healthy summer. We wish our members, family and friends will join us on Saturday, July 11 to the Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City. Information is on the bulletin board in our building or call at 718-671-0840 or 718-671-7079 for information. Thank you. —Betty Leak

Building 16 United Association

Greetings, everyone. Summer is officially here. We kicked it of on Saturday, June 20 at our first game night. What a success! Our Bingo caller was Gloria Almond’s grandson who did a wonderful job calling the numbers. Our next big game table was pokeno, and, of course, the bid whist players. We had plenty to snacks and soft drinks as well. We were having so

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Health News

Diabetes and Exercise in the Bronx

Montefiore Bariatric Dietitian, Melissa Rifkin, offers exercise tips for those with Diabetes The American Diabetes Association recently published recommendations for people living with diabetes. Among the new recommendations, the ADA suggests no periods of sitting longer than 90 minutes and no more than two consecutive days without exercise. While these recommendations may seem unrealistic to some, they don’t have to be. Melissa Rifkin, MS, RD, CDN, CSO, a bariatric dietitian at Montefiore Health System, encourages her patients to make lifestyle and dietary changes that are viable and meaningful. According to Ms. Rifkin, there are several ways people in the Bronx can incorporate exercise into their daily lives in a fun and manageable way. “I work with many patients who have diabetes and something I see in my practice a lot in terms of exercise is a lack of physical activity,” says Rifkin. “This is often because excess weight is causing difficulties with walking and moving about. Becoming aware of free exercise opportunities in the Bronx, walking to work, getting off the train a stop early or bus a stop early are small ways to incorporate exercise that make a big difference. The more the patients walk, the greater the weight loss and the easier it is for them to breathe, become more active and feel good.” Before someone with diabetes starts a new exercise routine, they should get their doctor’s approval. Let the doctor

know what kinds of activities you plan to do and they can let you know how this could impact your medications or how often you need to check your blood sugar levels. According to Melissa Rifkin, RD, the following are tips for those with diabetes looking to start an exercise regimen. Incorporate More Steps into Your Daily Life If you have a smart phone or pedometer, set a steps goal for the day. Pacing back and forth on the subway platform while waiting for the train, getting off at the stop before yours and walking and taking the stairs instead of the elevator are all ways to increase your steps for the day. 2,000 steps a day is just about one mile for those able to count steps via smart phones or with a pedometer. Free classes in the community are a great option and plentiful in the summer and free YouTube videos are always a lot of fun. “Walk Away the Pounds,” an exercise video that can be accessed via YouTube, is loved by many and easy to do in the house. If the weather is nice, walk around a track or in inclement weather, walk around a mall or in the hallways of your apartment building. Seated exercises are recommended for those who have difficulty walking. Raising arms above the heart and small leg kicks work well for these individuals. Find New Places to Take Walks Explore your neighborhood by foot and enjoy new scenery. Some good places for walks in the Bronx include: Van Cortland Park or even the

Botanical Gardens. On rainy days, walking through museums or a mall is another way to increase steps. Engage family and friends. Exercising is more fun when it becomes social. Taking a trip to the community pool and walking back and forth in the shallow end is a great full-body workout that can be done with friends in the hot weather. Don’t Forget to Hydrate Hydration is an important component of overall health, especially in the warm weather. People with diabetes need to be extra vigilant about hydration because high blood glucose levels (above 180mg/dl) can cause the body to lose water. One way to tell if you are adequately hydrated is skin turgor (how elastic your skin is) and the color of your urine, which should be light yellow. Most people need 64 ounces of water per day. Options for hydration include water, seltzer and fruit infused water. You can make infused water by slicing up fruits or vegetables and placing them in a pitcher or a single serving glass of water or even a water bottle. Water bottles called Infusers have a small vessel that holds the fruit and veggies and infuses the water. Some suggestions of what to add that tastes good are blueberries, lemon and limes, cucumbers, strawberries and mint. Nutritional Requirements Change with Added Exercise If you are looking to lose weight, there needs to be a calorie deficit, ideally 500 calorie deficit per day, which equals 3,500 deficit per week or 1 lb. loss per week. A patient who is exercising and

cutting out unhealthy foods and practicing portion control will not need to change nutritional intake. If a patient wants to gain weight, they would need to increase whole grains, proteins and vegetables. For those looking to maintain weight, there is a fine line of balance in intake and exercise. One thing I tell my patients is don’t use the weekends to hibernate for 48 hours. Instead, use the weekends to really amp up the exercise and meal plan for the week. They often see results when they focus on the long term goal, and plan for it! Organize daily meals and exercise plans. Start with small feasible goals and then add on as one becomes comfortable and confident with each new goal. I also stress the need for turning their favorite dishes or snacks into healthier versions instead of completely avoiding the food. If people abolish their favorite foods, they will eventually binge on that food. For example, if a patient loves pizza, I encourage them to change to a whole wheat crust, add colorful vegetables and go light on the cheese. Reach out to the community There are many community events that bring people together to support a meaningful cause and incorporate exercise. In fact ,today, Saturday, June 27, Montefiore is sponsoring the 2nd Annual Family Fitness Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Williamsbridge Oval Park, 3225 Reservoir Oval E., Bronx, NY 10467. The festival is a family-oriented event that will include: boot camp demonstrations, relay races, healthy cooking demos, face painting and health screenings.

Are you confident speaking in front of strangers? How are your leaderskills skills? Would you like to improve? Come out to the Co-op City Toastmasters Club meetings and see how we can help you improve in both of these areas. Join us at a meeting and find out about the Toastmasters self-help program that focuses on your individual public speak-

ing and leadership building. You cannot fail, but you must not quit. Meetings are the first and third Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. sharp! Mark your calendar for July 9 and July 16; due to holiday, there will NOT be a meeting on July 2nd. Come out and get started. Get started with your new or old personal goals; get started with

our new club officers; get started in this new Toastmasters year 2015-2016. Everyone is welcome. You only must be 18 years of age and have a serious desire to work on your personal speaking skills needed for success in the job market, at home or at play. Communication is NOT an option. We are here to help in a warm

and encouraging environment. Come to the Bartow Mall, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10375 at 7:30 p.m., lower level. Further information may be found at 3824.toastmasters clubs.org or Toastmasters.org. Have a happy summer and see you on July 9th! —Lauretta Jaysura

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead Section 5 Fun Day is fast approaching and we need volunteers ... if you are interested in helping, please contact us. Upcoming meetings: The NYC Office of Emergency Management will be giving us an emergency preparedness presentation on July 14th at 7 p.m. Please be careful with the current work being done around the building. Be mindful of where you are walking and follow any posted directions. Stay safe. Reminders: 1. Please, everyone, remember that our lobby attendant,

Ms. Cynthia, is our lobby attendant and not a door man. She’s here to help keep us safe and is an extension of Public Safety. She is not your butler or servant. Thank you for service, Ms. Cynthia. 2. With the heat of the summer months starting upon us, it’s a must that the residents with dogs pick up after the dogs. There are a few places that violate your nose from the dog feces that wasn’t picked up and then amplified by the high temps. So, please clean up after your dog. On that note, if you see a dog owner not cleaning up after their dog, please call and report it. Thoughts and prayers for any other of our sick and shut-in neighbors. Get

well soon. We have a Facebook page: Building 33 Association. We also have a website: www.building33.org and you can

email us at: bldg33Assoc@gmail.com, you can also call or text our Building 33 Hotline number, 347-746-0608. —Tobias Garcia

Co-op City Toastmasters Club

Building 33 Association

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Travel Events ● August 17-19, (Mon.-Wed.) DOVER DOWNS HOTEL & CASINO, Dover, DE. Price: Double, $400 pp/Single $490. $100 deposit required now to hold seat. Monthly payments: $150 pp/double $195/single. (Final payment due Thursday, July 9th or sooner). Casino rebate, TBD. Package includes - All You Can Eat Crabs at Woody’s Crab House, shopping at Rehoboth Outlet Stores; on day of return, stopping at the Harrington Raceway & Casino. Bonus: free slot play and free buffet. Contacts: Serita G., 347-5645722/Barbara W, 718-320-0500. ● September 12 (Saturday). GOSPEL LOBSTER FEAST IN THE POCONOS. Price: $175. $50 deposit required to hold seat. 2 monthly $50 payments each, and (FINAL PAYMENT of $25 due August 10th or sooner). All You Can Eat Lobsters

and a variety of 50+ items on menu, such as crab legs, shrimp, scallops, mussels, Salmon, prime rib of beef, etc. Live Choir with uplifting Gospel Music. Shopping Woodbury Commons. Travel by coach bus, Bob Mann Tours. Contacts: Serita G., 347-5645722/Barbara W, 718-320-0500. Theatre Committee: (*prices include transportation/Dreiser Loop): ● Wed., Sept. 16th, 11:15 a.m. show. Price: $68. BACKWARDS IN HIGH HEELS. Westchester Broadway Theatre. The Ginger Roger Music. Balance due Thursday, July 30th or sooner. SOLD OUT! Wait List. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-379-0377. ● Fri., Nov. 20th, 11 a.m. show. Price: $57. RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR. $30 deposit required now to reserve seat. Pay in full ASAP to hold price. NOTE: After July 1st, ticket price increased to $69. Contact: Ione Edwards, 718-379-7756.

● March 10, 2016. Price: $117. COLOR PURPLE, Jacob Theatre, 242 W. 45 St. Contact: Eleanor Barlow, 718-324-7847. Good And Welfare Those of you still under the weather, know that you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. A deposit is required to reserve your seat, and please note - NO deposit, NO seat guarantee. Check/money order addressed to RETIREES OF DREISER LOOP. Committee members will be available in Dreiser clubroom 19 (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30-5:00 p.m. “Life is like a Novel & every day is a New Page. So if a Page is sad, next will be Happy. So don’t worry, turn the Page and Enjoy the Life.” —Claudette Davis

The Williamsbridge Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC) is an organization dedicated to community service in the areas of health, employment, education and economic development. The Adult Club meets at Dreiser Center on the second Friday of every month. Young women, 18-35, who are in or preparing for a business/professional career can become members of the Young Adult Club. The Williamsbridge Club is moving forward with our partners in planning for the College Fair. We will be meeting over the summer to plan a grand event. If you are interested in serving an internship or community service project, please contact the club at the address listed.

The Williamsbridge Club wishes everyone a wonderful, safe, and happy summer. Enjoy all of the events that happen in NYC from boating, movies, concerts and cultural events. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” The Williamsbridge Club is planning a fundraiser “Gourmet Gents” for October 25. We will have your favorite cooks offering their very best. You will be able to taste as many offerings as you wish. More information will follow. We salute June – African American Music Month – and hope that you will enjoy some music by listening, attending a performance, or performing some African American music. The purpose of the fundraiser is to raise monies for local scholarships. We know how expensive it is to

send our students to higher education and want to help as much as possible. Our next public event will be participation in the College Fair to be held on October 4, at Dreiser Loop Community Center. We are looking to restart our Youth Club. If you know of a youth age 13 – 18, please forward the information to us. Please check this column for ongoing information. Information concerning the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NANBPWC) may be found at www.nanbpwc.org or our mailing address: Williamsbridge Club, P.O. Box 6, Co-op City Station, Bronx, New York 10475. —Joetta Brown

TODAY is Griots’ Gate, our signature program and (admission free) music concert under the theme “When Dignity Prevails.” This exciting program will bring together heritages from across West Africa regions of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone that have been impacted greatly by the Ebola crisis. Plan to shop for your favorite arts by fine artists Burnus McKnight and Diane Davis, art by Sanjules Unique Art Creations and jewelry by Queen Bilqis and Elite Boutique. Food will be courtesy of African Last Stop Restaurant and Chef El Amin Caterers. The performing artists include Guinean singer, Sabare Soumano, New York based Sierra Leone/ Liberian Afropop recording artist RJ, Ivorian dancer Atito Gohi, known for his skills in dancing Zaouli, and Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars, whose saga spans from life in refugee camps in war torn Sierra Leone, to appearing on the Oprah Winfrey Show, contributing a song to the Blood Diamond film soundtrack, and participating in the U2 tribute album, In the Name of Love: Africa Celebrates U2. In addition to the concert, a parallel photo exhibit is showing selected works by photojournalist Michel du Cille, a three time Pulitzer Prize winner who was noted for his photographs that aimed to grant dignity to people exposed to armed conflict, disease, and natural calamity. du Cille collapsed and died while on assignment covering the Ebola crisis in Liberia for The

Washington Post in December, 2014. He was 58. The show is co-curated by Stacey All Ellis, a Bronx artist producer and writer. If you miss the exhibit today, stop by tomorrow from 12-4 p.m. at our closing social gathering. Refreshments will be served. Today’s Concert information: The Dreiser Auditorium, 177 Dreiser Loop, Saturday, June 27. Space opens for at 4:00 p.m.; Performances start 5:00

p.m. PRESS RELEASE, http://bit.ly/1Jgajbz Exhibit Information: Drammeh Center (across the street from Dreiser Auditorium) 140 DeKruif Place, ground floor, Saturday and Sunday, June 27 and 28, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! www.facebook.com/DrammehInstitute?ref=hl —Elise Edwards

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Coalition of African American Churches & Community Organizations

The coalition’s general membership meetings will be in recess July and August. Have a great summer. Meetings will resume on Tuesday, September 1, at 12 p.m., 177 Dreiser Community Center, Room 15. We will be hosting our 20th annual Friends and Family Day event on Sunday, October 18th, 3 p.m., 177 Dreiser Community Center, Auditorium B. There will be games with prizes for the children. There will be vendors which we hope that you will consider purchasing items from, and last but not least, refreshments will be served. So come out and

The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to worship service every Sunday morning at 120 Benchley Pl., Building 24, Bronx, and N.Y. 10475 Tel. 718-324-0334 or 646-345-6707. Sunday School for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m. Midday service starts at 11:45 a.m. Evangelistic service will be held every Sunday evening at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday morning fasting and prayer service will be held at 11 a.m. - 12:30. Regular prayer meeting & Bible study will also be held every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. Youth service will be held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. Focus: The fruit of the spirit. If we live in the spirit, let us also walk in the spirit. Galatians 5:25 Galatians 5:16-23

On behalf of our Pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone, (718) 8629172. Church Schedule Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. Worship Service - 11:00 a.m. Communion Service - Every first and third Sundays Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. The following programs are at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North

support the many organizations that make up the coalition. Please inform the coalition of any suggestions that you may have. Ms. Virginia Stewart is the President of the Coalition. Phone number (718) 671-4506. The coalition is a non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life of cooperators while providing educational and culturally enriching programs for the community. We also act as one voice for all coalition members where there are issues of common concern and human rights. We also sponsor Friends &

Family Day celebrations, and Kwanzaa free for the community. Members of the Coalition include the following: AfricanAmerican Association; Co-op City Baptist Church; Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; NAACP, Co-op City Branch; St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church and Zodiacs Track Club. Please support our efforts by sending us a tax deductible contribution made payable to Coalition of AfricanAmerican Churches and Community Development of Co-op City, Inc., P.O. Box 619, Bronx, NY 10475. Churches

Pentecostal Tabernacle

This I say then, walk in the spirit, and he shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh For the flesh lusteth against the spirit, and the spirit against flesh, and these are contrary the one to the other, so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led by the spirit, ye are not under the Law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness. Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies. Envying, murders, drunkenness, revellings and such like: of which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the spirit is love,

joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. Meekness, temperance, against such there is no law. The fruit of the spirit will develop to its full potential in a believer’s life only with careful and diligent cultivation. The Christian must work daily on each aspect of the fruit to see progress. One writer stated that it is significant that the works of the flesh are contrasted with the fruit of the spirit. Without cultivation and effort, the flesh just naturally produces negative traits. As long as we allow the spirit of God to have full control of our life, the works of the flesh will not be able to manifest itself. Galatians 5:24 states: And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lust. The goal of each Christian should

Community Protestant Church

(Co-op City) Morning Prayer Services - Tuesday, 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Extension of Prayer and Worship Service – Every first, second and third Fridays at 7:00 p.m. Note: Summer Church Schedule (Dress-Down Summer Attire, July 5– September 13) Worship Service Begins at 10 a.m* In prayer, we remember the families of our faithful brothers and sisters in Christ who perished in South Carolina. May

God give them peace and comfort in their time of bereavement. Other Scheduled Events Tomorrow, June 28th at 11:00 a.m. – Youth Day celebrated at Community Protestant. All children and youth in the community are cordially invited to attend this special service and to bring their parents with them. Our Guest Preacher will be Minister Darius Davis. The Women’s Guild invites you to join us on our Christmas/New Year Extravaganza, December 22, 2015 – January 3, 2016. A fantastic 12-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise aboard the

and organizations that desire to join the coalition may apply for membership by either writing or calling (718) 671-4506 or (718) 671-5957 for a membership application, which should be returned with a letter on your church/organization’s letterhead and signed by the Minister/President. Read the coalition’s weekly column for information about events and issues. Remember the coalition’s motto is, “Coming together is the Beginning, Keeping together is Progress and Working together is Success.” —Harman T. Leacock

be to develop each aspect of the fruit of the spirit to the highest possible potential in his life. A Christian should never be satisfied with his present states; he should press on to a fuller dimension. It is important that Christians maintain the fruit of the spirit, Goodness is one that speaks of basic character, Paul said, for I know that in me (that is in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing (Romans 7:18) Goodness must be imparted to us from the character of Christ. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? {Jeremiah 17:9} The basic character of goodness will affect one’s ethics. Let us live a clean life. —Rev. R. Sibblies

Magnificent Queen Mary 2, departing from New York, Red Hook in Brooklyn. Ports of Call: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie; St. Kitts, Basseterre; St. Lucia, Castries; St. Maarten, Phillipsburg; Tortola, Road Town. To make a reservation or for additional information about the cruise, please call (718) 320-1435 or (718) 671-5961. The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing. —Evan G. Mitchell

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DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Bartow,

Einstein,

Dreiser,

Activities in Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Activities in Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Activities in Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Line Dancing 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Around The Lunch Table 11:30 a.m. Word Search 11 a.m. 12 p.m. Bingo 1-3 p.m., Rm. 35 Pokeno 3-4 p.m., Rm. 35 Diabetes Support Group 2nd Monday of the month, 1 p.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m. Stay Well Exercise 10-11 a.m., Room 2 Mind Teasers 12-1pm, Rm 4 Diabetes Support Group 1 p.m. – Last Monday of the month Gentle Yoga 1:15-2 p.m., Rm 2 Basic Cell Phone & iPad Training 1:30-2:30 p.m. Intermediate Yoga 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Tues., June 30

Word Games 9:30-11am Bingo 12:30-2:00 p.m. Weight Management 10 - 11:30 a.m., Bartow Office Arthritis Exercises 11 a.m.-noon Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tablet class 1st & 3rd; Cell Phone Class 2nd & 4th, Bartow Office, 12:40-1:40 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m. Word Games 9:3011:30 a.m. Current Events 10 a.m. Health Current Events Club 10 a.m., Bartow office Bingo 12:30-2 p.m. Caregiver Support Group 1 p.m., 1st & 3rd Tues Card Games 2-4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Wed., July 1

Mon., June 29

Blood Pressure 9-10 a.m. 1st & 3rd Wed. Word Games 9:3011:30 a.m. Stay Well Exercise 1011 a.m. Line Dancing 11 a.m.12 p.m. Bingo 12:30-2 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Thurs., July 2

Library 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Word Games 9:3011:30 a.m. Chat Session 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Bingo 12:30- 2 p.m. Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Fri., July 3

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

CENTER CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF JULY 4th HOLIDAY

Dominoes 10 a.m. Tai Chi 11 a.m., Rm. 45

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

Date:

Matinee Movie 10 a.m.-noon, Rm. 45 Pokeno 1-3 p.m., Rm. 35

Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:3010:30 a.m.

Spelling Bee 10 a.m.

Sewing 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Computer Lab

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

Zumba 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Art Class 1-3 p.m.

Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4

Yoga 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2 Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Stay Well Exercise 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m. Grandparent Connection 1st & 3rd Thurs. computer lab, 10:30 a.m. Arthritis Exercise Class 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Word search 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Pokeno 1-3 p.m., Rm. 35

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat 9:30-10:30 a.m. Blood Pressure 1011:30 a.m., 1st & 3rd Thu., Rm. 8 Line Dancing 10-11 a.m., Aud. A Piano Sing Along 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Drama Club 1:30 - 4:00

CENTER CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF JULY 4th HOLIDAY

p.m.

(Schedule subject to change without notice)

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $4.00 for guest *Menu subject to change without notice. Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk Bartow Center (718) 320-2066, Ext. 2010 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

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

New Payment Schedule - Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Only) Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Soups, Breads and Desserts

Non-Kosher Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Mon., Jun 29

Orange pineapple juice Stuffed cabbage Bowtie noodles Green beans w/tomato Alt: Egg salad

Tues, Jun 30

Orange juice Chicken Picccata Mauzone toasted barley & onion Sautéed zucchini Alt: Tuna salad

Chicken Fricasse White rice pilaf w/onions, peas & carrots Creamed spinach

Whole wheat bread Healthy wildberry & applesauce

Deluxe cheeseburger w/onions Coleslaw Potato salad

Whole wheat bread Plain hamburger bun Fresh fruit

Braised beef tips Baked sweet potato Broccoli w/toasted garlic

Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit

Pork spare ribs Macaroni & cheese Baby carrots with parsley

Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit

CENTER CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF JULY 4th HOLIDAY

Apple juice Veggie burger patty Wed., Mashed sweet potatoes July Winter blend vegetables 1 Alt: Baked flounder Orange pineapple juice

11:30 a.m.

Cultural Dance 10:30– 11:30 a.m., Aud. B Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Tuesday - Movie w/popcorn 2-4 p.m.

Kosher

Thurs., Breaded Tilapia fish fillet Brown rice w/mushJuly rooms 2 Steamed carrots

Fri., July 3

CENTER CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF JULY 4th HOLIDAY

Upcoming Events/Trips

There will be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation! All trips must be paid in advance No exceptions. JASA has a system which is called Phone Tree. We will be using this system periodically to send announcements to you by phone about JASA's activities and services. JASA is closed Friday, July 3rd in observance of July 4th. (FREE) LivOn NY - SCRIE Application Assistance/SNAP (food stamps) Medicare Savings Program & Medicaid, Friday, July 17th & 31st; August 14th & 28th; September 11th & 25th - Bring documents that verify the following: Government issued ID, Address/affidavit, and Total household income (such as 2015 Social Security award letter which will include monthly or yearly benefits, 2014 pension letter, 2014 income tax returns & Maintenance/Carrying charge Receipt). First come, first served at JASA office. FREE six-week workshop with lunch included - build skills to manage ongoing health problems – Mondays, June 8th through July 13th, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. in Room 25. Please call to register. The New York Public Library Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (Main library at 42nd Street & Fifth Ave in Manhattan) Private Docent-Led Library Building Tour – Tuesday, June 23rd, $8 (NOTE CHANGE OF DATE) – COACH BUS – Pick-ups: Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10:00 a.m. 1 hour tour starts 11:30 a.m. City Island - Seafood City, Monday, July 6th - $3 – Bartow – 11:15, Einstein – 11:30 & Dreiser – 11:45. Empire Casino – Tuesday, July 6th - $5 – Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10:00 a.m. Stew Leonard’s – Monday, July 13th - $5 – Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10:00 a.m. Ellis Island Immigration Museum/Statue of Liberty Tour – Friday, July 17th – $15 – Ferry departure: 11:00 a.m. sharp – (Only 19 seats available) - Bartow: 8:15 a.m., Einstein8:30 a.m. & Dreiser – 8:45 a.m. (FREE) Target – Monday, July 20th – Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10:00 a.m. Empire Casino –Monday, July 20th

- $5 – Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10:00 a.m. (FREE) Senior Splash 2015 – Tuesdays, July 21st through August 18th & Thursdays from August 6th through August 20. JASA will provide transportation to Senior Splash at the Highbridge Pool (Amsterdam Avenue & West 173rd St. in Manhattan) for aquatics from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. – Pick-ups: Bartow – 8:15 a.m., Einstein – 8:30 a.m. & Dreiser - 8:45 a.m. Jersey Gardens Indoor Outlet Mall - $15 – Wednesday, July 22nd – Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein – 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser - 9:00 a.m. Empire Casino – Friday, July 24th $5 – Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10:00 a.m. Access-A-Ride Customer Relations Officer Kenneth Stuart wants to hear from you! Friday, June 26th, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 45. Light refreshments will be served. Call 718-320-2066 for more information. Union Square Green Market Tour – Monday, July 27th - $4 – Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:00 a.m. Woodbury Commons – Monday, July 27th - $15 - Bartow – 8:30 a.m., Einstein - 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser - 9:00 a.m. Birthday Party-Wednesday, July 29th, 2049 Bartow Senior Center, Room 31, 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Celebrate with Signore Louise on her 103 birthday! Music: by DJ Woody. Menu: TBA. Super Wal-Mart – Thursday, July 30th - $15 – Bartow: 8:30 a.m., Einstein: 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser: 9:00 a.m. Fairway – Friday, July 31ST - $3 – Bartow: 9:30 a.m., Einstein: 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser: 10:00 a.m. City Island - Seafood City, Friday, July 31st - $3 – Bartow: 11:15, Einstein: 11:30 & Dreiser: 11:45. Hawaiian Island Show – Lake Harmony, PA – Thursday, July 30th, $40 – (Coach Bus) - Trip includes Welcome reception w/homemade cake, coffee, tee, juice. Luncheon/dinner buffet, w/beer, wine/soda. Indoor pool, bowling, movies, miniature golf and other activities to be announced – Bartow: 8:00 a.m., Dreiser: 8:15 and Einstein: 8:30.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

AARP Chapter #4997

FYI - 1: Caregivers Outreach Ministry Empowerment & AARP Chapter #4997 presents FREE one-on-one Computer Training Sessions – starting Monday, July 6th – August 14; 3 sessions/day; 10 a.m.-11 a.m., 11-12 p.m. or 1 p.m. - 2 p.m., Monday-Thursday. Classes are held at 177 Dreiser Loop, Room O, 2nd floor. Feel free to bring your own iPhone, iPad, tablet, laptop and other mobile devices. You will be shown how to set-up an e-mail, a Facebook account, save your pictures, make a flyer and other documents. Please RSVP, 718-379-3159, to secure your place. FYI - 2: With the sponsorship of Blue Sky Travel, we will be raffling off an Evening for Two on the Essex Clipper Dinner Train – October 3. It will include: a 2-1/2 hour train ride; 4course meal w/coffee/tea (gratuities and beverages not included); departing from the Bronx; deluxe Coach Bus transportation to/from Essex, CT. Raffle tickets are $5 – on sale NOW! Drawing will be held on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30th at 1 p.m. in the AARP Office, Room “O” in Dreiser Community Center. Contact Stella Baker, 718-379-2088 or 718320-1946 (office) for raffle tickets and additional information. Good to see Maxine Mahon at the Fair on the Greenway. To our sick, on the mend and shut-in members, and those bereaved members, please know that you are in our prayers. Contact Frances Wilson, Good

& Welfare Coordinator, 718-671-5493. 2015 TOUR ACTIVITIES JULY 23 – Ace in the Hole: A Tribute to the Temptations, at the Brownstone – Deluxe Motorcoach, family-style luncheon; entertainment w/a live band and the Boutique Corner… $98/person. All money due NOW! Contact Jean, 718-379-3742. OCT. 30 - NOV. 13 – Autumn Repositioning 15-day cruise on the Norwegian Dawn. WAITING LIST ONLY. Deluxe Motorcoach to Boston, MA to board the ship going to San Juan, PR; Bonaire Curacao and Aruba; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Georgetown in Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico; returning to New Orleans, LA to fly back to New York. Double occupancy - Inside State Room - $1,853; Ocean View - $2,253 and Balcony - $2,553; Insurance and 1st deposit ($600/person) due at time of reservation; 2nd payment due June 5th and final payment due 7/15/15. Contact Jean, 718-379-3742. DECEMBER 30 – JANUARY 1, 2016 – Royal New Year’s Eve Gala at the Desmond…$559/Double; $669/ single and $549/triple. Trip insurance available. Contact Jean, 718-379-3742. 2016 TOUR ACTIVITIES MARCH 28 - 29, 2016 – Sampson: the Strongest Man who ever lived, at the Sight & Sound Theater; w/a stop at the Sands Casino – 2 days/1 night; $293/double; $341/single; $277/triple. Contact Jean, 718-379-3742 for additional information. —Delores Debnam

Einstein Cancer Fund

Baychester Library Events VISIT THE LIBRARY - A GREAT WEALTH OF INFORMATION Events for June Toddler Time - Tuesdays, 11 a.m. Tech Connect - Wednesdays, 5:00-6:30 p.m. Tech Connect - Thursdays, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Click On - Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Summer Superheroes program for 1-8 Grades - July 6 - August 20, Mondays/Wednesdays or Tuesdays/Thursdays, 2-5 p.m. Enrollment required.

The New York Public Library Baychester Branch • 2049 Asch Loop • Bronx, NY 10475 (Fully Wheelchair Accessible)

HOURS: Monday & Wednesday, 10-7; Tuesday & Thursday, 10-6; Friday & Saturday, 10-5. Libros En Español (Books in Spanish). HORARIO DE LA BIBLIOTECA: Lunes 10-7, Martes 10-6, Miércoles 10-7, Jueves 10-6, Viernes 10-5, Sábado 10-5, Domingo Cerrado.

718.379.6700 FREE ADMISSION TO ALL

Happy birthday and/or anniversary to all celebrating this coming month of July. Tuesday, July 14th — Resorts Casino. $33 per person; casino bonus of $25 slot play. Pick-up starting at Einstein Center at 8 a.m., followed by Asch Loop (library), and Dreiser Loop. Please bring your casino card and a valid photo I.D. Thursday, September 17th – Hunterdon Hills Playhouse for their luncheon comedy show Social Security. Enjoy their delicious entrees and their famous unlimited dessert buffet. All entrees are served with salad, vegetables and homemade bread. Cost per person, $79, which can be paid off at your discretion. Final payments are due

by September 1st. Saturday, October 3rd – Our annual raffle luncheon to be held at the Seashore Restaurant, City Island. Cost per person, $52. Enjoy their five selections of entrees to choose from. All served with antipasto, to their delicious strawberry layered cake. Donations of gift cards are gratefully accepted. As with all of our functions, all profits are donated to our three charities. For the above agendas, please call Loretta at 718-671-2958, Ann Eutsey at 718-320-1874 or Lydia at 718-6713005. You can reach us Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Good health and healings are wished to all. —Lydia Ruas

Goose Island Seniors

Going to Resorts Casino in Atlantic City on June 30th. The price is $33 with a return of $25 slot cash. The pick-up time for this trip is at 8 a.m. Please remember to bring your picture I.D. On Wednesday, August 12th, we’re going to La Neves to see a wonderful show, Motown. There will be table seating, so you will be seated with people you know. The price is $75, which may be paid out. Lunch included, two free drinks per person, pasta marinara, chicken Francaise or roast beef with gravy, cheesecake, coffee or tea for dessert. Pick up will be at 8:30 a.m. October 14th, we are going to

Westchester Broadway Theater, to see the musical, Show Boat. The price includes lunch, served at your table, with a choice of six different entrees for you to choose from, dessert, coffee or tea. The price is $80, which, of course, can be paid out as well. The pick-up time is 9 a.m. at the same places listed above. Pick-up places are Einstein Loop, Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop and are the same for all trips. Mary is now venturing outside and we all hope she will return to the club very soon. Good health to all. —Ann Schlanger

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Reflections by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue Money and power do not really bring you happiness. Happiness does not depend on things, but on attitudes. No one is born happy, but all of us are born with the ability to create happiness. A laugh expresses the joy of living and costs nothing, and the person who laughs is a delight to be with. But more important is enjoying life. Someone once questioned a cler-

gyman, “How do you account for so much evil in the world?” The clergyman responded by asking, “How do you account for so much goodness in the world?” There is evil in the world, but there is also goodness in the world. We see what we choose to see. If we have the right perspective, we can see the beauty, the joy, the wonder of life all about us, and most important, in us.

Young Israel of Co-op City

Young Israel of Co-op City (lower level of the Dreiser Loop shopping center) is a house of worship that opens its doors every morning from 6 until 7 a.m. Anyone who wishes to start the daily routine with prayers, during which our spiritual leader Rabbi Solomon I. Berl offers a brief Bible teaching is welcome. On Friday evening, Sabbath services begin at 7 p.m. Saturday morning

services start at 9 a.m., Rabbi Berl delivers his sermon at 10:30 a.m. The Rabbi’s class on the Ethics of Our Fathers begins one hour before sunset every Saturday afternoon. For office hours or any information you may seek, feel free to call (718) 671-2300 and leave your name, phone number and a brief message on the synagogue answering machine, and your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Fr. Taylor and the congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invite you to worship with us in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome. Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. Bible study is held each Wednesday at 7 p.m. Choir rehearsal is on Thursday at 7 p.m. The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meets immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church and dues are $2 per month. We look forward to welcoming everyone at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, June

28, when we will celebrate the Fifth Sunday after Pentecost. We will have a supply priest for this service and our Sunday School children will co-lead the service. Sunday, July 5, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost and celebration of Independence Day. Outreach Program: We continue to collect non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. Please remember to donate. For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718-320-0844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org. “Sing to the Lord, you servants of his; *give thanks for the remembrance of his holiness.” —(Psalm 30:4) —M. Chambers

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

Shalom Jewish Funeral Home, Inc. George Farr - Funeral Director

(718) 828-1700 / 914-654-1700 Keeping Tradition Under Rabbinical Supervision

1528 Castle Hill Avenue Bronx, NY 10462 www.shalomjewish.com Services from Our Chapel, Graveside or Synagogue Parking Facilities • Pre-Arrangements

Traditional Synagogue

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City, Young Israel of Baychester, Section 5 at 120 Erdman Place (behind the lobby 27B), welcomes you to pray with them. Tel. for the Synagogue: 1718-379-6920. Note: Our office hours are on Thursday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Candle Lighting on Friday, July 3, is at 8:11 p.m. Shabbat ends on today, Saturday, June 27 at 9:21 p.m. Coming Events From now through the summer, Friday night services will be held at 7 p.m. Services will be held today, Saturday, June 27 at 9 a.m. Join Rabbi Daniel Kronengold in prayer. We hope that you will sign up to sponsor a Kiddish to take place after services on Saturdays. Sunday, July 5, at 1 p.m., we will have bingo. Cost a nominal $3 per per-

son. Snacks and refreshments are provided for your enjoyment. We’d love to be able to continue with our Sunday Bingo games, however, we need your support. We therefore, look forward to seeing many more of you. For Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we are happy to announce that Cantor Ringel will be returning to us. Dues are due for both the synagogue and Sisterhood. Good and Welfare Happy birthday to Mimi on July 4. Best wishes to all celebrating special occasions this month. We have tree certificates “in Honor of” or “in Memory of” a special occasion or a condolence. The cost is $15 per tree. If you are feeling under the weather, we wish you all a speedy recovery. Mimi Berlofsky welcomes all calls at 347-427-4526. We look forward to seeing you soon. —Miriam Berlofsky

Building 27 Association

Hello neighbors, happy summer and happy 4th of July. Enjoy and please stay safe. SECTION 5 FUN DAY - is still in the works. We will need volunteers. Please contact your building association, and if you need a shirt, please get your order in also. THE NEWSPAPER - We are fortunate enough to receive two community newspaper, the Co-op Times and the City News once a week conveniently delivered on each floor, but for some reason for weeks and months, the papers are not touched nor read by the shareholders. Now if someone knows how we can encourage the cooperators to pick up the papers and read it, please share. I can only think, perhaps the cooperators are busy working to provide for their homes, that reading a paper is the least of their worries. REMINDER - Committees, during the summer months, if you would like to

chair a committee, such as the sunshine, game night, etc., please contact yours truly at oaplew789@gmail.com. CONGRATULATIONS - to all of the graduates, and may they reach their goals in life. HAPPY BIRTHDAY – to those in the month of June. Please remember Ms. Beatrice Chaderton in your prayers; she is home from the hospital, and is coming along pretty well. We wish all of our sick and shut-in a speedy recovery. To the family and church family of Dr. Milca Plaud of the United Methodist Church here in Section 5, we extend our profound sorrow and know that she is in a better place and is at peace. To those who lost a loved one, we extend our deepest sympathy and condolences. Please keep our Board members in prayer that divine wisdom will be granted to each member of the Board. —H. Overman

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

We welcome your letters to the editor, however, if you would like your letter to be considered for publication, it must be signed, and include your address and telephone number – which will be kept confidential – so the authenticity of the writer can be verified. The Co-op City Times does not print anonymous or unsigned letters.

THE LAW OFFICE

Christopher W. Edwards, P.C. • Personal Injury • Divorce • Family Law • Landlord & Tenant • Real Estate Closings • Contracts

• Criminal Defense • Probate/Estate • Immigration Law • Employment Law • Entertainment Law • Other Legal Matters

3049 Eastchester Road Bronx, NY 10469

(718) 671-4910

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Church of God’s Children

Pastors Nancy & Angelo Rosario and the membership invite you to worship and learn God’s Word for instructions in your life. You may visit us and maybe stay, but please visit and become a member at any of the many houses of worship in the Co-op City community that are teaching God’s Word. We are located at 127 Dreiser Loop (to the right of the Montefiore Health Clinic), 718-790-9120. You can call the office and leave your prayer request for our prayer group that meets on Monday & Wednesday. Schedule: Sunday Worship -Spanish, 9:30 a.m.; English Worship, 1:15 p.m.; Sunday School, 11:30 a.m. for men, women and children. Separate classes for each. Monday, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. -

prayer with Brother Steve. Wed., Prayer, 7 - 8:30 p.m. Office hours: Tues./Thurs., 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Visit our Goodwill Ministry at 163 Dreiser for a free coat and other items. For credit restoration services, call 718-320-3873. churchofgodschildren@gmail.com. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things— and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him (1 Corinthians 1:2729 NIV). If God said, “I’m looking for a woman to help accomplish My plans and fulfill My purposes,” would you

feel qualified? Not many of us would raise our hands shouting, “Pick me, pick me!” But here’s something we must always remember: God doesn’t necessarily call the qualified, but He always qualifies the called. When the angel of the LORD came to call Gideon to be the leader of the Israelite army, Gideon was hiding in a winepress threshing wheat (Judges 6:11-14 NIV). Now you don’t thresh wheat in a winepress. You thresh wheat by throwing it up into the open air and letting the chaff blow away and the heavier grain fall to the ground. So why was Gideon in the winepress? He was hiding. That’s right. He was so terrified of his encroaching enemies,

he was hiding. And yet, when the angel of the LORD addressed Gideon, He called him a “mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12 NIV). That just tickles me. I imagine Gideon looked to the left and the right and asked, “Are you talking to me?” I’ve done that many times. God doesn’t see as we see. We tend to look at what we can accomplish in our own strength, but God looks at what we can accomplish in His. For the month of July, the theme of our sermons is: “Mold me, Shape me, Until I think like you, Lord.” Come and listen, receive joy and peace in your life. Please have a safe and fun 4th of July weekend. —Bishop Nancy Rosario

Come & Visit Us – We welcome you to God’s House – Your House – One Family in Christ. We are a congregation with spirit-filled worship, offering a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and bilingual congregation and all are welcome. Services are at the church at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across the street from Building 30. Parking is available. Sunday Services – The first Sunday of the month is a bilingual service with communion at 10 a.m. Each Sunday, the English Service is at 9 a.m. and the Spanish Service is at 11:30 a.m. Children: Sunday School is

at 10:30 a.m. Classes are for 3 yrs. – 12 yrs. The curriculum being used is The Super Book. Prayer Night (English) & Prayer Morning (Spanish): The Lord said, “Whenever two or more are gathered in my name, I am in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. Tuesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Come and bring your prayer needs, so we can pray together. Remember that prayer brings many blessings, which God has promised to all his children that have a personal relationship with Him. Crescendo Christian Music School: Are you interested in learning how to

play an instrument or to sing. Come and join the music school. They teach piano, guitar, drums, violin, voice and other instruments. Regis-tration for the summer & fall seasons are beginning and cost is very reasonable. Registration is free. Call Maestro Frank Colon, (917) 753-3644, to set up a time to come and register. Students range in age from 5 years to seniors. This Sunday, June 28th, is the music school is having their annual recital at 5 p.m. at the church. All are welcome. So if you want to see what the school is teaching, come and listen to our students perform. Trip to Lancaster, PA.: On Friday, December 18, we are going to Sight &

Sound Theater to see Miracle of Christmas. Also included in the trip is shopping at Rockville Square Mall and Dinner at Shady Maple. Transportation is included. The cost is $140/ person and $100 for children 12 and under. A $50 deposit is required when making reservations. Call Barbara at 347-603-7473; if no answer, leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. Upcoming trip to Lancaster, PA.: We will be going to Sight & Sound Theater on June 3, 2016 to see the new production of Samson. Information will follow in the next few months. —Barbara Penn

Hey, Co-op City! We had an amazing time being part of the “Make the Music” Celebration! We invite you to join us this Sunday as we continue our series, “I love my church.” In this series, we’re learning that the church isn’t just something that we tolerate once or twice a year...It’s something that should be celebrated every day of the year! We believe that the local church is God’s gift to the world. Don’t miss this series! Here’s what you can expect when you join our Worship Experience this Sunday. Newsong Church is a multi-cultural church that believes God has a purpose and a plan for your life. We exist to reach people who are far away from God, and teach them how to follow Jesus step by step. That’s why you will find our Sunday Worship Experience to be so warm and friendly, we genuinely care about you! We’re not concerned about where you’ve been, but where you’re going. You see, we’ve all got a past, we’ve all made mistakes, and we still do. When you step into our worship experience, you won’t find a bunch of “Holier-than-thou” people pretending to have it all together. Instead, you’ll find that we’re all broken people, but we’re allowing God to put us back together. We’re not perfect, but God is! As God puts us back together, we’re realizing that although our past has shaped us, it does not define us! We’re finding out that not only does God love us with a radical and unconditional love, but that He loves us just as we are!

At Newsong Church, we believe that the Bible is the greatest book ever written, containing the greatest story ever told, and that each of us is part of His-story! In fact, we have a saying at our church: “If you’re not dead, God’s not done with you!” We don’t just believe this for the adults, but for our children as well! At Newsong Church, we’re so passionate about our children learning about Jesus, that we created a church just for them called Kidsong! At Kidsong, our children learn about Jesus in a safe, fun, age-appropriate learning environment! We also have a fully staffed nursery! We hope that you will join us this Sunday! We meet at 177 Dreiser Loop in Auditorium B at 11:00 a.m. Parking is available in the parking garage located on Dreiser Loop. Please bring your ticket to our connection tent for validation. Deaf interpretation is available during our adult worship experience. If you have any questions, you can contact us: Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org. Email: info@newsongchurchnyc.org. You can also interact with us on social media! Facebook: www.facebook.com/new songchurchbx, Twitter: @newsongchurchBX. Instagram: @newsongchurchBX. Our Newsong family is here for you; stop by this Sunday and experience the difference! God bless you! —Pastor Mike Tolone

Evangelical Church of Co-op City – UMC Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds

Newsong Church

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

Opportunities

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• Answer telephones, direct calls, and take messages. • Maintain and update filing, and database systems, either manually or using a computer. • Communicate with shareholders, employees, and other individuals to answer questions, disseminate or explain information, take work orders, and address complaints. • Compute, record, and proofread data and other information, such as records or reports. • Type, format, proofread and edit correspondence and other documents using the computer. • Review database and documents to obtain information to respond to requests. • Perform other duties as assigned. Job Requirements: HS Diploma or equivalent is required/College degree is a plus; Successful candidate

(Continued from page 7)

will have 6 months to a year of clerk experience; Candidate should have a working knowledge in Microsoft Office that includes MS Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint & Adobe products; Candidate should be able to type 30 to 40 wpm; Applicant must have ability to sit or walk for long periods of time, twist, kneel, push, stoop as well as lift and carry up to 20 pounds; Must be available for emergency work; Must be able to read and write in English; Bi-Lingual is a plus; Knowledge of Yardi is a plus. Testing Requirements: Drug Screening Test, Background check. Days and Hours: Monday – Friday; Hours will vary between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. How to Apply: Applications are given out at the below address from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All applicants are advised to submit a resume along with the application.

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CCPD

which resulted in the death of 100 people. New York City puts 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 and the Co-op City Department of Public Safety. 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. Emergency Rooms in the United States see an average of over 9,000 persons per year injured by illegal fireworks. A majority of fireworks related injuries occur in the time period just before and just after the 4th of July. Injuries to children under the age of 15 represent more than one third of the injuries. Males sustain 75% of fireworks related injuries. The most common body part injured by fireworks is the hands, followed by the eyes. Injuries include burns, contusions, lacerations, amputations and blindness. Fireworks often thought to be safe are one of the leading causes of injuries. Seemingly harmless sparklers, with their over 1,000 degree white hot burning wire are the leading cause of injuries to children under five years of age. Injuries to hands, eyes or feet are the most common. Sparklers have also been known to ignite children’s clothing. Bottle rockets and firecrackers are responsible for a majority of fireworks injuries because they are commonly used. Every type of consumer firework has been associated with serious injury or death. Quality standards are non-existent on most consumer fireworks which are

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generally mass produced and imported from China. Leave fireworks displays to the professionals and enjoy a safe and Happy Fourth of July. Nobody wants to spend their holiday weekend seeking the help of an eye doctor or a hand specialist. Enjoy the “OOHS” and “AAHS” of a professional fireworks display and know that you will be safe. Residents are also 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 do not permit barbecuing in within 10 feet of any residential building. The exception to this is electric barbecue grills for grilling on terraces and patios. Propane tanks are strictly prohibited by the New York City Fire Department in any multiple family dwellings. Residents are also reminded that Bike Riding is not permitted near buildings, in shopping malls or anywhere else signs prohibiting bicycle riding are posted. The Public Safety Department would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July. Remember to stay safe this summer, especially near pools, beaches and other bodies of water. Throughout the summer, we will be featuring articles that focus on the rules that affect the quality of life in the community. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Coop 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.

Public Safety Blotter: June 17-22, 2015

June 17- 140 Bellamy Loop One male was arrested for Disorderly Conduct and Public Consumption. He was issued a Universal Summons and released. June 18 - f/o 100 Bellamy Loop One male was arrested for Public Consumption and Disorderly Conduct. A Universal Summons and a Community Complaint were issued. June 18 - 170 Dreiser Loop Three males were found loitering. All males were issued Community Complaints. June 19 - 120 Alcott Place Two male Juveniles were arrested for Disorderly Conduct (fighting). One male was found with a weapon (knife) and he was charged accordingly. June 19 - s/o 920 Baychester Avenue One male was arrested for Possession of Graffiti

instruments and writing Graffiti. He was issued a Summons and Community Complaint and released. June 22 - 129 Dreiser Loop Two males were arrested for Criminal Mischief. Both males were charged accordingly and one male was issued a Community Complaint.

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

6/27

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Follow and read the Co-op City Times online at http://issuu.com/cctimes; download to your iOS devices from the App Store

Be an informed cooperator — Pick up and read your Co-op City Times Residents are reminded that the Co-op City Times is the official newspaper of the Riverbay Corporation. It is the vehicle through which your Board of Directors and management, and the state supervisory agency, the New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), communicate with you, the shareholder.

The Co-op City Times is distributed each Saturday to each townhouse door, at the elevators in the high rise buildings, and in the three (3) community centers.

It is very important that you pick up and read your Co-op City Times to make sure you are informed about what is going on in the community, and more importantly, what your Board and management are doing to ensure efficient delivery of services to you, and the proper upkeep of the development.

When you are informed, you can be prepared to discuss issues that are pertinent to you and your household at the community meetings held by the Board of Directors.

The Co-op City Times can also be read online at www.issuu.com/cctimes. Thank you for your attention and cooperation.

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2015

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