Co-op City Times 8/8/20

Vol. 55 No. 32

Saturday, August 8, 2020

$1.25

Co-op City shareholders continue to receive essential services Tropical Storm Isaias causes power outage, property damage to thousands in NYC

Tropical storm Isaias left much damage in Co-op City including an uprooted tree shown leaning dangerously on a townhouse unit in Earhart Lane in Section 5 (above left) and several cars parked along Co-op City Boulevard that sustained damage caused by falling trees and branches.

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Tropical Storm Isaias battered the NYC area with heavy rainfall and wind gusts in excess of 70 mph on Tuesday afternoon leaving more than one hundred thousand households without power mainly caused by downed power lines as a result of fallen and uprooted trees along with property damage.

Co-op City, too, received its fair share of damage as large trees were uprooted and toppled over, some

COVID-19: New York City public schools reopening Safety and hybrid learning

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

As most of the country still struggles with allowing children to head back to school this fall – or summer – as the Coronavirus still wreaks havoc in many states, New York City officials decide on the matter – somewhat.

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio and NYC Department of Education School Chancellor Richard Carranza (Continued on page 4)

How could the second stimulus package affect you?

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

On Thursday, members of Congress and key White House officials continued discussions well into the night as all sides tried to find a firm middle ground on the potential new government economic stimulus relief package.

(Continued on page 5)

left leaning against building structures, broken branches fell onto cars parked along community streets, and trees, branches and leaves were strewn onto roadways, sidewalks and walkways throughout the development by heavy winds. Thankfully, power lines in Co-op City remained intact allowing Co-op City shareholders to continue to have electricity powered by the Co-op City Power Plant as well as uninterrupted air conditioning and hot water while elsewhere in the Bronx, more than

Photos by Tori McCauseland and David Best

22,500 ConEd customers were left without power. By midnight Tuesday, approximately 105,000 customers in New York City alone were still without power, down from 130,000 earlier in the evening. Officials reported at least 7,000 power lines came down.

“Due diligence precautions and checklists were initiated through the Power Plant’s Emergency Operational Procedures for severe weather which included

(Continued on page 2)

Management reports progress on Local Law 11 as DOB restarts issuing permits and sign-offs

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Riverbay Management has reported progress in ongoing work mandated by Local Law 11 of 1998 now known as the Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP).

“I am pleased to report that the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) has given us the final approval of the work completed at Buildings 26, 30 and 31, and removal of the sidewalk bridging and area fencing has started,” Riverbay Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer said this week. “We will still need to complete some work in areas that were blocked by the sidewalk bridging, but that does not require a raised platform or disrupt the egress from the buildings.”

This remaining work includes brick repair, repointing and work on some of the columns.

Mr. Klehammer added that all major work at Building 27 has also been completed which allows Management to commence the approval process with the DOB and to also remove the bridging and fencing surrounding the building. “If all goes well, the bridging and fencing can be removed by the end of September.”

At the same time, ongoing work on Building 33 is expected to be completed this year.

(Continued on page 6)

CORRECTION NOTICE August carrying charge statements

Some shareholders received carrying charge statements for the month of August with a surcharge amount but the amount was not identified as a surcharge. This was due to an error during the printing process. Please be informed that a new statement with both description and amount was mailed by the bank. Some of you have alredy received it. Please note that this is only a corrected statement; you are not being billed twice. If you have already paid your August 2020 carrying charges, please ignore the duplicate statement.

We sincerely apologize for this occurrence.

—Riverbay Finance Department

2

Storm

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020 (Continued from page 1)

HCR notification on surcharges to building owners and managers

checking all drains to prevent flooding, all rooftops for any potential hazards and all equipment for operational readiness,” said Anthony Ligato, Senior Director, Utility Assets at the Co-op City Power Plant. “In preparation for the storm, the Power Plant was able to adjust the shift schedules to minimize hazards to employees during their travel to the Power Plant.”

Clean-up has continued several days after the storm’s departure. The Riverbay Grounds department will most likely be working into this weekend to remove remaining broken trees, limbs and leaves from throughout the property.

Grounds Director Mike Ambo described the scene in Isaias’ aftermath this way: “Devastation. It looked like we had a tornado pass though.”

As Mr. Ambo and his Grounds crews continued clean-up activities on Thursday afternoon, he said Sections 3 and 4 sustained the most damage. He had so far counted 21 trees that were lost and seen several others with broken and hanging limbs which were removed because of the immediate danger they presented.

Ahead of the storm’s arrival in NYC on Tuesday afternoon, the Ground department had secured outdoor garbage cans to prevent them from becoming airborne and done other maintenance work to secure the grounds, along with Building Janitorial and other Riverbay essential departments. During the storm, Mr. Ambo and his staff were out in full force surveying the property, looking out for hazardous conditions and responding to calls from shareholders who reported dangerous conditions caused by the powerful winds which also limited how much staff could do at the time except to try keeping sidewalks, walkways and entrances clear of fallen branches .

On Wednesday morning, the Grounds department returned to work at 7 a.m., cutting and picking up branches and transporting them to the empty lot on Co-op City Boulevard for mulching/recycling or disposal. They also took on careful removal of two large uprooted trees that were leaning against townhouses – one in Adler Place and the other in Earhart Lane in Section 5, wrapping up work at 8 p.m. that night after ensuring the trees were removed properly and they did not fall over because of the obvious danger they posed.

“The uprooted tree in Adler Place took us about six hours to complete,” said Mr. Ambo, who worked alongside his team members to handle the job. “First, we cut from the top and the side heavier with more branches and then worked our way down to the root to remove it from the ground. As a matter of fact, in Adler, we had to take a good tree down to get to the one that was leaning on the townhouse.”

Mr. Ambo said that he and his staff will work through this weekend to complete all jobs. He expressed his gratitude to his crew members for their response before, during and after the storm.

“I want to thank each and every one of them for the way they responded not only to Isaias, but when it comes to emergencies, they always step up their game and give 120 percent,” said Mr. Ambo. “I cannot commend them enough for their willingness and the effort and energy they bring to serving this community – they make me look good!

“The Grounds department will continue to work diligently to expedite the cleanup of all areas that have been ravaged by Tropical Storm Isaias. We ask for shareholders’ patience and assure them the Grounds department is out in full force working hard to serve the community.”

Another department that was fully operational during Isaias was Public Safety.

Chief Joseph Riley said: “We knew there was a potential storm coming but we did not predict the severity of it particularly the high winds. It was moving so fast and even though we didn’t get much rain, the wind knocked down dozens of trees within the campus and we took a substantial amount of vehicle damage – dozens of cars sustained minor to severe damage from trees and branches falling.”

The chief reported that Co-op City Boulevard’s northbound lane was blocked by a fallen tree. Public Safety officers taped off the area and cleared a path for cars to be able to make a uturn to maneuver out instead of drivers having to back up.

“We responded to several aided calls unrelated to the storm during the impact – one was an elderly who had fallen – so we maintained essential services to community,” said Chief Riley. “The biggest challenge was being out in very hazardous conditions to make sure shareholders are safe. There were multiple calls of trees down as well as two scaffolds in Section 5, one of which was damaged and the other collapsed.

The company responded promptly and corrected the condition during the storm. We responded and put police tape around dangerous conditions to highlight them so people would not approach. Our department worked in conjunction with Team Riverbay, all of our departments that were mobilized and out there, along with NYFD and NYPD vehicles throughout. They all did a good job, especially our Grounds staff. They were mobilized and the real heroes in this.”

Chief Riley also thanks shareholders for their vigilance. “I want to thank shareholders who called in dangerous conditions so we were able to respond and ensure access and make conditions safe by referring to the appropriate department or agency Uprooted tree at Adler Place Townhouses. to handle. Working in partnership with the community, we con- See page 3 for more storm photos. tinue to make this a safe place to live even in hurricane condiPhoto courtesy Grounds Dept. tions. We can’t do it without them.”

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

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

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

appointment time

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

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

4240 HUTCHINSON RIVER PKWY EAST

www.footanklerestore.com

(718) 671-2233

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

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

HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

3

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Tropical Storm Isaias leaves its mark on Co-op City

Photos by John Crow, Richard Harris, Toriea McCauseland and Grounds Dept.

WE ARE OPEN!

BECAUSE YOUR EYES DESERVE THE BEST!

Under the Direction of

Dr. Gary Fishman Dr. Simon Wu

and

u EYE EMERGENCIES! Get seen and treated by an Ophthalmologist same day, without the long wait of an ER! DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT FOR: u Cataracts u Glaucoma u Dry Eyes u Diabetic Eye Disease

COMPLETE EYE EXAM

MULTIFOCAL AND ASTIGMATISM CATARACT LENSES

LASER CATARACT SURGERY

u

The Latest Technology for Diagnosis and Treatment for Adults and Children.

u

Get a Second Opinion Of Your Eye Condition.

ALL INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Including UNITED, HEALTHFIRST,

MEDICARE, MEDICAID

CONVENIENT HOURS: Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Saturday: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Same Day Appointments Available! Hablamos Español.

2100 Bartow Ave, Suite 216C, Bronx NY 10475

www.visionny.net

7 1 8 - 8 6 2 - EYES (3 9 3 7 )

4

Schools

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020 (Continued from page 1)

on Friday, July 31, 2020, announced their health and safety plan for NYC school openings for the upcoming 2020-2021 school year.

“We are doing everything to keep kids healthy while ensuring they are getting the education they deserve. These rigorous test and trace protocols will keep our students and staff safe as we start this new school year,” said Mayor de Blasio.

Schools Chancellor Carranza said, “The safety and health of our school communities is always our first priority – before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic – and we will remain vigilant in monitoring health conditions this fall while driving toward academic excellence for every student.”

According to Mayor de Blasio, to keep students safe as they return to school amid COVID19, the current plan for reopening schools will require a host of daily precautions to “prevent, identify, and address the spread of COVID-19.” Those precautions will include: • An isolation room for students with symptoms with a dedicated staff member or health professional • Physical distancing and required facial coverings • Cleaning throughout the day and nightly disinfecting, and • Clear communication with families and the school community.

If a student or teacher feels sick with COVID-19 symptoms, they are required to stay home and get tested. “If a student begins experiencing symptoms in school, they will be isolated and monitored by a dedicated staff member until they are picked up by their parents or guardians.” Staff members are required to leave school immediately if they become symptomatic while on site.

According to a press release on the safety measures, a series of investigations by the NYC Test + Trace Corps and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) will be conducted if a school does develop “laboratory” confirmed cases of COVID-19. The release read, “For the potential investigative conclusions outlined below, all decisions to quarantine classrooms or close schools will depend on each investigation’s facts.” The chart below explains the series of investigations along with response measures.

Additionally, students who test positive for COVID-19 and are feeling “well enough” are still expected to participate in remote learning at home to continue their schooling.

During the press conference, Chancellor Carranza also updated the public regarding the different learning options available as parents had until yesterday, Friday, August 7, to choose their preference for all-remote learning or hybrid learning.

According to the Department of Education, “All schools are preparing for blended learning, during which students learn in-person in school buildings for part of the week and continue learning remotely from home on the other days.” Whichever learning type parents decide, the same academic requirements are expected of all students – whether they are engaged in fully remote or blended learning.

While in the classroom, teachers will give “live-instruction” to those students who are learning remotely and for students who will be in the classroom. “Teachers will deliver live instruction in short intervals (15–20 consecutive minutes) throughout the school day for our youngest learners and may increase in length based on the student’s developmental stage and grade level.”

Teacher Amanda Glasford of Section 3 is planning to send her children back to school this fall so she too can get back to school for work. She said, “I do plan on sending my children back to school because I’m a teacher, and I’m expected to be back in the classroom.”

In terms of COVID-19, she said: “I feel like it’s going to be difficult. The different ages of students and the different procedures required to be back in school along with the expectations that we’re putting on the children to help keep themselves safe and keep us (teachers) safe, it’s going to be tough!”

As an educator, she has concerns about the virus. Ms. Glasford said, “Teachers are trying to do the best that we can to welcome the children back into the classroom, but there are teachers with underlining health issues so they’re going to have to look out for their health as well – They can’t put themselves in danger.”

The mayor announced school buildings will open in September and remain open on the condition that “the city must see fewer than 3% of all COVID-19 tests come back positive.”

Advertising works!

Call 718.320.3300, x3384 for our affordable rates.

Open Letter to the Co-op City Community

To my patients, friends and neighbors of Co-op City:

“If a school is closed, the school will communicate by 6 p.m. on the night before about opening the next morning, based on the status of the investigation. A school building will not reopen without confirmation from public health experts that it is safe,” noted the mayor in the press release.

I am writing this open letter to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude for your loyalty to me over the past 45 years.

Many of you know that my father opened the practice for Podiatry in 1969, when Co-op City was first built. I came in to join him in in 1975 after completing my training. I have been fortunate enough to have cared for your foot problems, and in many cases your children’s and grandchildren’s problems over the years. That is not something many doctors can claim.

During this terrible pandemic I have been unable to return to the office as I have a condition where my immune system is weak. Thank God I have not been ill and my health has been excellent. I do plan to return to practice and continue providing service to my patients. In the meantime two excellent doctors; Steiner and Issacson are holding down the fort at my office at 100-1 DeKruif Place.

It has been a privilege to serve you and your families. I am looking forward to my return as soon as circumstances permit.

Wishing you and your loved ones health and happiness.

Warmly,

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

100-1 DeKruif Pl. (718) 671-7226

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Food distributions by Trinity Church Wall Street and Agatha House provide cooked meals and pantry stock

Trinity Church Wall Street, in partnership with Riverbay Corporation, will distribute 1,000 cooked meals on Thursdays for 12 weeks. The collaboration began this past Thursday, Aug. 6, in the Bartow Mall. Later that day, Agatha House distributed pantry items. All are welcome to take advantage of these distributions which are provided free of charge to anyone who requires the services.

Photos by Leandra Alexander-Peters

Stimulus

5 (Continued from page 1)

Momentum earlier this week had many close to the negotiations confident a deal would be reached by this week’s end, when Congress begins its monthlong recess. Unfortunately, the situation has not progressed to that point.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, a key component to the process, did not sugarcoat the status of negotiations on Thursday night when he told the Associated Press, “There’s a handful of very big issues that we are still very far apart.”

No information is currently known about whether Congress will reconvene during their recess in order to push a deal through, however, there has been progress up to this point. New York Senator Chuck Schumer told the Associated Press earlier this week, “They made some concessions, which we appreciated; we made some concessions, which they appreciated.”

While the overall bill is still being decided, here is a brief look at what facets could be included in this potential economic stimulus relief package: • A second round of stimulus checks – The main issue between the proposals brought up by both the House and the Senate has been concerning the amounts of the checks, which means overall, that stimulus checks will most likely be included in this next package. However, the exact amount Americans can expect to receive is not known currently. Notable proposed amounts have ranged between $1,000 to $1,200 for individuals, $2,400 for married couples who filed their taxes jointly and $500 for any additional dependent.

• Weekly unemployment benefits could be reduced – A very highly debated component of the potential relief package, unemployment benefits, could potentially be scaled back. Notably, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters this week that he would support a bill that included the $600 per week unemployment check. However, McConnell and those who also support a continuation of $600 per week unemployment checks face stiff opposition. One alternative proposal includes a plan for $200 checks per week until October when the payment would then be adjusted and combined with state unemployment benefits to ultimately equal 70% of an individual’s lost wages.

• Continuation of Paycheck Protection Program Funding – The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provides loans to businesses with fewer than 500 employees. According to Forbes, the PPP has received $650 billion in funding from Congress so far. The most prominent proposal concerning this program to date, called the “Continuing Small Business Recovery and Paycheck Protection Program,” would require that businesses demonstrate a 50% loss in gross revenue in order to qualify for a second PPP loan.

• Additional school funding – Both House and Senate proposals would allocate money to help public schools transition to remote learning as well as provide necessary financial support to the schools that physically open. The specific numbers on the exact amount that would be diverted to help support public schools has not been agreed upon yet but $105 billion is one potential number being debated.

• Support for Child Care Services – A current plan would provide $15 billion, in addition to the money being allocated for public schools, to keep many child care services afloat. $10 billion would be used to create “back to work child-care grants,” which would help child care providers with operating expenses. The remaining $5 billion would be given to the Child Care and Development Block Grant so that child care centers that are at risk of closing because of COVID-19 can apply for emergency financial assistance.

• Freezing of Medicare Premiums – For millions of Americans who use Medicare, a potential provision to the stimulus relief package would freeze Medicare Part B premiums and deductibles, which would stop them from spiking due to the pandemic. Currently, the standard Medicare Part B premium is $144.60 and would remain as such should the provision that freezes premiums be included in the final bill.

6

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Local Law 11

(Continued from page 1)

The restart of work was delayed for two months coming requirements for increased inspections of balcony railings out of the winter shutdown this year by the Covid-19 conand guards were added after a woman fell to her death struction pause imposed by Governor Cuomo. when a balcony railing gave way. In 2015, increased site Additionally in Section 5, DOB has approved the site safety rules were imposed similar to those required for safety plan for Buildings 28, 29 and 32 and Local Law 11 construction and demolition projects. work will begin as soon as the agency issues work permits.

This most recent addition is why such extensive sidewalk Next week, installation of sidewalk bridging will begin bridging and security fencing is installed around buildings around Buildings 34 & 35 in preparation for work. undergoing work.

Local Law 11 is a city law that requires residential and “We told the community at the outset of this work that commercial buildings higher than six stories to conduct it would be disruptive and an inconvenience, but legally façade inspections every five years. It was preceded by necessary to comply with city Building Codes and provide Local Law 10 of 1980 which was enacted by the City Couna safe environment for the residents,” said Mr. Klehammer. cil after a student was struck and killed by a piece of terra “Even so, we have been receiving calls and complaints about cotta which fell from a building. Local Law 10 specified the extent of the sidewalk bridging and fencing that has that a licensed engineer or architect had to visually inspect been installed around buildings in the community where only the front, street facing façade of a building, and any Local Law 11 work is being performed. These are required serious deficiencies found had to be corrected. to be installed pursuant to our site safety plan for each Local Law 11 expanded the inspection and repair requirebuilding which is reviewed and approved by DOB before ments to the entire facade of a building, not just the front, it will issue a work permit. We have been told to add addifollowing several additional accidents including the death tional bridging and fencing in some instances by DOB.” of a 16 year old student after being struck in the head by Mr. Klehammer also responded to misinformation about falling bricks, falling construction debris from a high rise the project that has been posted on social media. “I have office building in Manhattan and a parapet collapsing in been told that recent posts on Facebook have stated that the back of a building. the work, particularly around Buildings 28, 29 and 32, will Local Law 11 also requires that the inspection has to be take five years. This in untrue. That work and the work on conducted by a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) Buildings 34 & 35 should be completed by next summer.” who is either a NYS Registered Architect or a NYS He continued, “Co-op City was built over 50 years ago Licensed Professional Engineer with at least one year of and no significant façade has been done here to most of relevant experience to conduct a physical inspection conthe buildings for over ten years. In the meantime, to ensure sisting of at least one drop from a scaffold or observation everyone’s safety and welfare including that of our employplatform, not a visual inspection as was the case with Local ees who work around these buildings, it is a necessary Law 10. inconvenience that is taking place at high-rise structures In subsequent years, the law was expanded. In 2013, throughout our city.”

Annual domestic water tank cleaning schedule

The Riverbay Maintenance department will conduct domestic water tank cleaning in the following buildings according to the schedule below: Aug. 11 – Buildings 6, 7 & 8 Aug. 12 – Buildings 12, 13 & 14 Aug. 13 – Buildings 17, 18 & 19 Aug. 18 – Buildings 23, 24 & 25 Aug. 19 – Buildings 33, 34 & 35 Cleaning will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hot and cold

water service will not be available during these time frames.

Shareholders are asked to store a supply of water for drinking and cooking and also for personal hygiene. In addition, make sure your faucets are in a closed position and all drains are clear of objects.

Service will be restored as soon as the work is completed and the tank fills up.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

—Maintenance dept.

Mobile Census Questionnaire event in Co-op City pulls in more responses The Census Bureau held a mobile census questionnaire event in Dreiser Loop on Thursday and successfully secured a few more responses to the 2020 Census as Co-op City continues to inch towards its 100% response goal. The Dreiser Loop area is in one of the census tracts within Co-op City that has a low participation rate. With the mobile census questionnaire unit in the vicinity, shareholders who had not yet done so took advantage of the opportunity and were able to complete the census. Among those who stopped by were little Amir, shown above adorned in his Spiderman mask with one of the census employees. He was accompanied by his mom, a Co-op City shareholder (not photographed). Residents are urged to make time to fill out the 2020 Census form mailed to their homes. It takes less than 10 minutes and will serve the community for the next 10 years. The census can be completed online at my2020census.gov, by calling 844-330-2020 to fill it out with a census representative over the phone especially if you have misplaced or discarded the form that was mailed to you, or, if you still have the questionnaire, fill it out and return it by mail.

Co-op City Public Safety Dept.

Emergency: 718-671-3050

www.ccpd.us

Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 @CCPDnyc

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

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

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

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

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

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

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

Email your articles to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

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

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

CCPD alerts residents of potential scams due to the Covid-19 pandemic Scammers are a ruthless bunch of individuals who are willing to use any emergency as an opportunity to take advantage of unsuspecting victims. The Covid19 pandemic is no exception. Nationwide and locally, there have been numerous reports of people falling victim to scams. Fortunately, some smart consumers are noticing that something is not right and do not fall victim and are able to report the incident so others can be alert.

Covid-19 put a new twist on the “relative in distress” scam. People have received calls from scammers stating that a relative has Covid-19 and needs to be placed on a respirator but their insurance is expired. The scammer goes on to say, if you pay the monthly premium, we can proceed with the necessary medical care. Be alert that as heartless as this sounds, it is a scam.

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, state and federal tax deadlines were extended to July 15, 2020. People who have just filed their taxes may be waiting for their refund. Others may be waiting for other funds such as unemployment or stimulus package funds. Large groups of people awaiting payments is viewed as an opportunity by scammers. Smart cooperators who read this column are always one step ahead of scammers.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety receives updates from various agencies regarding trends in scams. Scam artists are a very clever group. They take their knowledge of human nature and combine it with current information in an attempt to find new victims. Recent studies have shown that certain types of scams, especially internet scams, increase every year. By being aware of potential scams, readers can reduce their chance of becoming a victim.

The Department of Justice warns of inaccurate flyers and postings regarding the use of face masks and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division Eric Dreiband reiterated this week that cards and other documents bearing the Department of Justice seal and claiming that individuals are exempt from face mask requirements are fraudulent. Inaccurate flyers or other postings have been circulating on the web and via social media channels regarding the use of face masks and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of these notices included use of the Department of Justice seal and ADA phone number.

There were even reports of websites selling fake identification cards stating the bearer is exempt from wearing a mask. Googling this information now takes you to advisories that this practice is not valid. Neither the Department of Justice nor the ADA issues or endorses any type of document in regards to wearing of masks. If you have any questions regarding the wearing of masks, you should speak to your physician.

If you have a condition which prevents the wearing of a mask, it is even more important to stay at least six feet away from people and avoid situations where this is impossible.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is not involved with issuing blanket statements exempting persons with disabilities from the legitimate safety requirement of wearing face masks. The ADA is a resource for persons with disabilities and has an informative website, www.ada.gov, for up-to-date ADA information. For more information and technical assistance about the ADA, contact the ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY).

With the tax filing deadline extended to July 15, 2020 due to the Coronavirus pandemic, some people may still be anxiously awaiting their tax refund check.

Unscrupulous criminals have found a way to use American’s eagerness to receive their tax refund as a means to attempt identity theft. The following information will help you to avoid becoming the victim of identity theft in all situations.

When you receive a new credit card, call the number on the sticker as soon as possible. Never give any information to anybody contacting you and requesting it. Call the number on the back of your credit card if you have an issue with a credit card that you have already activated. The same (Continued on page 8)

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Public Safety Report

7

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties.

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see the end of the employment listings for specific directions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Public Safety Blotter July 26 – Aug. 1, 2020

July 29, 2020 – 2099 Asch Loop A cooperator reported returning to his vehicle and discovering that unknown person(s) had apparently removed items from the vehicle.

July 30, 2020 – 100 Einstein Loop FDNY responded to a fire on a scaffold. The fire was extinguished and cause determined to be a cigarette tossed from a window. The violator could not be identified.

July 30, 2020 – 2071 Bartow Avenue The business owner filed a report of an armed robbery, reporting cash and several cell phones were taken. The investigation is ongoing. There were no injuries.

July 31, 2020 – 100 Carver Loop A report was filed for a delivered package being stolen. This matter is under investigation.

August 01, 2020 – 99 Carver Loop An illegally parked vehicle drew the attention of CCPD. Officers on scene determined that license plates on the vehicle were stolen. A tow truck was requested to remove the vehicle for vouchering. The driver of said vehicle arrived on scene and attempted to flee in the vehicle, but was blocked in. The vehicle was towed as the driver was unable to prove he was the owner.

(More Opportunities on page 17)

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

8

How does the economic disaster affect Co-op City?

Director’s Viewpoint

Bernard Cylich First Vice President We are living in an uncertain and insecure moment in the history of the world, our nation, our state, and our city, as well as our own Co-op City. While we can assess, to some degree, the toll that the pandemic has taken on our neighbors and staff, we do not know its economic impact on cooperators and, in particular, on their ability to continue paying carrying charges.

Prior to the pandemic, New York City had a thriving tourist industry, with over 40 million visitors a year. Hosting the visitors had become the economic engine that replaced the dismantled garment and printing industries and other manufacturing that left our city. The pandemic has been a catastrophe to our hospitality businesses — hotels, restaurants, museums, theaters, and the like — all but wiping out the many attractions the city offered. Hundreds of thousands of workers, at all levels of service, have been laid off. In fact, New York has the highest unemployment rate in the country — 25 percent, as opposed to the national rate of 11.5 percent. And I am certain that our cooperators have not been spared the devastating effects of the ongoing economic contraction.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or CARES, enacted by Congress in late March, served as a lifeline to our nation’s working people, including, of course, cooperators. The CARES Act provided two major Federal sources of income. First, every eligible individual received a one-time check for $1,200. Second, the federal government provided

Public Safety

a $600-a-week add-on to unemployment checks that workers received from their states.

The enhanced unemployment checks provided millions of families with income for essentials, including food, rent, and medicines. Under the CARES Act, $600 was also allocated to those in the “gig economy,” who would otherwise not be qualified for state-run unemployment benefits. Such recipients include farm workers, home care attendants, the self-employed, and independent contractors. Could it get worse?

Could US economy get worse?

The Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis reported last week that the 2020 second quarter (April – June) US economy plunged by an unprecedented 32.9%. And more than 52 million people were unemployed. For historic comparison, in 1932, during the height of the Great Depression, the economy shrank by 12.9%. However, they acknowledged that the $600 CARES package helped to stave off a far worse disaster. Every dollar beneficiaries received went right back into circulation, unlike the half a trillion that was provided to corporations that instead went to boost their stocks.

In May, to stave off an expected economic free fall, the Democratically-controlled House of Representatives adopted the $3 trillion stimulus package known as the Heroes Act. Among other items, it provided extending the federal weekly $600 jobless aid by six months— from its original expiration date, July 31, to January 31, 2021. Unfortunately, the bill was blocked by the Republican-controlled Senate and the White House. The measure would also shore up the deficit budgets of states (by law, states must balance their budgets), the US Postal Service, and even New York City’s MTA. Unfortunately, the Senate leadership dallied until

(Continued from page 7)

precaution applies to emails that appear to come from your bank. Sometimes the address can be off by one letter and direct you to a fake website hosted by scammers. Scammers are hoping you have just received a new card and are eager to activate it. By being alert, you can avoid being a victim of this scam.

Never give anyone personal information such as bank account numbers, PIN numbers, date of birth or Social Security number. Never wire money or send a Green Dot card to anyone you do not know or have only met through a dating website. Never send money for plane tickets, bail money, medicine for a sick family member or any other reason to anyone you do not know well.

Be also leery of fake websites offering to give you something for nothing. Always enter a website address directly into your website; never click on a link from an email.

Sometimes one letter off can take you to a fake website.

Some people may read about these scams and wonder how anyone could possibly fall for them. Scam artists are very persistent; they blanket a large number of potential victims until they find their prey. The internet has made it extremely easy for scam artists to target millions of potential victims with a single touch of a button. Telephone or regular mail scam artists work a little harder but do eventually find their victim. Bold scammers have even been known to approach their potential victim in person at their door or in a public place.

Another scam I heard about and then actually received myself is a Pay Pal scheme. The email states that you are almost finished completing your registration for Pay Pal. It looks legitimate and asks you to enter your Pay Pal username and password, then prompts you to enter your bank account number. When you call the customer service number, it tells you to mail a Green Dot card to an address. A friend of mine did not realize there was a problem until that point. When I received the same email.

I investigated right away as I was not trying to set up a Pay Pal account. Upon scrutiny, the email came from an email address at e.paypal.com, very close to the actual email address. When doing business with a company known to be legitimate, enter the website into your browser yourself, do not use search engine results or click on a link from an email. Pay Pal is a legitimate company which offers an extra level of protection for online payments but a scammer pretending to be Pay Pal can be a real threat to your financial identity.

One of my avid readers brought to my attention a scam she was able to avoid. She received a call that her grandson was involved in a motor vehicle acci-

dent and needed money. My savvy reader immediately called her son to see if this was legitimate. It was not. Another one of my readers received the same call and knew right away that it was a scam because he does not have a grandson.

Scammers will sometimes pick up on a series of telephone numbers in which a large group of older persons reside and send out multiple calls until they catch a victim. Co-op City is known as a NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community). As such, it can be a target for some types of scams. There are a variety of different scenarios used in this type of scam stating that a family member is in danger unless they wire money to specified person. In most cases, the scammer does not even know the victim or their family members.

Wiring money to someone you do not know is almost never a good idea. If something seems out of order, notify authorities. Scammers may target groups in a geographical population once they find a demographic that fits their scam. Caller identification can also be manipulated to seem like the caller is local or from a valid entity. Let’s show scammers that 718 area code with 379, 320, 671 and 862 exchanges will not fall for their scams. We are “Co-op City Smart!”

Another type of scam is “sweepstakes” based. In this case, the victim receives a real looking check. New technology makes it possible for this forged check to appear so realistic that it can even fool banks or check cashing establishments. The problem comes when the bank attempts to retrieve the funds associated with the check and finds that there are none. By this time, the victim may have already wired money to another state or country attempting to receive an even larger sum of money. Unfortunately, the victim may be responsible for the funds received from the fraudulent check.

Remember a legitimate contest or sweepstakes will never make you pay money to receive your prize.

Another scam involves a person claiming to be from a government agency saying they have unclaimed funds belonging to the intended victim. For a fee, the “government employee” can help you obtain these funds.

While there are legitimate means of obtaining unclaimed funds, the government does not send employees out to solicit the owners of these fees. If you believe that you are entitled to unclaimed fees, seek out the New York State Attorney General’s office and find out how to proceed. Never pay anyone to help you to obtain these funds. The appropriate agency will provide assistance in this matter free of charge.

the last minute, the July 31 expiration of the CARES stimulus measures, and then proposed only $1 trillion dollars for a Covid-19 relief package that included a $29.4 billion addition to the Pentagon’s already bloated $740 Billion budget ($8 billion for weapons procurement), as well as $2 billion for a new FBI building and additional billions to corporations. Regarding the popular federally-funded $600 supplement to weekly unemployment benefits, they proposed slashing it by $400 to $200 and then closed shop for the weekend before the measure could be reconciled with the House bill.

Republican Senators pedaled assertions that “workers are lazy and unwilling to accept jobs” as their justification for slashing the $600 supplement weekly aid.

Debunking false assertions Noted economist Paul Krugman debunked those assertions (NYT 8/4/20). He argued that there are only 5 million job openings for over 30 million receiving benefits and during the abortive spring recovery, US added 7 million jobs – mainly for low-wage workers – in-spite of millions receiving jobless benefits.

The same Republican Senators also complained that $600 a week in federal outlays to the unemployed was too costly. However, it must be noted that they made no such complaint when they enacted the $2 trillion tax cuts whose beneficiaries were mainly corporations.

As the new economic stimulus package negotiations appear deadlocked, tens of millions of Americans are left at the brink of financial catastrophe, looming starvation, unpaid health bills, and evictions.

When will Republican Senators and the White House show compassion for American working people, many of whom live here in Co-op City?

Co-op City’s future could lie in the balance.

The mere mention of fraud somehow makes potential victims more likely to believe the scam artist. It is not impossible that a bank could call you in the event of fraud, but a legitimate bank employee would not ask you for your account number, Personal Identification Number or other personal data. If you receive a request like this, call your financial institution using a telephone number that you are sure belongs to your bank or inquire in person. Banks and other financial institutions are happy if their customers do not readily give out their banking information.

In order to protect yourself from these and other scams, realize that legitimate persons will never ask you for upfront fees to obtain a loan or receive a prize. Be leery of a lender who is not concerned with your credit history. Hang up on any caller making a loan offer. Check a lender’s legitimacy with the New York State Department of Banking or the Better Business Bureau. There are reputable lenders that can help you to consolidate your debt in order to make payments more manageable.

Those who wish to make donations to a worthy cause, make sure the agency to which you donate is legitimate. In the past, scammers posing as charities attempted to solicit donations for a variety of situations. It is unfortunate but this is, however, a fact of life. Be certain the charitable organization you select is, in fact, using the funds for the intended purpose.

If you fall victim to a scam, notify the New York State Attorney General at 1 (800) 771-7755 or www.oag.state.ny.us/ and the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-382-4357 or www.ftc.gov/. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has set up an Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) specifically for the purpose of reporting internet crimes. Their website is www.ic3.gov/.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety asks cooperators to social distance and wear masks or face coverings when six-foot distance is not possible. Wearing a mask or face covering is especially important in public areas of buildings including lobbies, hallways, elevators and laundry rooms. People should avoid gathering in large groups. Hand washing, the use of hand sanitizer and not touching your face are other strategies to help spread Covid-19 and other illnesses. Please follow the latest information provided by the CDC and the New York City Department of Health for the latest information and recommendations on health and safety during the Coronavirus pandemic. Be a good cooperator and be “Co-op City Strong.”

Black Forum

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bld. 1A (entrance faces the basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution.

Guests who registered and re-certified in 2020 are eligible to pick up food once a month during regular distribution hours. Please look at the last date on your pantry card to determine 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 outside of normal business hours.

All guests must present their pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring sturdy and clean shopping bags and a shopping cart. Wearing a mask/face covering is required. We also ask that all guests use the markers on the ground to help practice physical distancing. Registration for new pantry guests is currently closed at this location. New registration dates are not available at this time.

Black Forum guests living in Section 5 should visit Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. This is only a distribution point. Guests do not have to be affiliated with a church or religion to pick up food at this location.

Defensive Driving Class – Please check this article periodically for future dates.

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

–D. Illis

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Hi, neighbors from Co-op City, New York’s largest Mitchell Lama development.

We are happy to report our new Maintenance system is working. We got a call back to repair a broken front door lock. You can make your appointments for necessary repair calls. Reminder cooperators, discard your PPE items only in pedestrian cans, do not litter! Come together daily at 7 p.m., say thank you to our essential workers.

The funeral services for Congressman John Lewis, who visited Co-op City to celebrate Black History Month in February 2008, were magnificent. The eulogy by former President Obama was an elegant tribute to the great congressman. Make sure you are registered to vote. This is for yourself and it is Congressman Lewis’ prime legacy for us.

Seeing youth in the basketball court is wonderful. But we have to follow the protocols and keep the courts clean; you need to wear a mask and pick up your garbage. Keep the tot-lots for the tots and moms need to wear masks. It is hard but wearing a mask is better than wearing a ventilator. In the future, we should dedicate or rename something commemorating “Black Lives Matter.”

Meantime, it is good to see families using the greenway again; reminder: pick up behind yourself. We are having a “garbage pandemic” inside and outside Co-op City. Write or call 311 about what you see and where you see it. Let your elected officials know. We can’t say it enough, do not discard personal garbage, i.e. bottles, masks, gloves, tissues in the street or gutter! Wait till you get to a pail to discard or even carry a garbage bag.

Officially, Jamaal Bowman has won his campaign and will be filling Congressman Eliot Engel’s very large shoes. We send appreciation to Female District Leader Shirley Saunders for her tribute and acknowledgement of both political leaders in the Co-op City Democratic Club press release of July 25th.

August is upon us. We wonder how our organizations will meet? How about under a shade tree in an afternoon? It is time, and Broun Place TownhouseAssociation needs your membership every year. Dues are just $12 annually. Dues cover supplies and upkeep expenses. When tragedy strikes, we look to our dues to show a gesture of generosity to that neighbor. We need your membership to do this. You can pay by cash or check and submit the envelope to 31B Broun. It will be acknowledged.

Report a positive diagnosis to Director of Riverbay Corporation’s Safety Department Anthony Barzeletto. Riverbay takes quick measures to sanitize and quarantine the central location.

This week, we send our very sincere condolences to the Trent family on the loss of their loved ones and to the Lazaar family on the loss of their sister-in-law. The Trent family suffered the loss of a sister and brother over the past weeks. Happy Anniversary to Dave and Eva. Finally, keep dancing and better days are ahead.

–Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Building 12 Association

9

Greetings Our Section 2 Summer Fun Day “Free” Back To School Virtual Raffle is in full swing.

Building 12 residents may enter as follows: * Shareholder name, address, apt. #, tel. #, name of one child in your household (grade K-12). One submission per household. Submit by Aug. 31 via email to mlsah@aol.com. The date of the drawing is Sept. 12. See the flyers posted in our lobby and bulletin board.

We would like to thank Donald and his volunteers for sprucing up our meeting room.

This has been a difficult time for all of us. Keep the faith and stay safe.

–Sonja Maxwell

National Council of Negro Women

Children’s book club On July 25, the NCNW Co-op City Section’s Book Club hosted a Zoom call for young readers entitled “Read and Chat with Egypt” with five-year-old author, Egypt Bush. Egypt read all three of her books: Superhero Town, Superhero School and Superhero Family, and answered questions from participants. This Zoom call was very engaging and entertaining. Three lucky participants will receive autographed copies of one of the books courtesy of the book club. We are looking forward to our next Zoom meeting. We were pleased that NCNW Brooklyn Section President Carol E. Moore joined us for our book club meeting. Continue to follow this article for all updated book club information.

NCNW partnering with Food Bank for New York During the month of June, members of our section participated in a note/letter campaign. These messages will be included in the boxes that are distributed to our most vulnerable New Yorkers to give them hope for a better tomorrow and to let them know that they are on the minds of fellow New Yorkers. Our section collected over 80 notes, cards and letters from the months of June and July which will be mailed out this week with the hope of bringing a smile to someone in the future. A huge thank you to our members and their families for taking time out to reach beyond our community to support our fellow New Yorkers during these unprecedented times.

NCNW 59th National Convention The 59th Convention of the National Council of Negro Women will be held September 25-27, 2020. This year’s theme is “For Such A Time as This: A Call for Resilience And Resource.” This theme acknowledges that just as our ancestors have done throughout our history and herstory, we must meet the challenging times we are in with resilience, and all that is required for the kind of resurgence that will propel NCNW onward and upward. All NCNW members, national affiliates, C.L. Franklin Associates, sponsors and friends are warmly invited to participate in our convention. Registration for our 59th Convention opened on June 19 and will close on Sept. 13. Early bird registration is $100 due before July 31, 2020 (includes sessions, workshops and events). After July 31, 2020 cost is $125. As we come together virtually, we will not only elect officers but discuss our responses to the critical social justice issues of the day. Innovators and influencers will guide us as we critically examine strategies to address the issues that most directly impact the quality of life for women of African descent, our families and our communities.

Please go to our national website, NCNW.org, for further information.

Social Media Remember you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcity Bethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: www.ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

–Joyce Howard

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

10

Your Board of Directors continues to work for you Director’s Viewpoint

Francine Reva Jones Assistant Secretary The Board of Directors recently met and Riverbay Management is always present to update the Board on community operations. The following are topics from the Management report, including Local Law 11; the Power Plant boiler #2 and the Certificate of Operation; the successful senior downsizing pilot program and that HCR wants to extend it; the youth summer jobs program; how COVID-19 has affected the carrying charge and commercial rent collections; vacant space in Dreiser Center for COVID-19 testing; and preparations for Riverbay nonessential employees returning to work.

The Board passed Emergency Resolution #20-23, which states that after consultation with the Deputy Commissioner of HCR and his staff, that the implementation of the approved second stage of the carrying charge increase scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2020 be deferred to January 1, 2021.

Resoluton #20-22 regarding the installation of electric vehicle charging stations in our garages was tabled.

It will be revisited at a later time.

The Parking & Leasing Committee met on July 27, 2020. A shareholder was concerned about the restrooms in the garages being shut down and suggested that all shareholders who park in the garage be issued a restroom key. Each of the eight garages has two restrooms, one for males and one for females. The garage attendant holds the keys and users must request and return the key to the attendant.

This shareholder became distressed over the shutdown of the restrooms without notification and reported it to me, chair of the Parking & Leasing Committee. He suggested that shareholders be issued a key so that they would not be locked out. The Parking & Leasing director stated that the restrooms were closed to the public when COVID-19 started because the department needed to sanitize the restrooms frequently and Riverbay had limited staffing and no garage attendants in the booths.

At the P&LC meeting, the director revealed the circumstances and that moving forward, the restroom key

Marcus Mosiah Garvey would be requested from the garage attendant. QuesThe month of August has been designated Marcus tion: What if the garage attendant is not in the booth, how would the cooperator use the restroom? The co- Garvey Month in honor of this renowned leader. Marchair proposed the shareholder’s idea that all share- cus Mosiah Garvey, Jr., (8/17/1887 – 6/10/1940), was holders who regularly park in the garage should have a Jamaican political leader, publisher, journalist, entreone key to open both the garage and restroom door. An preneur, and orator who was a proponent of the Panalternate proposal was expressed, that, since the rest- Africanism movement, to which end he founded the rooms were identical, they be unisex restrooms and Universal Negro Improvement Association and African one be designated for the public’s use and the other for Communities League (UNIA-ACL). He also founded shareholders with a key. The director stated that now the Black Star Line, a shipping and passenger line was not the best time for this change. The chair decided which promoted the return of the African diaspora to we would revisit this matter later. In the meantime, the their ancestral lands.

Garvey was unique in advancing a Pan-African phidirector has instructed that all restrooms be reopened. losophy to inspire a global mass movement and ecoNYC schools Currently, there is uncertainty about how the NYC nomic empowerment focusing on Africa known as schools will reopen this fall. It was stated that until we Garveyism. Promoted by the UNIA as a movement of have a vaccine, there is no plan that will satisfy every- African Redemption, Garveyism would eventually one. NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio wants to reopen the inspire others, ranging from the Nation of Islam to the schools if the infection rate is under 3%. In addition, Rastafari movement.

Learn more about his amazing man and join in the the Mayor and Richard A. Carranza, NYC Department of Education School Chancellor, are planning to open celebration in the Zoom webinar sponsored by the Africanschools with the choice of virtual learning or in-per- American Association of Co-op City on Sunday, August son learning. It is impossible to bring back all of the 23, 2020 at 3 p.m. More information will follow.

The new normal children at one time and practice social distancing.

COVID-19 has forced us to live differently, the “new There have been proposals of a blended schedule. It was reported that, by August 7th, the Mayor will make normal.” With the exception of some New Yorkers who a decision as to whether or not children will attend refuse to wear a mask, or those who wish to gather in large groups, NY has made significant progress in fightschool in September.

On the other hand, NY State Governor stated that ing this virus and is currently stabilized. The new cases each NYC school must have an acceptable plan. There and the death count are down. We need to keep doing were questions about busing. What would happen when what we are doing, which is to wear a mask in public, a child got sick in school? That child could infect oth- wash our hands frequently or wear gloves, and practice ers and the virus could spread when the children got the six feet social distancing. I trust that you stay safe home. Would the school nurse care for a sick child? and healthy in whatever you do.

Thanks for taking the time to read my views. If you Many schools don’t even have a nurse. Will teachers be mandated to teach in such an environment, or will would like to share your thoughts, I can be reached at teachers post assignments online? There are thousands fjones@riverbayboard.com or 718-671-5957. of children who cannot even access the Internet.

The conclusion of this report was that it should be made possible for Our Promiise to New NYC school children to & Curren nt Clients stay home and do athome learning until it is As We eN Navigate safe to re-enter schools.

Coron navirus

Outdoor dining in Bartow mall

The Chinese Buffet and Sangria Café in the Bartow Mall are two restaurants in Co-op City offering outdoor dining which adheres to social distancing guidelines, allowing residents to get out and enjoy time with friends and family while supporting local businesses.

Photos by John Crow

Yo our health an nd safety are Priority #1 as we all navigate the Corona viirus pandemic.

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

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

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

Choppy waters on the Hutch

Photo by Rod Saunders

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

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

CALL US AT AT 212-987-110 00 or 800-427-9 9546 TEXT US ATT 929-600-4992 EMAIL US S ATT I n fo @ O l i ve r i A n d S c h wa r t z . c o m

1086662

Tropical Storm Isaias brought heavy winds and driving rains to our area on Tues., August 4, causing whitecaps on the Hutchinson River. The storm caused widespread damage and power outages along the East Coast.

See page 3 for pictures of storm damage in Co-op City.

11

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Building 9 Association

Salutations, Building 9 family.

I’m always so honored and pleased to see more of you each time I travel around the community.

Thank you to all who have been thoughtful enough to check on neighbors.

Brief calls or visits are greatly appreciated. If you are convalescing, please follow the advice of your medical professionals. If you are caring for someone, please take good care of yourself as well.

Thank you to our dedicated, diligent building staff for their outstanding work, especially in our laundry room and bathroom. The laundry room now opens at 6:30 a.m. to better facilitate social distancing.

Shareholders, please use trash receptacles to discard rubber gloves and face masks.

Section 2 Summer Fun Day Committee canceled our June 2020 event due to Covid-19, but we have not canceled the fun. Please see flyers posted on our lobby bulletin boards for details of a special free raffle for Section 2 shareholders. Submit shareholder’s name, address, apartment, phone, and name/age of child(ren) in your household, to your building association via e-mail listed on lobby flyer. Cooper Place Townhouses and each building association will hold a virtual raffle drawing on Sat., Sept.12, at noon. Participants may view the raffle via Zoom. All raffle prizes will be the same. Winners notified and prizes distributed Sept. 12 to Sept. 30. We would like to take photos of winners.

Good luck!

During August, Rivers Run Community Garden is open Mon., Wed., Fri.: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Sat. and Sun.: noon to 5 p.m. Masks required.

Co-op City has a Covid-19 swab-test site in Dreiser Mall at 105 Dreiser Loop. Walk-in hours, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. No appointments. It’s quick and relatively painless. Ideally, positive test results are needed within 24-72 hours to facilitate effective isolation and contact tracing.

Please be mindful of your actions during these trying times. Riverbay has posted signage regarding face masks and social distancing while on the premises for the continued safety and protection of our community. Please ensure compliance with the signage. There should be no argument.

If you have not already, please complete and return your census form via mail, online at my2020census.gov or telephone at (844) 330-2020, as soon as possible to avoid an undercount of our community. There may be changes to the ‘door knocking’ afforded late submissions during past censuses. Do not wait.

Our civil rights are human rights. Continue to be interrupters of injustice: march, kneel, speak out, stand up, sit-in for justice, equality, respect and decency. This is a momentous time in the “beloved community.” Participate!

Vote!

It is hard to imagine a more ignorant or more dangerous way of making decisions than by putting those decisions in the hands of people who pay no price for being wrong or who use your collective power to further their own means.

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

–Linda Collins

Building 25 Association

Special thank you to all who continue to participate in clapping for our first responders by standing on their terraces in and around the community at 7:00 p.m. every evening. What a mighty thunderous sound we make.

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

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

Closing with the following condolences In honor of the late John Lewis, who served in the United States House of Representatives for Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 until his death in 2020, we thank you for getting into good trouble, necessary trouble.

–Wanda Bailey

We are shareholders, not tenants!

Become involved in your building association!

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

New cooperators – Welcome, all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next general membership meeting.

Covid-19 – During this trying time in our country, please wear your mask to protect others. Be safe, stay healthy, and wash your hands. Please check on your neighbors.

We will get through this!!

Concerns and suggestions – Aug. 19, 2020 at 6 p.m., the president of the Building 10 Association will be in the association room (located in the rear of Building10B) to take note of any concerns or suggestions regarding Building 10. Your concerns or suggestions will then be forwarded to the appropriate area of Riverbay. We will be practicing social distancing. Masks are required. Or you may go to the Building 10 Association’s Facebook page and submit your concerns there.

Free back to school raffle – Section 2 Summer Fun Day Committee has announced a free back to school virtual raffle. To enter, please send the following information to Building10assoc@gmail.com: shareholder’s name, building and apartment number, telephone number, and name of 1 child in your apartment (grades K-12). One submission per household. This information must be submitted by Aug. 31, 2020. The drawing will be held on Sept. 12, 2020. Please see the flyer in the lobby for more information.

Laundry room etiquette – Please remove your laundry from the washers and dryers promptly at the completion of the cycle. Keep our laundry clean and report any broken machines.

Reminders – Please discard used face masks and gloves in trash receptacles. Also, since we do not have full-time porter services, please wipe up spills in hallways, elevators, and lobby floors.

Facebook – The Building 10 Association is on Facebook! The page is “Building 10 “ABC” Association.” Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10.

Email address – The Building 10 Association’s email address is Building10Assoc @gmail.com. Please use the email to contact the building association with your concerns and suggestions.

Deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Stuart Nierenberg who passed away on March 29, 2020. He was a long-time cooperator of Building 10B. Mr. Nierenberg will be missed.

We would like to wish all August “babies” 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

12

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

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

Riverbay Requires Current Co-op Shareholders to Obtain Coverage!

Your Co-op is an Investment Worth Protecting!

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

We O f f e r :

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

• Guest medical protection • Certain personal liabilities

• Theft Coverage • And so much more!

Other L ines of Ins urance: • Auto • Homeowners • Life

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

Licensed Staff

Nichola Ferguson Licensed Insurance Agent

Lawrence Newkirk Life Insurance Specialist

Albert Issifu Licensed Insurance Agent

America Borda Licensed Insurance Agent

Michael Garzilli Sales Manager

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

Anthony Wright Agency Owner

WE ARE NOW HIRING! PLEASE CALL FOR INFORMATION

The Wright Agency We Are Conveniently Located Only Blocks From Co-op City!

Courteous Staff!

Convenient Hours!

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

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

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

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

(near Eastchester Road)

1435 East Gun Hill Road Call Us Today!

718-671-8000

FREE NOTARY SERVICE FOR ALL CO-OP CITY RESIDENTS!

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

13

14

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Big Problems with our Telephone Service

want to handle their own business.

5. Let’s utilize another company to assist our call center when there is a high volume of calls. In other words, our calls can be automatically transferred to their company when our call volume is high. Thereafter, those operators can assist us with filling out servHow would you like it if you called a business and ice request forms.

The days of dealing with 100-plus prior callers, 5a voice message said that you were the 100th caller on the phone? Furthermore, how would you like it if hour callbacks, and all of our other phone problems the voice message told you to leave your information will stop if we incorporate some of these methods into and then you would be called back in about 5 hours? our phone system plans.

Bottom line: Management is going to hire some Let’s Fix This Bad Connection First, let me start off by stating that we can’t blame additional phone representatives. And, they’re lookour phone center representatives or their department ing at making some additional improvements to help head for the problems that exist with our phone sys- our cooperators with making maintenance service tem. Now, are they perfect? No. Will some residents requests. So, let’s see what happens.

Metro PCS Robbery – Bartow say that they may have had issues with some of them?

Can you believe that a man with a gun allegedly Maybe, or even yes. However, they’re doing their best to deal with an incredibly bad communication system robbed the Metro PCS store in Bartow? The incident allegedly happened on Thursday, July 30, 2020, at that needs to be overhauled.

For instance, some cooperators recently said that approximately 11:35 a.m. The suspect allegedly took there were more than 100 callers ahead of them when some items from the store and left. No one was injured. they called for maintenance service. So, they left a And, now, the police are conducting an investigation.

Please Consider Your Neighbors message so that they could get called back. Then, take Complaints are still being made about children a guess what happened? Well, to their surprise, our automated telephone system told them that they would making a lot of noise by running in their apartments.

So, we need to remember that we might be surrounded receive a call back in about 5 hours.

So, do you think that our phone representatives can by neighbors that might have medical conditions. deal with this type of call volume? No. Therefore, we Therefore, they probably can’t stand all of that noise. must introduce new methods to improve the way that Regardless, some cooperators might say: “This is my we conduct business via our telephone system. So, I apartment and I’m going to let my children run and came up with some suggestions that can improve this make all the noise that they want.”

However, how would you like it if someone took entire process: 1. Create a general email address so that coopera- an object and started banging during the middle of the tors can send their requests via email for maintenance night just to wake you and your children up? Crazy, service. Thereafter, our workers can create service right? Regardless, how would you feel if they were to say: “It’s my apartment and I’m going to do whattickets for these cooperators.

2. Develop a field on our website to handle main- ever I want. My neighbors disturb me all day long. tenance service requests. Cooperators can enter their So, I am going to get information on our website and service tickets can be them back during the night.” Therefore, no one automatically generated.

3. Banks offer phone services that are similar to serv- will be able to sleep in a ices from a teller. So, let’s meet with some phone and peaceful manner. And, computer representatives and develop a voice activated that might lead to anger, phone system to handle our maintenance service requests. hostility, and perhaps 4. Let’s put paper service request forms and a box violence.

Now, will we have a in our community centers for some cooperators that

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson

NAACP

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.”

NAACP 111th Annual Convention: “Theme: We Are Done Dying” NAACP 111th Annual Convention: ACE/Arts, Culture & Entertainment Kick-Off. Registration: naacp.org/ace-festival-2020/ NAACP “Stop Hate for Profit” Campaign #WeAreDoneDying NAACP Virtual March on Washington, Aug. 27-28 NAACP vs. DeVos NAACP & CBS Multi-Year Partnership Go to NAACP.ORG or YouTube to stay informed.

The NAACP family mourns the passing of civil rights leaders and icons Congressman John Lewis and Rev. C.T. Vivian.

COVID-19 has not gone away! What you do as an individual impacts all of us. We are all in this together. Wear a mask, gloves, wash hands, practice social distancing.

Census 2020 – It’s not too late to “be counted.” Visit: my2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020. It only takes a few minutes and is vital for the well-being of our Coop City community. Federal dollars affect programmatic activities for seniors, transportation, schools, health, hospitals, housing, infrastructure, economic reliefs, extended unemployment w/bonus and, most recently, the stimulus plan package.

2020 branch election notice – Dates, time, location, and type of election process to be determined. Elected officer positions serve a term of 2 years, effective January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2022. Members update records by submitting name, address, apt. #, email and home & cell number to naacpccity2210@gmail.com.

Membership dues – New, renewal or gift an annual membership: Adult, $30, and youth, $10. Checks/money order made payable to NAACP #2210 and mail to: N.A.A.C.P, Co-op City Station 75-3111, Bronx, NY 10475. If it is your desire to make a financial contribution in any amount, it is most appreciated. Thank you for your continued support and for helping the NAACP advocate for a more just and equal America.

“We must protest peacefully, demand persistently, and fight politically. But most of all, we must vote in November!” –Derrick Johnson, NAACP President & CEO “The NAACP remains focused on the fight to ensure that the voice of our communities is never silenced.” –Derrick Johnson, NAACP President & CEO –Brenda Brown

problem? Absolutely! So, we need for both parties to settle down and stop the noisy conditions. Therefore, please consider working with your neighbors to keep the noise down. Playtime? Sure, some children will want to run back and forth in your apartment all day.

However, again, all of that noise might be creating negative conditions for your neighbors. So, as a kind suggestion, please consider having your children do other fun activities that will not involve running back and forth in your apartment.

Bottom line: We must learn the benefits of being good neighbors and being surrounded by good neighbors. Good neighbors are going to look out and help one another. Complaints? We should be able to enjoy a nice life inside of our apartments while avoiding problems with our neighbors.

So, please stop the hostile conditions with your neighbors. Make sure that you don’t give your neighbors a valid excuse to complain about conditions in your apartment. Then, please learn to greet your neighbors in a proper manner. “Good morning. How are you doing?”

Difficult? No. However, these kind gestures are the things that make for a great community. Thank you.

Close More than 150,000 people have died in the U.S. from the coronavirus disease. So, can this crazy disease take us at any moment? Absolutely! Therefore, let’s try to live a good life and treat our neighbors in a proper way.

Thank you.

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

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

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

15

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Rivers Run Community Garden

Building 6 Association

We are grateful that Rivers Run Garden continues to be an oasis during the time of COVID. Folks brave enough to endure personal protective equipment and extreme heat are taking home genuine smiles, sacks of garden-grown goodies and a sense of wellbeing.

The garden is growing edible flowers with amazing flavor. On any day, you will find me munching nutritious Nasturtium whose fresh leaves and flowers burst with a peppery flavor. My plan is always to add them to salads, however, seconds after picking, the flowers are in my mouth.

Rivers Run is a place where we not only grow fruits and vegetables, but we grow knowledge and friendships. The garden is a movement towards improved mental and physical health. We are a place of beauty and peace. Visit. Stay. Experience us. Wear a mask. If you do not have This week, Building 6 President Jeffrey Schwartz a mask, one will be provided.

Shareholder Adrienne Spivey has been passing out five masks to each senior citizen Weather permitting, we will be open Tues., Wed., Fri.: in our building. Thank you, Community Board 10, for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sat. and Sun.: noon to 5 p.m. Please giving us masks for our building. I am trying to get call one of the telephone numbers below if you need to confirm, you have any concern, or you just feel like talking. more masks for all the residents in our building, too.

Please clean up after your dog in and around our Also, if you’d like to volunteer to open the garden (members building. Co-op City Little League has been doing only), please give us a call. an outstanding job with all the kids, keeping all of Membership requirements $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waitthem safe while practicing baseball with the coaches. ing list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the Stay safe and please wear your mask in the elevators.

20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up —Jeffrey Schwartz on the waiting list.

If you’d like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or The Building 29Association has changed its Book Club plans. The call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or next session will still be on Friday, Sept. 25, but the book will be me at 718-671-3801.

"There, There" by Tommy Orange. Kim Canty will be our facilitator.

Please continue to stay safe.

Adeyemi Toba and family visit the Garden.

The next two books will be "The Memory Keeper's Daughter," —Gail Sharbaan and then "Born a Crime."

All are welcome (we are currently doing Zoom sessions), and we hope you can join us!

Velocity is truly blessed! We have been tice, Kenia and Romel. Great job!

Continue to wear that mask, and stay well. —Katharine Wood practicing for four weeks and to my knowledge, Congratulations to all the athletes competing none of our athletes or parents became ill from in the USATF Youth Virtual SumCOVID-19. Thank you, Lord, for the blessings, mer Challenge! They all perand may He continue to cover us. formed well for only practicing I’m pleased with the progress the team is on a track for four weeks. Results: making. During the four weeks of practice, we Karly, 3rd place in the mile race had four time-trials at Van Cortland Park Fresh- walk and Turbo Javelin. Lyon, 3rd man Course which consists of approximately place in the 200 meters and 4th 1500 meters with a hill. On Saturday, Aug. 1, in the 100m. Kaylin, 4th place in we had 20 athletes participate in the time trial. the 200 meters and 8th in 100m.

This was one athlete’s first-time trial. Therefore, Savannah M, 5th in the 200 me14 out of the 19 athletes broke their personal ters and 6th in the 100m. Tiarra, record. That is awesome! The following ath- 2nd place in the mile Race Walk letes beat their personal records by 20 seconds and 8th in Discus. Adonijah, 3rd

Building 29 Association

Velocity Track Club

Coach Gordon at practice on his birthday with athletes and parents.

or more: Madison, .29; Kenise, .21; Dakota, .29; Bryce, .24; Pierce, .24; Julian, .30, and Romel, .21. The results will be on Velocitytrack.org.

Plus, we had our first athlete join the fiveminute club running the course. Julian ran the course in 5:35. Congratulations! Joining Saniah C, Pierce and Sachin in our 6-minute club is Kenise. Congratulations! In our seven-minute club are: Shyenne, Ryann, Savanna M. Kaylin, Sania G, Talia, Rakae, Adonijah, Steven, Jus-

place in the mile Race Walk and 8th in 800m. Talia, 3rd in the 200 meters and 5th in the 100m. Saniah C., 2nd in the 400 meters and 5th in the 800m. Romel, 4th place in the 400 meters and 6th in the 800m. Pierce, 5th place in the 800 meters and 6th in the mile. Julian, 9th place in the 800 meters and 10th in the 400m. Congratulations!

–Coach Winston Dinkins

16

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Do the right thing! of them for having their masks on. There were several of us in the lobby and they seemed proud they were being acknowledged. Hopefully, it will serve as incentive to continue to do the right thing. We should all “Do the Right Thing.”

“If you see something that is not right, not fair, not Continuing the discussion surrounding the surcharge just, you have a moral obligation to do something formula, a shareholder suggested I not leave out another about it.” —John Lewis, SIP aspect of change that should be reviewed. The income During this period of time in our country’s history, limits for various size apartments is also a contributing many are performing their jobs remotely. While that factor to the imposition of surcharges. We are asked to may be the case, we do not know how, when or if we acknowledge that everything increases. Let’s not forget will return to life as we knew it before. I am optimistic incomes increase also. Amounts considered moderate that if we remain as diligent as we were in the recent or middle income have changed over the years. A topic past, we can begin to see the country go back to some of conversation in the past was around changing the type of normalcy. In order to do this, we must follow income limits but it did not progress. Information from the guidelines that have produced the best results. Fol- shareholders indicate they would like us to ask this low the recommendations issued to protect the Co-op change be proposed. Again making a change is not City community. Wear your mask when entering the something Riverbay Corp. or the Board can do autopremises, elevators and laundry rooms and, of course, matically but after looking into it and seeing if it is feaplease remember to socially distance. We do not want sible we should request HCR consider changes proposed. to and there is no joy imposing a fine. Preferably, you Again, only HCR can make the change. We should hope people would consider their neighbors. Unfortu- contemplate requesting HCR review the surcharge fornately, sometimes fines are the only way to obtain com- mula and consider implementing a revision and initiate pliance. It would be difficult to monitor but not impos- discussions with elected officials.

Covid-19 Testing Site: Now Open. You do not sible, however, we do not want it to come to that.

Recently, I commended some young men, who, upon need insurance to get tested, however, if your insurance exiting the elevator, all had their masks on. We are can pay they would like to be reimbursed. I have been quick to mention when our youth are doing something informed they do ask for that information. It is located wrong so I wanted to let them know how proud I was at 105 Dreiser Loop near the supermarket. It is a walk-

Director’s Viewpoint

Leslie Peterson

Traditional Synagogue

in site open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. with no appointment necessary. Everyone should get tested whether you have symptoms or are at increased risk. Your results are confidential. What is the best way to know our community is safe? Get Tested! Additionally, although this message should not need repeating, I urge shareholders to continue to report a diagnosis of positive to our Safety department. Stay safe, wear your mask, wash your hands and socially distance.

November 3, General Election: In preparation for the November election, you can check to see if you are registered at VOTE.org. If not registered, you can do so in person at your county Board of Elections or at any New York State agency-based voter registration center. You can also call the 1-800-FOR-VOTE hotline to request a voter application. Keep in mind the deadline to request and submit your voter registration is as follows: If mailing, it must be postmarked by October 9, 2020 and received by the Board of Elections by October 14, 2020. In person to be eligible to vote in the General Election, your application must be received no later than October 9, 2020.

“There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe nor politic nor popular, but he must take it because his conscience tells him it is right.” – Martin Luther King Jr. I am interested in hearing your thoughts. I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com or by telephone at 718-320-1370.

With NYC now in Phase 4, the synagogue has pushed back its opening date until September 18, 2020. This is being done to allow the synagogue to meet the safety requirements for COVID-19. The new date coincides Please notify Riverbay Safety Department with the start of Rosh Hashanah holiday.

General Information if you or someone in your household tests The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place positive for COVID-19 to ensure proper 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 sanitizing of your building’s common areas.

Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message.

The synagogue has Services on Saturday morning starting at 9 a.m.

After services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t Family Owned and Operated come to services. Please come by 9 a.m. so we can • Large Chapel • Pre-need counseling take out the Torah. on premises The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue • Out of town services in Co-op City.

• Ample Parking Sabbath ends on Saturday, Aug. 8, at 8:54 p.m. on premises A dignified funeral every family can afford.

• Cremations Candle Lighting for Friday, Aug. 14, at 7:34 p.m.

• Casket Showroom Good and Welfare All areas are handicapped accessible on premises We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a Amid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall's Bronxwood Funeral Home is closely loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel Tov, monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment. a health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for sick person, you should make your donation to the Personalized & Professional Care • 54 Years Serving Our Community synagogue.

To All members Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America Happy Birthday to all members, Barbara Rose, Howard Schwartz, Steven Schwartz, Michael Schweiger and Fern Brandt, who will celebrate their birthday in August. For all those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in August, please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Serving all Call Fun and Games cultures 24 After services and kiddush, some men and women LIVE STREAMING WORLDWIDE & faiths Hours play Rummikub. Your support for the Traditional www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. –Bruce Gitelson

SHAREHOLDERS

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

17

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Building 13 Association

American Legion Post 1871

Section 2 free back-to-school virtual raffle Annual Dues Summer Fun Day was canceled this past June 2020, I want to remind you again that it is that time of but we have not canceled the fun. There are many year when you receive letters from the National headquarters in Indianapolis about your dues renewal. chances to win so enter the free raffle. You must live Though activities of the Legion are suspended all the in Building 9-14 or Cooper Place Townhouses. You way from the National Headquarters down to respective must send the e-mail to your association with your Posts, the organization itself is not closed down. So, name, address, apartment number, telephone number as we might have been accustomed to by now, the year and the name of one child in your household (grade 2020 is just halved, but our dues actually cover a period K-12). There is one entry per household. Your submission must be received by Aug. 31st. The virtual of July 1 through June 30. drawing will be held on Sept. 12, at (12 p.m.), high Face covering & social distancing noon. When your entry is received, you will be forYou must have read it everywhere that the intent of the government is to preserve the health and safety warded an invitation to the Zoom meeting. Don’t have of the public. Thus, federal, state and local health ofZoom? Telephone numbers are included with the invite so you can listen to hear if you are a winner. ficials have identified face coverings as a possible way to protect one another from COVID 19 infection. This Building 13 entrants will send their e-mail to Buildsafe practice was prescribed for the communities while ing13assoc@yahoo.com. We want to thank the sponsors: Bob’s Discount Furniture, McCall’s Funeral there are on-going concerns for the status of school Services and Rosenshein Associates. Check the bulreopening, but it will surprise you that none of these entities paid attention to the veterans specifically. Or letin board. Good luck!! if they did, maybe their way and manner of reaching In May and June, we gave away face masks. We out is questionable. The veterans have not been fairly will be scheduling another mask giveaway within the treated, as I found myself trying to get free masks for next two weeks. Make sure to check the bulletin board the veterans. The current trend adopted by in-person in the lobby for updates on activities in and around contact procedures to minimize risk of reducing coroCo-op City. Stay safe. Follow the guidelines issued to protect the Co-op City community and remember navirus spread is by requiring face coverings, even you must wear your mask when entering the premises, while maintaining social distancing. Unfortunately, our organization has been grouped with communityelevators and laundry rooms, and, of course, please based organizations. remember to socially distance. We need you more than ever to be our eyes and ears. If there is something on your floor that needs to be addressed, please make sure to contact the proper department – do not assume someone else has called.

Our aim is to maintain the quality of life we currently enjoy.

Amish Trip As you know, the Amish trip previously scheduled for May 30 and rescheduled for Oct. 3, was canceled. We have everyone’s contact information and hope to have the checks in the mail by the 10th of August. Please continue to join our future events.

Agatha House has provided food to our community. Thursdays, beginning Aug. 6, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., they are scheduled to be in Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475 at rotating locations: Bartow Mall Pedestrian Plaza, 2047 Bartow Avenue (Aug. 27), 177 Dreiser Loop (Aug. 13) and 120 Erskine Place (Aug. 20). If you have questions, call (646) 335-2334.

While you are home – Complete the 2020 Census at my2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020.

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

Contacts: Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370, president, at daddpeterson@aol.com or Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801. Our website is www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building 13assoc@yahoo.com. Thanks for supporting our team.

–Leslie Peterson

Opportunities

Text COVID to 692-692 for real-time updates or visit nyc.gov/coronavirus.

Section 4 Partnership

CORRECTION: Save the Date: Sunday, August 30, will be the next Zoom meeting of the Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City. Mark your calendars. All are welcome. If you’d like to Zoom-in with us, send an email to section4partnership@gmail.com.

You do not have to live in Section 4. Help us continue this positive effort and reap the benefits of a united community. You are already an important member of this team. You are a shareholder and resident.

Section 4 Partnership Mission Statement The Section 4 Partnership’s purpose is to promote a community of more than just neighbors, but as one family of many cultures, that proactively embraces greatness, and promotes neighborhood interaction. The goal of the organization is to offer solutions that will educate, elevate, inspire, and mobilize our community in unity, to sustain affordability and growth in order to remain environmentally sound and vibrant for generations to come.

Join us… Remember, you are already an important member of this team. You are a shareholder. You don’t have to live in Section 4. Get involved. Email: section4partnership@gmail.com. Phone: 347-915-4939. Let’s show up! Virtually!

Let’s get it done!

Each one of us divided by all of us equals a force for good.

–Michelle Marbury

Face shield With the help and generosity of one of our veterans, Legionnaire Juice Richardson, American Legion is sponsoring the idea of self-made shields and we are ready to give to anyone who is interested. Comrade Richardson has made several of them and this was announced during our last Zoom meeting. Several of us got ours and it turns out to be more convenient using face shield than face masks. They’re reusable as it only needs little effort in sanitizing them for re-use.

So, if anyone is interested in this, kindly reach out to the Post by calling the office number and leave a message or you can call me directly on 347-327-6288.

Post 1871 is officially on break: The American Legion of Co-op City is officially on recess for the month of August regardless of the incidence of COVID-19. However, the executive committee reserves the right to convene in case of emergency and if the need arises. So basically, there will be no general meeting either by teleconference or via Zoom for this month even if normalcy is restored. Thus, I am using this medium to wish all our comrades a fun-filled, safe and relaxed summer. We are hoping that possibly, business will resume again as we come back in the month of September for a new fiscal year road map.

My charge to every member is to try and reach out to a veteran or veteran family during this pandemic, especially those who have not seen the need to join this noble organization. –Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown Toba (Continued from page 7)

18

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Don’t be a litterbug

Director’s Viewpoint

Leah Richardson Greeting, shareholders, I hope all is well with everyone. It seems like we cannot catch a break. This week, we are faced with tropical storm Isaias. Hopefully, we will be spared from significant impact.

We are facing a pandemic, economic hardship, global warming, and other uncertainties. It is important that we stay vigilant, safe, and well during these difficult times.

Surcharge Revision Social Media at times gets a bad rap, however, there can be some interesting finds as well. Perusing through the various social media platforms associated with Coop City, I came across a statement by a shareholder concerned about surcharges. My colleague addressed this issue in the August 1st edition of the Co-op City Times.

COVID-19 has changed our lives in so many ways. There are many people who have been laid off, furloughed or retired who are paying surcharges that may affect their income. I understand this issue was addressed to HCR in the past, but after 35 years, I agree it needs to be revisited.

In the meantime, during these economic crises we are in, Management states that HCR allows that shareholders who have experienced loss of income can apply for an interim change in income during this period. To apply for an interim change in income, shareholders need to submit proof to Riverbay that a member of their household has had a reduction or loss of income for a 90-day period.

Examples of this proof of loss of income include a letter from an employer if the shareholder has retired, or documentation showing that the shareholder has been collecting unemployment for a 90-day period. Another situation that would warrant a review of their surcharge would be proof that a household member who had income

The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. During this dark season, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family continue to lift up in prayer our community, city, state, nation and the world, especially all those affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Our regular church schedule has been 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) 4323900. At the prompt, enter access code 343284, followed by the # sign, and please put your phone on mute.

Church Schedule Sunday School is now in session via conference call at the above number every Sunday at 9:00 a.m.

Sunday School is really a part of our history, and because someone cared and was concerned enough, many of us benefitted and know its value. Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly.

Sunday Worship Service begins at 11:00 a.m. via conference call. Everyone is invited to call in and be a part of this special moment set aside each Sunday to be in the presence of God. We will be delighted to blend our spirits with yours as we bend both body and soul before our heavenly father. We encourage you to spend time with God, and if it be his will, with us at Community Protestant.

Noon Day Prayer at CPC, on Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m., you are cordially invited to call in for noon day prayer at CPC, an hour of Power, Prayer, Praise and Testimony. Bible Study on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Please join us via the conference call number above.

In his sermonette last Sunday, Pastor Owens used a passage of scripture from 2 Kings 19:14-20 as he spoke on the topic, “Put It In God’s Hands.” He stated that King Hezekiah asked God for help in time of trouble because he knew that the God he served was wise and powerful enough to handle anything, and God took care of the situation. He asked, “What do you do when trouble suddenly erupts in your life, when you are at the end of your rope?” He advised us to pray, put it in God’s hands and leave it there, to go on and live the best we can in these extenuating circumstances.

no longer resides in the apartment. In this case, a copy of that person’s lease or utility bill at their new address would need to be submitted to Riverbay.

Don’t be a litter bug As I stated in my previous viewpoint, litter is a health hazard and is becoming a major concern to our communities. There is a shortage of employees at Riverbay, however, they try their best to keep up with everyone’s mess that is sprawled around our greenway and sidewalks. We are in a major health crisis, we must do better. We do not know for sure how this virus is transmitted. Cigarette butts, soda cans, coffee cups, bottles, plastic bags, gum wrappers and various other items you may see alongside of a road are considered litter. When people throw things from their car, drop things on the ground or even if someone aims for a garbage can and misses, it is still littering.

The problem caused by litter on the ground, especially sidewalks or along curbs, gets washed down into storm drains when it rains. Eventually, this water leads to the nearest river or ocean. If the water becomes polluted from litter, we can no longer use it for drinking. Litter carries germs and germs become a carrier of diseases that make people sick and reduces property values. I believe that littering is the result of individual attitudes. Oftentimes, people litter simply because there is not a trash can nearby.

Rather than uncomfortably carry trash away with them, people decide it is easier to leave it behind. I reached out to Management with concerns regarding not enough receptacles around the community especially around the perimeter of Co-op City where cars are parked and they will reach out to the responsible entities to see if more bins can be installed. It is not only shareholders but employees as well. We want to keep our community clean, green and a beautiful place to live. We are shareholders in a corporation, we are not tenants. As a shareholder you are an owner so why would you want to live in an unsanitary community? If you see something, say something. A few tips for preventing and eradicating litter:

Community Protestant Church Assurance of God’s promise of help comes from Psalms 17:7; 37:23-24; 138:7 and Isaiah 59:1.

Please remember to practice social distancing and wear your mask when you go out.

Our prayers go out for peace and justice in this time of racial tension and protests all over our city and our

• Keep a litter bag in your car and hang on to litter until you find a garbage receptacle • Recycle all that can be recycled and put all other garbage in the proper containers • If you see a neighbor throwing something on the ground, ask them nicely to put it in the trash receptacle.

• If your compactor room is constantly dirty, put up a sign encouraging your neighbors to clean up their mess.

Please dispose your large items by the dumpster area in the basement, such as furniture, etc.

• Encourage your neighbors to Adopt-A-Section or join in an area clean-up. “Adopting” an area can significantly reduce future litter because people litter less in maintained areas.

• Look for ways to beautify your neighborhood and community, including landscaping. Attractive, maintained neighborhoods are littered less and research shows that they are usually safer, too.

I believe the decision to litter is based on the actions of others. If an area is already highly littered, people are more likely to add more litter. Let us not have our community be the dirty community. Every day, we can all do something to prevent litter and make our community safer, cleaner, and more livable.

“Wear Your Mask” Management posted signs all over the community as well as in the building lobbies, vestibules, laundry rooms, elevators and on each floor of your building and common areas throughout the community. We are a NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) with many of our seniors who may have underlying health conditions. For us to rid the COVID-19 virus, we must adhere to the rules and regulations that are set.

Please be respectful and save lives – wash your hands with soap and water.

I look forward to your questions or concerns, you may contact me at lrichardson@riverbayboard.com.

Have a blessed weekend!

country. Until we meet again, Pastor Owens and our church family pray that God will be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause His face to shine upon us; that His way may be known upon earth, and His saving health among all nations.

–Evan G. Mitchell

Family Owned and Operated

• Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

• Casket Showroom on premises

• Cremations

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

All areas are handicapped accessible

Amid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall's Bronxwood Funeral Home is closely monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment.

Personalized & Professional Care • 54 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665 www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.

LIVE STREAMING WORLDWIDE

Serving all cultures & faiths

19

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

(929) 399-1394

(718) 671-5161

(718) 320-1345

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler Body in Motion 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Exercise class via Zoom or phone. To join Zoom meeting, go to: Must call or email to register. https://zoom.us/j/99565341173 +1-646-876-9923 US (New York) 929-399-1387 Meeting ID: 948 6880 5136

Tues., Aug. 11

Health and Wellness 10 a.m.

-11 a.m. via Zoom or phone Zumba with Ola 1 p.m. 2 p.m. via Zoom or phone Bereavement Hour 2 p.m. 3 p.m., via phone only 929-299-1045, Code: 1387 Must call or email to register for all other activities 929-399-1387 Arts with Laura 10 a.m. -12 p.m. via Zoom and phone Must call or email to register 929-399-1387

Fri., Aug. 14

YOGA on the Greenway behind Bldg. 18 & 19, Alcott Place w/ Sierra 9:15 -10:15 a.m.

Wed., Aug. 12

No activities are available

Thu., Aug. 13

Mon., Aug. 10

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

Stretch and Tone with Ola 1 p.m. -2 p.m. via Zoom or phone Must call or email to register 929-399-1387

Arts with Laura 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. via Zoom and phone “Zumba with Ola” 1-2 p.m. via Zoom or phone Must call or email to register 929-399-1387

Music Therapy 11 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Zoom call-in number: 1-646-876-9923 Meeting ID: 935-5178-1563

Bereavement Hour 2 p.m. - 3 p.m., via phone only Weight Management Support Call 929-299-1045, Code: 1387 Group w/Gigi 2nd Wed. of the month - 1 p.m. - 2 Must call or email to register p.m. Conference call: 929-299-1045, for all other activities Code: 1386 929-399-1387

Health and Wellness 10 a.m. -11 a.m. via Zoom or phone Must call or email to register 929-399-1387

No activities are available at this time

Meditation w/ Charles Tyler 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.

To join the Zoom meeting, go to: https://zoom.us/j/94868805136 +1-646-876-9923 US (New York) Meeting ID: 948 6880 5136 Concerts in Motion 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

To join the Zoom meeting, go to: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/869916 40881 Or you can dial in by phone: +1-646-558-8656 (New York) +1-312-626-6799 US Meeting ID is: 869 9164 0881

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 (Schedule subject to change without notice) Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Goose Island Seniors

With a sad heart, we anounce the passing of Miriam Lunenfeld, a long-time member. We will miss her. Our condolences to her family.

We are very sorry but the Senior Citizens Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. is still temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. We will be closed for the summer months and until it is safe to reopen.

Please be patient and continue to do what you should to stay safe. We long for all the fun we had.

To all members Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of August: Amy Rindner, Alva Parnell, Rose Vega, Marvine Hollman, Archangel Ortiz (Archie), Sylvia Polite, Diana Gordon, Ella Thorne, Joann Evans and Angel Rondon.

Sick or shut-in Our former president, Mary Pilla, is doing well and says to tell everyone hello. She is at the Paramount at Somers Nursing Center. You may call her at 718-753-1816.

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, the Section 5 Community Center. Phone number: 718-379-9613. Our office is presently closed. You may call or text Stephen’s cell at 347-847-1941. Our email address is goose.island @optonline.net.

These are unusual times. All our lives are altered.

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

–Stephen Roberts, Sr.

AARP Chapter #4997

From President Mickens: AARP New York and City and State are teaming up virtually to present the next installment of our state legislative forum. For additional information, log onto https://states.aarp.org/new-york/.

Again, we wish all members and neighbors to stay safe, always wear a mask, and check on one another periodically.

Heartfelt condolences to the family of our member, Agatha Edwards, who passed due to COVID. Please contact our good and welfare coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home.

Reminder Our monthly membership meeting, scheduled on the second Monday of each month, is cancelled until further notice.

–Delores Debnam

Upcoming Events

The trip to Sight and Sound to see Queen Esther has been changed from Wednesday, October 28, to Wednesday, April 21, 2021.

One day only/Virtual Nutrition Class with Amelia Jalandoni – “Healthful Eating for a Healthy Immune System,” Monday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m. on Zoom.

Please call Dreiser Senior Center to sign up for event and get Zoom information at 718-320-1345.

Floral Arrangement Demonstration – Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. via Zoom titled: “Simple Breakfast Setting.” Please call Ann Moncrieffe, 929399-1387, for information about the class.

Fall Prevention Presentation – Friday, Aug. 14, 10 a.m. Please call Ann Moncrieffe, 929-399-1387, for information about the class.

JASA Co-op City NORC Program invites you to upcoming virtual activities ystem,” Monday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m. on Zoom. Please call Dreiser Senior Center to sign up for event and get Zoom information at 718-320-1345.

Floral Arrangement Demonstration – Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. via Zoom titled: “Simple Breakfast Setting.” Please call Ann Moncrieffe, 929399-1387, for information about the class.

Fall Prevention Presentation –August 2020 Every Wed.: Tai Chi classes, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join Zoom meeting, https://zoom.us/j/95267447198 ?pwd=MDhCa1U5d24rMkdpNWZnMXVHejl2dz09.

Mobile: 929.205.6099 Meeting ID: 952 6744 7198 Password: 455–576 Every Wednesday: How to Zoom, 1 – 2 p.m.

Join Zoom meeting, https://zoom.us/j/97187 864164? pwd=OWVvdEYrY2JJcFBXazREcTJWYWhPQT09.

Mobile 929.205.6099 Meeting ID: 971 8786 4164 Password: 350367 Every Friday: Concerts in Motion, 1-2 p.m.

Zoom meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/829068 81632 Dial in phone number: 646.558.8656 Meeting ID: 829 0688 1632, press #. When asked for a participant ID, please skip this by pressing # again.

Technology Class ystem,” Monday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m. on Zoom. Please call Dreiser Senior Center to sign up for event and get Zoom information at 718-320-1345.

Floral Arrangement Demonstration – Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. via Zoom titled: “Simple Breakfast Setting.” Please call Ann Moncrieffe, 929399-1387, for information about the class.

Fall Prevention Presentation – Smartphone & Tablet class w/Ralph – starting Thursday, Aug. 13 – Thursday Nov. 5; 1-2 p.m. To register, call the JASA office, 718-320-2066 Elder Abuse Presentation – August 18, 2020 at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Dial in: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 925 7053 8186, Passcode: 108912.

National Eye Exam Month – Join us in a presentation about the importance of eye exams. Join Zoom meeting: Friday, August 28, 10 – 11 a.m. https://zoom.us/j/99447260138?pwd=bE9WRHduWCtlU21kazAxdlJ0ajNZdz09 Meeting ID: 994 4726 0138 Passcode: 609266 One tap mobile: +1929-205-6099.

Yoga Class w/Sierra – Starting Tues., Aug. 11 until Tues., Dec 29; 9:15-10:15 a.m.

Join Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/98404647097?pwd=RXg2WCtq NzlEa0JLVWtWN3VWa1JPZz09 Meeting ID: 984 0464 7097 Passcode: 952022 One tap mobile: 1-929-205-6099# Meeting ID 984 046 47097 Passcode: 952022

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

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

20

Newsong Church

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

How to deal with problem people – Part 3

15 Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. 16 The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17 The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. –Philippians 1:12-18 (ESV) As Christians, the word of God and the Spirit of God work together to accomplish the will of God in your life! As “problem people,” the challenge for us is us. Will we listen and obey God’s word? Will we surrender to the leading of the Holy Spirit? Will we be living sacrifices, transforming into the image of Jesus, or will we choose to stay stubborn conformists…aka problem people?

Paul was dealing with problem people in the church who had a critical attitude. Last week, we looked at how this attitude is characterized by envy and how we, as Christians, should treat this when we realize it exists in our hearts. Today, we’re going to look at “rivalry” (vs. 15.)

Another word for rivalry is strife. In other words, some people love to stir up conflict. Maybe you know a person who’s argumentative. They post things on social media knowing that it will cause division and conflict. It’s one thing when people who don’t know the Lord act this way, but when Christians do this…it’s destructive and it hurts the church. When Christians stir up conflict, it ulti-

mately turns people away from Jesus! If the apostle Paul was upset about Christians acting this way when he wrote this letter back in 62 A.D, what would he say about your Facebook posts?

Proverbs says… 21 The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. –Proverbs 18:21 (NLT) Our words can either speak life, or they can speak death. As Christians, we’re called to speak life in a world that is always speaking death. So as Christians what can we do to avoid causing strife, and misrepresenting Jesus?

Pray before you POST Ask yourself a series of questions like…

Is what I’m about to say going to help bring people closer to Jesus?

Will it bring unity, or will it cause division?

Does it add value to the conversation?

Is what I’m posting true, honorable, right, pure, lovely and admirable (Philippians 4:8) Now you may be thinking, “but what I’m saying is the truth.” It may be the truth, but Ephesians 4:15 instructs us to “speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.”

Let’s glorify God with our words and actions!

Warren W. Wiersbe said, “Truth without love is brutality, and love without truth is hypocrisy.”

Join us Sunday via livestream, www.newsongchurchnyc.org.

—Pastor Mike Tolone

African-American Association

Save the dates: Sunday, August 23, at 3 p.m.

General Membership Meeting; Topic: Celebrating Marcus Garvey. This promises to be a special gathering with guest speakers from the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) founded

by Garvey in 1920. Of note, the RED, BLACK & GREEN “Flag” was conceived by this organization and is celebrating 100 years since its creation.

Black Solidarity Day, November 2, 2020 The African-American Association is promoting Black Solidarity Day – Monday, Nov. 2, 2020.

Join us in a Day of Absence. No Work! No School!

No Shopping!

Leading up to this date, the Black Solidarity Day Committee will present informative webinars, the first to take place on Saturday, August 22 at 2 p.m. More information will follow. Mark your calendars. We look forward to your support.

“The Price of Faithfulness” Full sermon at opendoorministries.net

Faith is having complete trust or confidence. Faith in God believes that ultimately God will prevail, and his servants will be vindicated in history. Countless believers have gone to their deaths believing they will live again and therefore were willing to sacrifice everything in faith.

The prophet was dismayed when he saw evil in the land.

In Habakkuk 2:4 he exclaims, “but the righteous person will live by his faithfulness.” This is repeated in Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, and Hebrews 10:38, making it a core new testament value, although first expressed in the old testament. Without faith, we cannot please God because faith demonstrates our trust in him.

Faith is costly, when we trust in God, he will allow testing and trials to strengthen our faith and teach us to rely on him rather than our own strength. There are many instances of God’s servants going through difficult situations and overcoming by depending on God and believing his promises.

Our faith must be tested – untested faith is not worth having.

John 7:1 Jesus went around in Galilee. He didn’t want to go about in Judea because the Jewish leaders there were looking for a way to kill him. 3 Jesus’ brothers said to him, leave Galilee and go to Judea, so that your disciples there may see the works you do. 4 No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world. 5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him. Jesus’ brothers wanted him to go to Judea although they knew he was hated – they believed in him after the resurrection.

Even your family will challenge your faith.

Genesis 37:17 Joseph went after his brothers and found them near Dothan. 18 They saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him. 19 Here comes that dreamer! they said to each other. 20 Come now, let’s kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we’ll see what comes of his dreams.

They hated him because he was their father’s favorite, they sold him and later feared him due to their guilt. Their hatred was murderous, his faith saved them.

2 Samuel 6:16 As the ark of the Lord was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord, she despised him in her heart. David’s wife could not celebrate with him when he entered Jerusalem with the ark, she despised him in her heart even after God gave him great victories.

Proverbs 24:16 The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked.

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

Blessings in Christ, –Pastor Luis Ramos

Join the African American Association and programs that it sponsors.

Platforms until the pandemic is completely over are presented in the form of Zoom meetings and webinars. We are here and we want you to join us.

Invite a “friend and new member prospect” to join the African American Association. Remember: Membership is only $15/year for a single membership and only $25/year for your household.

Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call us at 929430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

The African American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: Contact the respective instructor as indicated below for updates: Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917-903-7073.

Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact: Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga and Zumba Classes with Meena SharpeHicks – Contact: Meena at 917-863-1507.

Healing Drum Circle – Contact: Ms. Jones at 718671-5957 Each one of us divided by all of us equals a force for good.

–Michelle Marbury • ABSOLUTE LOWEST FEES

Building 30 A and B Association

I know that it has been a rough summer so far. I’m praying that all my cooperators stay health.

I’ve been informed that the inspection of Building 30A and B will take place in the middle of August and if all goes well the scaffolding will be taken down soon afterwards.

I’m hoping to have the first meeting of the association at the end of September if Riverbay Corporation gives the ok.

The association will start collecting dues in the beginning of October. If Riverbay gives its ok, we will be collecting for Halloween around that same

Open Door Ministries

time for sweets to be given out in the lobby at Halloween.

If anyone feels that it’s important to get in touch with me, my email address is drax1 2345@aol.com. My phone number is 718-862-3295.

For all those who are celebrating birthdays and anniversaries this month, have a happy. For those who have suffered a recent loss, our condolences. Those who are under the weather, get well soon.

To all, wear face masks, and follow the health instruction of Riverbay and the State of New York. COVID-19 is no joke.

–Linda Werner

DIVORCE - BANKRUPTCY • 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

21

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020 Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 11 a.m. for worship service on Zoom. You can join us by Zoom, https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102, or Zoom Telephone Conference Line, (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#.

Adult Sunday School is on hiatus for summer.

Bible Study is held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday and will continue until Aug. 26. Please join us using the Zoom information shown above.

Thursday Prayer Warriors and Friday Prayer ServPastors Kenneth and Debbie Hodge and the New Vision congregation greet you in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ; always giving thanks for his goodness and mercy that he has given unto us as we stand in faith by his grace in this time and season that we are living in. We thank God for meeting the very needs of our lives and we pray that we continue to walk by faith and not by sight, and that all things will work together for our good according to His word. Let’s stay prayerful as we watch and wait for our change to come.

We welcome you with the love of the Lord to join us on Sunday as we share the word of God at 11:00 a.m. on YouTube, type in Kenneth Hodge. Wednesday prayer service, 7:00 p.m., via telephone confer-

Co-op City Baptist Church

ice will continue through the summer. Both will be held at 10 a.m. To join in, use the Conference Call Line, 563-999-2090, Pin: #660065.

Friday Evening Prayer Service is on hiatus for the summer.

If you did not submit your response to the Census, it is not too late. Everyone needs to be counted. The number of responses determines the amount of federal funding received for the next ten years. If you did not respond, please do so ASAP. Please keep each other in your prayers and be wise

Church of New Vision

ence line by calling 1-646-769-9900, then enter access number 3099388. Once prayer has begun, please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity.

Sunday, Aug. 2, Worship Service Theme: “What Manner of Love the Father Hath Bestowed Upon Us.” Scripture: 1 John 3:1-3: “Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore, the world does not know us, because it did not know him. Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when he is revealed, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. And everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure.” Amen

in your decisions. Don’t forget to wear a mask, practice social distancing and stay safe!!!!

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

—Hattie L. Lucas (1 Jn. 4:10; Ro. 8:16-17, 38-39; 2 Cor. 5:21, 6:17; Phil. 3:20; Eph. 1:3; Heb. 4:14; Gal. 1:5; Jn. 15:20; Titus 2:14; 2 Cor. 3:18; 1 Jn. 5:13; Romans 10:9) Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the bereaved families. May the love of God embrace, heal, strengthen, comfort and give you peace.

Announcement: The Niagara Falls, Canada trip scheduled July 21-24 has been cancelled. Refunds have been mailed. Continue to practice social distancing, washing hands and wear a mask. Be well and stay safe! Thanks for your contributions, Malachi 3:10.

Mailing address: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 753037, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

–Brenda Brown

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle, 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475; Tel. 718-324-0334 or 646-345-6707.

You are invited to join us in worship service online on the following days: Sunday morning at 11 a.m. by calling #701-802-5395, Access Code: 3332632.

Prayer and fasting service will be held every Wednesday morning, 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

Regular prayer meeting and Bible study also held every Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.

Friday evening Bible study and open discussion starting at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: The power of the incorruptible Word of God will lead souls to a new experience and the eternal life.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which, according to his abundant mercy, hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last times.1 Peter 1: 3-5 For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot; Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory, that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently. (1Peter 1: 18-22) A new commandment I give unto you that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have loved one to another. (John 13:34-35) In St. John, chapter 13, Jesus speaks of love while experiencing betrayal which would lead him to the cross, where he sufferers pain and insult from the ones he loved the most. Abandonment from his close disciples while his enemies closing in on him yet he was teaching them love and forgiveness.

One great example is 1John 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God because he laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God. Therefore, the world knoweth us not, because it knoweth him not. Beloved, now we are the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.1John 3 1-2.

–Rev. R. Sibblies

If you SEE something, SAY SOMETHING!!!

718-671-3050 • Co-op City Public Safety

Please be considerate and respectful of all members of our diverse community.

Co-op City United Methodist Church Iglesia Evangelica MU de Co-op City 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.

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

Our Remote Services via Zoom: Sunday at 12 p.m. (Spanish) and 2 p.m.

(English) Remote Schedule for our weekly services – Come and receive a blessing via Zoom: Tuesday: 12 p.m. (Spanish); 7 p.m. (English), Pray and Reflection Service Thursday: 7 p.m. (English), small group Bible Study with Pastor Jackie Friday: 8 p.m. (English), 4.12 Youth Services 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 is 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

22

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

ARE Y YOU OU A NEW Y YORKER ORK KER WHO HAS COVID-19 9 OR LIVES WITH SOMEONE WHO HAS C COVID-19?

YOU MA AY Y BE ELIGIBLE FOR A TEMPORAR RY R Y HOTEL ST TA AY.

We want you to gett help to keep your loved ones es healthy and safe.

You may be eligible for up to 14 days of a hotel stay, if you do not have a place e to safely separate from otherrs.

To learn more, more call:

THIS SERVICE IS FREE and w will not afffect fect your health

that you ou currently receive.

Transp portation to and from the hotel will w be provided. At the hotel, you will receive food, wellness checks s and assistance with social service es that you may need.

844-NY YC-4NY YC (844-692-469 (844-692-4692) 92)

23

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS 718-320-3300 x3384 • cctimes@riverbaycorp.com APPLIANCE REPAIR

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

• ALL MAKES & MODELS

• Stoves • Washers • Dryers •Lamps • Dishwashers • Refrigerators • Bags • Hoses • Belts • Vacuum Cleaners

CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH

718.792.2655

10/3

CAR SERVICE

•Proms •Sports Events •Weddings •Funerals •Tours •Sweet 16 •Special Occasions •Airports •Casinos Office: 212-531-3792 Mobile: 917-560-6838

Casino Specials Atlantic City, NJ Foxwoods, CT Empire, Yonkers Resorts, Queens

Toll Free: 855-369-9936 ExecutiveExoticLimo.com ExecutiveSecurityProtection.com

SPOONER

• Basic Cleaning $100 • Deep Cleaning $138 • Non-Medical Senior Care $90 • 4 Hour Min. + 8.875% tax • Bonded • 7 Days • Cash, Pay-Pal www.spoonercleaning.com 12/19 (718) 320-5112

• ALL HANDYMAN SERVICES • VERTICAL & MINI BLINDS • SINK VANITIES • SPACE SAVERS • MATCHING HAMPERS • BATHTUB ENCLOSURES • CLIP-ON MIRROR FRAMES

Breathe Easy

• RANGE HOODS We BEAT • LIGHT FIXTURES Any • KITCHEN CABINETS • CABINET REFACING Quote!

• COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

Grout & Carpet Cleaning Co-op City Resident Specials

DON’T PAY MORE AT YOUR LOCAL HARDWARE STORE!

Advertise in the Co-op City Times!

Call for rates!

Ads starting at $8/week!

718-320-3300 x3384

LOCKSMITH

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS Licensed and Bonded

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS 20% Off Any Lock Job! High Quality Labor, Low Price!

NEW STYLE BLINDS

Repair – Upgrade – Data Recovery – Virus Removal – Laptop Overheats – Cracked Screen – Broken Power Jack – Transfer your cassette tape music to CDs. Call James 646-281-4475, 718-324-4332.

JB RYAN C OMPUTER R EPAIR & U PGRADE

8/22

DECORATOR/UPHOLSTERY

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION

Re-installation of any types of Blinds.

Repair Closet Doors and Sell New Bi-Fold Doors!

Serving Co-op City for over 25 years.

“When you see me, You’ll know me.”

Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week PAINTING

7/25

ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

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

Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form;

REUPHOLSTERING 718.881.7691

Custom Craftsmen – 40 yrs. experience. Sofas & Chairs upholstered; Slipcovers - Fabric & Plastic; Kitchen Chairs $8.99 & up. Caning; Venetian Blinds; Drapes - Custom made, Refinishing, Touch Up & Polishing of Furniture.

Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); 8/29

Send an e-mail to: reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or

CLASSIFIEDS 718-320-3300 x3384 • cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Co-op City is private property and therefore prohibits distribution of unsolicited advertising material to shareholders’ homes and/or property, including cars parked in the development’s eight garages.

If you witness anyone depositing or distributing advertising material on Co-op City property, please call Public Safety at 718-671-3050.

Be prepared to give the location and description of the person(s) leaving the material.

All unwanted, unsolicited advertising material should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground causing litter.

Thank you for your cooperation.

All Colors • Vertical • Minis • Woods • 2 in. Regulars • Wash, Tape, Cord Blinds

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290 8/29

3314 White Plains Rd., STYLISH DECORATORS Bronx, NY 10467

8/29

Medeco • MultiLock • Wilson

COMPUTER CONSULTANT, SALES & REPAIR

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

Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City

CO-OP SALES BLINDS! www.co-opsales.info

9/12

Phone Scams – Personal & banking information

Elim in Bugsate

Vertical, Mini, Wood, Pleats

CLEANING SERVICES

DOMESTIC SERVICE

• Blue Cross Blue Shield: Anthem Alternative Medicine Medicare Advantage fully covered • Some other Medicare Advantage programs might be covered • 20% to 25% off Choose Health Programs: GHI, HIP, MVP, Cigna and others.

• No Fault Automobile Insurance fully covered • Workers Compensation with authorization and Dr's referral Your oasis For info and appts.: 1-914-712-8260 in the www.wellness-fundamentals.com Bronx

1-800-479-2667

Fully Insured

Executive Exotic Limo

8/22

WELLNESS FUNDAMENTALS Therapeutic Massage Therapy

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497

2951 Middletown Road, Bronx, NY 10461 (Near Pelham Bay Station)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

8/29

24

Co-op City Times / August 8, 2020