Co-op City Times 9/4/2021

L’Shana Tovah tikatevu

Vol. 56 No. 36

Saturday, September 4, 2021

Written Comments on 2022 Carrying Charge Increase Due Sept. 21 Virtual Conference also Scheduled by HCR

BY ROZAAN BOONE

The deadline to submit written comments to the NYS Division of Homes and Community Renewal (DHCR) on the proposed 2% carrying charge increase is Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021.

The carrying charge increase is scheduled for implementation on Jan. 1, 2022, pending HCR’s approval.

DHCR, the NYS supervisory agency for Mitchell-Lama developments such as Co-op City, is accepting written comments from Co-op City shareholders.

Written comments must be postmarked by Sept. 21, 2021 and mailed to: George Simon (george.simon@nyshcr.org) New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal Financial Operations, OHP 641 Lexington Avenue, 4th Floor New York, NY 10022 Comments can also be emailed to george.simon@nyshcr.org and must be received by September 21.

In addition, HCR has scheduled a virtual carrying charge conference to hear directly from shareholders. The conference will be held on the evening of Tuesday, September 21, at 6:30 p.m., and shareholders can join the meeting using their computers, mobile devices and telephone. (See log-in details at the end of this article.)

(Continued on page 3)

50% of US Teens Have at Least One Vaccine Dose

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

America reached an important milestone this week in the battle against Covid-19.

Fifty percent of Americans between the ages of 12 and 17 have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, according to White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator, Jeff Zients.

“Fifty percent of 12- to 17-year-olds now have at least their first shot. Fifty percent of adolescents — this is critical progress as millions of kids head back to school. In fact, the vaccination rate among adolescents is growing faster than any other age group. And we will continue to do everything we can to get this group of adolescents vaccinated,” Zients said on Monday during a Covid-19 press briefing.

(Continued on page 2)

Riverbay Administrative Offices will be closed on Monday, Sept.

6, 2021 in observance of Labor Day 2021 If you have a Maintenance emergency, please call (718) 320-3300, select option #2.

Public Safety can be contacted at (718) 671-3050 or dial 911.

We wish our readers a safe and happy Labor Day holiday weekend.

$1.25

Hurricane Ida Causes Deadly Flash Floods in NYC

Property Damage & flooded basements in Co-op City

BY ROZAAN BOONE

New York City experienced its first ever flash flood emergency on Wednesday, Sept. 1, when remnants of Tropical Storm Ida made its way up the northeast causing at least 45 deaths along its path, 13 in New York City.

The fast moving and historic storm dumped 3.15 inches of rain in Central Park within an hour, between 8:15 -9:51 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 1, more than the last record setting rainfall levels of 1.94 inches just a week prior on Aug. 21 when Tropical Storm Henri soaked the city, the most the city had seen in an hour in more than 100 years at that time. In all, Ida brought 5-9 inches of rain to New York City and northeastern New Jersey, and 4-7 inches to southern Connecticut, the Hudson Valley and western Long Island, prompting the National Weather Service to declare the first ever flash flood emergency in New York City.

Riverbay Janitorial and Parking & "To be clear... this particular warnLeasing staff clearing water from ing for NYC is the second time we've the hallways in the Bartow Center. ever issued a Flash Flood Emergency The basements of several buildings (It's the first one for NYC),” the NY remain closed as clean-up efforts National Weather Service tweeted on continue.

Wednesday night. “The first time we've Photo by Omar deLosAngeles issued a Flash Flood Emergency was for (Continued on page 4)

Riverbay Board Election survey has ended

The Co-op City Times’ survey on shareholder participation in the annual Riverbay Board of Directors election has ended. We thank shareholders who took the time to participate. Your feedback is appreciated and your engagement very much valued.

The results will be compiled, analyzed and reported on in the coming weeks. Stay tuned!

Cooper Place Gas Shutdown

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Cooper Town Place Townhouse is currently undergoing a gas shutdown affecting units one thru 16.

Residents in one of the apartments quickly responded to their carbon monoxide alarm, calling the fire department. FDNY detected gas coming from a crawl space and shut down the gas line, affecting a cluster of townhouses.

Riverbay has since received approved work permits from the Department of Buildings (DOB) and is now conducting gas line testing and repair activities.

According to Riverbay Management, several tasks need to be completed before the DOB and ConEd give the green light to restore gas service to the affected residential units.

(Continued on page 5)

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Teens

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021 Continued from page 1)

“A key way we can keep kids safe and in school is by getting more kids 12 and over vaccinated,” Zients went on to say.

The Bronx is close to the national average with 49.4% of its youngest eligible demographic – which includes individuals between 12 and 15 years old – having received at least one vaccine dose, according to the New York State vaccine tracker. Among individuals between 16 and 25 years old, 53.4% have received at least one vaccine dose, also according to the New York State vaccine tracker.

Currently, Comirnaty, otherwise previously known as the Pfizer BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, is the only vaccine available for 12 to 15 year olds, but parents are anxious for a vaccine that can protect their younger children as well.

Pfizer BioNTech clinical researchers were able to determine that children between 12 and 15 can receive the same dosage of their vaccine as adults, but younger children pose a different issue. Generally, younger children present a smaller anatomy that may potentially react differently to a vaccine than a fully grown adult’s body might.

Fortunately, the process of developing a vaccine for younger children is progressing.

Just this week, former FDA Commissioner and current Pfizer board member, Dr. Scott Gottlieb, told that he expects an emergency use authorization (EUA) to be granted for Comirnaty for children between five and 11 years old by late fall or early winter. The timeline provided by Gottlieb is contingent on the FDA utilizing an accelerated review process and is susceptible to change.

Pfizer BioNTech is planning to submit its results from its five to 11 year old clinical trials to the FDA later this month, which could potentially mean a late November or early December EUA announcement.

“If the FDA sticks to its normal timeline, in terms of how it reviews these applications, you would expect that review to be a four-to-six week review for a potentially emergency use authorization, so that puts you on a timeline where you’re late fall, early winter,” Dr. Gottlieb went on to say during his CNBC appearance.

Dr. Gottlieb also told CNBC that Pfizer plans on submitting data from its clinical trials of children under five likely sometime in November, which could mean an EUA announcement comes sometime in the first few months of 2022.

Moderna is currently still awaiting FDA approval for an EUA that would allow individuals between 12 and 17 years old to receive the Moderna vaccine.

Moderna is also currently seeking full FDA approval of its vaccine for adults.

The single dose Johnson and Johnson Covid-19 vaccine is currently only available to adults under an EUA. Presently, Johnson and Johnson has not applied for full FDA approval. However, the company plans on conducting trials for its vaccine on adolescents and younger children starting this fall, according to Head of Clinical Development and Medical Affairs for Vaccines at Janssen, Macaya Douoguih.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist — Foot Specialist

• Practicing in Co-op City since 1975 • Board Certified in Foot Surgery • ALL conditions of the foot treated • We accept most health insurance plans • Evening and Saturday appointments Se Habla Español

Call:

718.671.7226

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

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Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Co-op City Times 2nd COMBING

Find out what’s going on in Co-op City here...

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

Back to School Giveaway Circle of Christ Church, in partnership with Riverbay Corporation, have scheduled a Back-to-School giveaway on Friday, Sept. 10, 5:30 p.m.

The program will be held on the Section 1 Greenway near the stage.

Non-perishable food, hand sanitizer, masks, school supplies and much more will be distributed.

Co-op City Double Dutch Now on Saturdays only, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., boys and girls of all ages, from zero – 82, are invited to participate!

If you are interested, come to the Section 1 Greenway stage near 140 Benchley Place. All attendees must wear a face mask and practice social distancing.

This activity is sponsored by Riverbay Corporation and the National Double Dutch League.

We wish our readers a safe and happy Labor Day holiday weekend.

HCR The HCR notice stated that Riverbay will make provisions for interpreter services for hearing impaired shareholders who wish to attend the virtual September 21st carrying charge conference. However, written requests for such services must be submitted to Riverbay at least two weeks before September 21. These requests should be emailed to: RiverbayFinance@riverbaycorp.com.

DHCR has been reviewing the 2-year budget (2021/2022 and 2022/2023) approved by the Board of Directors at its April 5, 2021 meeting through Resolution 21-08 after several months of negotiations between the Board and Management to lessen financial burden on shareholders. The proposed 2.0% carrying charge increase would raise the monthly per room charge by $4.67 to $238.02 effective January 1, 2022 to maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2023 and provide the current level of services for shareholders.

In addition to the increase in the monthly maintenance fee, HCR has already issued approval to Riverbay to increase a couple of other charges which were also approved by the Board via Resolution 21-08. These charges, implemented on July 1, 2021, include parking rates (10%), which have not been increased for the past four years; hall closet rental (40%), last increased in August 2008; and basement storage fees (25%). These funds are all earmarked for capital repairs.

Equity for Co-op City apartments, last increased in September 2019, was also approved by HCR and will become effective September 1, 2021. The equity increase applies to new sales only and will increase the per room cost by $2,000 to $7,500. These funds too will be allocated for Riverbay’s ongoing 5-Year Capital Projects Plan, and, according to HCR, deposited into a separate account for this sole purpose and with accounting for the use of these funds properly maintained.

The equity increase does not affect shareholders transferring to smaller apartments and those acquiring apartments through family succession.

Previously, the state supervisory agency accepted comment from Co-op City shareholders on the increase in fees for services (See Co-op City Times, Saturday, May 8, 2021).

At this time, HCR is soliciting comment from shareholders on the 2% carrying charge increase slated for implementation on January 1, 2022.

HCR policy requires notice of their correspondence and budget projections to be served on shareholders and posted conspicuously in residential building lobbies and in the management office.

This information was also published in the Co-op City Times, the official publication of the Riverbay Corporation, on

Front Page

(Continued from page 1)

Saturday, August 14, 2021.

During the 30-day period, shareholders or their representatives can request to see the corporation’s financial records which are housed at the Administration Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

Following the virtual conference, shareholders’ input will be reviewed

by DHCR accounts, attorneys and housing management representatives.

Additional analysis may then be made of financial aspects of Riverbay operations and the financial schedules may be revised in light of information obtained from shareholders during the comment period, according to the HCR notice.

HCR staff will then make a carrying charge increase recommendation to the commissioner. However, HCR Commissioner Ruthanne Visnauskas will make the final determination on

the necessity for an increase and, if so, in what amount. In making her decision, the commissioner will consider the extent to which the present carrying charges are sufficient to enable the corporation to meet its expenditures, the vacancy rate, size of the waiting list, economic impact the increase would have on shareholders and market demand for apartments in Co-op City.

Once the commissioner makes a final determination, she will issue a Carrying Charge Order which will state the amount of the carrying charge increase – if an increase is indeed issued – and the commissioner’s basis for the decision. The commissioner’s order will also include any miscellaneous charges deemed necessary. The order will also state the effective date of the increase.

The Commissioner’s Notice will be published in the Co-op City Times.

Directions for joining the Virtual Carrying Charge Conference held by HCR Tuesday, September 21, 2021, 6:30 p.m.

Meeting ID: 146 155 5199 Meeting Password: HCrJy2p9Xp5 (42759279 from phones) To join from mobile devices 1. Go to https://riverbaycorp.webex.com/riverbaycorp/j. php?MTID=madb84f72de55e6b40e725abff92ff7dc 2. If requested, enter your name and email address 3. If a password is required, enter the meeting password 4. Click “Join” 5. Follow the instructions that appear on your screen To join by audio/telephone Call the number below and enter the access code. +1-415-655-0001 US Toll To join from a video system/application Dial: 1461555199@riverbaycorp.webex.com You may also dial 173.243.2.68 and enter your event number To join using Microsoft Lync or Microsoft Skype for Business Dial: 1461555199.riverbaycorp@lync.webex.com

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Storm Northeast New Jersey an hour ago.”

In addition to flooded streets and homes, the city’s transportation system was also affected with the MTA suspending service on most subway lines due to flooded subway tunnels. Similarly, service on the Metro-North and LIRR were also affected.

Emergency responders pulled people from stalled vehicles, from homes and basements. While some lives were saved, others were not so fortunate. Eleven people were killed when their basement apartments flooded in the quickly rising flood waters.

On Thursday, both NY Governor Kathy Hochul and NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio expressed disbelief at how fast the storm dangerously progressed and wreaked devastation in the region.

“We did not know that between 8:50 and 9:50 p.m. last night, that the heavens would literally open up and bring Niagara Falls level of water to the streets of New York,” said Governor Hochul.

Mayor de Blasio said: “We are in a whole new world now. Let’s be blunt about it. We saw a horrifying storm last night, unlike anything we have seen before. And this is a reality we have to face. And unfortunately, the price paid by some New Yorkers was horrible and tragic.”

Tropical Storm Ida made landfall in the US in New Orleans, Louisiana as a category 4 hurricane on Sunday, Aug. 29, the 16th anniversary of the deadly Hurricane Katrina. The storm packed 150 miles per hour winds, leaving more than 1 million people in the state without power, and dangerous flood waters, causing millions of dollars in damages.

Ida was downgraded to a tropical depression and by the time it arrived in the New York region, brought dangerous flash floods and tornadoes which resulted in Governor Hochul declaring a state of emergency.

In Co-op City, during the height of the storm on Wednesday night and into the wee hours of Thursday morning, Riverbay Management began mobilizing staff to deal with flooding and other campus-wide emergencies.

“Last night, during the midnight hours, we had 12 or more buildings that lost elevator service due to flooding, and other buildings that suffered basement flooding,” said Riverbay General Manager Noel Ellison on Thursday. “Public Safety and the Bartow administrative offices were flooded, storm drains were overwhelmed and overflowed, sinkholes formed. Tree limbs fell. New York citizens were told to shelter in place, yet staff was awakened and responded to Co-op City despite travel restrictions.”

General Manager Ellison coordinated emergency response during the night with Riverbay’s emergency personnel while rising flood waters engulfed the Bartow offices and residential buildings throughout the property.

Hector Algarin, Senior Operations Manager at the Riverbay Parking and Leasing Department, was one of the first supervisors to arrive on the scene with his

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

As teams of Riverbay Parking & Leasing and Janitorial Department staff worked tirelessly through the night to clear flood waters from the hallways and offices at the Bartow Center, workers from Adriatic, Riverbay’s sewer and drain contractor, pumped water from the front of the building.

Photos by Omar deLos Angeles

team, Anthony Rexach, Berkey Ortega, David Batista, Johnny Jones, Sammy Lugo, Jupiter Cesepedes and Brandon Bernard.

“I got to the Bartow administration building at about 12:30 a.m. on Thursday morning and I walked into about 2 feet of water that went from the front to the back and side to side of the building,” said Mr. Algarin. “It was our team and Janitorial and once we got in, it was all-hands-on-deck. We hooked up the dry vacs and started to push water out of the buildings. Using our equipment, we managed to get the situation under control around 3:30 a.m. By 7 a.m., all of the water was removed from the hallway and then we began working on drying out water in the individual offices.”

In addition to Mr. Algarin, also onsite were Josh Blake and his Janitorial team, Omar de LosAngeles, Miguel Baez and Vasil Cocovich. Public Safety Chief Joseph Riley, CSO’s Director Vanessa Aldea and Tanysha Farley, as well as Val Stone of Riverbay’s Office Services department, also responded Wednesday night.

“Everybody came together, good team work and we rose to the challenge,” said Mr. Algarin.

According to Mr. de LosAngeles, a supervisor with the Riverbay Janitorial Department, the Janitorial team first responded to the Bartow Center.

“There was water everywhere,” he said.

“Then, we went to pick up our emergency truck in Peartree with water vacs, water boots, squeegees, brooms, mops and began attacking the water, pushing it out from the building. The Bartow courtyard was a pool so we used the pumps to push the water

to the streets while the sewer and drain contractor, Adriatric, took care of the front of the building by Public Safety and administration. After the main hallway was clear, we then went into the offices,” said Mr. de LosAngeles.

Once the Bartow offices were drained, the janitorial team responded to the residential buildings. “We went to Buildings 29, 18, 16, 15, 28, 33, 21 and 20 where the basements and elevator pits were flooded and began working to get the water out.”

On Thursday, once Riverbay emergency responders were on the way to making headway with clean-up efforts, a Phone Tree message was sent to residents to keep them abreast of the situation in their respective buildings. Buildings 2A & B, 16A & B, 20A, B & C, 21A B & C, 26, 29 and 30 were notified that the laundry room and basement will remain off limits to ensure everyone’s safety as workers continue to address the conditions in those buildings. A Phone Tree notification will be sent once service is restored.

“Our Janitorial and Parking & Leasing Departments were the MVP’s of this event but there were a number of heroes as we addressed the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ida,” said General Manager Ellison. “I am proud of the Riverbay staff, each and every one of them, as well as Champion Elevators and Adriatic Artisan Work, for their efforts and sacrifice as we continue to work to restore services to our shareholders. As the governor and mayor pointed out, the intensity of this storm was unexpected however I believe our staff performed admirably to address a life-threatening and dangerous situation.”

Apply for SCRIE/DRIE to Help Defray January 2022 Carrying Charge Increases

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND As New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) reviews Riverbay’s current application for a carrying charge increase, the corporation encourages eligible residents to apply for SCRIE/DRIE to help offset the potential hike.

Eligible Co-op City shareholders registered with the city’s Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) programs may be able to avoid paying the monthly carrying charge increase, if HCR approves the increase scheduled for implementation on January 1, 2022.

According to the official website of the city of New York, SCRIE and DRIE are a part of the NYC Rent Freeze Program. Both programs give “an exemption against future rent increases for eligible disabled persons living in rent-controlled, rent-stabilized, Mitchell-Lama and other eligible apartments,” including Co-op City.

Currently, only 190 shareholders in Co-op City are taking advantage of

DRIE, and only 1203 senior shareholders are active in the SCRIE program.

Both programs will help protect eligible shareholders from future carrying charge increases.

Board Director Claudia Sampson, who was involved in bringing this vital service to Co-op City, previously told the Co-op City Times: “The NYC Rent Freeze Program, which includes the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) Program and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) Program, helps eligible shareholders, in our case, stay in affordable housing by freezing their rent.”

Senior shareholders and those with disabilities can apply for SCRIE/DRIE if they: • Are head of household and at least 62 years old or 18 years and older with a qualifying disability • Have a household income of $50,000 or less • Live in a rent-regulated, stabilized, or controlled apartment or Mitchell-Lama/ (Continued on page 6)

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Shutdown

(Continued from page 1)

Riverbay’s General Manager, Noel Ellison, told the Co-op City Times this week, “Workers from Riverbay’s Maintenance staff and plumbing contractor will go through every apartment to install new gas valves and hoses to the stove, leaving the valve in the ‘closed’ position.”

Once complete, the plumbing contractor will perform an air pressure test to ensure the integrity of the main gas lines.

If the pressure test passes, the DOB will schedule an inspection. When DOB gives its approval, Management will contact Con Ed to schedule a follow-up inspection. If Con Ed’s inspection team is satisfied with the results, they will advise their “Gas Restoration” Division to reopen the main gas line.

At that point, Riverbay’s teams will conduct another apartment visit to switch the gas valve to the “open” position, thereby restoring the gas service to apartments.

If the air pressure test fails, Riverbay’s plumbing contractor will methodically test various locations in the main gas line to determine where the air is escaping and replace the piping, as necessary. This process will continue until the integrity of the gas line is confirmed.

Results from testing, along with DOB and ConEd availability, will determine the timeframe of restoration of gas service to residents. However, even when the pressure tests pass, Co-op City will have to get on DOB’s and ConEd’s waitlist.

General Manager Ellison said: “We have to get on their calendars. When Co-op City gets a gas outage, we’re in line with every building in the city of New York that has a gas leak – Co-op City has to fit in the schedule along with these other buildings in the city. We’re hoping that DOB and ConEd have schedule availability that can accelerate this process.”

Management is asking for continued patience and cooperation from those affected, as both DOB and Con Ed will require access to apartments any time they come to inspect.

“We appreciate the patience of residents. This process requires workers going into their homes every so often to track the source of the leak. It’s a cumbersome process and is one of the worse things that can happen for both residents and Management,” said Mr. Ellison.

Rest assured, Management is dedicated to completing the process as thoroughly and quickly as possible. Residents will be updated on the progress as conditions evolve.

Use of terraces for cooking It is illegal within the City of New York to use gas, or charcoal type B-B-Q grills in multiple dwelling buildings, such as Co-op City.

Such grills create open flames which may cause fire.

Only electric type grills can be used.

Riverbay will strictly enforce the Fire Department regulations by requiring the removal of any propane tanks, charcoal grills and combustible material within 10 feet of the outdoor grill.

Also, barbecuing is not permitted in public areas in the community.

Thank you for your cooperation.

—Riverbay Management

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Outdoor Storm Damage in Co-op City

Riverbay Grounds Director Mike Ambo reported some downed tree limbs and sinkholes on Co-op City property in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ida which blazed through New York City on Wednesday night, Sept. 1 into Thursday morning. Grounds crews spent the day addressing these conditions to ensure pedestrain safety.

Photos by Mike Ambo

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Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

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

Letter to the Editor

Deepest Condolences

Better enforcement of quality of life issues needed

Please join the Riverbay family in keeping Mr. Eddie Arce and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of Mrs. Gloria Arce, wife of Mr. Arce.

The Arce family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their condolences during this very difficult time.

To the Editor: I totally agree with Ruth Sharma’s letter last week on quality-of-life issues regarding e-scooters.

We already have enough illegal motor cycles parked on our sidewalks and racing around Co-op City where there is absolutely no enforcement of rules. I recently reported the same motorcycle with no plates chained to a parking sign pole. It’s illegal for several reasons – the cycle had no plate, and you cannot park it on the sidewalk. CCPD was informed but nothing was done.

In my opinion, CCPD should be issued chain cutters and physically remove them with the assistance of the 45th Precinct.

––Nick Liberati

SCRIE/DRIE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible.

Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The Co-op City Times does not publish anonymous material.

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which will be kept confidential – so authenticity and residency of the writer can be verified.

Thank you for your cooperation.

• HRA (public assistance) Budget letter for the year 2020, if applicable; • Household Monetary Contribution letter year 2020, if applicable Once the SCRIE/DRIE application is filed, the city will notify Riverbay of approved residents. When the carrying charge increase is implemented by the housing company, per HCR’s Orders, the resident’s carrying charge should remain at its current level. In turn, the Department of Finance will send Riverbay Corporation a credit towards its property taxes, compensating the housing development for the carrying charge increase it would have received from the SCRIE/DRIE participant.

Co-op City shareholders are advised not to apply for SCRIE or DRIE online via the NYC Department of Finance website. Instead, mail completed applications to the address provided on the applications.

Although both SCRIE and DRIE applications are available on the web, application forms can also be obtained from the Riverbay Finance Department by emailing RiverbayFinance@Riverbaycorp.com.

For more information about SCRIE and DRIE programs administered by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), to get an application, or schedule a virtual appointment, call 3-1-1 or HPD at 212863-8494, or visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/rentfreeze/ tools/drie-forms.page.

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

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

Continued from page 4)

Limited Dividend housing company (like Co-op City); aproperty must be the primary residence of at least one applicant.

• Spend more than 1/3 of your income on rent Once eligibility has been determined, be sure to gather the following documents to complete the application: • • Picture ID with proof of age and • Tax return, W-2 or 1099 statements • Income documents for all household members for the prior year • Social Security Disability (SSD) award letter (if applicable) • A letter from your management indicating current and prior rent amounts • Copy of DHCR Commissioner’s Carrying Charge Increase Order Residents looking to recertify their SCRIE application can do so in September (once the HCR Commissioner’s Carrying Charge Increase Order is issued), requiring all applications to be postmarked by December 3, 2021. Documents needed for the SCRIE recertification process: • Proof of Pension – a copy of 1099-R for 2020; • SSI/SSP (OTDA) Statement for 2020; OR one (1) bank statement for the year 2020 showing the SSI/SSP monthly deposit; • 2020 Federal or State Tax Return (all pages); • Proof of 2020 unemployment weekly benefits amount, if applicable;

Co-op City Times

We are shareholders, not tenants!

Become involved in your building association!

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writer and include their address and phone number, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the author.

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m.

Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475.

Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

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

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

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

Holiday closing and Co-op City Times deadline notice The Riverbay administrative offices will be closed on Monday, September 6, in observance of Labor Day. Because of the holiday-shortened work week, all material, including Directors’ viewpoints, for publication in the upcoming Saturday, September 11th issue of the Co-op City Times must be submitted before 9 a.m. on Tuesday, September 7.

The deadline will be strictly enforced to ensure we meet our production deadline. As a result, material received after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 7, will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, Sept. 11th issue of the Co-op City Times.

Material may be emailed to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com..

Although the administrative offices will be closed on Monday in observance of Labor Day, emergency services will be available. Shareholders may contact the Maintenance desk for emergency maintenance at (718) 320-3300, choose Option #2, and the Co-op City Public Safety Department at (718) 671-3050, and 9-1-1 for emergencies.

We wish everyone an enjoyable and safe Labor Day holiday weekend.

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

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Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

CCPD Takes Action Against Persons Caught Throwing Objects Out of Windows

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO Throwing objects out of the windows of Co-op City apartments is a violation of the lease and is also illegal. Complaints of this nature are taken very seriously by the members of the Co-op City Department of Public Safety. When objects are thrown out of windows, a substantial risk of serious injury or death is created.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety utilizes all available resources to make certain that persons caught throwing objects out of the windows of Co-op City buildings are appropriately penalized.

Fireworks thrown from windows or terraces are extremely hazardous and enforcement is heightened.

Co-op City has several construction projects which require scaffolding. Scaffolding, also known as sidewalk sheds, create an additional risk as it pertains to objects out the window. It is illegal to throw anything on top of construction scaffolding as it creates a fire hazard. There have been incidents of lit cigarettes igniting rubbish thrown on the top of scaffolding. Shareholders can be held criminally or financially liable for damage or injuries caused by throwing items on top of construction scaffolding.

An arrest can be made for Reckless Endangerment in cases where the person who actually throws the object out the window can be identified. Reckless Endangerment occurs when a person engages in conduct which creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury to another person. If there is an injury, the person who threw the object out of the window can be charged with Assault.

Reckless Endangerment and Assault are serious charges with severe penalties.

As in all cases where a Co-op City resident is arrested for actions within the confines of Co-op City, a Community Complaint is also issued. The Community Complaint carries a monetary fine and can be attached to the monthly carrying charges. Repeated violations may result in eviction.

Even if the specific person throwing the object out of the window cannot be identified, Public Safety can still take action. Throwing objects out of windows is a lease violation, therefore, the shareholder of record can receive a Community Complaint when their apartment is identified as the location an object came from. The shareholder is responsible for the actions of all family members and guests, therefore, the Community Complaint can be issued without the need to identify the specific offender. The Co-op City Community Complaint offers our department an extra level of enforcement in eliminating this very dangerous activity. Repeated violations result in escalating fines and can result in eviction.

It is important that parents instruct children and teens that throwing objects out the windows is a serious matter. Parents need to make certain that young children and toddlers do not have access to open windows. This creates a very dangerous situation for which the parent will be held responsible. Be certain that window guards are installed in any apartment where children under 10 years

Public Safety Report

CSO Contact Information CSO 1 – Buildings 1-14, Defoe, Debs and Cooper place Townhouses. CSO 1 - Dreiser Room 6.

CSO2 – Buildings 15-25, Adler, Asch and Broun Place Townhouses. Located at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Rm. B. CSO 3 – Buildings 26-35 and Earhart Lane Townhouses. Located in Rm. 37 of the Einstein Center.

The offices can be reached by calling (718) 320-3300 and following the prompts.

Anonymous calls to Public Safety

From time to time, cooperators may witness someone violating the housing company’s rules and regulations, however, we understand that some people are apprehensive about reporting the situation for fear of their identity being divulged to the violator in question.

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

accept these calls and investigate accordingly.

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

Rest assured that you should feel comfortable placing these calls to our Public Safety Department, as oftentimes residents are the first to know when an incident has taken place and, in most cases, who the individuals involved are. Thank you for your cooperation. ––Riverbay Management

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at 718-6713050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety. of age live or visit. Call Riverbay Corporation at (718) 320-3300 if you would like to have window guards installed. Smaller items can still fit out windows with window guards in place, so young children should not be left unsupervised near windows that are even open just a little bit.

During air conditioning season, it is best to keep windows completely closed and locked. This will prevent children from being tempted to toss objects out the window. It also allows the air conditioning to work at maximum efficiency.

Keeping windows open results in an increase in condensation and can damage rugs and furniture over time. Open windows during high temperatures can result in a flood in your apartment.

This is another situation where the Public Safety Department asks for the help of the public in identifying violators. If you observe objects being thrown from a window, try to pinpoint the exact window and notify the Department of Public Safety. Use a brightly colored curtain or shade as a landmark. The responding Public Safety officer can use a floor plan map and identify the exact apartment. Your information will not be revealed to the violator. Even if you cannot specifically identify the apartment in question, it is still a good idea to call Public Safety for informational purposes. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

The Co-op City Department would like to remind cooperators that bicycle riding is prohibited on sidewalks, on shopping malls and near buildings and garages. This includes the new electric vehicles available for rent throughout the community. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety issues Community Complaints to residents when they are in violation of bicycle riding regulations.

Safety of riders and pedestrians is extreme importance. Bicycle riders must be courteous of pedestrians at all times. All persons operating scooters or bicycles should wear helmets.

If consuming alcoholic beverages is in your plans, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink. Phone a friend or a ride share service, if necessary.

Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed any amount of alcoholic beverages. Buzzed driving is drunk driving. The consequences of drunk driving are extremely severe.

New legislation in New York State increases the charges and penalties for driving while intoxicated if there is a child in the vehicle. Law Enforcement agencies nationwide increase Drunk Driving enforcement during holiday seasons.

(Continued on page 23)

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

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for specific directions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please search “Riverbay Corporation” at the following sites: www.Indeed.com www.Glassdoor.com Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply directly at either site.

Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department.

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

8

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Michelle Marbury, Second Vice President

Fiscal Year Time… Time to get busy…

Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022 Begins The fiscal year begins September and ends in June. Now is the time to be involved whenever there is a gathering in this community, especially when they are online via a Zoom Meeting or Webinar format, or if it’s “outside” and close to you. Notice the last sentence did not designate “what” gathering to attend or what gathering is important, because all gatherings and meetings in this community are important. Each of us not only “should,” we really must show up for our own community and its needs or we will endure whatever cards we are dealt.

Ask yourself… What if?

Look at this marvelous property and ask yourself these questions… What if, more people showed up at the building association meetings? What if, we all inspired our new neighbors and existing shareholders to simply read the Co-op City Times once a week? What if you picked up the Co-op City Times each week and placed one by your neighbor’s door?

That’s called encouragement. What if you picked up your phone and dialed your CSO office or Co-op Security whenever you see or hear anything that you know is not quite right? That’s called your responsibility. What if “you” did just a little something more than you do now? Now multiply that by every shareholder. That’s called Power. What if you stopped making excuses and showed up, so that this community can show off, just – how – special – we really are?

Committee Time This is the time of year when the Riverbay Board Committees are formed. The committees are established by the Board. “The chairperson of each committee shall be appointed by the President with the consent of the Board of Directors, in consultation with the Committee on Committees.” (i.e., this is reiterated in Resolution #17-03). The responsibility of each committee is to gather information and make recommendations to the Board of Directors.

The Board votes on those recommendations and the result goes back to Riverbay Management to fulfill whatever the committee has recommended and the Board has approved.

The Riverbay Board IT Committee The IT Committee will create and recommend solutions to related concerns of the community. We look forward to brainstorming together to bring our community’s information technology systems into the 21st Century. If you would like to join the IT Committee, please send me an email stating your desire to serve on this particular committee. All requests will be considered.

The only element missing is you – the people All adults, your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews… The message here is clear, get involved… Get our youth involved… Let us stop complaining and become an effective and active part of this grand landscape of ethnicity. “We are” (Co-op City is), the embodiment of people of all races, from a wealth of different countries who offer a broadening of our “social education” without using a “handheld device.” We must embrace each other and enjoy our differences. In a thriving community, the key word is “Involvement.” To quote the youth of today, “Do you feel me?”

Village Team!

We are a huge team. A village. So let’s coin the phrase “Village Team.” There are many ways to stay focused on this journey, “village team,” and your community is screaming for your continued renewed and critical involvement. Your building association, the Board committees, clubs and associations. I have learned that we are far from finished here. We have

only begun to scratch the surface of our winning!

A Pandemic Reminder Do you think because an elevator is empty there aren’t airborne germs and molecules in there that can infect you? Please think again. When you enter the elevators, make sure you and your children are wearing masks. We see too many people at all hours of the day and night entering and leaving the elevators unmasked. One or two in an elevator without masks is too many, can affect and infect many. Even if you are alone, molecules are airborne for you or someone else to breathe. Put on your masks properly.

Our campus is densely populated. Too many people are entering stores and other venues with their noses

showing. Cover it up. The pandemic is not nearly over. During this pandemic, no one wants to see your nose. With love I say, when your children sit in and leave the basketball courts, be sure they remember to put on their masks. Please… We must remember that many folks are not vaccinated. Until herd immunity is reached, we must think of others. When we think of others’ safety and protection, we, in turn, protect ourselves and each other.

Thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be reached at mmarbury@riverbayboard.com. Let’s all do our part!

“All of us” divided by “Each one of us” equals a force for good.

9

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

What Will NYC Classrooms Look Like Next Week?

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

When New York City public school students return to the classroom on September 13, they can expect to find similar precautions in place as last year.

Vaccines have given teachers, school administrators and staff a chance to fight against Covid-19, especially the contagious Delta variant. But, students remain at risk since Comirnaty, otherwise previously known as the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, is the only vaccine currently available for young people between the ages of 12 and 15.

The NYC Department of Education (NYCDOE) wants all eligible students to get vaccinated, according to Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter.

“If you have a child who is at least 12 years old, we strongly encourage you to make a vaccination appointment for them as soon as possible,” Chancellor Porter said in an August letter to families. “With the rapid spread of the delta 15 have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and just 41.8% are fully vaccinated, according to the New York State online vaccine tracker.

Covid-19 remains a significant threat so here are some precautions and policies parents can expect to see this school year: DOE Employee Vaccination: Parents can expect all DOE employees to be vaccinated. On September 27, 2021 all DOE employees will have to show proof of at least one vaccine dose.

Daily health screenings: All students and DOE staff must fill out a health screening form every day before entering their respective school building. The form can be found online at healthscreening.schools. nyc. Any student or DOE staff member feeling ill must stay home and get tested for Covid-19. Parents can also expect a nurse to be on staff at every school.

Random Covid-19 Testing Every Two Weeks: Ten percent of every school’s unvaccinated student population will be tested every two weeks for Covid-19. Fully vaccinated students will not need to be tested. Parents must fill out their child’s consent form in order to participate in the testing program.

The consent form can be accessed online using a NYC Schools Account (NYCSA). Parents who are unfamiliar with the NYCSA portal can learn more online at schools.nyc.gov/NYCSA.

Face Coverings: Regardless of vaccination status, all students and DOE staff must wear a face covering at all times while on school property. This rule applies in all indoor, outdoor and school bus settings.

Schools will provide masks for people who may have forgotten theirs.

Social Distancing: Schools will follow the CDC recommendation to maintain a minimum of 3 feet of space between students when physically possible. During lunchtime, students are allowed to remove their masks to eat but will still be required to maintain proper distancing.

Sanitizing/Cleaning: Hand sanitizer stations and disinfectant wipes will be available in all classrooms, auditoriums and gyms. Surfaces such as doorknobs and water fountains, which are touched often, will be sanitized multiple times during school hours.

Classrooms will be disinfected daily using electrostatic technology.

Ventilation: Every room and common space will have proper ventilation. All classrooms will have two HEPA air purifiers. Bigger spaces like cafeterias will use larger HEPA purifiers units in combination with window-based exhaust fans for increased air circulation.

Public School Athletic League (PSAL) Vaccination Requirement: All students and DOE staff participating in a sport that is considered a high risk for Covid-19 transmission are required to be vaccinated. High-risk sports include football, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, lacrosse, stunt, rugby and bowling. Athletes planning on competing this year must have received at least one dose of the vaccine before the first day of competitive play, according to the NYCDOE. Equally important, below are the current quarantine protocols all city public schools will adhere by: Elementary schools: If a positive Covid-19 case is confirmed in a classroom, all students will be asked to quarantine for 10 days. During that quarantine period, students will receive live remote instruction.

Middle and High Schools: Positive Covid-19 cases in a classroom will be addressed based on the affected students. ● When a Covid-19 case is confirmed in a classroom, students who are at least 12 years old,

Presents

vaccinated and not showing symptoms will continue to attend their scheduled in-person instruction. Additionally, these students are encouraged to get tested for Covid-19 three to five days following their initial exposure. ● When a Covid-19 case is confirmed in a classroom, students who are at least 12 years old, vaccinated and are showing symptoms will be instructed to quarantine for 10 days. Students who are quarantining will have access to remote instruction. ● When a Covid-19 case is confirmed in a classroom, all unvaccinated students will be directed to quarantine for 10 days. On the fifth day of quarantine, those students have the option to take a Covid-19 diagnostic test. If the result is negative, those same students can return back to the classroom for in-person instruction following the seventh day of their quarantine.

Parents can upload proof of their child’s vaccination status online at vaccine.schools.nyc. Proof of vaccination can be an image of a vaccination card, the NYS Excelsior Pass or another government record.

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10

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

Convector and Vax Advice Two Bruces’ convector anti-leak suggestions. Coincidentally, just a few days after reading Bruce Silberman’s letter to the editor regarding convector leaks (issuu.com/cctimes 8/21/21), for the first time in 25 odd years, we had one. You know the hole that leads from the Superior Tray (the long rusty one) via a small L-shaped connector pipe to the Inferior Tray (the thing that looks like a Styrofoam meat tray)? That’s the thing that got clogged.

The condensation build-up stayed in the long tray and gently dripped like a slow-motion, mini waterfall. Rusty bits from the long tray were most likely the culprits. That’s a problem Mr. Silberman’s suggestion of painting the trays with rust resistant paint could solve. We managed to catch our spill somewhere between damp and wet so the floor dried quickly, and since the floor itself is fairly rust colored anyway, ours was not nearly as serious a problem as others experience.

Then last Saturday, Bruce Gitelson offered more leaking-convector solutions (issuu.com/cctimes 8/28/21).

Usually leaks caused by excessive condensation occur in the area of the small tray because that’s where the drain hole, that can normally clog up, is located. Along with other measures, such as reconsidering water-resistant flooring and utilizing moisture sensors, Mr. Gitelson suggested blocking the area directly above the small tray since it’s extra vulnerable to falling debris. Another good idea, but surely too tricky for the average resident to deal with. Even checking for water accumulation and rust buildup is too much for some.

But in a year as hot and humid as this one, while waiting for our stretched-thin Maintenance staff to deal with our chronic convector problems, we all need to be part of the solution. Do everyone a favor and place a pan under each convector. Most of us can manage that. No? Coaxing the unvaxxed. Did you see our new Governor’s necklace? Instead of sporting her first name

like the rest of the girls, her necklace reads VAXED. But any way you spell it, anything anyone can do to encourage others to roll up that sleeve, the better. But how do you get them to change their minds?

Funny you should ask. Meandering through the latest internet information dealing with the ever-changing jumble that is Covid-19, I came across an interactive “chat bot” in an online Times article that tells all. The article is titled: “Your Friend Doesn’t Want the Vaccine. What Do You Say?” Here’s the gist. The tried and untrue ways of convincing someone to do what you want them to do, don’t work. Command, advise, lecture and shame all you want, it just won’t work. Who says? The writers are two doctors, one specializes in motivational interviewing and the other specializes in persuasive communication. That’s who says.

So, someone you really care about won’t take the vaccination. How do you convince them otherwise?

This interactive tool tells you – step-by-step – how, and how not, to do it.

Step one. Wait for an opening. The person you’re trying to convince has to initiate the conversation by saying something on the order of, I’m not taking that scary vaccine! The chat bot gives you three response options and goes on to tell you why options one and two are bad responses and why option three just might work.

Still, you try Response #1 and say/ask/holler, Are you an anti vaxxer?

The article says your friend’s response to your question would most likely be, “Don’t you watch the news? People have DIED from the vaccine!”

Congratulations. You’ve just let your friend know you think they’re irrational. They’re not weighing what you think is the logical risk/reward balance of getting the vaccination.

Well-meaning as you might be, that makes them dig in their heels.

You’ve probably also damaged your relationship a bit. And that’s the

end of the conversation.

Try Response #2 instead. Respond to your friend’s I’m not taking that scary vaccine! statement, by saying, Covid’s scarier! Then you give them the numbers. Covid’s killed four and a half million. And the vaccines? They kill maybe nineteen out of a million.

Here’s your friend’s response to that (as per the article): “Yeah, but they were already sick and old. My chance of dying from Covid is very low.” To that, the authors say: “When you dismiss people’s concerns, they take it personally. As a result, they’re likely to reject what you have to say, even if it’s true.”

You knew it would be Response #3 all along, didn’t you? The response that does the trick is the one that keeps the conversation moving along with patience and respect for the person you’re trying to persuade.

Seek out the article for the rest of the dialog and a ton more advice. Google your friend doesn’t want the vaccine and it should pop right up.

Big new batch of mask frames. I thought I was done playing Johnny Appleseed of the mask frame variety, but Delta had other plans. Everybody’s got to continue to mask up. So, I ordered two big new batches of mask frames, those plastic gizmos you slip under a mask to give an extra inch of breathing space. I found them in kid-sizes, too. I’ve been giving them to moms in the elevator, the grocery stores, wherever. But I still have a bunch left. So where can I find bunches of kids with parents?

I’ve been scouring the CCTimes and the Riverbay Newsletter, looking for some kid-friendly event happening here before school starts. Someplace for my balloon and me to hang out next Saturday or Sunday.

Any suggestions? In the meantime, please stay safe.

I can be reached by voice or text at 718-219-2211 or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

11

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment September is Healthy Aging Month development, people are faced with a crisis that acts as a turning point in Oftentimes when one thinks about the subject of healthy aging development. Successfully resolving the crisis leads to developing a psychological we tend to think of the elderly. Have you ever considered that healthy aging virtue that contributes to overall emotional well-being. At the integrity versus begins when an individual reaches adulthood? despair stage, the key conflict is questioning whether the individual has led a When I look back at my life, I now realize how meaningful, satisfying life. the choices that were made in my 20s, 30s, and Question: How are you aging?

40s have impacted my present state of health.

Caregivers, have you ever felt overwhelmed because you do not know where For example, one’s dietary habits during early to begin as you seek services for your loved ones? Connecting the dots and makadulthood can affect those diagnosed with diaing the connections is the key to a successful caregiver’s journey. Please join us betes, obesity, or cardiac issues later on in life. for our monthly 45 mins. informational session on Tuesday, September 21, at 7 One may have had difficulty coping with stress p.m. Topic: Making the connections as you make sense of it all. Please RSVP or depression as a young adult. This too can imonline at www.comeoutreach.org. C.O.M.E. is here for you. Please contact us pact healthy aging. with any questions or concerns. 718-379-3159.

Healthy aging can be viewed as a state of mind, how you feel about yourself, Do you know a family caregiver? Nominate a Family Caregiver with the community, and the world. Are you content with the things you have or have Leon David Simmons Recognition. Save The Date: November 20, 2021, Carenot accomplished? Are there goals you still hope to achieve? Are you willing givers Outreach 15th Annual Award Gala via Zoom. and able to make the necessary adjustments in your lifestyle (dietary, physical, ––Diane Cooper psychological, educational, employment, social, medical) that will have a positive impact on promoting healthy aging?

Erik Erikson is a psychologist who developed one of the most popular theories of development, which includes 8 stages. Intimacy versus isolation is the sixth stage. This stage takes place during young adulthood between the ages of Co-op City residents who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at the Dreiser Auditorium approximately 19 and 40. The major conflict at this stage of can get a NYS Excelsior Pass to show vaccine status by visiting https://covid19vaccine.health. life centers on forming intimate, loving relationships with other ny.gov/excelsior-pass.

Accept the Authorization to Disclose and input your first and last name, people. Success at this stage leads to fulfilling relationships. date of birth, zip code and phone number. You will then be taken to the “Verify Your Identity” Struggling at this stage, on the other hand, can result in feelings page where you will insert the date you were of loneliness and isolation. vaccinated at the Dreiser Auditorium. The Generativity versus stagnation is the seventh stage. This stage second question asks for the county in which takes place between ages 40 and 65. During this time, adults you were vaccinated.

Use “New York (Manstrive to create or nurture things that will outlast them; often hattan)” instead of “the Bronx,” then proceed by parenting children or contributing to positive changes that to the next question, “Which vaccine did you benefit other people. Contributing to society and doing things receive?”

You will then be able to save your to benefit future generations are important needs at this stage.

Excelsior Pass to your Apple Wallet, Excelsior Integrity versus despair is the eighth stage. This stage begins Pass Wallet or print or screenshot your pass. at age 65 and ends at death. At each stage of psychosocial

NYS Excelsior Pass for Those Vaccinated at Dreiser Auditorium

12

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Placing a Takeout Order? Check the URL First The COVID-19 pandemic has made ordering takeout more popular than ever. Some restaurants have even set up their own websites to avoid the fees and challenges that come with food delivery apps, like DoorDash or GrubHub. As always, scammers are quick to pick up on a trend. Watch out for fake food ordering websites that scam consumers out of their money and personal information.

How the Scam Works You search for your favorite restaurant’s website to see if they offer delivery and a way to order online. Near the top of the search results, you find a website that looks like it belongs to the restaurant. Or, you may find a third-party website that looks very professional and similar to popular services like DoorDash or GrubHub. You click on the link, select your food, and enter your credit card information to pay. Charges appear on your account, but the food never arrives.

When you call the restaurant to see what’s happened, they are unaware of your order. The website was a fake, and now the scammers have your credit card information, address, and other personal details.

Some consumers reported to the Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker about accidentally ordering from fake websites called “Order Hero” or “Order Ventures.” But look out for other variations. Scammers often change their name and continue their tricks under a different fake identity.

For More Information To learn more ways to protect yourself from online scams, read the BBB’s tip for shopping online.

If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams. Find more information about scams and how to avoid them at BBB. org/AvoidScams.

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Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

13

High-Rise Apartment & Condominium Safety People living in a high-rise apartment or condominium need to think ahead and be prepared in the event of a fire. It is important to know the fire safety features in your building and work together with neighbors to help keep the building as fire-safe as possible.

Be Prepared!

Here are some additional fire safety tips for high-rise apartment dwellers: • If a fire occurs, do not panic. Staying calm will increase chances of survival.

• Remember that smoke rises. It also kills.

• Even if you can tolerate the smoke while standing, it is safer to crawl to the door.

• Do not open the door until you have checked to be sure there isn’t fire on the other side. Feel the door knob. If it is hot, the fire may be just outside your door.

• Brace your shoulder or foot against the door and open with extreme caution. Should you be confronted with a high concentration of superheated air or smoke, close the door immediately.

• If the hall is passable, use one of your pre-designated escape routes.

• Do not waste time gathering personal belongings, but shut the door and take your key.

• Do not use the elevator. It may stall due to heat or loss of power.

• If you must use an inside stairwell, check for smoke before entering the stairwell.

• If the stairwell is safe to enter, WALK downward, do not run. Hold onto wall or handrail to prevent falling.

• If your escape route is blocked, it may be safer to return to your apartment.

• If you must return to your apartment or remain in your apartment because escape routes are blocked, open a window slightly to let smoke escape. Do not break the window because you may need to close it if there is smoke on the outside.

• Do not jump. You may not survive the fall.

• If you must remain in the apartment, close all vents and air ducts. Take wet towels and sheets and stuff them around the doors.

The best thing an alert apartment dweller can do is to practice safety at all times; never block windows or doors with heavy furniture; eliminate potential fire hazards by not allowing trash to accumulate in the apartment or around the building; keep kitchen air ducts free of grease; don’t store flammable materials in the apartment.

ESCAPE 101 GO to your outside meeting place and stay there. Call the fire department. If someone is trapped in the building, notify the fire department.

If you can’t get out of your apartment because of fire, smoke or a disability: • STUFF wet towels or sheets around the door and vents to keep smoke out.

• CALL the fire department and tell them where you are.

• OPEN a window slightly and wave a bright cloth to signal your location. Be prepared to close the window if it makes the smoke condition worse.

Fire department evacuation of a high-rise building can take a long time. Communicate with the fire department to monitor evacuation status.

—Riverbay Safety Department

DON’T MISS OUT

SHOW US

YOUR VAX

You have the Key to NYC. Being vaccinated is the best way to protect our city and each other.

People 12 and older must provide proof to enter.

Proof of vaccination includes: • CDC Vaccine Card • NYC COVID Safe App • NYS Excelsior Pass • Other Official Vaccine Record PROOF OF VACCINATION IS NOW REQUIRED TO ENJOY INDOOR:

RESTAURANTS

BARS

GYMS

MOVIE THEATERS

MUSEUMS

OTHER INDOOR VENUES

For more information on Key to NYC, visit nyc.gov/keytoNYC. For more information on COVID-19 vaccines, including where to get vaccinated, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine.

14

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

Get Ready For Another Increase We’re going to get another increase on January 1, 2022. However, the NYS Homes and Community Renewal agency (HCR) wants to receive comments about this increase from our community on or before September 21, 2021. Now, my question is: Why? Cease This Increase Let’s go over some recent increases to see exactly what has been going on in this community. We received a 1.9 percent increase on September 1, 2019.

Then, we were supposed to receive another 1.9 percent increase on September 1, 2020. But, hey, we were going through a wild pandemic. So, that increase was deferred until January 1, 2021. Enough, right? No! There was talk that our parking rates were not increased for four years. So, take a guess what happened to those parking rates. That’s right, on July 1, 2021, our parking rates were increased by 10 percent.

Did you rent a hall closet? Well, a 40 percent increase was issued for our hall closets. What about a storage closet in the basement? That fee was increased by 25 percent.

On top of these increases, did you know that the cost to get an apartment here skyrocketed from $5,500 to $7,500 per room? So, it will cost your family, friends, and other people $2,000 extra per room just to move here.

Now, let’s get this straight. HCR approved all of these increases. Everything! So, other than following state regulations, I would like to know how sending comments to them about this upcoming increase is going to change anything here. What is going to change? Will they take this new increase off the table? Will they reduce this increase? What are they going to do after they receive your comments?

Personally, I don’t think that HCR is going to change anything for us. Nevertheless, do you think that we have received way too many increases in such a short period of time? In my opinion, the answer is yes. Additionally, as mentioned before, Riverbay is looking to refinance our $621.5 million mortgage.

And, the current plan is to pull $100 million out of this refinance loan. However, it might be possible for management to pull out the original amount that they previously borrowed, $621.5 million. How is this possible? Who refinances a 2.4 percent mortgage for a tremendous housing development? Is there another Mitchell-Lama housing development in NYS that has received a similar mortgage? No. Look, refinancing our mortgage is simply going to keep our community in debt for a longer period of time than was originally planned, 35 years. However, the big question is: Will Riverbay continue to refinance our mortgage every few years just to pull out millions of dollars? If the answer is yes or maybe, then will we stay in debt forever? Therefore, could this example be the business model for our community? Do you think that it would be profitable for a bank to keep us in debt forever?

In my opinion, the answer is yes.

HCR should help this community by making Riverbay cut their budget. To start, they should look at our $90 million payroll. Then, they should look at our expenses and see that we have contractors that are doing a lot of work that our employees used to do.

Also, former shareholders can be charged up to three months of carrying charges until their apartment is sold, per HCR rules. Then, they have to pay a lot of money if they damaged their former apartment.

Regardless, contractors are receiving all materials from Riverbay to restore those same vacant apartments. Then, these contractors are charging more than $15,000 to restore those same vacant apartments—about 30-40 per month. How is this possible?

Bottom line: Some cooperators here think that it’s appropriate for our community to get new increases on a continuous basis. Therefore, they will do everything to defend these additional increase and charges for everything. Meanwhile, they can’t see that these constant increases can possibly price themselves along with a lot of cooperators out of this community.

They have a job? Well, there are 8.7 million people that are unemployed right now. So, what will happen

Building 9 Association Salutations, Building 9 family. We are thankful, grateful, and blessed. The Building 9 Diamonds are excited to engage and support our neighbors. Building 9 Association dues have not been collected since 2019. We have discussed possible avenues that are also safe. We have been able to rely on the generosity of member volunteers to support our building initiatives.

The First Annual Shirley Wells Back-to-School Raffle entry period is coming to a close tomorrow. Please submit your email with your name, address and your student’s name and grade to Lindab9apres@gmail.com. Raffle drawing to be held via Zoom on Saturday, September 11, at 2 p.m. Entrants will receive Zoom meeting time, meeting code and password via email. We thank last week’s Raffle Committee members Linda Holley, Wanda Ran- Raffle donor: Wanda Rodriguez.

The Covid-19 virus is still with us. Please wear a mask always, wash your dall and Evelyn Mavins. hands often, and social distance whenever possible.

The Stop ‘N Shop pharmacy located at 691 Co-op City Boulevard is offering the Moderna vaccine to those who have not yet been vaccinated against Covide-19 and who wish to do so. You may call the pharmacy at (718) 862-2883 to make an appointment.

The Pfizer vaccine has been granted Full Use Authorization by the FDA. The Covid-19 testing site at Dreiser Center continues to be in operation.

Vaccine booster shots are expected to be made available in September. CDC guidance to follow.

New York State Excelsior Wallet Pass App is for New York City and New York State residents and visitors. It provides digital proof of vaccination. If you received a Covid-19 vaccination in New York State and it has been at least 15 days since the final dose in your vaccine series, you are eligible to access the New York State Excelsior Wallet Pass and the newer version Excelsior Wallet Pass PLUS. The Wallet Pass App is an electronic record available for Android and Apple iPhone users. Please go to https://epass. ny.gov/home and complete the required information fields. The e-Wallet vaccine pass is generated based on data provided by the entity that administered your vaccine. The vaccine administrator entered all pertinent data into the secure New York City and New York State immunization databases. Once your vaccine provider has confirmed that your information is entered in the database, you should be able to retrieve your Excelsior Vaccine Wallet Pass or Wallet Pass PLUS. In addition to the QR code, the Wallet Pass PLUS actually permits you to display your personal vaccination dose date(s), name of vaccine administered, vaccine administrator name and site of vaccine administration, as well as vaccine Lot #.

“Poverty is what happens when people give up caring about one another.”

––Linda Collins

if they get laid off? Pension plan? Lots of companies have stopped their pension plans. Plus, a lot of pensions are underfunded. So, at what point can their benefits be cut from these plans? If so, will they be able to continue living here?

Additionally, they don’t understand that most banks would love to see our community stay in debt forever. Therefore, the thought of cutting any expenses here is not good because Riverbay can simply refinance their mortgage if you ever need any money.

And, debt could be the way that Co-op City can operate forever. Keep them in debt? From my perspective, this is a horrible way to conduct business here.

Guard Your Vaccine Card With joy, some people went online and posted a photo of their COVID-19 vaccine card. However, they didn’t realize that crooks may have copied and sold all of their personal details. Furthermore, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), according to the CDC, “is a federal law that required the creation of national standards to protect sensitive patient health information from being disclosed without the patient’s consent or knowledge.”

Therefore, lawyers are saying that you can lose this protection once you post your vaccine card online. So, crooks can use your personal data for medical identity theft and for making fake vaccine cards.

Close We need to keep Co-op City as an affordable community. Plus, we have to get away from this concept of staying in debt.

Thank you.

Contact Information Please do not send a letter to me at this time. However, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@ riverbayboard.com.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me.

Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family.

Thank you.

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

15

Black Forum of Co-op City

Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. It determines when you can pick up your monthly package again. You would pick up one month or more from your last pick-up.

It is a 30-31 day rotation. We will still text if additional items become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring at least four clean shopping bags and a shopping cart. Masks and physical distancing are required. New registrants can receive food the same day they register. Please show a valid ID NYC card, a non-driver’s, or driver’s license with a 10475 address to register.

Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11:00 a.m.-1 p.m. Guests do not have to be affiliated with a church to receive food.

Registration is open at this location for Section 5 residents.

Senior Farmers Market Coupons Black Forum has concluded the distribution of Senior Farmers Market coupons for 2021. We do not anticipate receiving any more until 2022. Please remember to use your vouchers for fresh fruits, vegetables, or herbs by November 30, at any participating Farmers Market in NY. Approved Farmers Markets and Farm Stands are at website, agriculture.ny.gov/farmersmarkets. Coupon recipients can also call 311 for those locations.

Donations Black Forum only accepts food from our vendors. Thus, please do not leave food from your home outside our door. That is for the safety of our guests. Thank you for the kindness nonetheless.

Contact Us Reach out to us at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. Please stay safe.

––D. Illis

Broun Place Townhouse Association Good day, neighbors, hope readers vaccinated and are masked as we go about our daily business. Please remember to shop at the local businesses and encourage businesses. Everyone is suffering as the pandemic continues to envelope us.

Please pay attention to your children and grands. It is not a good idea to let them run barefoot anywhere. If they have any cuts, they could easily get infected.

We join longtime shareholder and former Board member, Ray Tirado, in congratulating his son on his achievements. His labors paid off. And here we are at Labor Day 2021. Congratulations to everyone for continuing diligence and hard work as we continue to fight the Delta Covid-19 variant and live in the new reality. This is the time to just do it and get vaccinated. The numbers are clear, the sickest and those who are dying are the ones unvaccinated. Watch the testimonial TV videos of local folks encouraging you to get the vaccine.

Co-op City recycling tip: Discarded furniture belongs on the dumpster pad, not in a bin. This means tables, chairs, accessories, lamps and carpeting. Do not try to put these in a bin, and thank you, Robert, for making the extra pick-up to keep our pad clear.

Have you noticed the barricade fencing designating, “Danger, Repair Work Going On” on the side of Broun Place facing Adler Townhouses is gone? Good to see work has progressed.

Our newest problem all over Co-op City is scooters. They are dropped anywhere when the meter runs out. Now we have two or three companies participating in the experimental program. Why are they using our streets and not

Riverdale or Pelham Parkway? Contact your local officials and get this program modified or gone from Co-op City.

Local buildings’ grounds have become filthy and have resulted in a horrible mess on Co-op City Boulevard, Tillotson Avenue, above Baychester Avenue.

Why are we neglecting getting tougher on stopping litterbugs? Something needs to be done! The truckers are creating a horrible deposit of waste. We are contacting Jamaal Bowman and Jamaal Bailey about this.

At only $12 a year, joining our association is a “good deal.” The deadline for the completion of the Co-op City Times election survey has now passed.

Hope yours is in.

The CDC mask recommendations have changed based on the Delta vicious variant. We are required to wear masks indoors and crowded outdoor areas.

Yes, even the inoculated are recommended to wear masks indoors and outdoors.

Access CDC guidelines to find sites where the vaccine is available: nyc.gov/vaccinefinder or call 877-VAX-4NYC, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine. Contemplating a restaurant outing, call ahead. Register with the Riverbay RUOK Emergency contact programs. This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic condition. Information is stored confidentially, and only available in an emergency.

The association sends get well wishes and support to all residents recovering from health issues. Submit your tidings to me. Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever!

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

African-American Association Our wish for you and yours…

The African-American Association of Co-op City wishes you and yours a safe and Happy Labor Day and Happy Rosh Hashanah and High Holy Days Season to our Jewish shareholders and neighbors.

AAACC Membership: Please Save these dates: Sunday, September 19, at 3 p.m. – General Membership Meeting. Topic: Annual Kwanzaa Celebration with The Coalition of African-American Churches and Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. Friday, October 8, 7-9 p.m. – Swearing-in of New Officers; General Meeting Sunday, October 17, 3 p.m. – General Membership Meeting Sunday, November 21, 3 p.m. – General Membership Meeting Saturday, December 11, 3 p.m. – Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration Join the African-American Association of Co-op City Become a member to be allowed entry into our gatherings.

Platforms until the pandemic is completely over are presented via Zoom

Meetings and Webinars.

Remember: Membership is only $15.00/year for a single membership and only $25.00/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

The African-American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation (Contact instructors indicated below for updates): Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917903-7073.

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

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

“All” of us divided by “each” one of us equals a force for good.

––Michelle Marbury

16

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Leslie Peterson

Committees Offer Opportunity to Express Suggestions Labor Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the first Monday of September annually. On September 6, 2021 we will honor social and economic triumphs of American workers, the American labor movement and the contributions of the American worker. In the United States, Labor Day is the three-day weekend ending the summer season; enjoy and stay safe.

As summer comes to a close, our schools are reopening. Some of our collegiate students have left home and beginning classes already. Locally most schools are scheduled to open on September 13, 2021. Socialization is a part of the learning process our youth experience in classroom settings. I join in wishing both our teachers and students a safe and productive school year. I honor and admire those who choose such a noble profession. They help shape the minds that will carry us into the future.

We all wish them well.

Committee Information: I have received numerous requests from shareholders to join the Residential Sales and Restoration Committee. It was recommended we keep the number of members to a manageable number of participants (suggested about 10).

I am requesting those who submitted information to join send me an e-mail (at the contact information below) expressing what you hope to see accomplished, any skills you can offer and what you know about the Sales Department. This will be useful in making a selection. I appreciate your desire to work for the good of the community and interest in becoming aware of the rules that we must abide by, per HCR. Talking to shareholders, I have heard complaints and suggestions. Committees offer you the opportunity to voice those suggestions. Committees can make recommendations to the Board whereby they are discussed for possible implementation. One such issue often mentioned has been the ongoing problem with dogs.

Recently, the standing committees were reviewed

and some significant adjustments were suggested.

About six years ago, there was an Ad Hoc committee established for the purpose of the influx of dogs. An Ad Hoc committee is created to address a specific issue or for a specific purpose. It is now a part of a standing committee because it is obvious this will be an ongoing situation. Join the committee; we know the issues, be a part of the solution.

I received a request from those who live near townhouses. The townhouse dumpster pad houses an open container and the view of garbage is disturbing to those living in nearby buildings. The request was that dumpster pads with covers be considered.

This may be a request that can be discussed by the Building and Grounds Committee.

A situation was brought to my attention about speeding in the garages. This has been an ongoing concern often voiced. The caller requested rubber speed bumps be placed in various locations in other areas of the garage to slow cars down coming from higher floors. Currently, they are mainly on the lower ramp. A request to be a part of the Parking and Commercial Leasing Committee is a good place to start. We need shareholders to be a part of the change they seek.

Carrying Charge Increase: This vital information should be repeated. I am concerned that an issue of importance to shareholders has not been placed in the Co-op City Times since the August 14, 2021 issue. In that publication, the sign on information for the virtual meeting and the address for the written comments were highlighted. I have not seen them again. There are shareholders who are homebound so I hope the information regarding the notifications required by HCR will be distributed shortly.

Budget increases are not final until HCR (Homes and Community Renewal), our regulatory agency, reviews the recommendation proposed in the resolution. Your thirty day (30 day) written comment period ends on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 regarding the proposed increase. The postmark on your mailed written comment should be no later than the

date mentioned above, and sent to: New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal c/o Financial Operations, OHP, 641 Lexington Ave., 4th floor, New York, NY 10022.

HCR always hosts an in-person meeting where comments can be made. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the meeting this year will be done virtually.

You also have the option to call in to the meeting.

HCR has scheduled the virtual meeting for Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. (see CC Times for August 14, 2021). During the 30-day comment period, shareholders (or their representatives) can request to see the corporation’s financial records. If there are additional questions prior to mailing or attending the virtual meeting, you can e-mail george.simon@nyshcr.org.

Youth Services: I am excited about the opening of the YMCA and the announced redoing of Haffen Park. I am troubled that there has been no movement reported to the community about the Memorandum of Understanding agreement made to provide Co-op City a space for an Arts and Youth Program facility for our youth. We are a community of seniors, but we are also a community with young families.

Parents are compelled to seek services that are of interest to their children outside of Co-op City. Years ago, schools had programs that kept you occupied and interested. There is an age gap where there are no viable activities or place for our youth. I hope to engage in conversation about this more fervently when the committees begin meeting.

NCO: The NYPD Neighborhood Coordinating Officer program is available to assist you resolve a host of issues. The 45th Precinct has assigned two officers to Co-op City, Officers N. Anderson and H. Basora. They are personable and helpful.

“When you have decided what you believe, what you feel must be done, have the courage to standalone and be counted.” –Eleanor Roosevelt I am pleased to be of service to the community.

I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com.

Building 25 Association We congratulate Kathleen Courtney Hochul, the 57th governor of New York. Governor Hochul is the first female governor of New York State.

We pray for the residents who were in the path of Hurricane Ida last weekend in Louisiana and hope for their speedy recovery.

We wish all neighbors born in September a Happy Birthday; for those of you who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon.

Latest update on our building association room meetings, Riverbay has given permission to resume meeting in our association room. That being said, in Fall 2021, our next regularly scheduled association room meeting will be held Tuesday, September 21, at 7:30 p.m. Look out for posted notice near elevators should there be any changes. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by logging onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know.

Closing with the following message: “While we cannot predict the future, we will most surely live it.

Every action and decision we take, or don’t, ripples into the future. For the first time, we have the capability, the technology, and the knowledge to direct those ripples.” –Jacque Fresco ––Wanda Bailey

Have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend!

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

17

National Council of Negro Women

Faith @ Work Christian Church

Membership – September is here already and our first membership meeting will be next Sunday, September 12, at 3:00 p.m. by Zoom. Non-members, does this sound like an organization that you would like to be involved with? If so, we meet the second Sunday of each month from September until June except for May when we meet on the third Sunday. We’d love to have you come check us out! Our national dues are $50 per year for women and men. Our section dues are $25 per year for women and men. Life Member dues are $500.

National and section dues must be paid to be fully financial. For more information, contact ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

Youth Section – We are seeking young girls ages 12-18 to join our Co-op City Youth Section that was recently chartered. The goal of our Youth Section is to provide a community-based group that will prepare our young ladies for leadership roles in school and the community. There will be workshops to develop a strong sense of self, improve life-skills and social skills. The Youth Section will meet monthly to foster a bond and have discussions on topics relevant to our young ladies. Thank you to all of the young ladies who joined our informational meeting in June. The next virtual meeting will take place on Saturday, September 11, from 1:00 -2:00 p.m. Meeting ID: 881 7425 9607. Password: Youth. If you have questions or are interested in membership, please email us at ncnwcoopcityyouth@gmail.com.

Health Committee – Please save the date for our Annual Health and Wellness Fair scheduled for Saturday, September 25, in Bartow Community Center, Room 31, 2049 Bartow Avenue, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Stay tuned for more information to follow!

Friends of NCNW Co-op City Section will be walking again this year in the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer on Sunday, October 17, 2021. We will be meeting at Orchard Beach at 8:30 a.m. If you are interested in joining our team for a wonderful day of fellowship and this great cause, please email us at ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com. We will be wearing matching shirts and hats to represent NCNW Co-op City Section!

Are you interested in joining our NCNW Co-op City Section GIRL TREK Crew as we walk on Sisterhood Saturdays? We will walk to improve our physical as well as mental health beginning at 9 a.m. sharp. The mission of GIRL TREK is to save Black women’s lives through walking and socialization. The global COVID-19 pandemic has and is still disproportionately impacting our Black communities. Our GIRL TREK Crew will safely walk together on Saturday mornings, weather permitting, around the greenway in our GIRL TREK attire/ colors! Please email ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com for more information.

Congratulations – Congratulations to our new governor, Kathy C. Hochul, as she makes history as the first female governor of New York State.

Social Media – Remember you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcityBethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: www.ncnw coopcity@gmail.com.

––Joyce Howard

120 DeKruif Place (street level). We have not returned to public worship yet but we are available to support the community. Church telephone: (347) 2027006, email: fatwcc@aol.com, www.faithatworkchurch.org.

Worship Experiences Reopening postponed due to continuous concerns about Covid-19.

Church Motto: "We are Christ-centered, family-focused with power and authority." a Church Mission: To empower, educate and motivate men, women, boys and girls to reach their full potential and live abundant lives through preaching and teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Come worship with us – where we honor tradition but are not bound by it! All are welcome to join us any and every Sunday because our goal is to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, in love, through teaching and preaching the Word of God from the Bible.

K-8 After School Reopening, Sept. 13: We will take limited registration for our after school with registration beginning August 16 through September 10. On Sept. 10th only, there will be an Orientation and final registration. The weekly fee is $50 and requires a non-refundable $50 registration fee. The emphasis will be on homework help and arts & crafts. Research shows that many art forms are beneficial for socialization and reintegration into social norms. Snacks must be provided by parents. We will pick up students from P.S. 153 & P.S. 178. After COVID-19, we all need a little healing and our children are no exception. We will follow all required protocols for NYS/CDC. To receive an application, contact Pastor Jenkins at (718) 644-0951 or via email: fatwcc@aol.com.

Remember, it's never about us but always about the goodness of the Lord.

––Pastor Deborah D. Jenkins

Section 4 Partnership It’s the beginning of the fiscal year (i.e., September 2021 – June 2022). We will convene a meeting of the Section 4 presidents and shareholders on Monday, September 13, at 7:30 p.m. The contact codes and link to attend the meeting will be emailed to each president. Contact your respective building president if we do not have your email address.

About the Section 4 Partnership The Section 4 Partnership is comprised of every building in Co-op City that makes up the sectional geographic which is referred to as Co-op City’s Section 4 (i.e., Building 20 - Asch Loop, Building 21 - Bellamy Loop, Building 22 – Co-op City Boulevard, Buildings 23, 24, 25 - Benchley Place, the Adler Place Townhouses, the Asch Loop Townhouses and the Broun Place Townhouses).

Come and get involved. Email: section4partnership@gmail.com. Phone: 347-915-4939.

Every Building in Every Section We must “all” (in every section and every building) show up for our building associations and committees. Board Committees have been formed and you will have the opportunity to join them. This is how you will become informed.

This is how the Board of Directors can grasp what you want and communicate what you want back to the managing staff.

Each committee is chaired and co-chaired by a Riverbay Board member.

Each building can and should be represented in these committees. When you “show up,” this will give you information to take back to your respective building association. You then share the information you retrieve from the committee meetings with your neighbors and fellow shareholders and at the next committee meeting, you bring your feedback and hopefully you will have answers and positive responses to your needs. This is how our system and structure works. It’s about being a responsible shareholder, interacting with your Board and committees. You will be laying the foundation of the next 50 years of celebration. Let’s get it done!

50th Anniversary T-Shirts Still current, beautiful and on sale now with the Section 4 Partnership logo on the back. If you would like one, contact us by emailing: section4partnership@ gmail.com or Phone: 347-915-4939.

Be Safe and Well The Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City wishes you and yours a Happy Labor Day, Happy Rosh Hashanah and High Holy Days Season to our Jewish shareholders and neighbors.

––Michelle Marbury

Iglesia Evangelica MU de Co-op City Co-op City United Methodist Church Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.”

–Psalm 91:9-1.1 UMCC is a Bible-centered congregation with spirit-filled worship and we offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multicultural and bilingual congregation – all are welcome! We are changing with the times and now offer online service.

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

Remote Schedule for Sundays – Come and receive a blessing: We would love for you to join us on Sundays. We are currently sharing our services online through our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/UMCofCoopCity/.

We are also holding services via Zoom. For more information, visit our website at www.coopcityumc.com.

In-person, 10 a.m. Bilingual Sunday service at the church starting July 4.

Also viewed via Facebook and Zoom.

Tuesday, 12 p.m. (Spanish) and 7 p.m. (English), Pray and Reflection Service Sunday School, 8 a.m. (English) Food Pantry: The Food Pantry distribution center at our church serves Section 5. Ongoing registration and distribution of food are on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Those registering must present one of the following government-issued up-to-date ID’s showing a 10475 zip code: Driver, Non-Driver, or NYC ID. Anyone 18+ of age can register. Only one participant, per household may register.

Blessings, ––Marta Medina

DIVORCE - BANKRUPTCY • ABSOLUTE LOWEST FEES

• EVENING APPTS. AVAILABLE • IMMEDIATE FILING

• FREE CONSULTATION • FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS

“COURTEOUS AND PROMPT SERVICE AT AN AFFORDABLE FEE”

633 Lydig Ave • Bronx, NY

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

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

18

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Retirees of Dreiser Loop General Meeting: September 8 at 1:30 p.m. at the Section 1 greenway. Come meet and greet our new executive board.

Those interested in registering for the Marina del Rey luncheon can do so at the meeting. Please note: All must show proof of vaccination to attend this event. It is required. We will have applications for membership. You can also give a voluntary donation towards our scholarship fund. 50/50 raffle, Birthday celebration and lots of fun and Fellowship. See you at the place. Annual Holiday Luncheon at the elegant Marina del Rey, December 16, from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Cost: $100. Includes hot and cold buffet, choice entrees, and music by DJ Kool. Please note: Face masks and proof of vaccination are required. To register, contact Daisy Young, 718-671-6122; Beverly Waller, 718-671-2978; Jay McKenzie, 201-310-2972.

Scholarship Fund: June 2021 graduates who have applications for scholarship are reminded that the deadline is October 16. Completed applications are to be submitted via mail drop box at 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19. For further information, contact Dorothy Byrd, 646-842-2458.

Condolences to Lois Scott on the loss of her husband, Raymond Scott.

Wishing you peace to comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold your heart. Rest in God’s presence.

Chaplain task force course, “A ministry of presence,” is the mission of a chaplain, to bring comfort and peace to those in need. Those interested, a virtual class begins in September. For further information, contact NYChaplain@ gmail.com.

Health Corner: Eating is a basic need, but many Americans are not filling this need with healthy choices. Plant-based eating is finally becoming mainstream, thanks in part to such documentaries as Fork over Knives and Plant Pure Nutrition. Plant Power Metro New York has held several virtual classes in our community through JASA. Coming this fall a plant based mentoring program will be offered to assist and better serve those interested in a plant-based diet. Get involved. Healthy eating is about balance. More information to come.

Encouragement: Don’t worry about anything, instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. He never fails. Blessings.

––Gladys Baez

AARP Chapter #4997

From President Mickens When you read this article, we will be beginning the Labor Day Weekend, our sort of unofficial end to the summer fun and relaxing times. This summer was so much better for all of us than the last summer. We got to travel, see friends and family, sit out in the sun and talk to our neighbors—person-to-person. It was enjoyable and rewarding and open! Covid-19 and the Delta variant did not totally control us, and the vaccine proved to be very worthwhile. It has saved many lives and improved the quality of life for millions of people.

Governor Hochul has issued new mandates to help New Yorkers who are behind in their rent. You must fill in an application and, if approved, you will be protected for one year; seniors are encouraged to apply. Too many New Yorkers are leery of assistance from the government due to past experiences, however, these are new times, and the programs are meant to assist the citizens. Senators Schumer and Gillibrand are proposing a new bill to aid the Medicare benefits for seniors. AARP requests that we all write to our local officials to support the bill. Portions of the government are trying to reduce the benefits of Medicare and we can’t allow that to happen. This may not be an election year, but we still have more work to do to secure the advances we have made. Speaking of

elections, our chapter #4997 will be holding across-the-board elections for the 2022 year shortly after we return from the summer recess. All the executive board positions are open for election, and we welcome new candidates to the positions.

The next General Membership Meeting for AARP Chapter #4997 is scheduled for Monday, September 13, at 1:00 p.m. Hopefully, this will be our last Zoom meeting. The login information is as follows: Meeting ID: 831 6500 1346, Passcode: 196217. For our AARP members who are residents of Co-op City, SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) is designed to freeze the rent of seniors.

From Ms. Stella Baker, Membership contact, there is another number you can call to join our Chapter. Ms. Baker can be reached at 718-379-2088 for membership information and to join. I apologize to Ms. Baker for not having the correct number in the past. Mrs. Frances Wilson, Good and Welfare contact, advises that we have no major news to report. We are wishing Mrs. Joyce Fowler continued quick recovery from her eye surgery. If you have any information, contact Mrs. Wilson at 718-671-5493. I can be reached at 718-379-3742 and I look forward to seeing you all at the General membership meeting on September 13.

––Ann Purnell

Goose Island Seniors I want to thank everyone who came to the indoor picnic party last Friday.

We had a ball. It was so good to see some members we haven't seen for over a year. Thank you to all those who contributed in any way. The food was great, the music – from my brother Paul Roberts – was great, (thank you, brother), and everyone look happy.

Sight & Sound TV “Queen Esther” – Friday, October 1. Every first Friday at 8 p.m., come and watch Sight and Sound TV with us at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39. All are welcome. First 60 people only. Must show proof of vaccination; mask required; $5 donation per person. Free snacks.

Trip to Villa Roma – Tuesday, September 14, 7:30 a.m. Waiting list only. The Cameos, a DooWop group featuring Joey and Doreen Arminio, luncheon and a day of fun, all for $92. A choice of entrées: pot roast, chicken Francese or fillet of Cod, all served with chef’s choice starch and vegetables. All money is due or your seat will be given to someone on the waiting list. Must show proof of vaccination, and mask required. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Buses will make our usual three stops, leaving Einstein Loop at 7:30 a.m., pick up at Asch Loop at 7:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 8 a.m. One bus cancelled so have to change seats for people on bus #2.

Mohegan Sun Casino – Cancelled. Not offering bonus.

Wind Creek (Sands) Casino – Tuesday, October 19, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Price: $45, bonus $30 slot play. For reservation, call 347-847-1941.

All passengers must show proof of Covid vaccine.

Bingo – Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1:15 p.m. Admission: $5 for 3 cards, 12 games and Jackpot. Extra cards are $0.25 each, for up to three cards. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination and mask required. Temperature taken at entrance. Members only. Become a member: $20/yr. Sunday bingo on September 26.

50th Anniversary Trip to Villa Roma, 2022 – Thursday, June 9, 2022 at 7:30 a.m. Price: $92; $40 to reserve seat. Call 347-847-1941.

To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of September: Mary Harvey, Mary Smith, Ivelisse Santiago, Miledy Martinez, Alma Alequin, Veratta Rhames, Bettie Ward, Lyone Hall, Thalia Roach, Gladys Perry, Joyce P. Wilson, Beryl Hines, Ola Waymmann and Carlton Lawrence.

Sick and Shut-in – Edna Trujillo, we miss you. Mary Pilla, former Goose Island president, misses everyone and sends her love to all. Call (718) 753-1816.

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475; phone number is (718) 379-9613. We are open. You may call (mornings) Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; (evenings) Tue. & Thu., 1 p.m.-6 p.m., and Mon., Wed. and Fri., 6 p.m.-8 p.m.; or call/text Stephen, (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose. island@optonline.net.

––Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Bartow

Fri., Sept. 10

Thurs., Sept. 9

Wed., Sept. 8

Tues., Sept. 7

Mon., Sept. 6

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Einstein

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

MENU

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Non-Kosher

Labor Day

Labor Day

JASA CLOSED

JASA CLOSED

JASA CLOSED Rosh Hashanah Day 1

JASA CLOSED Rosh Hashanah Day 1

JASA CLOSED Rosh Hashanah Day 2

JASA CLOSED Rosh Hashanah Day 2

Line Dancing w/Ellie Thurs., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. @ the Section Whole wheat 1 Greenway Stage. For more bread information, please call 718Fresh fruit & Juice 320-1345

Baked Fish Fillets Baked Macaroni & Cheese Normandy Blend

JASA CLOSED

JASA CLOSED

LABOR DAY

LABOR DAY

LABOR DAY

JASA CLOSED

JASA CLOSED

JASA CLOSED

ROSH HASHANAH

ROSH HASHANAH

ROSH HASHANAH

DAY 1

DAY 1

DAY 1

JASA CLOSED

JASA CLOSED

JASA CLOSED

ROSH HASHANAH

ROSH HASHANAH

ROSH HASHANAH

DAY 2

DAY 2

DAY 2

Arthritis Exercise Class w/ Smartphone/Tablet Class w/ Damion, every Thurs., 1-2 Ralph, 1-2 p.m. Call main of- p.m. Zoom meeting ID: 986 fice, 718-320-2066, to regis- 0021 6442, Passcode: 573762 ter. Please give your phone # & email address (NORC) Aerobic Classes every Fri., 11 a.m.-12 p.m., https:// zoom.us/ Meeting ID: 986 8235 8691, Passcode: 849150, Mobile: 929-205-6099 Line Dance w/Cynthia in the Basketball Court, corner of Asch Loop & Alcott Place, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

ZUMBA with Ola 1-2 p.m.

Zoom: https://zoom.us/ Meeting ID: 967 1196 0602 Passcode: 526096 Dial-in #: 1-929-205-6099

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

(Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Kosher JASA CLOSED

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

19

MUST WEAR MASKS AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING

Acceptance Meditation with Paola Friday, July 23, 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. https://zoom.us/j/4421366695 Meeting ID: 442 136 6695 One Tap Mobile: 929-205-6099

Whole Wheat Bread Fresh fruit

Egg Salad Pasta Primavera Cumcumber Salad

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk

*Menu subject to change without notice.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

JASA Co-op City NORC Program invites you for these Upcoming Activities JASA office is open for clients by appointment only. Please call 718-320-2066 for an appointment.

JASA will be closed on Monday, September 6, for Labor Day and Tuesday & Wednesday, September 7 & 8, respectively, for Rosh Hashanah Day 1 & 2.

Notary Services available at Einstein & Bartow – By appointment only. Call at 718-320-2066 for an appointment.

Line Dancing classes w/Bartow Swingers on Mon., Wed. & Fri. from 10-11 a.m. on the Greenway by the stage.

Every Tues. – Yoga Classes w/Margarita Titana, 9:30-10:30 a.m., https://zoom.us/, Dial-in: 929-2056099, Meeting ID: 984 0464 7097, Passcode: 952022.

(NEW) Every Tues. Walk with Ease w/Theresa Webb, 9-10 a.m. Call 718-320-2066 to register.

Every Tues., Purple Trail exercises w/Damion, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 to register.

Take Control of your Chronic Pain – Join Zoom meeting, Tues., Aug. 31-Sept. 14; 1-3 p.m., https://

us06web.zoom.us/, Meeting ID: 452 335 9970. To register, please contact Julissa Reynoso, 646-9461252, or Laura Brea, 646-982-8254.

Every Wed., Painting Classes – 9-11 a.m., https:// zoom.us/, Dial-in: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057.

Every Wed., Arthritis Exercise/Dance Class w/ Damion – 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Zoom meeting, https:// zoom.us/, Meeting ID: 967 0893 1492, Passcode: 491268. Dial-in: 1-929-205-6099.

(New) Line Dancing w/Ellie, Thurs., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Section 1 Greenway stage. For more information, please call 718-320-1345. Must wear masks and practice social distancing.

Meditation Class – GPC (Grandparents), 11 a.m.-12 p.m., third Thurs. of every month, https://bit. ly/35VESDV. Dial-in: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 991 1390 5105, Passcode: 170462 Every Thurs., Tablet class w/Ralph – 2:303:30 p.m., https://zoom.us/; Dial-in: 929-205-6099,

Meeting ID: 969 3895 8487, Passcode: 405723.

Every Sat., Zumba Classes w/Damion – 1-2 p.m.

Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/, Meeting ID: 929 2810 9097, Passcode: 374977, Dial in: 929-205-6099.

JASA Einstein Senior Center “Walk with Ease” w/Terry Webb starting Tues., Sept. 21, 9 a.m.

Meeting place: Einstein Senior Center. This event will be for six weeks. The meeting dates are Tues., 9/21, 9/28, 10/5, 10/12, 10/19 & 10/26. A gift will be given to participants who complete all six weeks. If interested, please email amoncrieffe@jasa.org.

JASA Dreiser Senior Center “Walk with Ease” adventure w/Terry Webb starting Wed., Sept. 22, 9:15 a.m. Meeting place: Greenway Section 1 at the stage. This event will be for six weeks. The meeting dates are 9/22, 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20 & 10/2.

A gift will be given to participants who complete all six weeks. If interested, please call the Dreiser office, 718-320-1345, or send an email to pogando@jasa.org.

Please register early.

20

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Newsong Church You’re Welcome at Newsong!

Newsong Church is a life-giving church that believes God has a purpose and a plan for your life.

It’s our goal to help you know God, find freedom, discover your purpose, and make a difference!

That's why you will find our Sunday Worship Experience to be so warm and friendly, we genuinely care about you! We're not concerned about where you've been, but where you're going. You see, we've all got a past, we've all made mistakes, and we still do. When you step into our worship experience you won't find a bunch of "Holier-than-thou" people pretending to have it all together. Instead, you'll find that we're all broken people, but we're allowing God to put us back together.

We're not perfect, but God is! As God puts us back together, we're realizing that although our past

has shaped us, it does not define us! We're finding out that not only does God love us with a radical and unconditional love, but that He loves us just as we are!

At Newsong Church, we believe that the Bible is the greatest book ever written, containing the greatest story ever told, and that each of us is part of His-story! This is why we teach God’s word in a way that is relevant and applicable to everyone. In fact, we're so passionate about God’s word, that we created a church just for children. It’s called "Kidsong!"

At Kidsong, our children learn about Jesus in a safe, fun, age-appropriate learning environment!

We hope that you will join us this Sunday at 11 a.m.!

Join us in-person, 135 Einstein Loop. Discounted parking is available in the parking garage. Deaf

interpretation is available during our adult worship experience. *Masks & registration required.

Online worship experience, www.newsongchurchnyc.org.

If you have any questions, you can contact us: Church Office: 140 Alcott Place, Bldg.19.

Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m-4 p.m.

Phone: 718-708-8385 Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org You can also interact with us on social media!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/newsongchurchbx; Twitter: @newsongchurchBX; Instagram: @ newsongchurchBX. Our Newsong family is here for you, stop by this Sunday and experience the difference!

God Bless you!

––Pastor Mike Tolone

Church of the New Vision The Church of the New Vision and its pastors, Kenneth and Deborah Hodge, welcome you to worship with us.

By the all-Sufficient Grace of God, we announce the church has reopened. There will be one service at 11:00 a.m. and Sunday School will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken. Welcome back. Services can also be viewed on YouTube after 1:00 p.m.

Our Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study starts at 7:00 p.m. on our Conference Line number: (646) 769-9909, Access Code: 3099388.

Once prayer has begun, please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity.

As we celebrate Jesus Christ, the very demonstration of God’s Love towards humanity (John 3:16), let’s continue to be thankful and grateful. Let us, as the Body of Christ, remain steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that our labor is not in vain.

Our verse of focus this year is: 2 Corinthians 12:9 “And He said unto me, my grace is sufficient for thee: My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Love of God, be with you all. Amen. –Pastors Kenneth & Deborah Hodge Sunday, August 29, Worship Service theme: “Where Are The Watchmen.”

Scripture: Isiah 62:6-7 “I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the Lord, keep not silence, And give him no rest, till he establish, and till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.”

Church of New Vision extends our deepest sympathies to the grieving families. May God grant you the strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time. Thanks for your contributions, Malachi 3:10.

Mailing address: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

––Brenda Brown

Chavurah Temple Beth El of Co-op City Rosh Hashanah begins on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 6.

Chavurah Temple Beth El of Co-op City will be having services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur this year, 5872. Rosh Hashanah will be on Zoom.

Yom Kippur will be in Dreiser Community Center, Room 6.

We need to know who will be on Zoom so we can make sure you have Books. We are using the same book as last year, Gates Of Repentance (Red Book).

There is no cost for attending any of the services.

Services are as follows: Evening Rosh Hashanah – on Zoom Monday (Labor Day), Sept. 6, 8:00 p.m.

Morning Rosh Hashanah – on Zoom Tuesday, Sept. 7, 10 a.m.

Dreiser Center, Room 6, for Yom Kippur Kol Nidre Evening Yom Kippur – Dreiser, Rm. 6 Wednesday, Sept. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Morning Yom Kippur – Dreiser, Room 6

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475.

Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic, St. Joseph’s Church has suspended services until further notice. However, we continue to worship via teleconference on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

You are invited to participate in these services by calling 1-425 436 6344, access code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

Please note that starting on Monday, August 9, until Friday, September 10, there will be no midday/noonday services during the week. These services will resume on Monday, September 13.

Grace and Peace!

––M. Chambers

Thursday, Sept. 16, 10:00 a.m.

Yiskor will be at the end of the Morning Service Public Yiskor, Dreiser, Room 6 Thursday, Sept. 16, 2:30 p.m.

Afternoon, Dreiser, Room 6 Thursday, Sept. 16, 4:00 p.m.

For the services on Yom Kippur, seating will be with social distancing.

Please send me an email or call me to let me know you will be on Zoom. I will then send you

the Zoom link. I want to make sure that everyone is able to join.

This is very important. Please let me know if you are getting on the Zoom via a computer, iPad, or on a phone. Send me an email: RabbiDennisTobin@ aol.com, to let me know you will be attending, or call me: 973-769-3915.

There will also be information coming for the Book of Remembrance.

––Rabbi Dennis Tobin

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Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

21

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City High Holiday Schedule Erev Rosh Hashanah is Monday, Sept. 6. Candle Lighting at 7:01 p.m. Mincha at 7:05 p.m.

Tuesday, September 7: Services at 9 a.m. Shofar at 10:45 a.m. Tashlich at 6:15 p.m. (at the water). Mincha at 6:55 p.m. Candle Lighting not before 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 8: Services at 9 a.m. Shofar at 10:45 a.m. Sermon by Cantor Ringel. Rosh Hashanah ends at 7:58 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 9: Fast of Gedaliah – No Services.

Saturday, Shabbat Shuva, Sept. 11: 20th Year Since World Trade Center Tragedy. Services at 10 a.m.

Erev Yom Kippur, Wednesday, Sept. 15: Candle Lighting, 6:46 p.m. Kol Nidre Services, 7 p.m.

Thursday, September 16 – Yom Kippur Day: Services at 9 a.m. Yizkor at 11 a.m. Mincha at 5 p.m. Neila (Closing of the Gates), 6 p.m. Maariv at 7:30 p.m.

Shofar blown, Fast ends at 7:44 p.m. L'Shana Tova Please come on time so our prayers will not be rushed, and we will not be forced to fast until later than required. Saying Yizkor for a loved one requires a pledge of Tzedaka (Charity). Please support our Shul.

You are invited for Festival Services – Sukkoth, Sept. 21, 22 and 25; Shmini Atzeret, Sept. 28, and Simchat Torah, Sept. 29, all at 10 a.m., followed by Kiddush.

Simchat Torah Night Services, 6:30 p.m., Sept. 28 (tentative, pending confirmation during morning services of Sept. 28).

The High Holiday are coming up soon and it is time to reserve your synagogue seats and make your charity donation. Call Marilyn, (347) 449-5005.

The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services which start at 10 a.m. Masks and social distancing enforced at all synagogue services.

The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place, rear lobby of 27B. It is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday, noon-2 p.m. Call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in, please leave a message.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Men are also needed to help make a minyan.

There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m. so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, Sept. 4, at 8:14 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, Sept. 10, at 6:52 p.m.

Good & Welfare We sell Tree Certificates in Honor or Memory of a loved one. Cost is only $15 per tree (call (347) 449-5005). Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To all members Happy Birthday all members celebrating birthdays/anniversaries in Sept.; please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

––Bruce Gitelson

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow at 11:00 a.m., using the following Zoom information: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102, or Zoom Telephone Conference Line, (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#.

On Sunday, September 12, at 11 a.m., we will celebrate Family and Friends Day and recognize National Grandparents’ Day. Please join us for this celebratory service.

The Wednesday Noon Day Bible Study class is on hiatus for the summer and will resume on Wednesday, September 8.

Thursday Prayer Warriors is on hiatus for the summer and will resume in September.

Friday Prayer held at 10 a.m. will continue through the summer. You can join using the Free Conference Call.com Line: 563-999-2090, PIN #: 660065.

Friday Evening Prayer is on hiatus for the summer and will resume in September.

Adult Sunday School is on hiatus until Sunday, September 19, at 9 a.m.

Sunday School for children and youth is on hiatus and will resume in September.

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle

100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, N.Y. 10475; 718-324-0334.

All services are held online until further notice. To join, call 720-740-9746, Access code: 8876631.

Sundays Worship Service begins at 11 a.m.

Wednesday: Prayer and fasting service every morning at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Bible study and prayer meetings will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m.

Effective Fervent Prayers change things. God’s power is released through His Word. Come and study the word of God; it can change your life!

Friday: Prayer and worship service will start at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: God has an eternal desire for fellowship with humans and has ordained fellowship among believers.

God created Adam and Eve, the first human community, making fellowship possible. He demonstrated His interest in entering that community by visiting their home, the Garden of Eden.

And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, “Where art thou?” Genesis 3:8-9 This event revealed God’s desire to fellowship with people under normal circumstances.

Adam responded by saying, I heard thy voice in the garden, and was afraid because I was naked, so I hid myself. Although it is impossible to hide from God, Adam and Eve attempted to do so not realizing that His eyes are watching us every day.

However, in spite of their sin, God did not abandon Adam and Eve after they disobeyed Him and ate from the tree that He told them not to touch. Instead He made coats of skins and covered them, and discussed the consequences of their sin, and announced an arrangement that would result in the possibility of full reconciliation between people and God. He then said to the serpent: I will put enmity between thee and the women, and between thy seed and her seed, it shall bruise thy head, and thou shall bruise his heel.

To have sweet fellowship with God, we must walk in the light.

1John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as He is the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Jesus also stated in John 8:12, I am light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life.

The intensity of God’s desire to fellowship with people is demonstrated by His willingness to give hHis only begotten Son to make reconciliation possible between humans and Himself.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Covid-19 vaccination is available for those 12 and older. If you are a Montefiore patient, you can schedule an appointment at www.montefiore.org. Montefiore also has a Covid-19 Hotline, which can be reached at 844-444-2819.

Please keep each other in prayer and be wise in your decisions. Continue to wear your masks, practice social distancing and stay safe!

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

––Hattie L. Lucas

22

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

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MARY KAY CONSULTANT

Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497

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

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290

www.co-opsales.info DONʼT PAY MORE AT YOUR LOCAL HARDWARE STORE!

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

“When you see me, You’ll know me.”

Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week

Vertical, Mini, Wood, Pleats

• ALL MAKES & MODELS

NEW STYLE BLINDS

Serving Co-op City for over 25 years.

CO-OP SALES BLINDS!

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS

One Coat – You Supply the Paint – 2nd Coat 1/2 price if needed

Living Room – $140 Dining Room – $90 Kitchen Small – $80 Kitchen Large – $140 Bathroom – $80

Professional Floor Waxing

9/25

9/18

CLEANING SERVICES 12/25

Bedroom Small – $120 Bedroom Large – $140 Hallway Small – $120 Hallway Large – $140 Foyer S $70; M $90; L $140

LEGAL NOTICES

Jaze Jeanye Creative Artist LLC, Art. of Org. filed with SSNY on March 11, 2021. Office : Bronx, County, SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, P. O. Box 159, New York , NY 10475 . Purpose : Any lawful Activity. 9/4 “Notice of Formation of VeneBearBub LLC Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/29/21. Office location: Bronx County. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: VeneBearBub, 120 Aldrich Street, 12f Bronx NY 10475. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.” 9/18

Five coats of thermoplastic industrial high-gloss, long lasting wax, detergent resisting, non-slip, nonsmell and fast drying!

Living Room – $200 Hallway Small – $125 Dining Room – $150 Hallway Large – $200 Kitchen Large – $250 Bedroom – $150

Also: Sanding, Sealing, Priming and Polyurethane; Removal of Carpet, Panel Glue, Wallpaper Paste and Grease.

Call Norman: 917-945-4892 Call Rueben: 917-736-0114

9/11

REUPHOLSTERY

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.

STYLISH DECORATORS

3314 White Plains Rd., Bronx, NY 10467

9/25

RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

SPOONER

DOMESTIC SERVICE

• Basic Cleaning $100 • Deep Cleaning $150 • Non-Medical Senior Care $90 • 4 Hour Min. + 8.88% tax • Bonded • 7 Days • Cash, Pay-Pal www.spoonercleaning.com 11/27 (718) 320-5112

Advertise in the Co-op City Times!

Call for rates!

Ads starting at $8/week!

718-320-3300 x3384

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 one of the following methods:

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

Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Public Safety

(Continued from page 7)

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. Your actions are helpful to our goal of crime reduction and enforcement of quality of life violations.

There have been recent increases of Covid-19 cases, including new variants of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and the New York City Department of Health have reinstated the mask wearing mandates in most indoor situations, even for vaccinated individuals. Check with your doctor to see if a vaccination is right for you. The Pfizer vaccination has received full FDA approval. Getting a vaccination and wearing a mask have been shown to slow the spread of Covid-19.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety is asking cooperators to social distance and wear masks or face coverings. Wearing a mask or face covering is especially important in the public areas of the buildings including the 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 stop the spread of Covid-19 and other illnesses. Please follow the latest information provided by the CDC and the New York City Department of Health and their recommendations on health and safety during the Coronavirus pandemic. Be a good cooperator and be Co-op City Strong.

If You See Something, Say Something!

Working Together To Keep Co-op City Safe!

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

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

• Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked.

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

• Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD.

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

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Co-op City Times / September 4, 2021

Co-op Insurance

The Wright Agency: Serving Co-op City for 40 Years!

Riverbay Requires Co-op Shareholders to Obtain Coverage!

Your Co-op is an Investment Worth Protecting!

Protection To Cover Your Belongings Against: • Fire & Smoke • Water damage from plumbing

We Offer:

• Guest medical protection • Certain personal liabilities

• Theft Coverage • And so much more!

Other Lines of Insurance:

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

• Auto • Homeowners • Life

Licensed Staff

Anthony Wright Agency Owner

Low Rates For The Entire Year!

Nichola Ferguson Licensed Insurance Agent

Lawrence Newkirk Family Protection Specialist

COURTEOUS STAFF!

Albert Issifu Licensed Insurance Agent / Office Manager

The Wright Agency

COVID COMPLIANT!

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

(near Eastchester Road)

New Office Hours: Mon. – Thurs.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday by appointment only.

1435 East Gun Hill Road Call Us Today!

718-671-8000

FREE NOTARY SERVICE FOR ALL CO-OP CITY RESIDENTS!