Co-op City Times 6/27/20

We're proud of you, Class of 2020!

Vol. 55 No. 26

Saturday, June 27, 2020

Political newcomers shake up NY Primaries Here is who’s in the lead so far

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Some have called the race between newcomer Jamaal Bowman versus Eliot Engel “the high-profile race to watch,” as Mr. Bowman and other reasonably new candidates shook up the New York Primaries on Tuesday, June 23.

Engel vs. Bowman Bowman – 62% Engel – 35 % A seat in the 16th Congressional District Democratic Primary was on the line as Congressman Engel had a new opponent, former Bronx middle school principal, Jamaal Bowman. Engel, who held his position as congressman in the district for over 30 years and served 16-terms on the job, had received support from Hillary Clinton, Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi.

At the same time, Bowman, who currently has the lead in the primary, was endorsed by Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Despite Bowman’s significant preliminary lead after Tuesday’s Primary however, Engel’s campaign has not yet conceded the race to Mr. Bowman until all absentee ballots are counted. In a press release disseminated late Tuesday, the campaign stated: “With so many absentee ballots outstanding and many still coming in, we know that the full results of the primary won’t be known for some time. Congressman Engel is proud of his progressive record and looks forward to the final tallies from the full Democratic electorate in the Bronx and Westchester. …That includes the absentee ballots that only reached voters in the last day – they must

$1.25

Charcoal & gas BBQ grills not permitted in Co-op City Barbecuing prohibited in public spaces

BY ROZAAN BOONE

New York City Fire Code is a law defining fire safety requirements that apply to all people and places in the city, and includes rules about outdoor barbecuing which are strictly enforced in Co-op City’s 35 high-rise, multi-family residential buildings and grounds.

Section 307.5.3 of the Fire Code states: “Portable outdoor barbecues shall not be stored or used within 10 feet of any combustible waste, combustible material, or any combustible building surface, including combustible roofs and decks.”

Since Co-op City balconies do not have the required 10’ clearance, grills that cause open flames such as charcoal grills are prohibited.

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PS 160’s celebratory fence in honor of the Class of 2020

The fence along the back of PS 160 in Section Five has been turned into a graduation tribute to the Class of 2020 as 5th graders, their families and teachers improvised on how to mark the students’ graduation this year as the COVID-19 pandemic has required adjustment to a new normal. On Thursday, a graduation car parade was held in Co-op City.

(See more on page 5.)

Photo by Leandra Alexander-Peters

MTA bolsters coronavirus prevention methods

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The MTA looks to improve their COVID-19 prevention methods while New York City continues toward fully reopening.

Earlier this June, the MTA commissioned a report that was meant to build off of the guide the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) released in partnership with management and consultant company WSP USA Inc. and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Initially, the APTA, the only non-profit association in the US that represents all modes of public transit, published their guidance in April and outlined ways for America’s most used public transit infrastructures to move forward responsibly.

From this report came many (Continued on page 2)

Despite seasonal notices in the Co-op City Times and year-round on the Riverbay Crawler, grills are becoming evident on Co-op City balconies in violation of the city’s Fire Code which bans charcoal and gas grills in multi-family dwellings. Shareholders with such grills are asked to remove them or else face penalties.

Gas or propane grills are prohibited in multi-family dwellings. In fact, the city’s Fuel Gas Code prohibits storage of standard propane on balconies, roof decks, backyards or in a courtyard.

The Fire Code stipulates that all grills must be used outdoors. Co-op City rules and regulations do not permit barbecuing in the community’s public spaces, the greenways or playgrounds.

In addition to high-rise residents, shareholders who live in townhouses are also allowed to have only electric grills.

This week, as Riverbay’s staff from the Cooperator Services Office (CSO) conducted buildings and grounds inspections throughout the property, they found evidence of disregard for the Fire Code by some shareholders as it relates to charcoal grills on their balconies, most likely because they may be unaware, according to Riverbay’s Safety Director, Anthony Barzelatto.

(Continued on page 2)

Holiday Closing Notice Riverbay’s offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2020 in observance of the July 4, 2020 holiday.

Emergency services will be available by calling 718-320-3300, press option 2. For Public Safety emergencies, call 718-671-3050. and 911.

We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable July 4, 2020.

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Primaries

be counted in every race.”

On Wednesday morning, Bowman released a statement claiming victory, “I’m a Black man who was raised by a single mother in a housing project. That story doesn’t usually end in Congress. But today, that 11-year old boy who was beaten by police is about to be your next Representative.” As absentee votes are counted, both candidates will soon find out who is the final winner of this race.

Presidential race: Biden vs. Everybody Although former vice president Joe Biden is the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, he received 67.5% of the votes, according to a chart on the New York Times. His opponent, Bernie Sanders, who dropped out of the race earlier this year, received 19% of votes.

AOC vs Caruso-Cabrera Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez – 73% Michelle Caruso-Cabrera – 19% Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s first reelection campaign for the 14th Congressional District Democratic Primary, outperformed her challenger, CNBC television anchor Michelle Caruso-Cabrera.

15th Congressional District Democratic Primary Ritchie Torres – 30% Michael Blake – 19%

Grilling

“People might not be aware of the issues involved with using a gas or charcoal grill on their balcony,” said Mr. Barzelatto. “Gas and charcoal grills are definitely not allowed by the Fire Code. And even with an electric grill which shareholders are allowed to have in Co-op City, anything that accumulates grease should be carefully watched. You should definitely not have anything else on the terrace especially anything combustible such as chairs, tables, tablecloths, paper products, anything that can burn. While cooking on your balcony, windows and doors should be closed and you must be cognizant of the dangers so you need to have a lot of steps in place even if using an electric grill including remembering to unplug it after use.”

The safety director continued, “We also insist shareholders have an ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher which they can purchase at any of the larger hardware chains. It is good for grease, paper, wood, liquids, gases, trash, solvents and electrical fires – they are extremely versatile.”

Mr. Barzelatto added that in addition to having a fire extinguisher on the balcony when using an elec-

MTA

of the methods the MTA adopted such as shutting down overnight and designating that time to fully disinfect and scrub all surfaces in trains and stations.

Fast forward to June and the MTA has commissioned a follow-up report from WSP USA Inc. that also includes the New York State Department of Health mandates for public transportation that were also published in June.

Within the updated report, WSP outlines various methods of screening and other preventative practices being done around the world and their overall effectiveness.

Some critics of the new report claim that it does not offer enough new material to substantiate the MTA commissioning WSP and Johns Hopkins to put together the report in the first place. However, Chairman and CEO of the MTA, Pat Foye, told reporters at a press conference on June 22 that the plan, “provides significant value to us as an agency and to (MTA) customers.”

One notable and potentially feasible method of prevention comes from Auckland Transport in New Zealand. This particular strategy Auckland Transport enacted gives customers real time information about incoming train capacity so that trains never get too

Co-op City Times / June 27 , 2020 (Continued from page 1)

Ruben Diaz Sr. – 15% Melissa Mark-Viverito – 4% A dozen candidates were on the ballot for the 15th Congressional District Democratic Primary. Although some recognized political veteran, Rubén Díaz Sr. as the front-runner, Ritchie Torres currently leads the packed race.

Along with Diaz Sr., Torres is also up against other high-profile candidates like Michael Blake and Melissa Mark-Viverito – both who also ran for New York City Public Advocate.

In 2013, Torres became the youngest member of the New York City Council at the age of 25. Now at 32, he’s on his way to represent the 15th Congressional District in the Bronx. Mr. Torres recently told news outlets, “I’m not prepared to declare victory until every vote is counted... It would be the honor of my life to represent this borough. It’s my home.”

Benedetto vs. Sementilli Michael Benedetto – 86% Egidio Sementilli – 14% Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, a staunch advocate for the Co-op City community, currently has a healthy lead against his competitor, Egidio Sementilli, in the 82nd District New York State Assembly race.

(Continued from page 1)

tric grill, the fire extinguisher should be accessibly stored where it can be easily reached in case of an emergency, not behind the grill where you wouldn’t be able to get to it if it’s needed. More importantly, he advises, read the instructions and know how to use the fire extinguisher ahead of time instead of trying to read the instructions during an emergency.

“And, should an emergency occur, call 911 first before using your fire extinguisher,” Mr. Barzelatto said.

Vanessa Aldea, director of CSO, explained that all Co-op City balconies have GFCI outlets or groundfault circuit interrupters, essentially a circuit breaker that shuts off electric power if there is a ground-fault emergency, and helps prevent electrocutions.

“During our inspections, we walk through the property going from building to building looking for conditions that need to be addressed,” said Ms. Aldea. “We want everyone to be safe so if you have a gas or charcoal grill on your terrace, it would be best to remove it to avoid penalties.”

The National Fire Prevention Association (NEPA) reports that between 2014-2018, there were more than

(Continued from page 1)

full. Riders simply tap a prompt on their transit app when getting on the train to pay their fare and then again at the end of their journey. With people doing this simple logging of their trip, it allows Auckland Transport to effectively close certain trains off to new passengers until the capacity reaches a safer level. Customers can also see which trains are full and schedule their journey more safely by knowing precisely when they need to be at the station to catch their respective train. Additionally, the app provides an index to see if a train is likely empty or nearing the limit on its safe distance capacity.

The MTA could potentially adopt Auckland Transport’s model should it continue its adoption of the tapto-pay option which minimizes potential contact with surfaces. Furthermore, given the population density the MTA is responsible for, adding more tools to their bus and train time applications could prove to be a cost effective way of empowering customers with more information.

Following the first week of reopening, the MTA announced on June 19 that they officially eclipsed two million riders on trains and buses combined for the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March.

Candidates vs. Absentee Ballots As Coronavirus cases are slowing down in New York City (and climbing in other areas of the country), the need to protect oneself from the infection is still a top priority – along with staying safe while voting in this year’s state and federal primaries. Before election day, all citizens in the state were encouraged to stay home and consider filling out an absentee ballot.

According to the Board of Elections, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Governor issued an executive order allowing all registered and eligible voters to apply to vote by absentee ballot for the June 23 elections. The site said, “Voters affected by COVID-19 including the risk of contracting the virus, should check the box “Temporary Illness” as the reason for requesting an Absentee Ballot.”

Over a million absentee ballots were sent across the state to registered voters, which could significantly change the current primary results as many residents fled the city during the onset of the pandemic.

Overall, although the lead in some of these races are too high for absentee votes to make a significant difference, these results are preliminary until all absentee ballots are counted. New York will begin to count absentee votes on June 30.

10,500 home fires started by grills annually on average. July is the peak month for grill fires.

According to the US Fire Administration, grill fires on residential properties are responsible for an estimated annual average of 10 deaths, 100 injuries, and $37 million in property loss. Thirty-two percent of grill fires on residential properties start on patios, terraces, screen-in porches or courtyards and an additional 24% start on exterior balconies and unenclosed porches.

All shareholders receive a copy of the community’s rules and regulations as they go through the Riverbay application process and new cooperator orientation. The message is also reiterated through seasonal postings in the Co-op City Times and available year-round on the Riverbay Crawler as reminders to residents.

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

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

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

appointment time

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

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

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DR. KARIM A. BADAWY, DIRECTOR ALL FOOT AND ANKLE CONDITIONS TREATED Most Health Insurance Plans Accepted.

1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire, Medicare, United Healthcare, HealthFirst and others.

HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Congratulations, Meshach!

Congratulations, Bryan and Jeremy!

We live in Section 5 and we are proud parents to our sons, Bryan and Jeremy, who both graduated this year with honors.

Bryan Veras (left) graduated from Bronx Compass High School and was accepted to Bronx Community College where he will major in Digital Media. Bryan received a Regents diploma and was on the Principal’s Honor Roll.

Jeremy Fabregas (right) graduated from Fredrick Douglas Academy. He has high honor and was also voted best hair and most popular. He was accepted to Lehman High School.

Best wishes to both Bryan and Jeremy.

—Proud Mom, Rose Fabregas

WE ARE OPEN! BECAUSE YOUR EYES DESERVE THE BEST! Congratulations to Meshach on his graduation from 5th grade after transitioning to distance learning. His family, residents of Section 2, extends congratulations to all of the other students who have graduated this year in spite of the pandemic.

Meshach, we are so proud of you. Keep up the good work!

With love, —Mom, Melinda; sister, Misha, and dad, Garfield

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Laundry Room Etiquette & Safety Cooperators, no more than 5 people in the laundry room at one time. Please pick up your discarded fabric softener sheets and plastic bags from the floor in the laundry rooms, for your safety and that of your fellow neighbors.

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Recommended Convector Cleaning Procedures

Shareholders are reminded to maintain their apartment convectors and to clean them regularly to avoid flooding.

During the summer months when air conditioning is provided, it is beneficial to check and clean your convectors regularly even if you don’t use them. Clogs occur as dust and debris accumulate in the convector drain lines and can cause backups and flooding which can damage floors and apartments below.

Shareholders who are elderly or disabled and require assistance checking and cleaning their convectors, may contact Maintenance for assistance by calling the Riverbay Call Center, (718) 320-3300, select Option 2.

Following the procedures recommended below, the potential for clogging will be greatly reduced and the efficient functioning of convector units will be facilitated. The procedures should be performed bi-weekly for maximum effect.

A Co-op City convector cleaning video can also be found on YouTube.

Cleaning Procedures • Turn off the convector before cleaning by moving the power switch to the middle position.

• Remove the cover by lifting from the bottom and swinging out and up.

• Remove any debris (coins, leaves, plant soil, loose scale, etc.) from the upper drip tray (long pan) and lower drip tray (drain pan).

• Slowly pour one quart of hot water into the upper drip tray and check that it flows into the lower drip tray and down the drain. Do not continue to pour water if it doesn’t flow freely down the drain.

• If the water flows down freely, pour another 2-3 quarts of hot water into the upper drip tray to ensure a thorough cleaning.

• If the water does not flow from the upper tray into the drain pan, it is likely that the spout is clogged. You can probably use a ball point pen to remove the debris from inside the spout and clear the clog.

• If the water does not go down the drain of the lower drip tray, or becomes clogged, contact the Maintenance office immediately at the number listed below.

• Remove the filter located at the bottom of the convector unit to ensure it is clean. Clean filters allow for air to flow freely which is essential for the efficient operation of the convector. During the winter, filters may be vacuumed or washed.

During the summer, they must be vacuumed only (a wet filter can cause dirt to coagulate in the summer and hamper air flow). For a replacement filter, please stay tuned for more information as those details are being worked out. The charge for a new filter is $4, money orders or checks are accepted.

• Replace the cover by placing it flat against the convector front, lift the cover top approximately 1 inch above the convector top and slide it down into position.

Make sure the small hooks at the bottom of the cover slide onto the rail at the bottom of the convector.

Income Affidavit presentation on Riverbay Crawler A Power Point slide show is currently being aired on the Riverbay Crawler demonstrating step-by-step instructions on filling out the 2019 Income Affidavit. Be sure to tune in to the Riverbay Crawler on channel 12 on MATV and channel 591 on Optimum. The presentation airs every three hours beginning at 9 a.m.

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

100 Black Men, Inc. honor Co-op City fathers

One Hundred Black Men, Inc. and Riverbay Corporation teamed up for a special Father’s Day program held last Sunday, June 21, at 3 p.m. in the Bartow Mall. The organization, represented by Executive Director Courtney A. Bennett, headlined the presentation and distributed over 300 meals to Co-op City dads, donated by Chef James Peterson and Sylvia’s International. In addition to members of the organization, Councilman Andy King and Riverbay General Manager Noel Ellison were also in attendance.

Photos by Tamira King

PS 160’s 5th Graders hold graduation car parade in Co-op City

On Thursday, the 5th grade Class of 2020 at PS 160 in Co-op City’s Section 5 held a graduation car parade through the community to mark this important milestone in the lives of students who will be moving up to middle school come Fall.

Many of the students who are also Co-op City residents joined the parade with their families and drove through the sections, honking their horns, to celebrate this achievement with friends and neighbors who lined the sidewalks in the sections to congratulate them as they drove by. Parent Coordinator Kwafi Gray said: “The Walt Disney Magnet STEAM School has continued during this time of remote learning and social distancing to still remain a place of support and consistency for our families and the surrounding community. During this time of quarantine and our uncertain future of what school will look like for the approaching new school year, The Walt Disney Magnet STEAM School has worked very hard to continue to provide a sense of normalcy for our students and families. We made our graduating 5th graders end of the year as special and memorable as we could by celebrating their wonderful work from Pre-K to now. We launched our YouTube channel on June 5th with our virtual 5th Grade Awards ceremony. Our 5th graders danced the day away on June 10th at their Virtual Senior Dance and then culminated on June 25th with our virtual 5th grade Moving Ahead ceremony with our special invited guest Assemblyman Benedetto and our fabulous Moving Ahead Car parade. The teachers, staff and the entire Walt Disney Magnet STEAM School miss our students, families and community neighbors. We have made our gate that surrounds our large back yard a great big message center to our families. We have posted messages of love & support and we cannot wait to get back to open our doors again.”

Photos by Nathan Keidel, Maria Nix- Miller, Shantell King & Shekinah Sayers

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Annual Income Affidavits Notice

BY AVERIL JAMES-BONNETTE, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, FINANCE DEPARTMENT

The annual income affidavit process for Co-op City residents is currently underway.

The Income Affidavit and related instructions were mailed last week to all cooperators required to file (excluded are new residents who moved into Co-op City after March 31, 2020, and those cooperators on the Section 8 Program).

In response to certain concerns raised regarding the income affidavit requirement and the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), HCR has extended the deadline for the income affidavit process to July 31, 2020. This year’s income affidavits do NOT need to be notarized. Signed affidavits without notary acknowledgement are acceptable. New surcharges will be imposed effective Oct. 01, 2020 based upon data taken from your 2019 Income Affidavit form. Please note that it is essential that every cooperator submit their 2019 Income Affidavit in a timely manner.

If you filed an application for extension in lieu of a 2019 NYS Tax Return, you are still required to submit your affidavit by July 31, 2020. Please estimate your income and identify as “Estimated Income.” File an amended affidavit once you have filed your tax return or you will be subject to the maximum 50% surcharge. Also, please note that Riverbay must be notified in writing with a copy of the extension form.

In cases where there are two shareholders of an apartment and if one of the shareholders has permanently vacated the apartment, it is important that the remaining shareholder submit documentation to Riverbay Corporation as to where the vacating shareholder currently resides. Acceptable documentation could be: (1) driver’s license with current address, (2) copy of the apartment lease, (3) utility bill with current address. If this documentation is not submitted with the Income Affidavit, the income affidavit will be returned as incomplete and a 50% surcharge will be assessed each month until the documentation is submitted. The shareholder will be liable for all surcharges assessed, no credits will be issued for surcharges already assessed.

Failure to complete and return the Income Affidavit form in a timely manner will result in the maximum surcharge of

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

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

John Crow New Media Producer

50% of your basic carrying charges. You would then be required to pay the 50% surcharge for each month, through the end of the month you finally filed. In no event will credit be given for excess surcharges already assessed as a result of failure, neglect or refusal of the cooperator to file the Income Affidavit on a timely basis. The instructions being mailed with the Income Affidavit form include a cover letter and worksheet which will assist the cooperator in determining whether they are subject to a carrying charge surcharge.

Cooperators are advised to read the material very carefully.

As required by State law, copies of Income Affidavit forms will be submitted to the state for verification of income against filed tax return. Cooperators are cautioned, therefore, to make sure that the data provided come from their NY State tax return.

This year, there will be no all-day sessions to assist cooperators in filling out their Income Affidavit forms.

In addition, because of the coronavirus outbreak, shareholders will be required to drop off their completed income affidavits and insurance declarations in the carrying charge boxes. Please put in an envelope and clearly mark ‘2019 INCOME AFFIDAVIT’ on the outside of the envelope.

Income affidavits can also be submitted by mail to the following address: RIVERBAY CORPORATION, FINANCE DEPARTMENT - ATTENTION: 2019 INCOME AFFIDAVIT, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

Enclosed with the annual income affidavit packet is a letter from the Riverbay Risk Management department regarding the submission of co-op insurance declaration page or certified letter from your insurance broker or company showing that you have the required insurance coverage on your apartment.

Please note that the insurance documentation must be submitted along with your annual income affidavit by no later than July 31, 2020 to avoid the assessment of $150 Community Complaint fine. Any questions regarding the insurance documentation should be addressed to the Risk Management department at (718) 320-3300, ext. 3388.

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

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

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

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

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

Please Note: Articles for Co-op City building associations, clubs, churches and organizations are due on Monday by 5 p.m.

Email your articles to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

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

7

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

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. It has just been announced that Macy’s is planning to have a reimagined type of fireworks event this year. As of this date, news sources are indicating that there may be five separate fireworks displays visible from each borough with a televised finale on July 4th. Viewing professional fireworks is always a safer option. I want to make sure that my readers stay safe from the use of illegal fireworks. I see news reports of the use of illegal fireworks intensifying in many cities. New York City is also experiencing large increase. Here in Co-op City, we are also seeing more shareholders complaining about illegal fireworks.

Illegal fireworks present serious risks of injuries and fires. Every year, Emergency Rooms are inundated with people who have sustained fireworks related injuries.

Children are especially at risk for injuries from illegal fireworks.

New York City has seen a recent surge of complaints of illegal fireworks throughout the five boroughs. It is illegal to use or purchase fireworks within the 5 boroughs of New York City even though it is legal in other counties in upstate New York. From a safety point of view, this is a wise choice by New York City with the intent of keeping residents safe. Even though you may see fireworks for sale in New York State’s upstate counties, and within the tri-state area, do not be tempted to buy them and bring them into New York City.

Sadly, this year we will not be having Co-op City’s annual fireworks display.

This annual tradition always took place on July 3rd. A special shout-out to the Co-op City residents who also celebrate a birthday during this time of the year.

Next year, the Co-op City fireworks should be back.

Macy initially cancelled its 43rd annual fireworks display but new plans have the event taking place in a much different format. This will reduce the number of people in the same place at the same time and allow a unique experience. According to Macy’s, this year’s fireworks will feature a musical score that’s “a mix of pop and patriotic anthems celebrating New York City’s resilience during the COVID19 Pandemic.”

John Legend is scheduled to be the headlining performer. Aside from Legend, the finale plans to feature Mayo Clinic Surgeon Dr. Elvis and Alicia Keys, who will perform salutes to frontline workers. The Young People’s Chorus of NYC will also virtually perform “America the Beautiful” and “Lean On Me.” Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular will air on July 4 on NBC (8-10 p.m. ET/PT, 7-9 p.m. CT/MT. For more, check local listings).

Every year, the Macy’s fireworks show draws an estimated 3 million spectators.

We are all aware that the New York City Fireworks extravaganza, sponsored by Macy’s, is the largest in the nation. Three million people attending one event in the past was a positive thing but this year it may not be a good idea. This year’s creative solution will spread the viewing out over the 5 boroughs of New York City over the course of several days, beginning on Monday, June 29, 2020. Specific locations of these fireworks have not yet been announced and may remain a surprise until they actually take place.

Last year’s display was large and every year these displays get larger and larger.

Some of the new technologies include “neon pinwheels,” “pulsing hears,” “swirling water fountains,” and “brocade horse tails.” This year will be several short but powerful bursts of top quality professional fireworks safely set off by professionals.

These “tiny but mighty” displays will be different but more accessible for boroughs other than Manhattan. Next year, we will likely go back to the one day “pyrotechnic spectacle” with 60,000 shells launched off of five barges from either the East River or the Hudson River.

While it is nice to see the fireworks live, in front your television provides the optimum viewing location with none of the hassle. On July 4, 2020 NBC will be broadcasting a combination of footage filmed over the course of several days

Public Safety Report

Anonymous calls to Public Safety

Periodically, cooperators may witness someone violating the housing company’s rules and regulations, however, it has been reported to Management that some people are apprehensive about reporting the situation for fear of their identity being divulged to the violator in question.

Please know that you may request to remain anonymous when you contact the Co-op City Public Safety Department (CCPD) regarding said issues and the Public Safety dispatchers, officers and supervisors have been instructed to accept these calls and investigate,

accordingly.

If, however, you feel forced to surrender your identification in order to lodge your complaint, immediately request to speak with a supervisor.

Rest assured that you should feel comfortable placing these calls to our Public Safety Department, as oftentimes residents are the first to know when an incident has taking place and in most cases who the individuals involved are, as well.

Thank you very much for your cooperation.

—Riverbay Management

Public Safety Blotter June 15-19, 2020 June 15, 2020 – 99 Darrow Place Several vehicle owners reported finding their catalytic converters removed.

The matter is under investigation.

June 16, 2020 – 140 Benchley Place One male was taken into custody by CCPD officers after he was found trespassing in the building. The male was issued a Criminal Court Summons and released.

June 19, 2020 – 100 Bellamy Loop CCPD detectives discovered a suspicious male within a building. Upon further investigation of the male, officers discovered he had no permission or authority to be within this address. During the course of their investigation, the detectives discovered a large quantity of standpipe caps in the male’s possession and placed him under arrest.

If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at 718-671-3050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety.

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

spanning all five of New York City’s boroughs. Washington, DC will also have a display entitled “A Capitol Fourth” which will be televised on local P.B.S. Channel 13. Whatever you do, it is recommended that you do not drive or travel into New York City on July 4th to view fireworks.

New York State is one of five states in which aerial and explosive 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 which added itself to this list because of an indoor fireworks display which resulted in the death of 100 people.

New York City put in effect a Zero Tolerance policy regarding the sale or use of illegal fireworks within the limits of New York City. Here in Co-op City, the Zero Tolerance laws are enforced by both the New York City Police Department as well as the Co-op City Department of Public Safety. 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. Due to widespread complaints, the Mayor has created a Fireworks Task Force made up of various city agencies. This newly created Task Force is responsible for increasing the safety of New York City residents by reducing the availability and use of illegal fireworks within all of New York 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 percent 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 metal 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 (Continued on page 22)

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

8

Our community perseveres

Director’s Viewpoint

Sonia Feliciano Treasurer Dear Fellow Shareholders, I hope that you and family find yourselves well. It has been a difficult few months for many, but Co-op City is a community that perseveres.

Sharing community highlights Our elected officials along with community leaders have had many food drives to help our cooperators during this pandemic. They have come through during our time of need and we are thankful to them.

Director and Bishop Angelo Rosario and his wife, Nancy, secured thousands of face masks that were given to our residents through the Community Relations department and building presidents. The wearing of a face mask not only slows down the spread of the virus, it prevents those with the virus and those who are asymptomatic to help reduce the spread of the disease. This is a true community effort on their part and we are grateful to Director Angelo and Bishop Nancy for their partnership.

President Linda Berk and Director Claudia Sampson have spearheaded efforts to get our community to fill out the 2020 Census. Co-op City is leading the Bronx with 73% and we hope that we can get a full 100% participation. The Census determines federal funding for our community, it determines congressional representation, provides grants for community health, schools, and nutrition assistant programs to name a few. If you have not filled out your Census form as of yet, please do so in order to be counted for our fair share of resources.

Boiler #2 has been installed and is connected. It took a few years, but we now have a new boiler that is more efficient during the cooling and heating season. We can also sell to Con Edison during peak changes in weather, a good investment in putting monies back into the corporation.

The Riverbay field staff are back at work. Management will ensure that all employees have the proper PPE equipment (mask, gloves and hand sanitizer).

Shareholders who are having work done in the home

are asked to wear a face mask and keep 6 feet of social for our elderly residents to help with convector cleandistancing. This not only protects the worker but it ing. Please make an appointment to have your convector looked at. protects the shareholder.

Danielle O’Connor, director of Parking and LeasThere are some administrative staff who are back at work, while some are working from home. We ing, has her garage staff back at work. Office staff is expect a return to the workplace as soon as we install still working from home. The garage staircases are protective equipment to ensure social distancing guide- being power washed. Garage bathrooms have been lines are met. painted and new signage has been added.

You have probably noticed a higher than normal Vanessa Aldea, director of CSO, has her departwait time in our Call Center. The air conditioning sea- ment back at work. Our Jr. Property and Property Manson has started and convector leaks are a problem. We agers are doing walk-throughs in the community. This ask that you take the time to clean your convector. The is a way of identifying problems and fixing them before Co-op City Times has provided some self-help tips in they get worse. Apartment inspections will continue. cleaning your convector. You can also get this infor- The front doors of all apartments have one specific mation through our informational channel 591. A train- color. Therefore, if you are a cooperator with a difing guide is in the process of coming on line. We ask ferent color door, please call the Riverbay office to for your patience as you hold or await a call back. We arrange for your door to be painted. Our building presare currently backlogged on jobs and are working idents are also the ears and eyes of their buildings and through this. Riverbay will soon have more staff on community. They report anything that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. hand to improve the level of response time.

Our elevator project continues to make progress.

The smoke detector program is scheduled to resume Not only are we 1.5 months ahead of schedule, we in July. This project will be completed by Riverbay hope to have the entire project completed by 2022. as we don’t have volunteers from the Red Cross as Our Janitorial director, Joshua Blake, indicated that we did in the past. the laundry rooms will be painted. Even though JanA special thank you to our essential workers. This itorial is backlogged by 3-4 months, they are sched- meant dealing with the stress of potentially exposing uling their spruce up of the buildings. yourselves and families to keep up with all the essenOur Buildings and Grounds director, Mike Ambo, tial services of the corporation. We thank you and and his staff are back to a full week. While they are a appreciate you always. little behind schedule in their Spring spruce up, they Many of us will continue to work from home while are working together to get all planting, trimming of many will start going back to work. Please stay well trees and landscaping done. We are going to be hir- and be safe. ing young adults through the summer to help with Thank you for the opportunity to be your director. bench painting and other functions.

If you have any concerns, please reach out to me at Many of you have noticed and commented on the sfeliciano@riverbaycorp.com. receptacles and dog bags in several sections of the Shareholders first – we matter! community. We have seen some improvement on curbing of service dogs and we hope that Our Promiise to New this process continues. & Curren nt Clients Our Maintenance department is doing preAs We e Navig N ate ventive maintenance in Coron navirus the basements. They are also setting aside dates Yo our health an nd safety are Priority #1 as we all navigate the Corona vir irus pandemic.

We fully understand that accidents will continue to happen; injuries i and deaths will continue to t be suf sufffered; and injurious a acts of medical malpractice w will continue to take place.

Paul F. Oliveri, i Esq. sq Wishing good health for you and your loved ones

Oliveri & Schw wartz, P.C. will continue nue to provide our clients, prospectiv ective clients, your friends, co-workers, relatives, family members and ne eighbors with accessibility to o our legal ser vicess, while taking necessar essar y precautions to o protect our clients ts and our staff staff.

YES WE ARE OPEN UNTIL 7/15/2020 2089 Bartow Avenue Bronx, NY 10475

347-947-4455 IRS Filing Deadline EXTENDED until 7/15/20

LIMITED TIME! TAX PREP

• Call for an appointment. We are only seeing 3 people per day.

If you can’t come in, we offer: New clients only.

• Drop-off Includes Federal, State and City.

• Mail: 2089 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475 Three source documents: • Email: gsansone1@optimum.net W-2, 1099R, or SSA 1099.

Additional documents, credits & • Fax: 561-431-0830

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schedules slightly higher.

We’re here when you need us, and a can be reache ed 24/7

EFFECTIVELY Y IMMEDIATTELY Y,, WE WILL NOT RE EQUIRE NEW CLIENTS TO VISIIT OUR OFFICES All NEW matters can initially be handled ed over the phone and d online.

CALL US AT AT 212-987-1100 00 or 800-427-9546 9546 TEXT US ATT 929-600-4992 EMAIL US S ATT I n fo @ O l i ve r i A n d S c h wa r t z . c o m

1086662

Coronavirus Tax Update

Are COVID-19 diagnostic tests 100% accurate?

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Getting tested for COVID-19 still remains a necessary tool in order to accurately track and prevent its spread. However, even after months of vehement testing and drastic preventative measures put in place, there still remains some general uncertainty revolving around the accuracy of COVID-19 diagnostic tests.

As the virus began spreading earlier this year, the Food and Drug Administration was forced into action and used its emergency powers to greenlight various COVID-19 diagnostic tests, notably having to base its decision on very limited data surrounding the accuracy of these lab tests.

Normally, large patient studies can take weeks or even multiple months to gauge trends accurately. Unfortunately, time was not a factor the FDA could afford to count on with the rapid spread of the virus and a demand for testing needed immediately.

Fast forward to now, testing is more readily available yet experts are calling on the FDA to evaluate the accuracy of the tests. This growing need comes as the challenge of containing COVID-19 outbreaks looks like it will be with us for the foreseeable future in the US. “In the beginning, the FDA was under a lot of pressure to get these tests onto the marketplace,” Dr. Steven Woloshin, co-director of the Center for Medicine and Media at the Dartmouth Institute, told the Associated Press. “But now that there are plenty of tests out there, it’s time for them to raise the bar.”

The PCR, a molecular test, are being administered to diagnose COVID-19 infections and are essential in understanding the origin of disease spread. They are generally administered via a nasopharyngeal swab, but it is also this method of sample collection that invites human error and can result in false negatives as Dr. Timothy Schacker, vice dean for research at the University of Minnesota Medical School, told New York Magazine.

“The confusion over the PCR tests has been because of sample collection,” Dr. Schacker said. “If you’re doing a nasopharyngeal swab and you don’t collect it correctly, there may not be virus there (on the swab) when the person might actually be infected, or if you use the wrong kind of swab, you can screw up the result.”

Problems arise if the swab does not go deep enough or collect the necessary amount of material. Additionally, false negatives happen when the patient takes the test either too early into the virus’ incubation period or too late when the virus cell count would be too low to show up on a diagnostic test.

Generally, medical test accuracy is determined through two metrics: sensitivity and specificity. Sensitivity measures how accurately a test can identify a positive patient. Whereas specificity grades how accurately a test can identify negative patients.

Fortunately, the Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), an organization that is evaluating the accuracy of tests, found that the best PCR tests are, in fact, very accurate. Their data found that the best tests had sensitivities ranging from 96 to 100 in ideal conditions, which is another way of saying that out of 100 people at most, approximately 4 of them would have a false negative result.

While FIND’s data is accrued on a rolling basis, the results so far suggest that PCR tests are generally effective in detecting infection. Equally important to note, however, the COVID-19 diagnostic test is only one tool available to healthcare professionals in determining active infections. In the instances where a swab test proved ineffective, patients have also had their lungs x-rayed to look for signs of pneumonia. Additionally, measuring blood oxygen levels has been another method used to determine if a COVID-19 infection is active in a patient.

A negative COVID-19 diagnostic test result does not mean anyone should let their guard down. Even if a test result is negative, there is still not enough data out there to support that asymptomatic people do not transmit the disease to others.

Those fully recovered from COVID-19, those yet to be infected, and those fortunate enough to never come in contact with COVID-19 all play an important role in preventing the spread of the virus.

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

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

AFTER YOUR TAX RETURNS ARE COMPLETED, I WILL MAIL THEM BACK TO YOU WITH INSTRUCTIONS ON RETURNING THE ELECTRONIC FILING FORMS TO ME.

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

STAY SAFE AND STAY HOME, IF YOU CAN. A SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL HEALTHCARE WORKERS.

Marc A. Goodman, EA Office Phone: 718-379-5217

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Politics and Poetry

800-word submissions survived our Board resolutions or editorial or legal scrutiny. Too political, yadda yadda.

Hence this mini viewpoint. More next time…maybe.

ICYMI Secretary In case you missed it, there was one other bit of news in the last manager’s report. It concerns the sucIf we’ve learned anything this year we’ve learned cessful one-year downsizing pilot project that was set we have to pay attention. Pay attention to the inequities to expire this month. For qualifying residents who wish not only in our systems but also in our nation’s entire to move to smaller apartments – there may be good structure and even in our own points of view. It’s news ahead. The program’s deadline might be extended become clear that we must pay attention to the law- for a year or even longer. The original plan was engimakers and the law enforcers. We need to expect more neered to save the relocated resident substantial carfrom the police, the politicians, and ourselves. rying charge costs and the apartment’s equity differI would elaborate, in fact I did elaborate 800 words’ ential. Freeing up the larger apartment for families is worth many times over, but none of those multiple another part of that win-win-win formula.

Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson

African American Association First Zoom recap Up to 80 people took part in this event by computer, laptop or smartphone. The first virtual meeting of the African American Association of Co-op City, topic: ‘Black Lives Matter Now’ was a big hit. Instead of taking to the streets, we took over the virtual airwaves and our guest speakers were masterful.

Tamika Mallory, Black Lives Matter Omowale Clay, D-12th Movement Melissa Cornick, 60 Minutes, Dateline, 20/20, Nightline Producer, the power of our vote!

Brother Yahya Sharif, FOI (Fruit of Islam) Tyrone “Owusu” Slater, Percussionist Sister Sophia, Libationist Young Brother Amadi, Poetic Recitation Young Brother Mosi, Poetic Recitation Veronica Mason, Vocalist Lyndrick Simone, Vocalist Byron F. Wilson, “How We Fight” “Zoom-in” with us on our next event. Stay tuned-in to the Co-op City Times and your emails for details of date and time. African American Association meetings, gatherings and programs that it sponsors will return to room 15 of the Dreiser Center with rousing topics and inspiring special guests as soon as the worldwide pandemic has “totally” ended! Be ready to bring a “friend and new member prospect” to the African American Association when we reconvene. Remember: membership is only $15/year for a single membership and only $25/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@ gmail.com or call us at 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

Black Genealogy quote of the week: “Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.” –Alex Haley The African American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: Contact instructor indicated below for gathering updates: Belly Dance Classes – Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. Call Xonia, 646-301-943.8 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Dance to Soul, Latin and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2. Also first and third Tuesdays in Einstein Center, Section #5, 6 p.m. Fees are minimal. Call Cynthia, 917-903-7073.

Salsa Class – Saturdays, 10:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop, room #1. Call Keith, 917561-6211.

Yoga and Zumba Classes with Meena – Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2. Contact Meena at 917-863-1507.

Healing Drum Circle – Note: West Africa Online Drumming Meet-up Group on June 27. Please continue to follow this article for updates. We leave you with these words as a reminder of your strength: “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.” –Ida B. Wells-Barnett Each one of us, divided by all of us, equals a force for good.

–Michelle Marbury

Co-op City has a new official website!

coopcitynyc.com

I know one ready-to-take-the-plunge resident who would appreciate a slight program tweak. To maintain the support system she currently relies on, she would appreciate being allowed to wait until an apartment frees up in her building. Perhaps if the downsizing program gets the permanent-status go ahead, that might become possible.

And on a poetic note…

Did you catch Passion – No Last Name Necessary at the Black Lives Create event? Loved her T-shirt (a variation of the fun and affirming Black Black Blackety Black Black) and loved her poetry more. CCTimes, please contact her and print some of it!

Reach me by voice or text at 718-219-2211 or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Building 25 Association

Governor Cuomo has started reopening New York State in stages, the first stage was June 8, whereby he started to relax restrictions in upstate New York.

Last week on June 22, Governor Cuomo announced stage 2, whereby businesses in New York City are allowed to reopen. Although some businesses will be allowed to open, please note that there will be restrictions for playgrounds, barbershops as well as nail salons, so it would behoove you to call your favorite barbershops, hair and nail salons to get updates on their reopening to be better prepared.

Special thank you to all who participate in clapping for our first responders by standing on their terraces in and around the community at 7:00 p.m. every evening.

What a mighty thunderous sound we make.

We continue to salute all 2020 graduating students of Building 25.

We wish all neighbors born in June a Happy Birthday, and for those who have been under the weather, we hope you get better soon.

Our building association meetings are officially recessed for the summer; looking forward to seeing you in September. We would like to wish everyone a safe, happy and fun-filled summer while you wear face mask and continue to practice safe distancing. During our recess, should you have any comments or concerns, you can log onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com and address your comments or concern to anyone or all members of Building 25 Association. Carol Eilets, treasurer, continues to postpone the collection of our building association annual dues until further notice.

Closing with a healing inspiration quote: “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” –Helen Keller —Wanda Bailey

Building 13 Association

Congratulations: Graduation is one of the biggest achievements in anyone’s life. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in our life. You will have a story to tell different from any other graduation. The sky’s the limit, the world is yours to conquer, aim, stay focused and succeed.

Amish Trip: We hope to receive reimbursement from the charter company shortly. We will let you know when checks are mailed. Thank you for making sure we have updated information.

As we begin the next phase in reopening New York City, we ask that you continue to abide by all the safety precautions. Wear your mask and wash your hands. We do not want to emulate the spike that is happening in other states after doing such a fantastic job flattening the curve.

In an effort to make sure everyone is safe and following the directives issued

by Riverbay, we ask that you wear your mask and practice social distancing when entering the elevator, you cannot socially distance with six and seven people in the elevator. When going to the laundry room and in your travels throughout the building, remember safety first. Be mindful of the number of people recommended

by Riverbay for both the elevator and laundry room.

We thank Bishop Angelo and Nancy Rosario for their continuous support and care for the well-being of our community. Periodically, we will be scheduling mask giveaways so make sure you check the lobby bulletin board for dates and times.

During this time, we need you more than ever to be our eyes and ears. If there is something on your floor that needs addressing, make sure to let us know. We are slowly returning to a new normal. With that in mind, at some point work will commence in units. Make sure that safety precautions issued by Riverbay are followed. It is important that you let Riverbay know you are feeling ill or if you came in contact with someone who was ill and reschedule your appointment. It is important that staff remain safe also.

We want to recognize the businesses that contributed to our June 2020 Summer Fun Day. The Section 2 Summer Fun Day Committee has cancelled our event due to Covid-19, but we have not cancelled the fun. Soon, we will announce details of a special ‘free’ raffle for Section 2. In the interest of transparency, this will be a virtual drawing and held on the same day for all buildings. Stay tuned for more information.

We offer our sympathy to those who have lost a loved one and to those who are ill, we wish you a speedy recovery.

While you are home: Complete the 2020 Census my2020census.gov/login Stay safe, stay strong … for your health and mine!

Payments for events can be sent to: 100 Casals Place 32K, Bronx, NY 10475.

Contacts: Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370, president, at daddpeterson @aol.com or Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801. Our website is www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com. Thanks for making our team work.

–Leslie Peterson

Co-op City Public Safety Dept.

Emergency: 718-671-3050 www.ccpd.us

Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 @CCPDnyc

National Council of Negro Women

Membership – At our last membership meeting until after our summer break, our outgoing president, Lori Melton, addressed our group. “It was a pleasure serving as the president of NCNW, Inc., Co-op City Section, during the last four years. I have now reached my term limit as governed by our section by-laws.

When I accepted the position as president, I Iooked forward to leading a group of over 60 members and continuing with the community service programs and projects I initiated such as the Black History Celebration and educating members and guests on combating domestic violence and human trafficking as well as initiating drives for winter accessories and toys, school supplies, canned goods and can openers for family shelters. I wanted to fulfill my goal of continuing programs in existence including national programs and welcome new ideas from the membership as well as fundraising to help support the programs while keeping in mind our section’s theme when I began as president, ‘All Generations Working Together for the Future.’ Some of the program initiatives led by chairpersons were the Health and Wellness Fair and sharing health advice through newspaper articles and social media; Women Represent! (women’s program and poetry segment); Road to Queendom (teen self-esteem program); reactivating the Book Club; Economic Empowerment and Professional Development workshop; Adopting a Nursing Home (donating gowns and socks); Public Policy and Civic Engagement with voter education, Census and the Black Lives Matter 8:46 virtual program. I am thankful to all the Executive Board members during my term as well as committee chairs, co-chairs and committee volunteers. I am also thankful for the support of the membership as well as the community who supported the efforts of NCNW. I would like to congratulate the members of the newly elected Executive Board who will lead Co-op City Section into our 50th year of service: Sheila Richburg-Manley, president; Lori Melton, first vice president; Akeisha Neely, second vice president; Candacie Daniels, third vice president; Stephanie Brown, corresponding secretary; Catherine Morrison, assistant corresponding secretary; Denise Gerrald, recording secretary; Vivian Moore, assistant recording secretary; Sandra Mitchell, treasurer; Angela Dunbar-Johnson, financial secretary.

Congratulations to the Class of 2020 – Co-op City Section always participates in our M.S. 181 graduation program. This year on June 23rd, we presented virtual certificates to Brianna Johnson for Academic Achievement and to Serena Pelle for Community Service. Also, three members of the family of our member, Eleanor Donnley, received accolades from our section. Her granddaughter, Nia T. Evans, graduated Harvard School of Education, Management & Policy. She also received the prestigious Phyliss Strimling Award. Her grandniece, Codi Toney, graduated as a Combat Medic and is now in the Florida National Guard. Her grandniece, Sable Toney, graduated from North Carolina Central University of Law and is now preparing for the bar exam. We applaud the excellence of our youth.

—Joyce Howard

Building 24 Association

The building association would like to express gratitude to all Building 24 cooperators who have acted so responsibly in response to the Covid-19 pandemic by following the social distancing and face covering recommendations of our public health officials and those of Riverbay Corp. regarding limited occupancy requirements in our elevators – no more than three, and laundry room, no more than five at a time. By doing those things, we are protecting ourselves and our neighbors and preventing the spread of the virus which has taken the lives of so many here in New York and throughout the country.

New Yorkers have done a great job acting together to bring down the infection rate in the city enabling us to move closer to reopening. City beaches will be opening now but wearing masks is required and crowding is prohibited. So we’re not out of the woods yet. Just thinking of the 42nd Street area absent all human activity you’re reminded of the serious threat the disease poses and the great effort

by New Yorkers to combat it while recent news stories show that in those states where warnings and recommendations were taken lightly, there are now awful increases in Covid infections, hospitalizations and deaths.

So, let’s hope we’ll all continue taking those precautions that have kept us safe and brought us closer to our normal lives. Some of our younger cooperators may feel that they don’t have to worry about getting sick but they can become infected and they can infect others so I ask that all of us do our part to protect each other.

We still have some face masks donated by the mayor’s office which I can give out to anyone needing one. If you call me and leave your name, phone and apartment # and a time when you’ll be home, I can drop one off for you. Finally, let me give kudos to our building service workers for the fine work they have done keeping the building and grounds clean and making life bearable in this most challenging time. In the meantime, everyone stay safe and keep strong.

—Bruce Silberman

Please remember to curb your dog!

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

13

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Francine Reva Jones

Co-op City continues to progress

Director’s Viewpoint Assistant Secretary

Dear shareholders, I hope you were able to vote in the Presidential Primary Election on June 23. Early voting was the option that I chose and I applied for my early voting ballot about a month ago. Early voting took place from June 13 through June 21. Disappointed that I had not yet received my ballot, I decided to vote in person on June 19. It was on that afternoon that I received my ballot in the mail. At Truman H.S. where I voted, a poll worker informed me that many cooperators had not received their early voting ballots. If this is what we have to look forward to in November, we are in trouble. I will contact the BOE about doing a better job. Won’t you do likewise?

Board of Directors meeting A Board meeting was held on June 17. We passed Resolution #20-23 to defer the implementation of the second stage carrying charge increase until January, 2021. I was pleased about this.

Co-op City continues to progress. Management provided us with information about the electric vehicle charging stations. The plan is for each garage to have a Level 2 charging station with two ports. While this new system will eventually go into effect, some of the Board members wanted a little more time to consider all the factors before voting.

Management has reported that the apartment downsizing for seniors has been successful. It was a pilot program and they are looking forward to working with HCR to make it permanent. The elevator modernization, building repairs and auditorium renovation projects are moving forward satisfactorily.

COVID-19 On June 22, NYC entered Phase 2 of reopening the city following a brutal bout with COVID-19. This allows for the official reopening of restaurants, bars, instore retail, salons, barbershops, real estate services, car dealerships, commercial building management, offices, playgrounds, churches, although dining and drinking will be exclusively outdoors, and with new safety regulations in place. Also, anything involving an indoor space will feature reduced capacity, social distancing, and mask compliance.

More than 2,270,000 cases and 118,000 deaths have been officially reported in the U.S. The number of infected NY State residents continues to drop. On the other hand, states that reopened for business too soon are now seeing a spike in cases of the virus, such as Florida, Texas and Arizona. Many Americans have commented that due to a lack of national leadership, the states are left to do whatever they wish and, consequently, the virus is still with us or resurging.

Backlash, cont’d.

Don’t be surprised that there have been repercussions to the police reforms. History reveals that whenever equal justice was extended to Black and Brown people, many white Americans have shown their resentment.

The Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863, proclaimed that all persons held as slaves were now freed. In 1865, during the Reconstruction Era, the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution were passed.

Backlash: Black Codes and Jim Crow Laws. After the U.S. Civil War in 1865, state governments that had been part of the Confederacy tried to limit the voting rights of Black citizens and prevent contact between Black and White citizens in public places and passed Black Codes and Jim Crow Laws. The defining feature of the Black Codes was the broad vagrancy law, which allowed local authorities to arrest freed people for minor infractions and commit them to involuntary labor. This was the start of the convict lease system. Restrictions also included prohibiting Blacks from voting, bearing arms, gathering in groups for worship, and learning to read and write. Black Codes were essentially replacements for slave codes. Although freedmen had been emancipated, their lives were greatly restricted by the Black Codes.

Backlash: The Compromise of 1877. This was an unwritten deal, informally arranged among U.S. Congressmen who settled the intensely disputed 1876 presidential election. It resulted in the U.S. federal government pulling the last troops out of the South, and formally ending the Reconstruction Era. This allowed the Ku Klux Klan and other terrorists to wage atrocities upon African-Americans.

Backlash: Black Wall Street. Despite racism and discrimination, Black Americans continued to work hard, thrive and achieve in Tulsa, OK. Many White residents felt intimated by the prosperity, growth and size of Black Wall Street. In 1921, the police accused

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a Black shoe shiner of assaulting a white woman. White people burned down the Greenwood District of Black homes and businesses. Hundreds were killed and/or injured.

Backlash: The Rosewood Massacre. On January 1, 1923, a similar occurrence took place in the Black community of Rosewood, Fl. A white woman accused a Black man of assaulting her. A white posse was formed, including Ku Klux Klan members who carried out the lynching of African-Americans and burned the town to the ground.

Backlash: Emmett Louis Till was a 14-year-old African-American who was lynched in Mississippi in 1955, after being accused of offending a white woman in her family’s grocery store. A white lynch mob was formed that seized him from the home where he was visiting. They brutalized and lynched him.

Backlash: 16th Street Baptist Church bombing.

Following the integration of public schools, four little girls were killed in the bombing by white supremacist terrorists in Birmingham, Alabama, on 9/15/1963. Four members of a local Ku Klux Klan chapter planted dynamite beneath the steps of the church. Three former Ku Klux Klan members were eventually convicted of murder for the bombing.

A few weeks ago, a Black man went birdwatching in Central Park and asked a white woman to follow the law and leash her dog. She called the police and accused him of threatening and recording her and her dog. Fortunately, the birdwatcher had video recording what transpired. The consequences were that the woman lost her job and her dog.

I hope that all the fathers had a wonderful Father’s Day last Sunday. I can be reached at fjones@riverbayboard.com.

Black Forum of Co-op City

Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bld. 1A (entrance faces the basketball court). The pantry will open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for the months of June and July. Guests with a current pantry card are eligible to pick up food once a month during our regular distribution hours. Time for questions/answers will be limited during distributions. This is not because we do not like you. It’s to keep you and the staff safe. It helps with physical distancing and keeping the line moving fast. We will still text if additional items are available to pick up outside of normal business hours. Please remember to bring sturdy shopping bags and a shopping cart. All guests must wear a mask/face covering when visiting the pantry.

Anyone without a pantry card can register starting Tuesday, July 7. Registration will occur each Tuesday in July from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Registrants must bring an up-to-date ID NYC card, or a non- or driver’s license. We can only register guests with IDs showing a 10475 address. This is due to budget and supply constraints. Groceries will not be distributed during the registration sessions.

We are working on having summer evening business hours. These hours are only for working individuals/families who cannot make the day hours. Those distribution hours are to be announced.

Defensive Driving Class Defensive driving classes have concluded and will resume in September. Thank you to everyone who inquired about taking the class with us. We apologize for the cancelled sessions due to the COVID crisis. It was a situation beyond our control. We will try to hold a summer class in August if conditions are right and we can secure an instructor. Please check this article periodically for updates.

Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. Please stay safe.

—D. Illis

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Happy Father’s Day!

Hope all dads had a great Father’s Day! Stay safe and keep wearing your masks. --Jeffrey Schwartz

Rivers Run Community Garden

In the garden, you begin to understand the pleasure and rewards of hard work.

Sometimes lessons can be harsh – like when a groundhog feasts on the best of the things you’ve planted and other times the aromatic smell of fresh picked peppermint is just enough to make you believe everything will be fine.

As of right now, per guidelines of Green Thumb and NYC, the garden is only open to members for maintenance.

Members only: Weather permitting, we will be open Tues., Wed., Fri., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Sat. and Sun., noon to 5 p.m. Please call one of the telephone numbers below if you need to confirm, you have any concern, or you just feel like talking. Also, if you’d like to volunteer to open the garden (members only), please give us a call.

Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list.

If you’d like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or me at 718-671-3801.

Please continue to stay safe.

–Gail Sharbaan

NAACP #2210

National and NYS Conference released official statement: “Please refrain from gatherings until at least July 1. This request extends to NAACP general membership and executive committee meetings, unit committees, state quarterly meetings, Freedom Fund events, ACT-SO events and any other gatherings organized or sponsored by NAACP units.”

NAACP statement surrounding the events of Protests in Minneapolis go to NAACP.ORG: “We must protest peacefully, demand persistently, and fight politically.

But most of all, WE MUST VOTE in NOVEMBER!” –Derrick Johnson, NAACP President & CEO Heartfelt condolences to all who have suffered loss of family, friends and neighbors. Let’s keep each other in prayer. What you do as an individual impacts all of us. We are all in this together. Wear a mask, gloves, wash hands, practice social distancing, kindness and compassion!

Gigantic News: Tremendous victory for America.

Supreme Court ruling in favor of the NAACP on our DACA case, NAACP vs. Trump.

Census 2020: It’s not too late to “BE COUNTED.” Fill out the census form using your Census ID number previously mailed, and visit: my2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020. It only takes a few minutes and is vital for the well-being of our Co-op City community. Federal dollars affect programmatic activities for seniors, transportation, schools, health, hospitals, housing, infrastructure, economic reliefs, extended unemployment w/bonus and, most recently, the stimulus plan package.

2020 Branch Election Notice: To be mailed in August. Elected Officer positions serve a term of 2 years, effective January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2022.

Membership Dues: Annual membership dues are: Adult, $30, and Youth, $10; checks/money orders made payable to: NAACP #2210 can be mailed to: N.A.A.C.P Co-op City Station 75-3111, Bronx, NY 10475. If it is your desire to make a financial contribution in any amount, it is most appreciated. Thank you for your continued support and for helping the NAACP advocate for a more just and equal America.

“The NAACP remains focused on the fight to ensure that the voice of our communities is never silenced.”— Derrick Johnson, NAACP President & CEO —Brenda Brown

15

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Hi, neighbors, how was your Father’s Day celebration? The sun shown over us all and we could “social distance visit” which was great as likely you miss social interaction with loved ones as much as we do. In case we missed any graduates, congratulations, graduates; good luck in the future.

Have to give a shoutout to Antonio Miranda on being awarded the “Virtually Learning Award” in his moving up grammar school promotion.

The primary is closed now so hope everyone got their ballot in and counted. “We” used the absentee ballot method.

We are having a “garbage pandemic” and we need your help. Write or call 311 about what you see and where you see it. Let your elected officials know, control yourself and your contacts, do not discard personal garbage, i.e. bottles, masks, gloves, tissues in the street or gutter. Don’t do it! Wait till you get to a pail to discard or carry a garbage bag. Wearing masks and gloves has reduced the spread of the Corona Virus 19. So, why are there so many people on the Greenway without masks? Don’t forget, handwash those masks. Suds it up like you wash your hands, rinse and blow-dry with a hair dryer.

Come together daily at 7 p.m., salute and say thank you to our essential worker warriors. You just need to clap hands and yell “thank you” for a few minutes. We live in a community that encourages participation, has space for exercising outdoors plus enough space for social distancing. Wear your mask out there!

Last Sunday’s program for Black Lives Matter was unforgettable and we salute all who made it possible. Thank you to Riverbay Corporation for its support in making this event a success.

Broun Place Townhouse Association needs your membership every year.

Dues are just $12 annually. Dues cover supplies and upkeep expenses.

When there is tragedy, we look to our dues to show a gesture of generosity to that neighbor. We need your membership to do this. You can pay by cash or check and submit the envelope to 31B Broun. It will be acknowledged.

Our Bartow local market and pharmacy continue doing a great job supporting social distancing and keeping shelves stocked. Please take note of the hours and protocol for your bank. Did you know, the pharmacy offers free delivery of prescription drugs for those over 65?

Please also note, Broun Place/Co-op City safety rules. Number 1, personal cars are not allowed on the brickwork in pedestrian areas. Number 2: only electric grills are allowed to be used for BBQ on patios and terraces.

Positive diagnosis? Report this to Mr. Anthony Barzelatto, director of Riverbay Corporation’s Safety Department. Riverbay can take quick, necessary measures to sanitize and quarantine the central location. Our community etiquette requires discarded mattresses be covered and place garbage in the appropriate bin.

Get well wishes for Ann Ventrella, now home recovering. Best wishes to all neighbors overcoming illness. Finally, keep dancing and better days are ahead.

–Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

16

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Highlights from our Board Meeting on June 17, 2020 of HCR, dated August 13, 2019, said budget and carrying charge increases were approved and authorized to be implemented as follows: a 1.9% increase effective September 1, 2019 and a 1.9% increase effective September 1, 2020. … “and WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has had We had a virtual online board meeting on Wednes- a serious impact on the health and employment status day, June 17, 2020. And, one of the big talking points of Co-op City shareholders, with many having sufwas that we’re getting another carrying charge increase fered a total loss or reduction of their incomes; and on or about January 1, 2021.

“LET IT BE, RESOLVED: after prior consultation Another Increase - For New Year’s Day 2021 with the Deputy Commissioner of HCR and his staff, On Saturday, April 25, 2020, the Co-op City Times that the implementation of the approved second stage published a story on page 1 about how 7,500 meals of the carrying charge increase scheduled to take effect were delivered to Co-op City seniors on April 19. “Seon September 1, 2020 be deferred to January 1, 2021.” niors arrived early to the basketball courts in sections So, as you can see, we were supposed to get an in1-5 to pick up food packages. Those who waited in the long lines each received two bags containing enough crease on July 1, 2020. However, the majority of the board voted to defer this increase to January 1, 2021. meals for a week, along with snacks.”

Nevertheless, the resolution states that this same carry Additionally, there were other food distributions charge increase is needed to “maintain a balanced throughout our community to help our cooperators.

And, lots of cooperators had to wait in long lines to budget through March 31, 2021.” Now, based on this get food for their families. Then, in other cases, some statement, the budget will not be balanced after March people were fortunate to get food delivered to their 31, 2021. Therefore, it’s reasonable to conclude that we will receive another carrying charge increase. front door.

Therefore, I voted no on these resolutions to help Recently, over 42 million people in the U.S. filed for unemployment benefits. So, do you think that some keep our community affordable. Political? Never! How of those people might live here? If yes, do you think can anyone say that my vote of no is a political move that they might have financial problems? If yes, what when 1,000 cooperators used to go to Bartow to pay is your opinion about our community issuing another their carrying charges on the last business day of the carrying charge increase to our cooperators? Another? month? On the contrary, I want our cooperators to live Yes. If you look back, you’ll see that we have received here without having to worry about constant increases. continuous increases over the past few years. Plus, ad- That’s it!

Bottom line: Instead of these increases, we need to ditional increases might be on the way according to the board resolution that was overwhelmingly ap- reduce our employee count by offering a nice early retirement plan to some of our 1,000 employees. Thereproved on Wednesday, June 17, 2020.

“WHEREAS, the proposed budget required two in- fore, they can retire and not have to worry about gocreases in carrying charges as follows: a 1.9% increase ing to a job. Additionally, we get about 35-40 aparteffective July 1, 2019 and a 1.9% increase effective ment vacancies a month. And, with the help of outJuly 1, 2020 in order to maintain a balanced budget side contractors, we spend about $18,000 just to rethrough March 31, 2021, subject to the review and ap- store a 1-bedroom apartment. So, we can stop these proval of the New York State Division of Housing and annual increases if we focus on reducing our expenses.

Community Renewal (HCR); Former Dreiser Pharmacy Space “and WHEREAS, by an Order of the Commissioner Several years ago, there used to be a huge phar-

Daryl Johnson Director’s Viewpoint

Community Protestant Church The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. During this dark season, Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family continue to lift up in prayer our community, city, state, nation and the world, especially all those affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Our regular church schedule has been cancelled due to the virus. However, our members and friends are invited to join us via the Telephone Conference Call Line at (712) 432-3900; at the prompt enter access code 343284, followed by the # sign and please put your phone on mute.

Church Schedule SUNDAY SCHOOL is now in session via conference call at the above number every Sunday, 9 a.m. Sunday School is really a part of our history, and because someone cared and was concerned enough, many of us benefitted and know its value. Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly.

Sunday worship service begins at 11:00 a.m. via conference call. Everyone is invited to call in. We will be delighted to blend our spirits with yours as we bend both body and soul before our Heavenly Father. We encourage you to spend time with God, and if it be His will, with us at Community Protestant.

Noon Day Prayer at CPC, on Wednesdays at noon, you are invited to call in for NOON DAY PRAYER AT CPC, an hour of Power, Prayer, Praise and Testimony.

Bible Study on Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Join us via the Conference Call number above.

Kudos – High praise and God bless our children for all they have accomplished during this difficult school year. Congratulations and best wishes to our high school grads: Rajiv Saunders who will be attending Monroe College, and Kayla Mann who will be attending SUNY Cobleskill; and those entering high school: Abigail Frater and Alyssa Saunders.

Pastor Owens spoke on fatherhood during his sermon last Sunday, Father’s Day. He cited Ephesians 4:11, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” His message was entitled “What Every Dad Is.” He stated that every dad is a teacher regardless of his profession or status in life and his students are his children. They learn by watching all you do, listening to everything you say, and how you worship. They learn from dad how to respond in difficult situations, how to make good decisions, and what your priorities are. Your source of guidance should be your Bible. Although your teaching job may involve long hours, lots of energy, and tears, the benefits and the rewards are far greater.

Our prayers go out for peace and justice in this time of racial tension and protests all over our city and our country. Until we meet again, Pastor Owens and our church family pray that God will be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause His face to shine upon us; that His way may be known upon earth, and His saving health among all nations.

—Evan G. Mitchell

macy next to the supermarket in Dreiser. Then, that pharmacy was closed. So, there was talk about putting an educational facility into that space. However, that plan didn’t work out. And, now, the NYC Department of Health would like to temporarily use that space to conduct their COVID examinations.

According to plans, they will probably set up and start in July 2020. Then, with free rent, they will probably occupy that space until November 30, 2020. There is scientific talk about a ‘second wave’ of this monstrous disease possibly starting later this year. So, we’ll wait and see how long they will actually have to stay here.

Upcoming Park A discussion was held about the park that will possibly be built along the waterfront on Co-op City Boulevard. Therefore, it’s possible that the name of this park might be associated with the reforms or justice issues that are occurring now. Millions of dollars will be spent on this park after a determination of what is actually needed for this community. Nevertheless, this park will probably contain some fitness equipment, informational posters about civil rights, quiet areas, etc.

Therefore, please stay tuned and continue to read this newspaper to see what happens.

Close We have been hit with carrying charge increases on an annual basis. However, my personal beliefs are that boards and managers that run Mitchell-Lama housing should do everything possible to keep their developments affordable. In our case, we need to reduce our budget costs to a level that is appropriate for our community.

Thank you.

Contact Information The administrative areas of Bartow have been shut down. So, please do not send a letter to me. However, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@riverbayboard.com.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week.

And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Building 9 Association

Salutations, Building 9 family.

Happy birthday to Miss Eloise on June 23! Please give her a call if you can.

I trust you continue to be well. Please exercise caution as New York City eases restrictions on work, travel, shopping, etc. Until there is a vaccine, there is no cure. Prevention is our only protection. Be safe.

There is COVID-19 testing being performed at several community houses of worship. For example, St. Michael’s Church located at Co-op City Boulevard & Rombouts Avenue; also, Community Protestant Church on Gun Hill Road near Bartow Avenue.

Sadly, our neighbor, Bernice Dobin, Building 9A, recently passed away.

I remember Mrs. Dobin well. At 90 years old, she was still an avid reader.

She donated several boxes of books to the building association in 2017. Her husband died shortly after they moved here as original cooperators. She was a working, single mother. She told me she had children and grandchildren of whom she was very proud. She always picked up her mail late at night “to avoid the crowds.” I noticed that she was walking and breathing with greater and greater difficulty over the last couple of years. She will be missed.

The warm weather is upon us. That means air conditioning is available.

Please clear your convectors of any debris and drain the tray using hot water. If you have a clogged drain, contact the Maintenance department or if you are a senior citizen who requires assistance with cleaning your convectors, please contact the CSO. The Section Two Summer Fun Day Committee has canceled our June 2020 event due to Covid-19, but we have not canceled the fun. Soon, we will announce details of a special ‘free’ raffle for Section 2 shareholders.

We will tell you when to submit your name, address, apartment number, telephone number, and the name and age of at least one child in your household to your building association or Cooper Place Townhouse Association.

Each building association will hold a virtual raffle drawing on the same day.

All the raffle prizes will be the same. Stay tuned for more information.

Change is gonna come.

“Freedom speaks not merely in terms of political and religious liberties, but also in terms of economic and social progress.” –Robert F. Kennedy Godspeed.

–Linda Collins

17

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

WHAT IS MULTISYSTEM INFLAMMATORY SYNDROME IN CHILDREN? Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a new health condition associated with COVID-19.

SEEK CARE IF YOUR CHILD HAS PERSISTENT FEVER PLUS ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS: Irritability or decreased activity Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting Conjunctivitis, or red or pink eyes Red, cracked lips or bumpy tongue Swollen hands or feet Lack of appetite Rash IF YOUR CHILD IS SEVERELY ILL, GO TO AN EMERGENCY ROOM OR CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY. For more information, call 311 or visit nyc.gov/coronavirus.

Bill de Blasio Mayor Oxiris Barbot, MD Commissioner

18

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Carrying charge postponement

accessible transportation, programs for our seniors, and a green sustainable environment to name a few.

Co-op City seniors are a staple to our community and our youths are precious to us. Even though many things have opened in our state, there are still some services that are not available to our seniors. It is not hard for I am glad I had the opportunity to speak with Direc- any of us to understand that most of our elderly would tor Rod Saunders and Treasurer Sonia Feliciano a few like to remain independent for as long as they can, and months ago regarding emergency resolution 20-23 for preferably in their own homes, but unfortunately, a postponing the carrying charge increase that was pre- growing number of elderly persons do not have the sented and approved by the Board and DHCR. I sec- financial resources to support this independent lifestyle. onded the resolution because I felt that many of our They need nutritious meals, supportive health servshareholders probably never faced a hardship like this ices, personal care services, as well as access to the before and it will present a huge financial burden on community activities and programs. Our seniors need them. Thank you, Sonia, for your review of our finan- an opportunity to live enriched golden years enjoying cials and taking the proactive approach to see that the an environment that has been designed to prolong and resolution was presented for the Board’s review. It was enhance their physical and mental well-being. Our my thought that our shareholders desperately need seniors deserve to have an opportunity to spend the relief and time to adjust to this new norm. That is why remaining years in an environment that offers them the resolution to delay the carrying charge increase hope, self-respect that provides for as much indewas put forth to the Board. The pandemic has put mil- pendence as they desire and more than anything else lions of New Yorkers out of work making rent pay- is an environment that gives them dignity. I was conments nearly impossible. tacted by a thoughtful shareholder who shared with Census 2020 on Target me some resources for good healthy food for those Kudos to our Co-op City community for leading in who are in need. NYC Chefscape has partnered with the Bronx and most of the nation for responding to the the city’s Get Food program to deliver healthy free 2020 Census. According to sources, fewer than 40% meals. Most of our residents are senior citizens and have responded to Census Bureau mailing. I am proud many have medical conditions that put them at a higher to be a resident and Board director to this very well- risk of going out. We want to keep everyone safe!

COVID-19 is still alive connected community. There are potentially billions It’s now Phase II and most businesses are open to of dollars in federal funding that is needed for our communities. Co-op City would like to be part of that dis- the public. I am also officially back to work and trycussion. ing to readjust to this new norm. As bitter-sweet as it Congratulations, to the winner of the primary for may seem, I am thankful and grateful to be back. DurCongress. Whoever the winner is, we hope they will ing the quarantine, I had the opportunity to walk the advocate for our community. We are in dire need of community and meet many of my wonderful neighservices for our youths and seniors, for example: qual- bors. I applaud those who are social distancing and ity education, youth and adult recreational activities, wearing their mask. However, there are still some who

Leah Richardson Director’s Viewpoint

are not following the rules. I notice people in groups, hanging out on the benches and around the shopping centers. This is a concern because without proper PPE, our numbers could increase significantly. Until we have a vaccine, we must be vigilant of our surrounding and keep safe. Please practice social distancing and follow the rules put in place. I understand the weather is getting warmer and we all need a break from our homes so we can enjoy the beautiful weather, it is still important that we keep 6 ft. from each other and wear our mask. Wearing the mask can be uncomfortable, unfortunately, it is now part of our wardrobe.

If we want to kill this virus, we must follow the rules.

Illegal fireworks Independence Day celebration will look a little different this year, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mary large festivals and celebrations are canceled this year because of the dangers of gathering in big crowds and the difficulties of social distancing. Recently, there has been more than thousands of related complaints in the first weeks of June perhaps because people are stuck at home and they’re trying to occupy their time with things they find fun or entertaining, like fireworks.

Our community has been awakened by the loud illegal fireworks that has been plaguing communities across the counties. The fireworks aren’t limited to New York. They can be heard further to the north in Westchester County, and are ringing out more than normal in locations throughout the Northeast – Boston, Baltimore, Hartford, Connecticut and Syracuse. These fireworks are on our street corners and rooftops, which is not uncommon in the city’s neighborhoods; they are a dangerous and could potentially hurt or kill someone. I don’t want them in our neighborhood. If you see something, say something. Report any illegal fireworks to the NYC Police Department by calling 911 or 311. Let’s keep our community safe!

I can be reached at: lrichardson@riverbayboard.com.

Keep up the good work, Co-op City! Maintain social distancing, wear face masks and wash your hands thoroughly.

American Legion Post 1871

The Consolidated Post Report [CPR] What is that? At the end of every fiscal year, the American Legion through the Consolidated Post Report assist the department in the documentation of the various activities a specific Post has done during the twelve-month reporting period, June 1 through May 31. The CPR details every volunteer hour put in by Legionnaires in their Post to help out in the community. Thus, the CPR becomes the most beneficial document that the Post will complete. The Post’s information, combined with that of other Posts, is used when the National Commander and others testify on Capitol Hill on behalf of all veterans for various benefits that are due comrades. Each post has a story to tell and when these are documented collectively, our strength is magnified. On the basis of this, the Post Adjutant had written the memo below to all our veterans in Post 1871. Kindly respond to it either by email, post1871@optonline.net or by calling him directly through the office phone number, 718-320-8165 latest by June 27.

Dear Comrade: Collection of data for the Consolidated Post Report (CPR) commenced June 1.

The report, being compiled by the Adjutant, is due to Department and National Headquarters by June 30. Your contribution of ‘metrics’ is critical content for our National Commander’s report to Congress. The annual presentation, on behalf of the fine cadre of legionnaires, is about American Legion’s value-add to the community we serve. You, individually, can add to this collective message of strength.

Please respond with metrics you have on the following examples of qualifying deeds: • Anything that benefited our community (i.e. speaking engagements, training, attendance to community events, articles written, press interviews, radio/TV shows, newspaper (i.e. columns, articles, stories, etc.), Get-Out-The-Vote Activism, Census support, etc.)

• Donations to other organizations (i.e. monetary gifts, clothing, volunteer hours, joint events, etc.)

• Blood Donations (i.e. pints donated) • Visits & Ceremonial Honors (i.e. hospital/nursing homes, Color Guard, funeral attendance, wake services, get well calls/cards, etc.)

During the pandemic challenges, where your focus is to remain safe & sound, your anticipated response to this call-to-action will be genuinely appreciated.

Annual Dues As you will rightly recall, it is coming to that time of the year again when we will always receive those reminder mails in our boxes. Even though activities of the American Legion were suspended for the most part of 2020 due to the pandemic, it does not exonerate us from paying our dues. So, I encourage us to respond to those mails as we have always done during the period of summer. At this juncture, I want to thank you for all your support to the Legion. If there’s any time we actually need the dues, it is this year, because the pandemic prevented us from having our Memorial ceremony this year. That is the sole fundraising event for the Post every year. So, I encourage you to pay your dues on time so that we can meet up some of our obligations.

—Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown Toba

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19

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Summer is here and we are officially on vacation.

This is my last article until September. Please be in touch with me if you have something you think we need to know about before September. Luv you all, and there’s nothing you can do about it.

You are reminded to send praises at 7:00 p.m. each evening to our frontline personnel: in the hospitals, food vendors, Maintenance crew and banking personnel. Please let them know that they are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. With prayers, we will survive.

Get-well wishes to Barbara Scott.

Contact Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements.

Note: When we are given the notice to reopen room 19, we will be in touch with those of you who signed up to travel and attend theater events – as to when you will be given refunds.

Travel Events: Cancelled • July 1 – July 3 (Wed.-Fri.), Dover Downs Casino.

Contact: Serita Grayson, 347-564-5722/Barbara Williams, 718-320-0500.

Theatre Committee: Cancelled • Sept. 10 (Thurs.), “9 to 5,” Westchester Broadway Theater. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671-4949.

Reminder: We are in the process of updating our Membership Roster. If you have a change of address or new telephone or cell phone number, send us a note – Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, room 19, Bronx, NY 10475; Attn: Delores Debnam.

Also include an email address. Looking to the future, we are planning to “keep in touch” before and/or after our monthly meeting.

Attention! The Retirees need experienced parttime, freelance drivers with a CDL license with passenger endorsement with at least 3 years’ experience and a clean driving record. A stipend can be expected for each trip. This position requires transporting members and friends to and from special events within the Bronx as well as to outer boroughs. Please call Dorothy Byrd, 646-842-2458, and leave your name, telephone number and a brief message.

–Delores Debnam

Diabetes Self Management Program – In partnership with JASA's Community Health Navigation Program. Healthcare Services Zoom is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Diabetes Self Management Program Time: 1 p.m. on the following Wed.: July 1, July 8; July 15; July 22; July 29.

Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/98377173191 call-in number +1929-205-6099 Meeting ID: 983 7717 3191 JASA Co-op City NORC Program invites you to their Upcoming Virtual Activities: Join Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/92291435376 Mobile: 929.205.6099 Meeting ID: 922 9143 5376 Every Friday – Concerts in Motion, 1-2 p.m.

Join Zoom meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82906881632 Dial in phone number: 646.558.8656 Meeting ID 829 0688 1632 press #.

When asked for a participant ID, please skip this by pressing # again.

Every Wednesday – Tai Chi classes, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. started on 6/17/2020 Join Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/95267447198?pwd=MDhCa1U5d 24rMkdpNWZnMXVHejl2dz09 Mobile: 929.205.6099 Meeting ID: 952 6744 7198

Password: 455576 Mondays: Chair Yoga from 10-11 a.m. – June 29, July 6, July 13, July 20, July 27 Join Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99565341173 Call in number +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) Meeting ID: 948 6880 5136 Thursdays: Chair Mediation, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. – , July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, July 30 Join Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/94868805136 Call in number +1 646 876 9923 US (New York) Meeting ID: 948 6880 5136

JASA Bartow Center: (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center: (718) 320-1345 Einstein Center: (718) 671-5161 For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corp.

Goose Island Seniors

Happy 4th of July to everyone.

Sight & Sound’s “Queen Esther” – Refunds have been distributed to those who paid for the April 23 “Queen Esther” show. Hillary Jackson and Shirley Spencer, please contact me at (347) 847-1941, call or text.

Because of the Coronavirus, the Goose Island Seniors Club is still closed. Our club members are all seniors, so we have to be extremely careful about reopening. There is still no activities, Bingo, Pokeno, Mahjong, trips, etc. until further notice. Please do not call the club. You may call or text me at home at (347) 8471941.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of June: Toby Landau. In the month of July: Iris Delgado, Regina S. Usher, Miriam Kravitz, Thomas Gordon, Annie Perez, Audrey Chambers, Rosa Copeland and Richardine Sullivan. A special happy birthday to our bus driver, Craig Harrison (Mr. Motor Coach).

Sick & Shut-in: Mary Pilla sends her greetings to everyone. She is in the Paramount at Somers Nursing Center. You may call her at (718) 753-1816.

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, room 39, Bronx, NY 10475, in the Section 5 Community Center; phone number: (718) 379-9613. Our office is presently closed.

You may call or text Stephen’s cell: (347) 847-1941.

Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net.

These are unusual times. All our lives are altered.

Let’s pray this will end soon. On behalf of my officers and I, try to stay safe.

Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts Sr.

CARRYING CHARGE BOXES

For shareholders’ convenience, carrying charge boxes located in each of the Bartow, Dreiser and Einstein Centers remain open throughout the month for shareholders to deposit their maintenance payments.

Scheduling Activities Calendar All activities have been canceled until further notice due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) health crisis.

Please follow all the recommended, necessary protective measures to help prevent the spread of this virus.

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

20

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. for worship service on Zoom. You can join us by Zoom Video, https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175 or Zoom telephone conference line, (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 0623 43 0102, Password: 788175.

Adult Sunday School is held at 9:00 a.m. You can join us via conference call line: 563-999-2090, Pin #: 660065.

On Sunday, June 21, the Summer Adult Bible Class began a study on mental illness and the mission of the church. This is a 6-session class and the book we’ll be using in “Troubled Minds” by Amy Simpson. Ms. Simpson writes from her personal experience of family mental illness and how they were treated by their church, et al. The book’s title is Troubled Minds: MenPastors Kenneth and Debbie Hodge and the New Vision congregation greet you in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; always giving thanks for his goodness and mercy that he has given unto us as we stand in faith by his grace in this time and season that we are living in. We thank God for meeting the very needs of our lives and we pray that we continue to walk by faith and not by sight, and that all things will work together for our good according to his word. Let’s stay prayerful as we watch and wait for our change to come.

We welcome you with the love of the Lord to join us on Sunday as we share the Word of God at 11:00 a.m. on YouTube, type in Kenneth Hodge. Wednes-

Co-op City Baptist Church

tal Illness & the Mission of the church.

Author: Amy Simpson. Publisher: IVP (Intervarsity Press); www.ivpress.com Non-members, please contact Rev. Emanuel at gmemanuel@optonline.net to get the handouts. Use the same address if you have any questions.

Bible Study is held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesdays: Zoom https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175. Call in number: (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102#, Password: 788175#.

Please use the Conference Call Line, 563-999-2090, Pin #: 660065, for the Prayer services shown below: Thursday, 12 p.m., Prayer Warriors Friday, Noon Day Prayer Service (12:00 p.m.)

Friday Evening Prayer Service 7:30 p.m. Please

Church of New Vision

day prayer service, 7:00 p.m. via telephone conference line by calling 1-646-769-9900, then enter access number 3099388. Once prayer has begun, please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity.

Sunday, June 21, Worship service theme: “The Steps of a Good Man.” Scripture: Genesis 6:8-9 “But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. This is the genealogy of Noah, Noah a just man, perfect in his generations, Noah walked with God.” Scripture: Hebrews:11:7 “By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and

note Friday evening prayer service is not held on the first Friday of each month and will not be held during July and August.

Please keep each other in your prayers and be wise in your decisions. Don’t forget to wear a mask, practice social distancing and stay safe!!!!

God will strengthen us as we travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

–Hattie L Lucas became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.”

Scripture: Psalms 37:23 “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and he delights in his way.” Amen (Genesis 7:1,5,7; Psalm 127:1) Announcement: Sight & Sound “Queen Esther” trip refunds have been mailed. The Niagara Falls, Canada trip scheduled July 21-24 has been cancelled.

Waiting for refund. Continue practice social distancing, washing hands and wear a mask. Be well and stay safe! Thanks for your contributions, Malachi 3:10. Mailing Address: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

—Brenda Brown

The Wright Agency Serving Co-op City for 39 Years!

NOW HIRING! Positions Available at The Wright Agency WE ARE HIRING FULL TIME AND PART TIME LICENSED LIFE INSURANCE AGENTS

• Salary • Very generous commission rates • Bonuses • Must have: - INTEGRITY - CHECKABLE REFERENCES - EXCELLENT PEOPLE SKILLS • Prior Allstate experience a plus but not required • Retirees welcome!

New Hours: Mon. & Wed.: 8:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Tues. & Thurs.: 8:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

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Apply at: The Wright Agency (Allstate) 1435 East Gun Hill Road (near Eastchester Road)

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718-671-8000

Evangelical UM Church of Co-op City

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds

Come & Visit Us – You’re always welcome in God’s house!

We are a Bible centered congregation with spirit-filled worship, and we offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multicultural and bilingual congregation.

All are welcome!

Located at 2350 Palmer Avenue across from Building 30 entrance on Boller Ave. Parking is available on Palmer Ave. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo SánchezOrta. For more information about our services, please contact our administrative secretary, Marta Medina, by phone: 917-740-0256 or by email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com.

Remote Schedule for Sundays – Come and receive a blessing: We would love for you to join us on Sundays. We are currently sharing our services online through our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UMCofCoopCity/. We are also holding services via zoom. For more information, visit our website at www.coopcityumc.com.

Our Remote Services: Sunday, 12 p.m./Spanish, 2 p.m./English via Zoom.

Remote Schedule for our weekly services – Come and receive a blessing: Tuesday: 12 p.m./Spanish, 7 p.m. – Pray and Reflection Service via Zoom Thursday: 7 p.m., small group Bible Study with Pastor Jackie via Zoom Friday: 8 p.m. – 4.12 Culto de Jovens/4.12 Youth Services via Zoom Food Pantry: The Food Pantry distribution center at our church serves Section 5. Ongoing registration and distribution of food is on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Those registering must present one of the following government issued upto-date ID’s showing a 10475 zip code: Driver, Non-Driver, or NYC ID. Anyone 18+ of age can register. Only one participant per household may register.

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the most-high your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:9-1.1 Blessings, –Marta Medina

Open Door Ministries “One Blood” Full sermon at opendoorministries.net

Acts 17:26 And God has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings Humanity comes from one source. Although we differ in beliefs, skin color and language spoken, physiologically we are the same. Biblically speaking, there are divisions except for those we create.

Numbers 12:1 Miriam and Aaron talked against Moses because of his wife, for he had married a Cushite. 9 The anger of the LORD burned against them, and he left them. 10 When the cloud lifted from above the tent, Miriam’s skin was leprous it became as white as snow. 13 So Moses cried out to the LORD, “Please, God, heal her!” 14 The LORD replied to Moses, “If her father had spit in her face, would she not have been in disgrace for seven days? Confine her outside the camp for seven days; after that she can be brought back.” 15 So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on till she was brought back.

Moses married an Ethiopian also known as a Cushite. His siblings did not like his choice and gossiped about him. God was immediate in his punishment. Although Moses’ wife was likely dark-skinned, he reversed the equation and caused skin as white as snow on Miriam as indication of his displeasure for the gossip and the belittling of His servant Moses.

Acts 6:1 But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.”

When the church was being developed almost immediately there was a problem regarding ethnicity. The disciples acted quickly and used the community resources to step in and clear the problem. There were three qualifications necessary for those chosen to help; they were well-respected, full of the Holy Spirit; full of wisdom.

What should our response be to the pressing problem of racism?

1. Avoid gossip and back-biting.

2. Pray for peace and guidance.

3. Do not ignore the problem but confront it.

4. Include the entire community so all voices can be heard.

5. Prioritize the resources and need – who should do what?

6. Choose from within the communities people with a desire and ability to help.

7. Respect differences while seeking unity.

Contact Open Door Ministries by text, 917-334-4407, or email, opendoorministries.net.

Blessings in Christ, —Pastor Luis Ramos

21

Pentecostal Tabernacle

100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, N.Y 10475.

Services are on hold in the sanctuary until further notice. However, services are held online every Sunday morning, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Prayer and fasting service every Wednesday morning, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Bible study; Friday, 7:30 p.m. prayer and worship service. Call 701-802-5395, Access code: 3332632.

Focus: God is touched by the problems and difficulties of His people, and He will rescue them from oppression.

Exodus 6, 6 -7 Wherefore, say unto the children of Israel, I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will redeem you with a stretched out arm, and with great judgements.

And I will take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God: and ye shall know that I am the Lord your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.

While leading bleating sheep along the backside of the desert, and after arriving at Mount Horeb, Moses witnessed an amazing sight, a burning bush that was not burned by fire. A voice addressed Moses from the bush commanding to remove his sandals for he is standing on holy ground. There God revealed himself to Moses and gave him the command to go and tell Pharaoh to let my people go. The Hebrew children had been reduced to slavery in a foreign nation; the pathetic cry of the Hebrews had not gone unnoticed. A loving compassionate God delivered them by raising up a miracle man Moses. God providentially rescued Moses from certain death as an infant, allowed him to be raised in the Egyptians palace, received proper nursing care and later received very good Education. However, Moses had to leave Egypt and spend several years in the wilderness caring for his father-in-law’s sheep. Then God called him and prepared him with a miraculous ministry, (Exodus 6:13, 30) And the Lord spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, and gave them a charge unto the children of Israel, and unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the children of Israel out the land of Egypt.

And Moses said before the Lord, Behold, I am of uncircumcised lips, and how shall Pharaoh hearken unto me?

God sent Moses to Pharaoh to secure the release of the Israelite slaves, obstinately refusing to comply with Moses request, Pharaoh saw his kingdom ruined around him by God’s judgments. After the death of the firstborn of the Egyptians, Pharaoh ordered the Hebrews to leave. However, he pursued them, and his army was destroyed in the red sea. Today, God still hears our cry for help, and He knows our emotional and physical pain. And He will hear and deliver us. Therefore, let us continue to put our trust in God for complete deliverance from this deadly COVID-19. We are praying for all those who have been affected. Call 718-324-0334 or 646-345-6707.

–Rev. R. Sibblies

22

Public Safety Report

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020 (Continued from page 7)

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 generally mass produced and imported from China.

There is no regulatory agency checking the safety of consumer fireworks. Random inspections of confiscated shipments reveal overloaded compositions and fuse violations. This means that the intended explosion may be more forceful than anticipated. It also means it may not be possible to remove your hand from a device before it explodes. A short fuse can lead to major injuries to the hand and fingers.

On July 4, 2015 National Football League player Jason Pierre Paul sustained a serious injury to his hand. Although he was able to play professional football after his injury, his career was adversely affected. It was necessary for Pierre Paul to undergo numerous surgeries and wear an awkward glove on his hand with the amputated finger. Jason Pierre Paul spent a long time recuperating and retraining after this needless injury. This is a situation nobody wants to be in even if you are not a professional athlete. It is always better to learn from someone else’s mistake than by making the mistake yourself.

Leave firework 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. Enjoy a new type of New York City fireworks and don’t forget to share your celebration photos on social media.

Residents are reminded that barbequing is not permitted on the grass areas or any other public areas of the community. Propane and charcoal grills 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. Always remember, if you see something, say something.

Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained.

If You See Something, Say Something!

Working Together To Keep Co-op City Safe!

• Report any unusual or suspicious persons or activity to CCPD. • Do not allow strangers access to your building by holding the door.

• Be aware of work being done in your building and when contractors are allowed to be on the premises.

• Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked.

• Do not leave packages or electronics in your car where they are visible.

• Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD.

Emergency: 718-671-3050 or 9-1-1 • Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc

Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could cause you to receive a community complaint and fine.

If you witness this behavior, please note the location and contact Public Safety.

Visit Co-op City’s new website: coopcitynyc.com

God’s working it out!

Newsong Church 12 I want you to know, brothers,[e] that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, 13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard[f] and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ.Philippians 1:12-13 ESV Everybody has a “What has happened to me” story. In this fallen world, we all go through hardships, pains and sorrows. The Apostle Paul was no different. He wrote this letter from prison, chained to a Roman guard 24/7. He doesn’t explain everything that’s happened to him, but in one of his other letters, he’s more detailed…

23-27 I’ve worked much harder, been jailed more often, beaten up more times than I can count, and at death’s door time after time. I’ve been flogged five times with the Jews’ thirty-nine lashes, beaten by Roman rods three times, pummeled with rocks once. I’ve been shipwrecked three times, and immersed in the open sea for a night and a day. In hard traveling year in and year out, I’ve had to ford rivers, fend off robbers, struggle with friends, struggle with foes.

I’ve been at risk in the city, at risk in the country, endangered by desert sun and sea storm, and betrayed by those I thought were my brothers. I’ve known drudgery and hard labor, many a long and lonely night without sleep, many a missed meal, blasted by the cold, naked to the weather. –2 Corinthians 11:23-27 (MSG) Even though Paul has been through hell and back…even though he’s sitting in a prison cell, he has supernatural joy! Paul reveals a powerful perspective for every follower of Jesus.

Our attitude will determine our altitude.

When life hits us hard enough, we tend to become bitter. Our hearts become hardened. Some people even walk away from their relationship with God. But what if our struggles, our pains, our disappointments are really God’s appointments to advance His plans, His purposes, and His passions? Let me put it this way.

What if God used even our worst situations for His glory?

One of my favorite verses is Romans 8:28. “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” Do you see that? God works ALL THINGS out for the good! How did God work things out for the good in Paul’s situation?

Paul had time to write lots of letters, letters that were inspired by the Holy Spirit, and became part of our New Testament! Letters that still encourage and inspire us today…Letters like Philippians with the theme you can have joy no matter what…Ephesians with important teachings about Jesus and the church…

Colossians teaches us that Jesus is God and is supreme over all! What situation are you in that, God can use for His glory? You can stay bitter or you can find joy, knowing that God’s not done working things out!

Worship with us online this Sunday at 11 a.m.! www.newsongchurchnyc.org.

—Pastor Mike Tolone

Traditional Synagogue

With NYC going into Phase 2, the synagogue will have its first Sabbath services on July 18, 2020.

We regret to inform you of the passing of our dear congregant, Fanny Breitbart.

She passed on Sunday, June 14th. She was a regular member of our synagogue who was always there to help us when we needed her. She loved to talk to everyone and always had a smile and a good word to say about everyone. She will be deeply missed. We send deepest condolences to her family.

General Information The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the ground floor of Building 27B; it is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone # is 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 9:00 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help the synagogue’s finances. The synagogue needs men, to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to services. Please come by 9:00 a.m. so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, June 4, at 9:23 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, July 3, at 8:10 p.m.

Good and Welfare – We sell tree certificates, in Honor or Memory of, a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel Tov, to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To all members – Happy Birthday, Faye Breitbart, and all other members who will celebrate their birthday in June. For those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in June, please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games – After services and kiddush, some men and women play Rummikub. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated.

Wishing all our membersand friends, peace and good health.

—Bruce Gitelson

23

Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

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RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by the following methods:

Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Send an e-mail to reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Phone Scams – Personal & banking information

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

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Co-op City Times / June 27, 2020

Co-op Insurance The Wright Agency: Serving Co-op City for 39 Years!

Riverbay Requires Current Co-op Shareholders to Obtain Coverage!

Your Co-op is an Investment Worth Protecting!

P r o t e c t i o n T o C o v e r Yo u r B e l o n g i n g s A g a i n s t : • Fire & Smoke • Water damage from plumbing

We O f f e r :

• Low Premiums • Protective Device Discounts • Auto-Home Discounts

• Guest medical protection • Certain personal liabilities

• Theft Coverage • And so much more!

Other Li nes of Insu rance: • Auto • Homeowners • Life

Low Rates For T h e E n t i r e Ye a r !

Licensed Staff

Nichola Ferguson Licensed Insurance Agent

Lawrence Newkirk Life Insurance Specialist

Albert Issifu Licensed Insurance Agent

America Borda Licensed Insurance Agent

Michael Garzilli Sales Manager

Not Pictured: Polly Heckstall Sr. Account Representative; Sandra Goldsmith Licensed Insurance Agent

The Wright Agency

Anthony Wright Agency Owner

FREE NOTARY SERVICE FOR ALL CO-OP CITY RESIDENTS!

We Are Conveniently Located Only Blocks From Co-op City! (near Eastchester Road)

New Hours: Mon. & Wed.: 8:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Tues. & Thurs.: 8:45 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

1435 East Gun Hill Road Call Us Today!

718-671-8000

Courteous Staff!

Convenient Hours!