Co-op City Times 07-17-21 by Co-op City Times

Vol. 56 No. 29

Saturday, July 17, 2021

$1.25

Co-op City Times Survey on Participation in Riverbay Board Elections Survey available online and in print

As reported last week, the Co-op City Times survey on shareholder participation in the annual Riverbay Board Elections is available in print (see page 8) as well as online at Survey Monkey, https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KB39P7N. We’d like to know about your participation in the annual Board elections, an important process to choose members of the Riverbay Board of Directors who make policy decisions for the community. While some questions are required, some are optional, and you can choose whether to respond. If you complete the survey online, remember to include your address in #11 to verify residency in Co-op City. Only one response per residential unit. There are 10 questions and the survey takes less than 3 minutes to complete.

Designing the future and helping those who need it most Pre-registration is now open for students BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Durell Coleman, CEO of DC Design, is all about providing solutions for those who need it most, and his Design the Future program sets out to do just that. He said, “Design the Future is a summer program that teaches high school students how to change the world. That’s the goal of the program.” The program teaches students how to design and launch products in apps that help people with disabilities. Students meet a project partner who lives with a disability, receive mentorship and guidance from them, and learn about challenges they face. Mr. Coleman said, “The students come to decide on a challenge that they want to address together and then based on the challenge that that partner lives with, the students will design and develop an app from there to begin to address it.” This summer, the program had 21 different teams of students; all 21 of them designed apps that benefited their project partners. One of those project partners is Co-op City’s Michelle Sajous. Program Coordinator, Eliza R. Peters, noted that this year, with the program going digital, so did the outreach in finding project partners. She said: “Word of mouth is significant for us because partners do have such valuable experiences in the program and sharing with their networks. This year, we went digital, utilizing social media to recruit project partners from all over the country.” That’s how Ms. Sajous came across the organization, a case of luck while browsing on Facebook. She said: “I saw something on Facebook, ended up getting to their website and I saw that they were looking for partners. After I filled out the application, I soon received a call back; the more they told me about the program, the more I wanted to be a part of it.” (Continued on page 3)

Congratulations, Broun Place residents who voted in the 2021 Board election! In addition to the Broun Place Townhouse Association being awarded $500 for having the highest voter turnout in the recently completed 2021 Riverbay Board of Directors election, each Broun Place shareholder who voted in the election will receive a $25 credit on their August 1, 2021 carrying charge statement. Way to go, Broun Place residents!

The survey deadline is Friday, July 30, 2021. Those completing a physical survey can return them by email to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com, by mail to Co-op City Times, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Rm. 21, Bronx, NY 10475; or slipped under the ofﬁce door. We thank those who have already completed and submitted the survey. Your participation is valued and appreciated.

Shareholders assured about integrity of Co-op City buildings BY ROZAAN BOONE

Recently, flooding has been reported in the basements of Buildings 11, 15, 16, 17 and 32 which prompted shareholders in those buildings to contact Management to inquire as to the cause of those floods, and with some expressing concerns vis-à-vis the high rise condo collapse in Surfside, Fl. Management and the Riverbay Board continue to assure concerned shareholders that despite Co-op City buildings being more than 50 years old, they are not in the same condition as the Surfside building reportedly was, and in fact, undergo a much more stringent set of inspections mandated by New York City law than exist in Florida. According to Management, basement floods in the five buildings were caused by a variety of issues, all non-structural – pump room floods as a result of drains not functioning properly, convector coil breaks from apartments, laundry room back-ups and pipe breaks. As reported in the May 1, 2021 issue of the Co-op City Times, the community has been undergoing an in-depth series of HUD-mandated property needs inspections being performed by the Dominion Due Diligence Group. These inspections are a requirement of the community’s current HUD-insured mortgage with Wells Fargo, and are mandated every 10 years for all HUD-insured (Continued on page 4)

CDC Wants All Kids Back For In-Person Learning This Fall BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) is certainly an advocate for a return to in-person instruction this fall for all K-12 students. New guidance released by the CDC last week shows the agency’s hope of getting every child back into their respective classrooms by the start of the new school year. At the top of the new guidance, which is available online at cdc.gov, the CDC highlights that having students return to the classroom is a “priority.” Below are other noteworthy updates to the guidance: ● Unvaccinated individuals who are two and older should wear a mask while indoors or in settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained. ● Students should have a minimum of three feet of space between them. In instances where a school’s space cannot accommodate all students while maintaining three feet, the CDC strongly advises schools to utilize other strategies such as wearing masks indoors. ● Schools should continue screening for COVID-19, retaining proper ventilation, emphasizing handwashing hygiene and asking students to both stay home when sick and get tested. ● Schools are also advised to continue their contact tracing efforts, quarantining and diligent disinfecting of classrooms. In instances where a school is unable to accommodate every student while also maintaining three feet of social distance, the CDC still suggests having (Continued on page 2)

See Co-op City Times Election Survey on pg 8

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

CDC

(Continued from page 1)

in-person learning “regardless of whether all of the prevention strategies can be implemented at the school,” according to the CDC website. “Schools where not everyone is fully vaccinated should implement physical distancing to the extent possible within their structures, in addition to masking and other prevention strategies, but should not exclude students from in-person learning to keep a minimum distance requirement,” the CDC website goes on to say. Despite the CDC’s latest set of updates for its K-12 COVID-19 guidance, many parents may still be wondering when a vaccine will be available for the youngest members of the population. Vaccinated parents find that they often end up navigating two sets of prevention methods. The latest guidelines for vaccinated individuals are far more relaxed, yet children younger than 12 are still vulnerable to the virus and need to adhere to more rigid safety guidelines. In fact, an updated report from the CDC, which was released the same day as the new guidelines, highlights how quickly COVID-19 transmission occurs between children. “Children and adolescents can be infected with COVID-19, can get sick with COVID-19, and can spread the virus to others,” the CDC wrote in their report. “In the United States through March 2021, the estimated cumulative rates of COVID-19 infection and COVID-19 symptomatic illness in children ages 5-17 years were comparable to infection and symptomatic illness rates in adults ages 18-49 and higher than rates in adults ages 50 and older. Estimated cumulative rates of infection and symptomatic illness in children ages 0-4 years are comparable to those in adults ages 65 years or older.” Essentially, COVID-19 can spread easily between individuals regardless of age, according to the CDC. Fortunately, both Pfizer and Moderna are currently administering clinical trials for a vaccine that would be effective for those between the ages of five and 11 and one for children between six months to four years. Both companies are expected to announce their findings once their clinical trials wrap up some time this fall and apply for emergency use authorization from the FDA, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges. Last month, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to President Biden, mentioned a similar timeline during an interview with CNN, “We hope that as we approach the end of this calendar year, we’ll have enough information to vaccinate children of any age.” Currently, only individuals 12 and older are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. In New York City, only 12% of individuals between 12 and 17 have received at least one dose of the vaccine, according to the latest data collected by the city.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist — Foot Specialist

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Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Downloan

Co-op City Times 2nd

COMBING

Mobility App

(Continued from page 1)

Once selected as a project partner, Ms. Sajous worked closely with a group of high schoolers to remedy a problem she faced during her travels around the city as a member of the disability community.

Ms. Sajous said: “I love going places and I realized that this could solve a lot of my problems. If I could put in an app, what places are really accessible, where the exit really is, and then rate those places so the next disabled person doesn’t have to go through what I went through; it all clicked for me!” Find out what’s going on in Co-op City here...

Farmer’s Market

The Harvest Home Farmer’s Market is back in Co-op City every Wed., 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., now through Nov. 17, at Asch Loop and Aldrich St. next to the ﬁre station. Vine ripened, fresh picked, naturally grown produce! Accepting Senior & WIC FMNP coupons/Health Bucks/ Debit/Credit/SNAP/EBT.

Baychester Library Teen Programs

Creative Painting: Wednesdays, July 21 & 28, at 2 p.m. Create your own masterpiece through painting and meditating. Practice artistic through expression. Urban Gardening 101: Wednesdays, August 4, 13, 20 & 27, at 2 p.m. Participants will be provided with the necessary materials to seed a plant to take home and start your own urban garden. Learn how gardening can be soothing to your soul. Programs open to ages 12-17. First come, ﬁrst served!

Stay connected Be sure to check the Riverbay Crawler daily (ch. 12 on MATV, and ch. 591 on Optimum) for updates and information. Shareholders not signed up for Phone Tree alerts are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Phone Tree alerts provide important notiﬁcations to the Co-op City community. In addition to the Co-op City Times and the Riverbay Crawler, stay tuned also to Riverybay’s ofﬁcial Facebook page, @co-opcityRB; and to the Co-op City Times’ and CCPD’s Twitter accounts, @coopcitytimes and @CCPDnyc, respectively, as well as the Community Relations newsletter. Be sure to also check out and follow the Co-op City Times at issuu.com/cctimes. Download the issuu app to your smart phone and mobile devices to read the newspaper on the go.

Front Page

Michelle Sajous

According to Mr. Coleman: “The students are designing for their project partner. That is one of the major lessons that they learn here; to create something that really matters you need to create it for real people. Even if you don’t create something that the entire world wants to use, even if one person’s problem is solved through your effort, that means so much and far more than what many of us are able to do on a day-to-day basis.” The app Ms. Sajous and her team created is called “Access Able” and it is an app that “allows those with disabilities to be sure of accessibility in their city.” That app, along with 20 others, is available for download straight from the Design the Future website, free of use, and doesn’t require Google or the Apple store. Mr. Cole-

man said: “What’s really cool about the digital program is, because they are designing apps, the apps are available to anyone and everyone. Anyone on any device can go and download them from our website and the app will download to your phone, iPad or whatever device the person is using.” As a project partner, Ms. Sajous said: “It was the best experience ever.” She said she enjoyed working closely with the students who helped bring her ideas to life – another aspect of the program that is just as important as creating a product. Mr. Coleman said, “We hope for Design the Future to be a space where different groups can work together, but also advance the goals that they have, talk openly and put forth their own goals and plans with people with disabilities.” Additionally, interested students don’t need a background in design to apply, only a big heart. “We take students from all backgrounds and all disciplines,” Mr. Coleman said. “The biggest thing that we’re looking for are students who know that other people in the world exist outside of themselves, and that some of those folks have challenges, and that they have a desire to help.” Also, very important to Mr. Coleman and his team is bringing in students of color into the program and he encourages students in this category to apply. “One thing that’s important to Durell and the whole team is bringing in students of color, speciﬁcally black and brown students,” Ms. Peters said. “It’s a big passion of ours to provide the opportunity to students who are traditionally underrepresented in the STEM ﬁeld.” Residents with disabilities interested in becoming project partners can check the website and sign-up for updates for this part of the program. In addition, high school students interested in participating in Design the Future can pre-register or get more information at https://www. youdesignthefuture.com/. Need-based scholarships are available and will be a part of the application for the 2022 program year once they open. Those interested in the apps, including “Access Able,” can visit https://www.youdesignthefuture.com/app-teams-page. “I’m always inspired by the possibilities in the world whenever I see the energy, the excitement of high school students striving to do something that matters,” said Mr. Coleman.

MTA Expands 311 Service into Subway System By BRANDON ORTIZ

Subway commuters will have a new resource going forward to help keep their experience on the train safer and more sanitary. New Yorkers will now be able to utilize 311 to disclose any safety or sanitary issues in a subway station and to report any homeless individuals engaging in non-aggressive panhandling. Expanding NYC311 service was a collaborative effort from Mayor Bill de Blasio, the Department of Homeless Services (DHS), the Department of Information Technology (DoITT), and the MTA. Homelessness in the city, specifically in the subway, was a major catalyst for the service expansion. The city hopes to direct more individuals to support services, according to the Mayor’s Office. “New York City’s 311 system continues to lead the way in linking New Yorkers to all the services our city offers,” Mayor de Blasio said to reporters earlier this month. “This upgrade will offer an important resource to improve riders’ experience in the system and connect our most vulnerable neighbors to the services they need, and I’m grateful for the MTA’s partnership.” Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, homelessness on subway trains has become a very visible issue. A steep decline in subway ridership since March of 2020 coupled with a pause on 24/7 subway service have only magnified the amount of individuals seeking refuge in train cars. During the months 24/7 subway service was suspended, the MTA tried addressing the issue with its own task force. After train service was suspended, the task force helped homeless individuals found on trains find shelters. New York City has opened more than 1300 specialized beds for

homeless individuals since January of 2020, according to the Ofﬁce of the Mayor. Now, commuters will be able to send city services directly to a homeless individual using the NYC311 service. Previously, the city’s 311 system did not classify subway stations as part of the city’s overall geography and any calls about homeless individuals on subway cars or stations would be transferred to 911 instead. “This (upgrade) enables vulnerable New Yorkers in the subway system to be connected to the 311 system and all the signiﬁcant resources and assistance it can offer,” said Sarah Feinberg, Interim President of the MTA. “Customers and MTA employees alike can now use the 311 app to report anyone in a station who might need outreach from homeless services, or mental health assistance, and that person is now much more likely to get the help they need.” NYC311 service is available 24/7 by calling 311 or by texting 311-NYC (692). Smartphone users can download the NYC311 app for free in the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app allows users to submit a request concerning a homeless individual in a train car or station. Additionally, the app’s grid system allows the user to specify a homeless individual's location down to the exact train line and station. Individuals can also submit requests online by visiting https://portal.311.nyc.gov. All commuters are still encouraged to call 911 if they happen to see violent or dangerous illegal activity in trains and stations. In May of this year, 51,882 homeless individuals were sleeping in a New York City homeless shelter, according to data collected by the Coalition for the Homeless, an advocacy and service organization that assists homeless people.

Buildings

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021 Continued from page 1)

loans such as Co-op City’s current mortgage with the bank. This year’s inspection is being done in year 9 as part of Wells Fargo/Riverbay’s exploration of a possible refinancing, and will allow Riverbay and its lender to assess what needs to be repaired, when the repairs are needed, and estimated cost of those repairs to ensure proper financial planning. In addition to inspecting the inside of apartments, primarily ground fault interrupter (GFI) outlets throughout the apartment, smoke detectors, electrical panels and the general condition of the apartment and balcony, inspectors also scrutinize the structure of buildings, common areas of buildings, mechanical rooms, roofs, grounds, commercial spaces and garages. Management is currently reviewing Dominion’s preliminary report and will have further discussion with the company but note there is nothing in the report that would raise any alarms about the structural soundness of Co-op City buildings. In the President’s Report published in the July 3, 2021 issue of the Co-op City Times, Board President Bernard Cylich detailed several differences between Co-op City buildings and the Surfside 12-story condominium at Champlain Towers which was reportedly plagued by foundational concerns highlighted by engineers which their board seemingly dismissed. Pointing out the similarities between Co-op City and Surfside, Board President Cylich stated that both were built with reinforced concrete and experienced construction defects, spalling concrete and exposed rusting rebars. “Where Co-op City may differ structurally with the collapsed tower is that 60,000 two-foot diameter steel pipes, some as long as 40 feet, were driven into several feet of solid bedrock and filled with concrete,” wrote Board President Cylich. “These piles, whose integrity has not been questioned, support, with the exception of the yellow school house, every structure here in Co-op City – 35 hi-rises, the Power Plant, eight garages and three community centers. “However,” he continued, “some reports have questioned the integrity of

the foundation of the Florida tower that suggest it may have contributed to its collapse. As more and more details and questions have emerged regarding the Surfside tower, we find a gulf of difference between their situation and ours which should help to allay any of our shareholders’ concerns. First and foremost is how their elected Board brushed aside repeated engineers’ warnings to take appropriate steps to mitigate their construction problems.” On the other hand, in Co-op City, the Riverbay Board President, who has also chaired the Board’s Construction/Power Plant/Restoration committee for several years, went on to explain that strike leaders involved in the historic 13-month rent strike negotiations in the mid-1970’s with the development’s then-mortgage lender, NYS Housing Finance Agency (HFA), were able to secure approval to engage an engineering firm to investigate rumors that the Co-op City buildings were rife with construction defects. The firm, Perkins and Wills, performed a forensic study of Co-op City’s infrastructure and uncovered over 40 construction defects which were subsequently corrected. More recently, while Local Law 11-required engineers hired by Riverbay have identified structural façade problems, including some residual construction defects, these structural issues are being addressed by a masonry company. Upon completion of the work, the NYC Buildings Department will inspect before approving the repair work. Then and only then, can scaffolding and bridging around the affected building be removed. Board President Cylich went on to say that unlike the Surfside board, “the Riverbay Board of Directors have acted responsibly and have been approving sufficient funds to cover the cost of essential structural repairs. In fact, at its last meeting [June 30, 2021], the Board approved funding to repair residual construction defects, front entrances and water penetration in our townhouses.” In addition, he noted that Management will hire forensic engineers to investigate and identify any potential structural matters not covered by Local Law 11, if necessary, and have them addressed appropriately to ensure the safety of community residents. This week, Board President Cylich pointed out that since Co-op City’s streets, sidewalks and the ground around the buildings are not supported by plies and sit on sand-filled marshland, they tend to settle. “We see this evidence all over, even after 50-plus years. Therefore, every few years, some of the pavers have to be dug up and the ground re-leveled with more sand.” Local Law 11, now known as NYC Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), requires landlords and property managers of buildings with more than six stories to have their exterior walls or facades, and appurtenances (balconies/terraces) inspected by a New York State Registered Architect (RA) or NYS Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) every five years. The engineer or architect is then required to present written notification to both the owner and the NYC Buildings Department of any unsafe conditions uncovered during the inspection. In this report of critical examination, the engineer or architect must document the condition of the façade and appurtenances as safe, unsafe or safe with repair and maintenance program. Buildings are also required to immediately report unsafe conditions to the city’s Buildings Department and repair them within a specified period of time. Overall, Local Law 11 affects more than 12,000 buildings in New York City.

NY’S LEGOLAND PARK & RESORT IN GOSHEN IS NOW FULLY OPEN! JOIN POOCHIESPICKS ON AUGUST 14, 2021 @ 8 A.M. SHARP FROM BRUCKNER COMMONS MALL (TURNBULL AVE. & WHITE PLAINS RD., BX., 10473)

TICKET INCLUDES: • ROUNDTRIP TRANSPORTATION VIA MOTOR COACH BUS • ENTRANCE TO LEGOLAND AMUSEMENT PARK • BUFFET MEAL CHILDREN (3-11) $145; ADULTS $160 ALL PAYMENTS DUE: JULY 30

CONTACT: ANDREA (POOCHIE) 646.484.9206

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Donizetti Building Four Association

Coalition to Save Affordable Housing

Congratulations, we have finally emerged from our state of hibernation. We are now ready to reclaim most of what we have sacrificed for more than a year. Both indoor and outdoor activities can resume for NYC. However, the honor system has been implemented for all those individuals who have not been vaccinated. They are required to wear face masks when appropriate. The Tuesday Concert Series have begun officially this month. All scheduled performances will be posted on your building lobby bulletin boards. Ice Cream Social Today! Building Four will be sponsoring its annual Ice Cream Social on July 17 from 2 p.m. until quantities last. We extend our congratulations to all our 2021 graduates. We wish them the very best in all their future endeavors. Covid-19 vaccines will continue to be administered at the Dreiser Community Center for both adults and children 12 years of age and older. We encourage all those who have not received their shots to take full advantage of the opportunity to do so. Continue to check on your sick, elderly and shut-in neighbors. Stay safe, alert and follow all Covid protocols wherever you travel or visit. If you see something, say something. Remember, it takes a "village." However, we are a "city." Enjoy your summer! ––Dawn Mitchell

Our meeting on June 14th was our last meeting before the summer break. The Coalition will resume executive and general membership meetings in September in room 13, Dreiser Center (the Coalition’s new home). Executive Meeting – Tuesday, September 7, at 7 p.m. General Membership – Monday, September 13, at 7:30 p.m. During our last meeting, we discussed ramping up our engagement with the community and listed many ideas for monthly workshops to provide service for the community, with the goal of endearing shareholders to the Coalition. Listed below are some of the ideas we considered, by using the skills and experience of members or guest speakers. Please review the list and make suggestions to either refine or add to the list. We would begin our first workshop in October and continue with at least one a month. Proposed Monthly Workshops Sponsored by CTSAH 1. Mitchell-Lama Succession Rights – What You Need to Know 2. Medicare Insurance – How to Choose the Right Plan for Part B 3. Wellness Program – Nutrition and Fitness 4. Rank Choice Voting – Know How to Use Your Vote 5. Riverbay Budget – What You Should Know 6. Resume Development – Improve Your Opportunities 7. Personal Credit – Protect and Improve There are community issues that will need our input as a community organization. First, the Hutchinson River Parkway exit ramp into Section 5. This is a poorly designed solution to a non-existing problem. It is a dangerous design that is overwhelmingly unpopular with shareholders. We will discuss what we can do as an organization to lead and build a resistance to this project. This will require our attention immediately when we meet again in September. The second issue, also impacting Section 5, is the new Metro-North train station planned for Co-op City. Currently, the plan is to have the station on Erskine Place, with buses and cars dropping passengers off on this dead-end street. The streets in Section 5 are not designed to handle the load of traffic this Metro-North station will bring to the community, a community specifically designed with no thru streets. Co-op City as a physically closed community cannot handle the anticipated traffic, not to mention the community is already surrounded by two highways and two bus depots. We do not need any additional exhaust and traffic impacting our air quality. We, as a community organization, must take a stand and do what we can to stop this plan of action. Of course, we want the train station, a 20-minute ride to Manhattan is very desirable! However, the entrance for drop offs and buses needs to be outside of this community, on the other side of the railroad tracks. Have a safe and wonderful summer! We will see everyone in September. ––Linda Berk

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators. It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that the Building 10 family announces the passing of Mr. Roy Rollins who went to his eternal rest on July 8, 2021. Roy was a long-time resident of Building 10B and was a colossal presence all around the Co-op City area. He was a gifted handyman; a jack of all trades and master of many. Roy loved helping his fellow cooperators and was always supportive of the Building 10 Association. He also loved to cook and bake. Barbecue ribs was his specialty. He was family and will be greatly missed. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends. If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety department at 718-671-

3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Face-

book, “Building 10 “ABC” Association.” Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10. We would like to wish all who are born in July an incredibly happy birthday. To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery. To all who have lost a loved one recently, we give our deepest condolences. Have a great week. ––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Safe Riverbay Safely disposing of home-generated used sharps

Sharps not disposed of safely are a health hazard The best way to protect Riverbay staff, garbage handlers and sewage treatment workers against disease or injury and avoid attracting drug abusers looking for syringes to reuse is to follow the following guidelines for containment and disposal of used sharps.

Containment Contain the sharps safely in your own home: 

Use a puncture-proof plastic container with a tight-fitting screw top. A plastic soda bottle or bleach bottle is good. Don't use glass because it can break. Coffee cans are not recommended because the plastic lids come off too easily.



Label the container clearly. Write "Contains Sharps" with a waterproof marker directly on the container or on masking tape affixed to the container.



Once you have used a syringe or lancet, immediately put it into your container. Secure with the cover. Don't clip, bend or recap the needles because you could injure yourself.



Keep the container away from children.



When the container is full, screw on the cap tightly. Seal it with heavy-duty tape to be extra safe.

Disposal There are different options for getting rid of the container of sharps. Some cities and towns have more options than others. Here are the best bets for safety, health and protection of the environment: 

Call your doctor, pharmacy, or clinic and ask if they accept properly-contained sharps for disposal. Effective July 1, 1995, hospitals and nursing homes were required to accept properly-contained home medical waste for disposal.



Ask your diabetes educator or local American Diabetes Association chapter about sharps disposal programs.



Call your local health department and ask for the health educator. Ask about special household medical waste disposal programs.



Call the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and ask for a list of licensed medical waste transporters who provide collection service to your area.

New York State law allows disposal of household sharps, along with household trash. Local laws, however, may prohibit this. Consult your local department of public works for information about laws that apply in your area.

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can the–authenticity of•– the authors. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed – verify •be–typed. • • letters – • –must – •Co-op – City Times – • by –• – •every – •Monday – •–to350 •be–words. • –Ideally, they should All be• in the office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, 3 p.m. considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Letters to the Editor

Energy conservation ideas worth exploring To the Editor: I must agree with last week’s letter by Ms. Canzoneri that vouchers for AC units will never work for obvious reasons. As a former inspector for Con Ed, I know the grid will never support it. Some of the shareholders here probably came from public housing where energy conservation is not in the equation. I see from my townhouse at night how certain apartments leave their lights on 24/7. Electric meters would cost millions but possibly installing one meter at the feed end of each building or cluster of townhouses would motivate people to practice saving electricity. Like our election here with the idea of rewarding major voting participation, we can reward the unit that uses the least electricity. Formulas can be ﬁgured out according to number of apartments in use for a building or cluster. Con Ed and the City may show interest in investing in metering. Surcharges to the abusers, rewards to the savers. What’s fair is fair! ––Nick Liberati

Deadline Notice Articles for Co-op City building associations, clubs, churches and organizations are due on Mondays by 5 p.m. Email your articles to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

NYS Excelsior Pass Update for those Vaccinated at Dreiser Auditorium Co-op City residents who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at the Dreiser Auditorium can get a NYS Excelsior Pass to show vaccine status by visiting https://covid19vaccine.health. ny.gov/excelsior-pass. Accept the Authorization to Disclose and input your ﬁrst and last name, date of birth, zip code and phone number. You will then be taken to the “Verify Your Identity” page where you will insert the date you were

vaccinated at the Dreiser Auditorium. The second question asks for the county in which you were vaccinated. Use “New York (Manhattan)” instead of “the Bronx,” then proceed to the next question, “Which vaccine did you receive?” You will then be able to save your Excelsior Pass to your Apple Wallet, Excelsior Pass Wallet or print or screenshot your pass. To replace a lost vaccine card, you may go directly to the Dreiser Auditorium. You must bring government-issued photo identiﬁcation.

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Toriea McCauseland

Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writer and include their address and phone number, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the author. 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 submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m. Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475. 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.

If the Co-op City Times Was Not Delivered: Call 347-697-6381 on Saturdays only, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

CCPD Urges Residents to be Prepared for Potential Summer Emergencies Public Safety Report

By LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Summer’s hot weather puts high demand on air conditioners throughout the national grid. It seems like very warm temperatures may be with us for a while. More unpredictable weather could be right around the corner. Summer’s extreme weather also increases the risks of thunderstorms with lightning. Co-op City Department of Public Safety urges all residents to make sure that they are prepared for all types of emergencies. Being prepared for all types of emergencies will allow residents to feel confident in the event of any type of emergency. It is always better to be over-prepared than not prepared at all. Preparing for emergencies should involve all members of the family. Establishing an emergency plan which is known to all members of the family is essential. Children actually enjoy helping to prepare for an emergency. There are several websites, www.fema.gov/kids/, www.ready.gov/kids/home. html and www.bam.gov.cdc, designed for children that help to educate them on all facets of different types of emergencies. Other websites for emergency preparedness are www.redcross.org and www.nyc.gov/html/oem/. These websites offer information regarding emergencies most likely to affect residents of our geographical area. Preparing for an emergency includes establishing a plan. The plan should include a family meeting place, one local and one regional. The plan should take into account family members being at home, at work or elsewhere. A local telephone contact and a long distance contact should be included. Telephone outages often only affect local services. Establishing a long distance contact will allow families to check on the status of all family members. All family members should be familiar with the plan. Putting together an Emergency Kit is also an important part of emergency preparedness. An emergency kit should include one gallon of water per person, per day for at least three days. A three-day supply of non-perishable food, include a can opener for canned foods, plates, cups, utensils and paper towels. Include a battery operated radio and a flashlight with extra batteries for both. Never burn candles for light, they are a fire hazard. A well-stocked First Aid kit and basic tools should be a part of every emergency kit. Moist towelettes, personal hygiene items and garbage bags should be included for personal sanitation. Clothing and blankets should be included for warmth and comfort. Prescription medications and eyeglasses should also be included. Books, games, puzzles and comfort items should be included for children. Infant formula and diapers should be included for babies. Important family documents, identification and cash should be ready to bring in the event you must leave your home in an emergency. It is very important that everyone takes whatever steps they can to conserve electricity in order to decrease the risk of a Power Outage. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are a green alternative to conventional light bulbs. They utilize less energy while putting out more light per watt of electricity used. There are compact fluorescent bulbs made specifically for dimmer switches and three way lamps. Shut off lights when leaving a room. Turn off computers and monitors when they are not in use. Avoid using Christmas lights and other non-essential lighting. Over the coming weeks, Con Edison will be calling upon Riverbay Corporation to prove that non-essential electrical usage can be curtailed in the community upon demand. During times of increased electrical usage such as during high heat and humidity, Con Ed tests Co-op City’s ability to shed non-essential demand on electrical service. These tests are conducted with very little warning in an attempt to simulate a real need to curtail usage in an emergency. Initial power shedding will be tests but as the summer goes on, it may be an actual emergency. By shedding non-essential power usage, it decreases the chance of having an All-Out blackout such as we experienced in 1969, 1977 and 2004. Power shedding in Co-op City will include garage lighting during daytime hours, laundry room usage and air conditioning in the community centers. Some power shedding tests will take place with 24-hour notice in which case cooperators will be notified of outages and closures in advance. In other instances, only 2-hour notice will be given in which case officers and porters will respond to the laundry rooms and secure them. In some cases, this may appear inconvenient, but the goal is to avoid the major inconvenience of a full scale grid wide blackout. Last week, our efforts were instrumental in preventing a blackout despite temperature in the high 90’s with even higher heat indexes. If you wish to help even more, when you become aware of a power shedding test or an emergency, curtail any non-essential electrical usage until full electrical

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

Public Safety Blotter June 4, 2021 – July 10, 2021

July 06 – 120 Alcott Place CCPD officers were dispatched to this location to investigate a report of a male and female on the roof of the building Upon arrival to the area, a male was located who would not provide proof of his legal residence. He was arrested and issued a summons for trespass. July 07 – 99 Darrow Place A cooperator reported to CCPD that when he picked up his car, he discovered that his catalytic converter had been removed from his vehicle. This incident is under investigation. July 09 – 140 Einstein Loop A cooperator reported to CCPD that his motorcycle was removed from the garage without his permission or authority. The incident is under investigation. usage resumes. Consumer fireworks of any type are highly dangerous and illegal in New York State. Zero-tolerance enforcement will be conducted by the Co-op City Department of Public Safety as well as the New York City Police Department. Barbequing is also not permitted on any of the public areas of Co-op City. Strict guidelines set forth by the New York City Fire Department are in effect which restricts barbequing on terraces or patios within 10 feet of any building. Propane tanks and charcoal barbecue 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. Have a safe and healthy summer. Use caution near pools, beaches and other bodies of water. Ocean beaches are particularly dangerous this time of the year due to the effects of offshore tropical storms. Only swim in areas where and when lifeguards are on duty. Parents must supervise children at all times. Never swim alone. If your summer fun includes consuming alcoholic beverages, be sure not to operate a motor vehicle. Also, be sure to buckle your seatbelt, obey speed limits and avoid distractions when driving. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 6713050. 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. (Continued on page 23)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for speciﬁc directions.

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES There are no contract opportunities to list this week. Please check back. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please search “Riverbay Corporation” at the following sites: www.Indeed.com www.Glassdoor.com Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply directly at either site. Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department. Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

It’s Time To Consider New Energy Efficient Air Conditioners Does it make any sense to read horrible stories about convector leaks in this newspaper and then promote the benefits of continuing to use our old and leaky convectors in the summer? No! A better choice would be to try to look at what is actually happening in our community. Way Too Many Floods Surely, you remember when the temperature skyrocketed just a few weeks ago. Well, what you didn’t know was that a lot of our cooperators had tremendous floods in their apartments at the same time. Now, what caused those floods? That’s right, our 50-year-old convectors caused those floods. And, some of those floods ruined their wood flooring, their rugs, their furniture, and other items throughout their entire apartment. So, our cooperators called our Maintenance Department. Then, they had to wait for hours before an employee could visit their apartment to remove the water. Now, why do you think that they had to wait for hours just to have an employee visit their apartment? Well, our Maintenance Department was overwhelmed with a huge volume of calls for convector leaks. So, they had to go to each affected apartment and deal with these outrageous floods that may have been caused by just one of their convectors. Again, just one convector may have flooded out their entire apartment. So, what about the other convectors in their apartment? How do you think our affected cooperators will feel if, no when, those convectors start leaking? How do you think they will feel when they get new flooring and then they get another flood in their apartment? What about the possible smelly or moldy conditions that might linger after an excessive amount of water has been removed from their apartment? Now, some cooperators might think that just a handful of cooperators had a convector leak in their apartment. Well, they’re wrong because Riverbay has received a lot of calls for convector leaks. However, this information is never published in this newspaper. Critique These Leaks Can you now see that we have a very serious problem with our convectors? Again, these convectors are 50 years old. So, really, how long do you think that they’re going to last? Sure, we can spend a lot of money and fix one area of our convectors. However, is it possible that another area of our convectors could fail and start leaking? Well, the answer could be yes because of the age of these convectors. Nevertheless, a director wrote a viewpoint last week describing a device that can be placed under a convector. Thereafter, it will sound an alarm if it detects a leak. The device can even use Wi-Fi to send a message to a phone. However, the director said that they were in their apartment when that device sounded an alarm. So, hey, the director was able to review this matter and call our Maintenance Department for service. And, for about $60, the director thought that using this device was a sensible idea and a well thought-out practice. However, let’s get realistic about this idea and our convector leaks. Look, a lot of cooperators have jobs that might be far away from Co-op City. So, what are they going to do when they receive a message on their phone at 9 a.m. that a convector is leaking? Can they immediately leave work and dismiss all of their scheduled assignments to go home to take care of a leak? If yes, then, how fast can a train or a vehicle travel from their job so that they can get home to stop the leak? Is it possible that their apartment could be flooded out by the time that they get home? Of course! So, does this idea solve our convector problems? No! A Better Solution Previously, a contractor stated that it could cost us between $300 million and $500 million to replace all of our convectors. However, in my opinion, a bet-

ter solution is for the board, management, and the community to have a discussion about having an air conditioner in our apartment. We need this discussion because our occupancy agreement does not allow us to have an air conditioner in our apartments. Nevertheless, if you go shopping online, you’ll see that lots of people are chilling out nicely with portable air conditioners. Outraged cooperators? No. Floods? No. Overwhelmed workers? No. Missed appointments? No. On the other hand, we can also have a discussion about window air conditioners. Either way, will we be plagued with convector leaks that’s costing us millions of dollars every year? No. So, does it make sense to dismiss this air conditioning idea? No! Bottom line: Some cooperators have never experienced a tremendous convector leak in their apartment. Therefore, it’s easy for them to blow this matter off. However, which convector in your apartment is going to leak ﬁrst? Then, when will the other convectors ﬂood out your apartment—again? Don’t know? Well, why should we continue to use these leaky convectors in the summer? Look, you will be outraged when you

see how your apartment looks after you get your first flood. Thereafter, you will be extremely upset when you get your appointment date. Lastly, we can get professional advice on air conditioning and electrical issues. Then, we can determine a possible credit that each apartment can receive for purchasing an energy efficient air conditioner. Close Please go online and look at the reviews for several portable air conditioners. Then, ask yourself if the board should consider allowing these units to be used in the summer to avoid the horrible convector leaks in our apartments. Thank you. Contact Information Please do not send a letter to me at this time. 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.

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

African-American Association A Message from the President We as African-Americans in an organization whose name bares our ethnic description must remember, that this organization represents: * Our crusaders like, Cicely Tyson, Hammerin’ Hank Aaron, DMX, Clarence Williams III, Marvevlous Marvin Hagler, Yaphet Kotto, Charlie Pride, Katherine Johnson, our “Hidden Figures” computer for NASA; Congressman John Lewis, Rev. C.T. Vivian, Bill Withers, Bonnie Pointer, Ellis Marsalis Jr., Earl Graves, Andre Harrell, Betty Wright, Zindzi Mandela and so many more who left us and who made us proud to be African-American… * Our fallen soldiers like Trayvon Martin, George Floyd, and Breonna Taylor. We feel these losses too close to home with the passing of Brandon Hendricks Ellison, a 17 year old scholar and athlete, gone much too soon. We must honor all of these souls because we represent them. This is why we unite, this is why we convene, and why we “join together.” Covid-19 has changed us forever, but we can rise like the phoenix from the ashes and show this community and Michelle Marbury the world that we know our worth. We know that when we stand together, “join together” and make our numbers known we can change things for the better. Eighty percent of this community is of African-American descent. The community at-large must feel that power. This is the legacy we must leave for “our children” here in Co-op City, The Bronx, New York City and the world, whether we birthed them or not. They must see an organization that they can be proud of and want to take up the mantle someday. This is your charge and mine. Here is your personal invitation to join us Be the vision you want your people, your children, your world to see. We represent Co-op City, but we must also represent what the world should be. Email us and request your membership form. We look forward to your support in these important and pivotal years to come. Membership Information Membership is only $15.00/year for a single membership and $25.00/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call: 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Kindly send a check or money order only. The African-American Association sponsors the following programs: Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917903-7073 Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact: Keith, 917-561-6211 Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917-863-1507 Each one of us divided by all of us equals a force for good. ––Michelle Marbury

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Mary Pearson

Election Matters/Elections Matter This year’s mayoral election is finally over, just as long as the 1% margin separating Eric Adams and Kathryn Garcia doesn’t slip below .5%, (half of one percent) which would trigger an automatic hand recount. Or would it? Do concessions trump the trigger? All three of the top finalists – Adams, Garcia and Maya Wiley filed pre-emptive lawsuits preserving their right for a hand recount in the unlikely event of such an arithmetical end result. Most people have moved on from the scandalous and as yet unexplained process of the 135,000 test ballots that were originally and accidentally (or so they say) counted along with the valid ballots. Actually, since the initial results were so screwy, I do believe it was accidental, not an intentional skewing of the vote tally. Starting with a recap, here’s why I believe that. On June 22, the count of the 191,197 in-person early votes, added to the primary election night votes, totaled 799,827 with approximately 97% of all scanned votes accounted for. You can see rows and rows of numbers from the June 22 mayoral election and more, on the top of the NYC BOE site. Just click Unofficial Election Night Results. The supposedly untouched number of votes, except for the included but originally uncounted, leftover 3% from election night, were counted once again on June 29. This time the ranked-choice voting process was applied and it came in with 135,000 more votes than the week before. It also came in with a ton of other new surprises. You can’t find evidence of the intricacies of that fiasco anywhere except on the Twitter feed of one of the candidates, because when the NYC BOE found its mistake, it took down the impossible results. Now this is important, the June 29 ranked-choice voting process was undertaken without involving any absentee votes. Absentee ballots first got counted and ranked on July 6. And no, it wasn’t the RCV’s fault that the June 29 numbers went haywire. It was the fault of the person who forgot to remove the 135,000 test ballots before the count began and RCV kicked in.

The next day, July 30, the dummy ballots were removed, the process was repeated, and the new results were posted along with an apology. The mess of July 29 hadn’t changed the order of the front runners so practically no one cared that a mess had taken place the day before … except for mayoral candidate Aaron Foldenauer. Why? Do read on. According to Aaron Foldenauer’s calculations and beautifully produced spread sheet, here’s what happened. Round 1 of the ranked-choice process is just a straight vote count of the voters’ first choices. Those pesky dummy ballots only slightly jostled the order of some of the eight front runners, but once that wacky army of 135,000 renegades hit the lower ranks… man oh man. How those red flags didn’t catch the BOE’s attention instantly is simply amazing. Of those unintended test votes distributed among the 14 positions on the ballots – 13 candidates plus a spot for write-ins – 17,598 or 7% more votes went to the frontrunner, Eric Adams. The straight counting continued: #2 Maya Wiley got 5% more votes; Kathryn Garcia got 7% more; Andrew Yang got 18% (a little high, but not too much off the mark) and #5 Scott Stringer gained 11% more votes than he had the first time around. Dianne Morales gained 14% more votes; and #7 Ray McGuire got 5002 more from the stack of test votes for a 27% increase (quite a leap). But then #8 Shaun Donovan got 76% more votes than he had gotten on the first count on primary election night, leapfrogging over the two right in front of him. Our soon-to-be-alarmed spread sheet making candidate, #9 Aaron Foldenauer, got 40% more (not too weird, but still weird enough), but then came the whoa nelly part: #10 Art Chang got 8,282 or 141% more votes than he received on June 22 (Say whaaa? And by the way, who?) and #11 Paperboy Prince got 7,043 more votes or 205% – meaning Paperboy Love Prince picked up twice the number of votes as he did in the first count. (Hey, BOE – this hasn’t started

looking odd to you yet?) Look what happened next to #12 Joycelyn Taylor’s count. She picked up almost seven times the number of her original count, pushing her up into the #9 spot, and #13 Issac Wright, the one who came in last on June 22 with 1,913 votes, came in on June 29 with 607% more votes than he won on primary day moving him up to #11. What became of the original #9 – Aaron Foldenauer? Even Write-In topped him. The test ballot gone wild SNAFU put him in dead last position making him #14 in a 13-candidate race. I’d have put together a spread sheet too! Obviously, something very random happened there, not enough to change the order of the top five, but enough to cause lots of place shifting in the lower ranks. In the end, Write In – with its 16,180-vote gain (a 1211% increase!) beat and reshuffled the bottom five. And how could that happen? It can’t. Nobody’s writing in an extra sixteen thousand names to test a system. It could only have happened if the test ballots were randomly filled ovals allocated by position, not by names, The big question is… why on earth won’t the NYC BOE say so? There’s also a number discrepancy that the latecomer 3% of uncounted scanned votes from primary election night doesn’t really solve. I’ve repeatedly said, ranked-choice voting is easy; it’s the counting that can make your head spin. The elections will probably be certified some time this week and hopefully we’ll get a step-by-step, decent explanation of whatthe-heck-happened, before then. Because it matters who won the election but having faith in the system matters even more. I can be reached by voice or text at 718-219-2211 or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City !

Afrobeats liven up stage at Wicked Wednesday

Afrobeats Mega Connections, along with DJ TJ AND DJ AJ, starred in Co-ops Outdoor Summer Concert Series’ “Wicked Wednesday.” Due to the weather, the group present ed live on channel 591 (Optimum) and Channel 12 (MATV), and on Facebook from the Einstein Center. Performing songs whose topics ranged from imprisonment to crypto currency, and featuring the Ikenga Royal African Village, they kept the audience entertained. Each performance brings them closer to their goal of “mak[ing] a difference in people’s lives and connect[ing] with people.” Photos by Phillip McCoy

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Harvey Morris and the House of Praise at this week’s Tunes on Tuesday

Tunes on Tuesday Outdoor Concert Series, July 13, featured Harvey Morris and the House of Praise. The performance was presented virtually from the Einstein Center instead of the Section 2 Greenway because of the weather. Forming the group in only two weeks, they led the audience in musical worship. The performers incorporated rhythmic poetry and Jazz into their gospel performance. Throughout the show, they kept the crowd engaged and excited to hear more. Photos by Phillip McCoy

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

SECOND READING – RESOLUTION #21-30 SUBMITTED BY: Leah Richardson SECONDED BY: Sonia Feliciano

Law Section 713. NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that Contract # 3645 with Community Paving Corporation for the not to exceed amount of $300,000 for a period of two (2) years for the asphalt paving as needed be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective. YES: Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Watson NO: Cylich, Leslie PASSED

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: July 14, 2021 WHEREAS, there is a need for asphalt paving at various Riverbay properties; and WHEREAS, Procurement solicited for bids and four (4) proposals have been received from qualified vendors; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends that the Board approve Community Paving Corporation as the lowest responsible bidder (see recommendation memo dated 6/25/2021and best & final spreadsheet); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation

SECOND READING – RESOLUTION #21-31 SUBMITTED BY: Francine Reva Jones SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson & Cheryl Jenkins BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: July 14th, 2021

WHEREAS, there is a need for replacement & repair of sidewalks at various Riverbay properties; and WHEREAS, Procurement solicited for bids and four (4) proposals have been received from qualiﬁed vendors; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager recommends that the Board approve Stone Bridge Landscape and Masonry LLC as the lowest responsible bidder (see recommendation memo dated 6/25/2021and spreadsheet). WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conﬂict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713. NOW THEREFORE,

LET IT BE RESOLVED: that Contract #3647 with Stone Bridge Landscape & Masonry LLC for the not to exceed amount of $600,000.00 for a period of two (2) years for the replacement & repair of sidewalks at various Riverbay properties as needed be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #8516 and amended by Board of Directors Resolutions #95-44 and #20-19 and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective. YES: Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders NO: Cylich, Leslie, Marbury, Watson PASSED (Resolutions continued on page 14)

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Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

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Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Resolutions

(Continued from page 12)

EMERGENCY RESOLUTION #21-32 SUBMITTED BY: Claudia Sampson SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson & Michelle Marbury BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: July 14, 2021 WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Executive Blended Liability Policy consisting of the Directors & Officers Policy, Employment Practices Liability Policy and Fiduciary Liability Policy and the Directors & Officers (D&O) Side "A” Excess Difference in Conditions (DIC) Policy have expired on June 30, 2021 but were extended until July 30, 2021 to secure additional quotes; and WHEREAS, the expiring Executive Blended Liability Policy ($5 Million Aggregate Limit for each policy) was with Federated Insurance Company (Chubb) for a premium of $240,726 and the expiring D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy (Single $5 Million Aggregate Limit) was with Argonaut Insurance Company for a premium of $49,970 for a total combined premium of $290,696; and WHEREAS, the Director of Riverbay’s Risk Management, through York International, Riverbay’s Executive Blended Liability and Directors & Officers Side “A” Excess DIC policies insurance broker, sought quotes from 12 markets to date and now recommends placing the Executive Blended Liability Policy with Federated Insurance Company (Chubb) for a renewal premium not to exceed

$337,450 and placing the D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy with Argonaut Insurance Company for a renewal premium not to exceed $64,960 for a combined total premium not to exceed $402,410 (38.43% increase) for the renewal policy period 6/30/21 to 6/30/22. WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Executive Blended Liability Policy with Federated Insurance Company (Chubb) for a renewal premium not to exceed $337,450 and placing the D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy with Argonaut Insurance Company for a renewal premium not to exceed $64,960 as submitted by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and #20-19; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately. YES: Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Watson PASSED

LEASE RESOLUTION #21-33 SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury SECONDED BY: Francine Reva Jones BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: July 14, 2021 WHEREAS, Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle Inc. has requested a lease renewal from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Bronx, New York, to be used as a church; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is three years

with a three year renewal option and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle Inc., Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s management is hereby approved as submitted by management in accordance with Res-

olution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President of the Corporation is authorized to sign the lease agreement and related documents on behalf of Riverbay Corporation. YES: Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Sampson, Saunders, Watson ABSENT FOR VOTE: Rosario PASSED

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. It determines when you can pick up your monthly package again. You would pick up one month or more from your last pick-up. It is a 30 - 31 day rotation. We will still text if additional items become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring at least four clean shopping bags and a shopping cart. Masks and physical distancing are required. New registrants can receive food the same day they register. Please show a valid ID NYC card, a non-driver's, or driver’s license with a 10475 address to register. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Guests do not have to be afﬁliated with a church. Registration is open at this location for Section 5 residents. Grab-N-Go The 920 Baychester Avenue location is conducting Grab-N-Go distributions on Thursday, July 22, and Friday, July 23, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Guests from Sections 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are invited. The menu includes fresh fruits and vegetables. The distributions will stop at 3 p.m. whether or not guests are on the line or if supplies run out. The July 22 distribution is for guests who registered or re-certiﬁed in 2021

and hold pantry cards. A pantry card issued in 2021 must be shown on this day – no exceptions. The July 23 distribution is for the general public, those who lost their pantry card and for those who did not re-certify in 2021. Guests eligible to come on Thursday but cannot make it can also come on Friday. They must present a current pantry card – no exceptions. Please, only one representative per household should attend. Guests must have at least 4-6 clean grocery bags and a large cart. Registration or monthly food package distribution will not occur on these days. Please do not leave your carts unattended. The staff will bypass unattended carts or objects when distributing numbers. We also reserve the right to not serve guests who are belligerent or verbally abusive. Let's work together to get our community fed. Senior Farmers Market Coupons July Distributions: 7/20, 7/27, 7/29 – 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. The distribution occurs at the 920 Baychester location. Recipients of the coupons must be 60 years of age or older and must bring proof of age (i.e. ID NYC card or a nonor driver’s license). Recipients who already received coupons this year cannot receive additional ones. The NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets crosschecks submitted applications. Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you at coopcityblackforum@gmail. com. Please stay safe. ––D. Illis

Building 9 Association Salutations, Building 9 family. It is with the heaviest heart and deepest sadness that we announce the transition of our dear friend, neighbor, and Building 9 Association Executive Board Second Vice President Shirley Wells. Our Building 9 “Diamond” passed away on Saturday, July 10, 2021. Shirley was easily recognized, and will be ever remembered for her long locks of hair. Shirley, known for her quick wit and great sense of humor, brought fun and laughter to every Building 9 Association activity and event from holiday celebrations, dues collections, and lobby decorating, to planning our monthly meetings, bus rides, bake sales, ﬁsh fries, movie nights, senior fashion show, etc. Shirley was an integral part of our Building 9 Shirley Wells community. She was loved and she will forever be missed. Shareholders Sharon from Building 9A and Ben from Building 9B also transitioned during these past few weeks. Dinora and Antonio Tirado lost their beautiful daughter in June. We send our love and condolences to the families of all those we lost in 2020 to 2021. We have been through a lot during the past 17 months, but we remain thankful, grateful and blessed. "The heart is never ready, the time is never right, to say good-bye." –Unknown ––Linda Collins

By AnatolIy Budnitskiy

BLACK WIDOW 2021, Rated PG-13, 143 Minutes Cate Shortland – Director Eric Pearson – Screenplay Scarlett Johansson – Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow Florence Pugh – Yelena Belova Rachel Weisz – Melina David Harbour – Alexei Ray Winstone – Dreykov BLACK WIDOW was a phenomenal time at the movie theaters! As grand a spectacle such as Marvel proved to be throughout the years, it is a great film to get back to the theaters, if you please. You can also catch it on the Disney Plus service as well. It is a highly beautiful film in theaters, so I will always be biased towards that if it is available in theaters. BLACK WIDOW is a great addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe albeit perhaps 5 years too late in my opinion. Those who of course know the events of after AVENGERS: ENDGAME probably will feel the same way. But it is great to see a sense of closure to the BLACK WIDOW character. Scarlett Johansson is at the top of her game in this one. She is very good as per usual in her action scenes and in the big spectacles scenes which look amazing in IMAX. She also had great dramatic scenes in this movie which showed how good of an actress she is. Some say this is the film that is a ‘star-making’ turn for Florence Pugh. She was for sure incredible in this as Yelena but I loved her for years and years! She was phenomenal in such films as MIDSOMMAR and LITTLE WOMEN, both films not too long ago. But it is great to see her getting the acclaim that she deserves. Rachel Weisz and David Harbour were amazing as well! Harbour played the RED GUARDIAN, which is Russia’s answer to CAPTAIN AMERICA. He was so good. It was such a wellrounded cast! The Villains were good too in this film. Ray Winstone played the Quint-essential Villain who would love to have domination of the world except in this film it is world domination with ruthless assassins. Granted, it wasn’t the most original but, in my opinion, I think it was pretty effective. The director, Cate Shortland, handled herself well with the action choreography. Some scenes were highly impressive. I absolutely loved BLACK WIDOW; I thought it was a great time at the theaters and I enjoyed it immensely. MARVEL is the gift thatkeeps on giving and I don’t think they disappoint with BLACK WIDOW. 9/10

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Rivers Run Community Garden

AARP Chapter #4997

Today, we will have a members’ meeting beginning at 1 p.m. Please try to be there. Fresh herbs are bursting with fragrance and flavor so stop by for a tour and some deliciousness. Rivers Run Community Garden is a place where we grow fruits, vegetables, knowledge, and friendships. The Garden is a movement towards improved mental and physical health for all who come. We provide workshops including nutrition, meditation, edible and medicinal wilds identification, planting, building, and crafting so please use this column to check on upcoming events. The Garden is an outdoor classroom for the local schools, daycares and residents of different abilities. We are a place of beauty and peace. Visit. Stay. Experience us. Upcoming Events at the Garden: • Saturday, July 17 – Membership meeting, 1 p.m. • Saturday, July 31 – Bomba by the River, 2 p.m. Beginning May 1, Rivers Run is open: • Tuesdays & Thursdays – 4:00 p.m. to dusk • Wednesdays & Fridays – 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. • Saturdays & Sundays – 12:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 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. Volunteers are welcome. Please mail your dues to Gail Sharbaan, 100 Casals Pl #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. 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

From President Mickens The summer is here, and the weather has been both hot and not so hot!! Our lifestyle and community are returning to normalcy. We are enjoying the outside concerts on the greenway, the Little League games on Co-op City Blvd. and outdoor sightings of our friends and neighbors. There are still summer jobs available for our youth. There are Lifeguard jobs available, year-round and you can be trained and certified by The Red Cross. We finally have a Democratic candidate for Mayor of New York. Congratulations to Eric Adams for his Primary win and now on to the main election in November. During Covid-19, our youth suffered terribly in the education department. The statistics show that all children in the country are now behind. We do have summer programs available but to be honest, that may not be nearly enough. We must be proactive with helping our students make up for some of the losses that they have incurred. Co-op City is still not 70% vaccinated. President Biden had asked for 70% nationwide by July 4th and we, as a nation, missed the mark. New York State did make the mark and most of the boroughs did also. The Delta variant is now the main problem for all Americans, and it is gaining speed around our country. Most new cases and hospitalizations are caused by the Delta variant. Once again, the science and medical authorities are showing that the vaccines used for our original Covid-19 work very well on the new variant. Research-Research-Research! Another thought is that while we debate the Covid/Delta situation, we should not ignore our other personal medical issues. Make appointments for regular check-ups that we have neglected due to the virus. AARP #4997 is also concerned about the gun violence in our city and stress that you always be aware of your surroundings. We still have so much to do to get to where we want to be. Stay involved and active in our community for the benefit of all the community. Our Membership campaign is ongoing, and you can reach our representative, Ms. Stella Baker, 718-652-2906, for more information. From our Good and Welfare representative, Mrs. Frances Wilson, we have no sad news and continue to wish all recovering and shut-in members a speedy recovery. And you can reach her, 718-671-5493, with any current updates. My number is 718379-3742 and I will always be available to answer questions or try to give more useful information when requested. Educate yourself for all your needs. ––Ann Purnell

Co-op City Democratic Club

The CCDC is also proud to have supported Eric Adams, a man who was raised by a single parent, lived with meager means, helped to raise his sibling, and had a tough time growing up. Eric has had a colorful background and has elevated himself. He has an agenda to reduce crime in the City. Covering all ﬁve boroughs is a massive undertaking but he believes in himself very deeply and would like to reduce crime, improve housing and work to improve the police force. We wish you all the best, Eric Adams, in improving our city. The CCDC is proud to have supported our very good friend, Ms. Vanessa Gibson, for Bronx Borough President. Vanessa is passionate about getting the job done and getting it done “Right.” She is very proud of this win and would like to thank each and every one of you personally who voted for her. Vanessa will continue to depend on the communities, especially Co-op City, to advise her of constant improvements to help make our lives better. We congratulate Vanessa and wish her all the best when her new job begins in Jan. 2022. Our current Council member, Kevin Riley, who had to be re-elected – was re-elected. Kevin is on so many committees I can’t begin to name them. It is called watching our backs. He is a very dedicated young man who is committed to his constituents. I would like to thank all who came out and voted. We have one more vote coming up which is the General Election. Early voting begins: October 23rd to October 31, 2021; location to be announced. The General Election will be held on Tuesday, November 2, 2021. ––Shirley J. Saunders

We’re Not In The Clear Yet...

Please continue COVID-19 Safety measures

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Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment This last year and a half has been challenging. It has taught us much. It has forced us to put things into perspective, set priorities and cherish time with our loved ones and friends. It has taught us the meaning of community. The neighbor next door and the neighbor on the other side of the globe. Have you ever wondered, if you knew what was to come, would you have been better prepared? Keeping it all together when the world seems to be falling apart was created in response to this

question. Though no one knows what tomorrow may entail, we know preparation for the possibility of coping with illness, losses and unexpected challenges can bring hope to any situation. The eBook, “Keeping It Together When The World Is Falling Apart,” is a complimentary resource guide for family caregivers to navigate the challenges of difficult times. Download your free copy today at comeoutreach.org. Please join us for our next monthly 45-minute informational session on Tuesday, July 20, at 7 p.m. Do you know of a youth assisting an ill, disabled

or elderly person? Meet some youth who are making a difference. Learn about resources available for youth caregivers. Get information about our Youth Caregivers Initiative Program. SHARKS (Students Helping and Assisting Relatives with Knowledge and Skills). Invite a youth to attend. Please RSVP online at comeoutreach.org. Consider nominating a youth to be recognized at our 15th Annual Family Caregiver’s Gala in November. You are not alone. We are here for you. Contact us at 718-379-3159. ––Diane Cooper

Greetings, RODL, we pray you are all enjoying your summer. Elections: We are glad to announce all nominations have been submitted and closed at this time. Thanks for your support. We will keep you posted on the outcome. Good and Welfare: Please continue to inform us of members who are sick, in need or shut-in. Contact Josephine Flowers. Van Outings: We do propose to use our van as much as possible. All interested, contact Dorothy. Your health: Mind your “B” and “D.” As we

get older, our ability to absorb B12 is hindered by changes in our digestive system, as our stomachs naturally begin to produce less stomach acid, malabsorption issues can arise so pay attention especially if you may have gastric issues. Discuss your diet and underlying issues with your health care provider. Vitamin “D:” As little as 10-15 mins. in direct sun a few days a week can give you most of the Vitamin D needed but our ability to turn sunlight to Vitamin D declines as we age. As a result, nearly 1-4 people have inadequate blood levels of Vitamin D. That’s a problem: As Vitamin D levels decline,

risks of Parkinson’s, Alzheimers’ and bone health manifest. Supplementing your “B” and “D” is wise. Have the conversation with your health care provider. Seniors Out Speaking: What is your pleasure? Let your voices be heard. We care and want to know. Devotion: Joyful are those who obey God’s law and search for Him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in His paths. –Psalm 119;2-3. Prayer: Lord we want to be blessed, help us to keep your word. Brethren…Dwell on these things. ––Gladys Baez

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

National Council of Negro Women Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Day – The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. honored the 146th birthday of our founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, with a virtual Birthday Celebration and membership drive on Saturday, July 10, at which over 424 members “Zoomed” in. The goal of this celebration was to raise awareness of Dr. Bethune’s legacy and the work of NCNW. Each of NCNW’s 310 sections across the U.S. was invited to join virtually to learn more about the life and legacy of Dr. Bethune. The founder of our beloved National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) was born July 10, 1875, in a small log cabin on a rice and cotton farm near Mayesville, South Carolina. The 15th of 17 children born to Patsy McIntosh McLeod and Sam McLeod, both of whom had been enslaved, she overcame enormous obstacles, and went on to become one of our nation’s most accomplished and

Broun Place Townhouse Association Hi, neighbors, Broun Place is right off the Greenway and suffered the noise of the illegal fireworks as well as noise from other “inconsiderates” who come into the cul-de-sac playing loud music from their cars. And what happened to the campaign against illegal fireworks? These people must be animal haters. They certainly don’t stand for the nation’s celebration of July 4th. Con Edison was here too and for a minute we thought the very much wished for sewer would be placed where “Lake Broun” collects. Unfortunately, the drilling and digging was for a repair and renovation, not the new sewer. After one year, we are back to Bay Plaza’s movie theater and thoroughly enjoyed “Summer of Soul.” This is a documentary created from video found in a basement from a 1969 music festival held in Mt. Morris Park in Harlem, NYC. The festival had music artists from Gospel to Motown, Latin Jazz, plus Blues and Rock and Roll. Questlove strung it together and helped produce it. Congratulations to Mr. Bernie Cylich on becoming the next Riverbay Corporation Board President and good luck to him as he faces new challenges. Welcome to our new neighbors in Broun Place and we sincerely hope they enjoy life in Broun Place. We look forward to their joining our townhouse association. At only $12 a year, it is a ”good deal” supporting your association. Broun Place is proud of being number one in the tally of highest number of voters in the Riverbay Board Election. Suggestions to celebrate this great accomplishment are welcome. The biggest problem in our community is the litter. You live here, hold your bottles, masks, gloves, wrappers and containers for a pedestrian garbage pail. Curb appeal is very important. But the garbage along the curbs of Co-op City Blvd. and Bellamy Loop make our middle-income co-op look terrible. Our building grounds have become filthy and have resulted in a horrible mess on Co-op City Blvd. Co-op City has been called a disintegrating project. We are neglecting getting tough with stopping litterbugs. Something needs to be done. Here are some tips as we recover from Covid-19. If you are inoculated, outdoors, part of a small inoculated group, you can go without a mask. If you enter a crowded, close contact environment, then wear it. We urge you to get vaccinated. Access CDC guidelines and find sites where the vaccine is available: nyc.gov/ vaccinefinder or call 877-VAX-4NYC, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine. Contemplating a restaurant outing, call ahead. Register with the Riverbay RUOK Emergency contact programs. This is important for those living alone or with a chronic condition. Information is stored confidentially, available for an emergency situation. Sincere condolences to the family and friends of Robert (Bobby) Summers. Finally, again, congratulations to all of our local community graduates. May success be theirs and a bright future be ahead of them. Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever! ––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

celebrated Black women. During her distinguished life of service, Dr. Bethune founded Bethune Cookman College (now Bethune Cookman University); she was a co-founder of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF); she held a leadership position in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps; she was appointed a national adviser to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, with whom she worked to create the Federal Council on Negro Affairs that was known as the Black Cabinet; and she was the only African American woman who was officially a part of the United States delegation that created the United Nations charter in 1945. Dr. Bethune was the recipient of numerous honors. Her homes in Daytona Beach, Florida and Washington, D.C. are designated as National Historic Sites and there is a memorial sculpture of Dr. Bethune in Washington, D.C. On December 5, 1935, with the support of the leaders of 28 notable Black women’s organizations, Dr. Bethune responded to the need to harness the leadership and the power of African American women by founding the National Council of Negro Women. Dr. Bethune envisioned an organization of organizations that would improve the conditions of Black women and their families nationally and internationally. Dr. Bethune’s 146th Birthday Celebration was hosted virtually by the South Carolina state sections. Mistress of Ceremonies Cecelia Webb introduced our National President, Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole, and then Vice Chair Dawna Michelle Fields. The various levels of membership available to men and women were discussed and our Restore Empower Advocate Commit Honor (R.E.A.C.H.) National Membership Drive Campaign will run until July 31, 2021. This is a period when Sections are encouraged to recruit new members and focus on the retention of members. If you’re interested in the Co-op City Section, contact us through our social media below. Social Media – Remember you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcityBethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoopCity; Instagram: NCNWCo-op City, and email: www.ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com. ––Joyce Howard

DIVORCE - BANKRUPTCY • ABSOLUTE LOWEST FEES • EVENING APPTS. AVAILABLE • IMMEDIATE FILING

• FREE CONSULTATION • FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS

“COURTEOUS AND PROMPT SERVICE AT AN AFFORDABLE FEE”

633 Lydig Ave • Bronx, NY

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

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Newsong Church

Goose Island Seniors

Hey, Co-op City! At Newsong, we exist to love God, love others and serve our community. We believe that following Jesus is a life-long journey, and we’re all at different places in our faith walk. In order for us to live out our mission, we’re guided by four values: * Know God, * Find Freedom, * Discover Purpose and * Make a Difference. This week, we’ll take a closer look at our second step…Find Freedom. Recently, I told you that when you get to know God, you’ll discover that He loves you and desires a relationship with you. Many people fear that because of their many hang ups and flaws, that they’re not good enough to have a relationship with God. Religion says change and then you can follow us. Jesus says come follow Me, and then you’ll change! The truth is, when you seek Jesus, He’ll meet you right where you are, but He will never leave us in the condition that He finds us in! As we choose to walk with Him, read His word, and surrender to the Holy Spirit, He begins to transform us from the inside out! 1-2 So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going to work, and walking around life— and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out…” –Romans 12:1-2 (MSG) In Jesus we find freedom and deliverance! At Newsong, we believe that life change happens in the context of relationships. God created us to live in community with others, and it is only then that we experience the full life that God has for us. We call these communities “Life Groups.” Life Groups give us a place to connect with each other. They’re a safe place where we can share and pray for each other, and grow together in Jesus. When we do life together, our problems become smaller as God uses others to bring support and encouragement to our lives. We base our Life Groups on the early church as described in the Bible in the book of Acts. “Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.” –Acts 5:42 (NIV) Newsong Church is a church of Life Groups, not a church with Life Groups! So no matter how hurt or broken you are, you’re welcome to join us this Sunday. You’ll find that we’re all broken, but Jesus is putting us back together! Newsong Church meets Sunday mornings at 11 a.m. at 135 Einstein Loop, Auditorium 45. *Deaf interpretation is available. To pre-register for Sunday’s service, or for more information about NSC, go to our website, www.newsongchurchnyc.org, or call us 718-708-8385. ––Pastor Mike Tolone

Thank you for coming with us to the Resorts Casino. It was a beautiful day, we missed the rain. Those who had problems with your $20 bonus, it is still on your card and you can redeem it when we go on August 12 or whenever you go again. I was told I didn’t mention how well the Welcome Back party went on June 16th. Everyone did a great job – food was delicious and plentiful and the music and most of all the fellowship was great. Thank you, Paul Roberts, my DJ brother, and all who participated. Seminar – July 17 at 11 a.m. Today, the Spanish American Club and the Goose Island Seniors present lawyers talking about Living Wills, Power of Attorney and more. Don’t forget your proof of vaccination. By appointment only. Must be vaccinated to enter rm. 39, 135 Einstein Loop. Mask required. Sight & Sound TV “Ruth” – Friday, August 6. Every first Friday at 8 p.m., come watch Sight and Sound TV. First 60 people only. Must be vaccinated; mask required; $5 per person. Resorts Casino – Thursday, Aug. 12, Atlantic City, NJ. Price: $40, bonus $20 slot play; $40 play for those who went in July. Bus leaving from our three usual bus stops: 8 a.m., Einstein (pizza shop); 8:15 a.m., Asch Loop (library) and 8:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop (hardware store). Also, enjoy the beach, boardwalk and shopping. Adults only. Reserve your seat, $40. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Trip to Villa Roma – Tuesday, Sept. 14, 7:30 a.m. The Cameos, a Doo-Wop group, luncheon and a day of fun, all for $92. A choice of entrées – pot roast, chicken Francese or fillet of Cod, served with chef’s choice starch and vegetables; $40 deposit, your choice of entrée and your bus seat selection required when making reservations. Must show proof of vaccination. Balance due by Sept. 1. Call: 347-847-1941. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Bingo – Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1:15 p.m. Admission: $5 for 3 cards, 12 games and Jackpot. Extra cards are $0.25 each, for up to three cards. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination and mask required. Temperature taken at entrance. Members only. Become a member: $20/yr. Sunday bingo, July 25. To all members – Happy Birthday to our members celebrating in July: Carman Ponce, Iris Delgado, Regina S. Usher, Miriam Kravitz, Thomas Gordon, Annie Perez, Audrey Chambers, Lennox Hosein, Rosa Copeland, Craig Harrison (Motor Coach) and Richardine Sullivan. Sick and Shut-in – Edna Trujillo, we miss you and cannot wait until you return to bingo. Mary Pilla former Goose Island president, misses everyone and sends her love to all. She would love to hear from you, (718) 753-1816. Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475; phone number is (718) 379-9613. We are open. You may call (mornings) Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; (evenings) Tues. & Thurs., 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., and Mon., Wed. and Fri., 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., or call/text Stephen, (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. ––Stephen Roberts, Sr. The New York Public Library has reopened all available branches. As of July 6, the Baychester location offers nearly full service, including general library use and seating, unlimited browsing, computer access and more. In-person programs and classes will return over the coming months. Masks are still required for all persons in NYPL locations. See you at the library! Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sun.- Closed Learn more about our open locations and plan your visit at NYPL.org.

VISION CARE SPECIALIST

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

•C OMPLETE VISION CARE - EYE EXAMINATION

• OCULAR DISEASE TREATMENT

• EYEGLASSES

• CONTACT LENSES • GLAUCOMA TREATMENT High Fashion Frames on Premises. “Your Vision Health Is My Concern.” Much of Learning Is Done Through The Eyes. Insist on a Professional Eye Examination.

120 ALCOTT PLACE (Bldg. 17 • Sect. 3) • Co-op City

718-379-8029

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

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Bartow

Fri., July 23

Thurs., July 22

Wed., July 21

Tues., July 20

Mon., July 19

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Einstein

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Arthritis Exercise Class w/ Damion every Tues., 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Zoom: https://zoom.us/ Meeting ID: 982 8183 3325; Passcode: 582148; Call in: 1-929-2056099

No Activities

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler 10-11 a.m. Zoom: https://zoom.us/, Dial-in: 1-646-876-9923, Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173, Passcode: 855423

Arts with Laura, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., https:// via Zoom and phone zoom.us/j/99231696108, Meeting ID: 992 3169 6108, Passcode: Must call or email 503637; Call in: 1-929-205-6099 to register: 929-399-1387

Smartphone/Tablets Zoom Meeting w/Ralph, 1-2 p.m., https://zoom.us/ To register, call JASA office with your name, email address & phone #; Meeting ID: 295955247, Passcode: Bereavement Group, 1st & 3rd 259554, Dial in: 1-929-205-6609 Bodies in Motion w/ Ola, 11a.m.-12 Wednesdays of the month p.m. Zoom https://zoom.us/, Meeting 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. ID: 912 6304 7892, Passcode: 237257, One Tap Mobile: +1-929-205-6099 Must call or email to Game Day, 1-2 p.m., register: 929-399-1387 https://scarsdaleschools.zoom.us/ Meeting ID: 910 4221 6993 Passcode: 7A5RaD; Mobile: 1-929-205-6099; Passcode/password: 59849

Arts with Laura 10 a.m.-12 p.m. via Zoom and phone

ZUMBA with Ola 1-2 p.m. Zoom: https://zoom.us/ Meeting ID: 967 1196 0602 Passcode: 526096 Dial-in #: 1-929-205-6099

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Kosher

Non-Kosher

Orange/Pineapple Juice Hamburger Baked Beans Grilled Vegetables Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit

Sweet and Sour Pork Loin White Rice Steamed Kale

Apple Juice Mac and Cheese Italian Cut Green Beans Whole Wheat Bread Fresh fruit

Jerk chicken Baked Sweet Potato Steamed Red or Green Cabbage

Weight Mgt. Support Group w/Gigi – 2nd Wed. of the month, 1-2 p.m. Conference call: 929-299-1045, Passcode: 1386 Orange Juice Virtual Game Day – Every Wed., 1-2 p.m.,w/ Ms. Margaret Kempe and her fellow Pay it Hungarian Goulash Forward Engineers at Scarsdale HS. Different Mashed Potatoes games played each week including Bingo. Normandy Blend Please call 718-320-1345 to register and reVegetables ceive Zoom information. Whole wheat Computer learning w/Ralph, Wed., 11 a.m.Bread 12 p.m. To register, please call the JASA office Fresh fruit with your name, email address & phone number; https://zoom.us/ Dial in: 929-205-6609, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554

Line Dancing w/Ellie

Arthritis Exercise Class w/ Smartphone/Tablet Class w/ Damion, every Thurs., 1-2 Ralph, 1-2 p.m. Call Main Of- p.m. Zoom meeting ID: 986 fice, 718-320-2066, to regis- 0021 6442, Passcode: 573762 ter. Please give your phone # & email address (NORC) Aerobic Classes every Fri., 11 a.m.-12 p.m., https:// zoom.us/ Meeting ID: 986 8235 8691, Passcode: 849150, Mobile: 929-205-6099

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Thursdays 11 a.m. - 12 noon @ the Section One Greenway Stage For more information, please call 718-320-1345 ***MUST WEAR MASKS AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING***

Apple Juice Apricot Glazed Salmon Orzo w/vegetables Prince Edward Blend Vegetables Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit

String Bean and Tofu Curry Yellow Rice and Pigeon Peas Okra w/Tomatoes

Stewed Codfish Steamed Spinach Yuca

Orange Juice

Acceptance Meditation with Italian Roast Chicken Spinach Noodle Paola Turkey Salad Kugel Friday, July 23, 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Potato Salad California Blend https://zoom.us/j/4421366695 Red Cabbage Salad Vegetables Meeting ID: 442 136 6695 Challah Bread One Tap Mobile: 929-205-6099 Fresh fruit

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

(Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation. JASA Co-op City NORC Program invites you for their Upcoming Virtual Activities Staff will be available from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to answer all Grab and Go questions. Bartow, please call 929-3991394 and Einstein, 929-399-1376. Dreiser Loop Grab & Go pick up is from 12 noon - 1 p.m. JASA ofﬁce is open for clients BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Please call 718-320-2066 to make an appointment. Notary Services available – APPOINTMENT ONLY. Call at 718.320.2066 for an appointment. FREE Rafﬂe during the classes every week. Every Tues. – Yoga Classes with Adira Polite, 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.; https://zoom.us/j/9840647097?pwd=RXg2WCtqNzlEa0JLVWtWN3VWa1JPZz09, Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 984 0464 7097, Passcode: 952022. Every Wed. – Arthritis Exercise/Dance Class w/ Damion, 11 a.m. - 12 noon; Zoom meeting: https:// zoom.us/j/96708931492, Meeting ID: 967 0893 1492, Passcode: 491268, Dial-in number: 1-929-205-6099.

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk

*Menu subject to change without notice. Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

Upcoming Events

Every Wed. – Painting Classes, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., https://zoom.us/j/92095631147?pwd=a2lBWHFRK3AwN3NqOEE1Z3hIWi9DQT09, Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057. EveryWed.–TaiChiclassesw/AdiraPolite,11a.m.to 12 noon, Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/95267447198?pwd=MDhCa1U5d24rMkdpNWZnMXVHejl2dz09, Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 952 6744 7198, Password: 455576 . Meditation Class – GPC (GrandParents), 11 a.m. to 12 noon, third Thurs. of every month, https://bit. ly/35VESDV, Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 991 1390 5105, Passcode: 170462. How to Better Manage your Chronic – Thursdays, July 15, 22, 29; August 5, 12 and 2, 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Join Zoom Meeting: ht t ps://us06web.zoom.us/j/87613534024?pwd=VThtSVVVSS9ucXkrY1RUSUJnZyszQT09, Meeting ID: 876 1353 4024, Passcode: 339198, One Tap Mobile: 1-929-205-6099. New – Every Thurs., Tablet class w/Ralph, 2:30

p.m. - 3:30 p.m., https://zoom.us/j/96938958487?pwd=b3o2MU9zMExyZXBtb25aQVQ5TTlndz09, Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 969 3895 8487, Passcode: 405723. Every Fri. Aerobics Class w/ Adira Polite – 11 a.m. to 12 noon, https://zoom.us/j/98682358691?pwd=dS9ublovZ01mRVVYbEhCYng2SkZHdz09, Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 986 8235 8691, Passcode: 849150. Every Saturday Zumba Classes – 1 p.m. - 2 p.m., Zoom meeting, https://zoom.us/j/92928109097?pwd=Z1lwMHFNcDNRSGZZZ20vTmlZSmtLQT09, Meeting ID: 929 2810 9097, Passcode: 374977, Dial- in number: 929-205-6099. Every Sunday starting July 11, Senior Safety Class – 1 p.m. - 2 p.m., Zoom meeting: https://zoom. us/j/98867100439?pd=eVhjY3Jzb3FpNjdDOVRwbjYOUmFWdz09, Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 988 6710 0439, Passcode: 252733. JASA activities – If interested in knowing, we will email the information to you. Call 718-320-2066 and give us your email address.

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Iglesia Evangelica MU de Co-op City

Traditional Synagogue

Co-op City United Methodist Church

Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds “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 UMCC is 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! We are changing with the times and now offer online service. We are located at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across from Building 30 (entrance on Boller Ave.) Parking is available on Palmer Ave. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta. 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. In-person, 10 a.m. bilingual Sunday Service at the church starting July 4th. Also viewed via Facebook and Zoom. Tuesday 12 p.m. (Spanish), and 7 p.m. (English), Pray and Reflection Service Sunday School, 8 a.m. (English) Food Pantry: The Food Pantry distribution center at our church serves Section 5. Ongoing registration and distribution of food are on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Those registering must present one of the following government-issued up-to-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. Blessings, ––Marta Medina

NAACP Co-op City Branch

We will have a Tisha B’Av service this Saturday night, July 17, at 9 p.m., for Gene Kaufman, former president of Young Israel of Co-op City, who died. We wish his family and former congregation members our condolences. The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Saturday morning Services will start at 10 a.m. This change was made at the request of some of our members. The requirement for wearing a mask and social distancing will be strictly enforced during all synagogue services. 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 #: 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 10 a.m. After Services, we always have a kiddush. The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue. The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m. so we can take out the Torah. The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbath ends on Saturday, July 17, at 9:16 p.m. Candle Lighting for Friday, July 23, at 7:59 p.m. Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates in Honor or Memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree (if you want to buy a tree, call (347) 449-5005. Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue. To All members Happy Birthday to all members who will celebrate their birthday in July. For all those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in July, please send me your names and I will add them to the list. Fun and Games After services and kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health. ––Bruce Gitelson

Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. We Need You in the Fight: Each and every NAACP member makes a difference to the complex, ongoing work of advancing racial equality. We have driven the hardest-fought wins for civil rights and social justice, with you by our side, we can accelerate the next milestones for Black Americans. Join this multigenerational network of activists dismantling structural racism by using your power to take action on the most pressing issues of our time. To become a member or gift a membership: Adult, $30; youth, $10; make check/money order payable to: NAACP Co-op City #2210, and mail to: N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. (Life Membership checks can be mailed.) 112th NAACP Virtual National Convention: Through tangible and engaging workshops and actionable takeaways, at the convention, the NAACP discussed ongoing issues of police brutality, racism, and student-debt. Some of the recommendations (excerpts) for Biden administration to implement to assist in economic empowerment are: Cancel student debt, fully cover unemployment insurance, federal minimum wage ($15.00/hour), implement Universal Paid Sick Leave, and extend paid sick leave benefits to all Americans. An end to the school-to-prison pipeline: Police presence in schools increases the likelihood that Black students will be introduced to the legal system and then remain in it. Black students are more likely to be arrested than other students while at school, often with devastating effects to the child and their life trajectory. Cradle-to-career supports: Students need family and community engagement and resources that encourage physical and mental health for their overall well-being, which allows for stronger academic development. We work to expand commuFamily Owned and Operated nity-driven approaches to build stable, enriching public education systems. • Large Chapel • Pre-need counseling College and workforce success: We support stuon premises dents getting the education and skills development • Out of town services they need so they can be successful on the job or • Ample Parking on premises in an academic environment. College costs should • Cremations A dignified funeral every family can afford. be affordable. Forgiving student loan debt and de• C asket Showroom creasing the overall cost of college is an economic All areas are handicapped accessible on premises imperative. “…While we may no longer be bound by the physAmid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home is ical constraints of colonization or chattel slavery, we closely monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and know all too well that African Americans are not granted memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment. equal rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness in this country. The lasting effects of our subjugation Personalized & Professional Care • 55 Years Serving Our Community have continued to cripple us, generation after generaWorldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America tion. I want to spread the message of hope. Not hope that our oppressors will suddenly grant us our freedom, but hope in the truth that we ourselves are strategically coalescing, organizing, and advocating our way into real liberation. Fighting Forward. –Derrick Johnson, President and CEO, NAACP. To follow NAACP’s trending topics, go to: Serving all Call NAACP.ORG. cultures 24 We appreciate your continued support and if you LIVE STREAMING WORLDWIDE. & faiths Hours would like to make a financial contribution in any amount, we thank you in advance for helping the www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net NAACP advocate for a more just and equal America. Have a great & safe summer. 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. ––Brenda Brown

718-231-7647 Fax: 718-231-7665

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

Your personality, attitudes and beliefs are essential to who you are. When God steps into your life, he simply helps you to develop those traits that will enhance your relationship to him and others. God does not erase or control you but guides you into the best you possible. James 5:17 Elijah was a man with a nature like ours (physical, mental, spiritual limitations) and he prayed intensely for it not to rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three and a half years. Jonah had a negative attitude towards the Ninevites, he hated them. The text does not say that Jonah ever repented of hatred, yet although angry, in the end he did what God said. Jonah 4:2 He prayed to the Lord, Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing. I knew you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents sending calamity. 3 Lord, take away my life, it is better for me to die than to live. 4 The Lord replied, Is it right for you to be angry? Elisha needed some soul-soothing music before he could prophesy. When his spirit was calm and refreshed he was able to bring the Word of God for the need at that time. 2 Kings 3:14 Elisha replied, “As surely as the Lord Almighty lives, whom I serve, I wouldn’t even bother with you except for my respect for King Jehoshaphat of Judah. 15 Now bring me someone who can play the harp.” While the harp was being played, the power of the Lord came upon Elisha. Moses misrepresented God when he allowed anger to control his obedience. God did not take it lightly but showed him that self-control is always necessary even when upset. Numbers 20:7 The Lord said to Moses, 8 “Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink.” 10 He and Aaron gathered the assembly together in front of the rock and Moses said, “Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?” 11 Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank. 12 But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.” Contact Open Door Ministries by phone/text, 917-334-4407 Blessings in Christ. ––Pastor Luis Ramos

Community Protestant Church The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family continue to lift up our community, city, state, nation and the world in prayer, especially all those affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Our regular church schedule has been cancelled due to the outbreak of the virus. However, our members and friends are invited to join us via the Telephone Conference Call Line at (712) 432-3900; at the prompt, enter access code 343284, followed by the # sign. Summer Schedule Adult Sunday School is now in session via conference call every Sunday at 9 a.m. Call (712) 432-3900, access code 343284, followed by the # sign Sunday Worship Service begins at 11 a.m. via Conference Call Line. Noon Day Prayer at CPC...On Wednesdays at 12 p.m., you are cordially invited to call in for an hour of Power, Prayer, Praise and Testimony. In his sermon last Sunday, Pastor Owens spoke about the story of Legion, the demon-possessed man who lived in a cemetery who Jesus healed, found in Luke 8:26-36. “…And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs. …And Jesus asked him, saying, what is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him. …Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: …When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country….” He noted that 10 traits of evil spirits can be found in this passage of scripture which included: evil spirits are enemies of man. They cause men to lose their sense of shame and modesty and alienation. They are engaged against the Lord. They are numerous and desire a body to inhabit for the purpose of working harm. He chose for his topic “Split Up the Middle.” This demon-possessed man was split up the middle because his personality and identity have been totally destroyed. Because of his isolation and loneliness, he could not be with others or himself. God, through Jesus Christ, took an individual which no one cared for and healed him. God loves us just as Jesus loved that demon possessed man. Don’t be misled or become afraid. Let prayer be on your lips for the healing of our land. This is God’s world, and he is going to have the final say. Reminder: COVID-19 Vaccine is now available. Practice social distancing. Continue to wear masks. 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

St. Joseph's Episcopal Anglican Church

Open Door Ministries

“A Better You” (Full sermon at opendoorministries.net)

St. Joseph's is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic, St. Joseph's Church has suspended services until further notice. However, we continue to worship via teleconference on Sundays, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Father Johnson also conducts daily weekday services at 12 p.m. You are invited to participate in these services by calling 1-425-436-6344, access code: 509 898, followed by the # sign. ––M. Chambers Grace and peace.

Church of New Vision The Church of the New Vision and its pastors, Kenneth and Deborah Hodge, welcome you to worship with us. By the all-sufficient Grace of God, we announce the reopening of the church on Sunday, July 11. There will be one service at 11:00 a.m. Sunday School will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken. Welcome back. Please join us on Facebook Live, Sundays, at 11:00 a.m. Just type in “Kenneth Hodge” in the search and join us as we worship God together. Services can also be viewed on YouTube. Our Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study starts at 7:00 p.m. on our Conference Line number: (646) 769-9909, Access Code: 3099388. Once prayer has begun, please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity. As we celebrate Jesus Christ, the very demonstration of God’s Love towards humanity (John 3:16), let’s continue to be thankful and grateful. Let us, as the Body of Christ, remain steadfast, immovable always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that our labor is not in vain. Our verse of focus this year is: 2 Corinthians 12:9 “And He said unto me, my grace is sufficient for thee: My strength is made perfect in weakness.” The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Love of God, be with you all. Amen. –Pastors Kenneth & Deborah Hodge Sunday, July 11 – Worship theme: “The Power of His Grace.” Scripture: 2 Corinthians: 12:9 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” –Isiah 55:11 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

Spanish-American Community Club

We hope you and your loved ones are doing well. The Spanish-American Community Club family is always in our thoughts. We are looking forward to resuming our meetings and events in September. This is a reminder to all those who registered for the free seminar on Living Wills and the Power of Attorney (co-sponsored by the Spanish-American Community Club and the Goose Island Senior Center). Please bring proof of full vaccination. Your temperature will be taken at the door. You will not be allowed entry if: • You have not registered • Cannot show proof of full vaccination. • Have a fever Please call Alfonso Gonzalez at (347) 249-3403 for additional information. Date/Time: Saturday, July 17, 11 a.m. Place: 135 Einstein Loop, Einstein Community Center, Rm. 39 ––Carmen Rodriguez

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Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

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Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City

WHISTLEBLOWER ANONYMOUS HOTLINE

Co-op City is private property and therefore prohibits distribution of unsolicited advertising material to shareholders’ homes and/ or property, including cars parked in the development’s eight garages. If you witness anyone depositing or distributing advertising material on Co-op City’s property, please call Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Be prepared to give the location and description of the person(s) leaving the material. All unwanted, unsolicited advertising material should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground causing litter. Thank you for your cooperation.

7/31

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).

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021 23

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. using the following Zoom information: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line, (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#. Tomorrow, Sunday, July 18, at our 11 a.m. service, the Pastoral Lay Shepherds' Ministry will celebrate their 11th Anniversary. We welcome all to attend. You can join us using the Zoom Video or Zoom Telephone Conference Line shown above. On Wednesday, July 28, at 5 p.m., the Co-op City Baptist Church, in tandem with the National Black Church Initiative, will sponsor an in-person educational session event about benefits of clinical trials in the Black community and how to participate. Additionally, there will be line dancing, music, fun and a food give away. This event will be held on the Section 4 Greenway by the stage. You are requested to register, using the following link below, prizes will be raffled to the first 75 people to register. The winner will be announced on the spot and the winner must be present: office.of.nbci@gmail.com. The Wednesday Noon Day Bible Study class is on hiatus for the summer and will resume on Wednesday, September 8. Thursday Prayer Warriors is on hiatus for the summer and will resume in September. Friday Prayer held at 10:00 a.m. will continue through the summer. You can join using the Free Conference Call.com Line: 563 999 2090, PIN #: 660065. Friday Evening Prayer is on hiatus for the summer and will resume in September. Adult Sunday School is held at 9:00 a.m. and will continue in July and August using the Free Conference Call line shown above. Sunday School for children and youth is on hiatus and will resume in September. COVID-19 vaccination is available for those 12 and older. If you are a Montefiore patient, you can schedule an appointment at www.montefiore.org. Montefiore also has a Covid19 Hotline, which can be reached at 844-444-2819. No appointment is required at the Dreiser Auditorium Mega Vaccine site. Please keep each other in prayer and be wise in your decisions. Continue to wear your masks, 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

Remember to complete and return the CCTimes survey on participation in the Riverbay Board election.

Be sure to subscribe to the new & official Co-op City YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/3h6CrF7. Stay informed!

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

Public Safety

(Continued from page 7)

New York City’s Blackout of 1977 was 44 years ago July 13-14, 1977. The 1977 Blackout was caused by a variety of factors. Strain on electrical supply due to high temperatures combined with lightning strikes and human error leading to a two-day blackout in the New York City area. For nostalgic purposes, take a few moments to remember how old you were and where you were at that time. Some of you may not have even lived in Co-op City yet or may not even have been born yet. Co-op City is a diverse community with people of all ages, abilities and characteristics. All persons should remember to respect each other and embrace their differences. Do not forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street. Maintain social distancing and follow the current recommendations from New York City Board of Health and the CDC. Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. Avoid getting into confrontations with neighbors regarding the wearing of masks or vaccination status. Be responsible for yourself, your family and your guests. Although Covid-19 rates are decreasing throughout the city and state it is still important to take steps to keep yourself and your family safe. Our actions in the coming weeks and months will determine the future impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the world. Taking precautions now will decrease the lasting effects of the pandemic. Getting a vaccination or wearing a mask is a good idea if your doctor recommends it. Both New York State and the CDC announced changes to the mask wearing mandates. Unvaccinated persons are still required to wear masks in many situations, especially indoors and crowded areas. Vaccinated persons are still required to wear masks in certain situations. Check the NYS Health website and the CDC website for the latest updates. Contact your doctor and see if a Covid19 vaccination is right for you. When in doubt, wear a mask especially indoors when social distancing is not possible. Do not forget about hand washing, the use of hand sanitizer and not touching your face. Good health practices are always good at preventing illness of all types. Be a good cooperator and be Co-op City Strong.

Fire safety Co-op City buildings are fire-proof. If there is a fire, stay inside your apartment unless instructed to do otherwise by fire personnel. To keep smoke out, use towels and masking tape and open windows only if the fire is above you since smoke rises. You may also go out onto your balcony, if it is safe to do so, until help comes. If the fire is inside your apartment, leave immediately, and alert your neighbors. Close the door behind you but do not lock it. Call 9-1-1 immediately. Co-op City shareholders are mailed their fire safety plan at the beginning of each year, per city code. Please read this information and be prepared. Also, discuss fire safety and meeting points with your family members in the event you have to evacuate.

Co-op City Times / July 17, 2021

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