Co-op City Times 9/11/2021

G’mar Chatima Tovah

Vol. 56 No. 37

Saturday, September 11, 2021

HCR Virtual Carrying Charge Conference Tues., Sept. 21 Tune in via Webex at 6:30 p.m.

BY ROZAAN BOONE

The New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) will host a virtual carrying charge conference via Webex on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. to listen to shareholders’ opinions about the proposed 2% carrying charge increase before the HCR Commissioner makes a determination on Riverbay’s application.

The virtual conference hosted by HCR, Co-op City’s state supervisory agency, will culminate a 30-day comment period during which shareholders have been encouraged to write to or email their opinions about the proposed increase in maintenance charges to be implemented on Jan. 1, 2022 – if HCR approves.

A 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.

After hearing from shareholders, HCR accountants, attorneys and housing management representatives will review the comments and weigh the impact of the increased financial obligation on shareholders. (Continued on page 3)

Cooper Place Gas Shutdown Update

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

After conducting gas line testing and repair activities for apartments in Cooper Place Townhouses, both Management and residents now wait for the NYC Department of Buildings to begin their testing to resume gas service.

As of Wednesday, Sept. 8, Riverbay plumbing contractor, Express Plumbing, sent the Department of Buildings a request to inspect the location for gas leaks.

Noel Ellison, Riverbay's General Manager, told the Co-op City Times, "Our plumber and Riverbay Maintenance have been able to get into all of the affected apartments and replace the flex hoses and valve to each stove.

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COVID-19-Related Unemployment Benefits Ended This Week

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Pandemic-related unemployment benefits ended this week on Monday, September 6.

Four types of federal unemployment benefits, which were initially established under the March 2020 CARES Act, will no longer continue.

Just over 12 million individuals were collecting unemployment aid as of August.

Below are the four federal programs that officially stopped on September 6: 1. Pandemic Unemployment Assistance 2. Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation 3. Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation 4. Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) This particular program helped individuals who could no longer work due to the pressure of their child care needs or who were responsible for personally taking care of a loved one. The program also offered financial support for parttime workers, self-employed individuals and freelancers. As of last month, just over 5.4 million people were receiving aid from the PUA program, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) Long-term unemployed individuals who exhausted their particular state’s unemployment benefit period, which is typically just over six months, were entitled to this program. The federal aid would give long-term unemployed individuals (Continued on page 2)

$1.25

Examination of Our Finances President’s Report

Bernard Cylich To my Jewish friends and neighbors, La Shana Tova – a happy, healthy, and peaceful New Year.

Labor: The True Source of Wealth On September 6, our nation celebrated Labor Day to honor labor as the true source of all wealth.

It is labor that builds homes, roads, and bridges, that manufactures cars, planes, and clothing. Farm workers, mostly immigrants, harvest fruits, vegetables, and corn, butcher livestock and then truck the carcasses to market. Teachers educate our children, and health workers provide essential care throughout our lives. Since the 1980s, labor’s productivity has increased (Continued on page 4)

Bartow Remains Closed as Clean-up Continues after Tropical Storm Ida Safety Dept. & Contractors work to avoid mold

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

With many residents in the tri-state area still dealing with the effects of overwhelming flooding from the remnants of Tropical Storm Ida, so are staff at Co-op City’s Bartow Center – as clean-up continues after some describe the flooding as a “river” running through the building.

Contractors and Riverbay staff continue to clean up the mess in the Bartow Center left behind by last week’s storm which left the building underwater and with long-standing damage throughout the structure.

Bartow Center hallways and offices are covered with fans and humidifiers to extract water from all areas.

According to Andrew Staple of ITS Environmental Services: “Thousands of gallons of water ran through the structure. All of the flooring, carpets, lower walls, are all damaged. We’re in the drying process right now, by Monday or (Continued on page 5)

Floor tiles in Bartow’s Room 31 had to be completely taken up after flood waters submerged the entire flooring of the building.

Photo by ITS Environmental Services

At-Home Vaccinations Available For All New Yorkers

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

While New York City continues to battle the very contagious Delta variant, the battle to vaccinate every eligible New Yorker rages on too.

The NYC Test and Trace Corp is hoping to persuade unvaccinated individuals with a program that would vaccinate them in the comfort of their own home. Any New Yorker who is eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine is also eligible for this program.

All three vaccine brands, Comirnaty, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, are available in the NYC Test and Trace Corp at-home vaccination program.

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Unemployment

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021 Continued from page 1)

additional weeks of jobless benefits. As of last month, 3.8 million people were collecting benefits from the PEUC program, according to the DOL. Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) Individuals who were eligible to receive unemployment benefits were also entitled to a supplemental $300 per week. This supplemental federal benefit was intended to help individuals offset potential lost wages Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation Individuals who worked as both an independent contractor and an employee received $100 per week under this program.

In New York City, an estimated 750,000 to 800,000 people are affected by the expiration of pandemic-related federal unemployment benefits, according to an August report by James Parrott, an economist from the New School’s Center for New York City Affairs.

Unfortunately, the same demographic that was disproportionately affected by COVID-19-related job displacement is the same one that is most impacted by this week’s expiration in pandemic-related federal unemployment benefits, also according to Parrott’s report. The demographic most affected again is low-wage workers of color, specifically Black and Latino Americans.

The New School Center for New York City Affairs also analyzed Current Population Survey data from the U.S. Census Bureau and found that between April and June of this year, the unemployment rate for Black New Yorkers was 12% and 12.4% for Latino New Yorkers. Meanwhile, the citywide unemployment rate during April and June of this year was 11%.

Some legislators in Congress support an ending to pandemic-related federal unemployment benefits and see the benefits as a deterrent in motivating people to find jobs. Currently, there is no plan or momentum in Congress to support a possible extension of pandemic-related federal unemployment benefits.

However, a recent analysis done by the Wall Street Journal found that so far, the states that ended federal unemployment benefits early have had the same job growth as the states which continued pandemic-related aid.

“While the United States has spent record sums on unemployment benefits, the job is not done. Millions of workers remain out of work, and despite progress, the labor market is nowhere near its pre-COVID19 levels,” said the Century Foundation, a public policy think tank, in a report released earlier this month.

“Cutting off benefits will leave 7.5 million workers without critical assistance they need to keep themselves financially stable until they can find a new job.

Imposing such deep hardship on families and the economy, is an unforced economic policy error that can and should be avoided,” the report goes on to say.

Last month, $6 billion per week was supplied back into the US economy by pandemic-related unemployment benefits, according to the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

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 11, 2021

Co-op City Times 2nd COMBING

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

9.11 Remembrance at Rivers Run Garden Today If you would like to share your memories or experience on 9.11, come to the Rivers Run Community Garden today, Saturday, September 11. The garden is located on Co-op City Blvd., next to the baseball field.

The floor will be open to anyone who would like to share their remembrance of the events that transpired this day 20 years ago. In addition to sharing memories, garden-grown produce will be enjoyed while supplies last. Next week, join us for Mirrors of Blackness. Look for the flyers and our article in the Co-op City Times for details.

Hutch. River Cleanup Hutchinson River Restoration Project is sponsoring a canoe cleanup at the Thomas Pell Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunday, Sept. 19, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Meeting location: City Island Road and Shore Road (Bx29 bus stop).

Canoes, tools, gloves, bags and snacks and water will be provided. Bring a reuseable container and comfy shoes. Ride a canoe or stay on shore. Register: https://bit.ly/HRRP_Cleanup Website: www.hrrp.org; Facebook: @hutchinsonrrp; Instagram @hutchprotector

Power Plant to begin preparing for heat change-over soon Management and Power Plant staff will meet this week to review the long-term weather forecast so preparations can begin at the plant to shut down air conditioning and start up heat operations for the winter.

More details will be forthcoming as they become available.

Front Page

Obituary –– Patricia Mayo-Bonaparte Ms. Patricia Mayo-Bonaparte, long-time president of the Building 33 Association and an active member of the Co-op City community, has passed on. She was 83. Affectionately known to all as Pat, she was the second of six children born to Nathaniel and Gwendolyn Hunter on July 26, 1938, in Montclair, NJ. She grew up on Clinton Avenue, Bronx, NY and received her education from the New York City Public School System. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1957, which is where she met and married her best friend, Charles Bernard Mayo, and bore three children. In 1973, she met and married her current husband, Walter Bonaparte, and together they share one son.

Pat worked for the family business, Gerties Laundry and Cleaners, the United States Postal Service, and the New York City Transit Authority, the latter of which she retired from in 1993, after 21 years of service. She spent many years raising her grandchildren before joining many community organizations in Co-op City. She was Vice President of the Coalition of African American Churches & Community Organizations, she was President of the Building 33 Association, and was a member of the Section 5 Association, Harriet Tubman Democratic Club, and the NAACP. Additionally, she hosted many family dinners, receptions, Tupperware parties, Pampered Chef parties, jewelry parties, art parties, New Year’s Eve parties, luncheons, cruises, ski trips, and all other sorts of activities.

Pat had a heart of gold and a wonderful personality. She

HCR

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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.

HCR staff will then make a carrying charge increase recommendation to the commissioner. However, HCR Commissioner Ruthanne Visnauskas will make the final decision 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 financial obligations, 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 comes to a decision, 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, and the effective date of the increase.

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 following several months of negotiations between the Board and Management to lessen financial burden on shareholders.

In addition to the increase in monthly maintenance, HCR has already issued approval to Riverbay to increase some 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 were implemented effective September 1, 2021. The equity increase applies to new sales only and increases 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 current shareholders transferring to smaller apartments and those acquiring apartments through family succession.

Prior to approving these increases in service charges, HCR solicited comments from shareholders. (See Co-op City Times, Saturday, May 8, 2021).

HCR is now specifically accepting shareholders’ comments on the 2% carrying charge increase slated for

made a great and lasting impression wherever she went and always lived her life to the fullest, not letting any grass grow under her feet.

Funeral Services for the late Pat Bonaparte will be held today, Sat., Sept. 11 at First Baptist Church of Bronxville, 407 New Rochelle Road, Bronxville, NY 10708.

Viewing will be from 2-4 p.m., followed by service at 4 p.m.

Pat leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, Walter Bonaparte; her children, Charles “Chip” Mayo Jr., Andrea Mayo, Derrick Mayo, and Walter “Butch” Bonaparte Jr.; sister, Theresa Hunter; grandchildren, India Mayo, Shadae Pierce, Leanna Mayo, Christie Black, Charisse Black, Desiree Bonaparte, Derrick Dikembe Mayo, Destiny Bonaparte, Dakari Mayo, Kamelah Lauder, Kamaya Bonaparte, Taylor Bonaparte, Whitney Bonaparte, and Aspen Bonaparte; great-grandchild, Nia Cobbs; daughter-in-law, Chantel Mayo, Brothers-in-Law, Melvin Mayo, Donald Bonaparte and Alfred “Pop” Bonaparte; Sisters-inLaw, Joyce Mayo, Ida Hunter, Cynthia Stewart and Deborah Brown; and although too many to mention, her extra special friends, Mary Jenkins, Louise Brown, Maude Mason, Tijuana Power, Lisa Young-Wiggins, Taina Grant, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Directions for joining the HCR Virtual Carrying Charge Conference Tuesday, Sept. 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 implementation on January 1, 2022. Written comments must be postmarked by Sept. 21, 2021 and mailed to: George Simon 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 Sept. 21, 2021.

The steps to join the virtual carrying charge conference on Tuesday, Sept. 21, at 6:30 p.m. are outlined below.

Shareholders may join the meeting using their computers, mobile devices and telephones.

Those who are hearing impaired and wish to attend the virtual carrying charge conference on Sept. 21 must submit a written request to Riverbay at least two weeks prior to the conference. These requests must be emailed to: RiverbayFinance@riverbaycorp.com.

Shareholders or their representatives can also request to view the corporation’s financial records during the 30-day comment period. The financial records are housed at the Administration Office, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

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Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

President’s Report

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dramatically by 253%, yet workers’ share of the wealth they created has plummeted to only 144%, and their income has stagnated. During the same period, the riches of the captains of Wall Street have risen a thousandfold. Most shameful, their profits have soared during the pandemic, while millions of workers are unemployed, have lost their homes, and countless families go to bed hungry night after night.

We cannot ignore the fact that organized labor championed the enactment of Social Security, unemployment insurance, the 40-hour work week, minimum wages, and other benefits. Unions fought to outlaw child labor and sweatshop conditions, and they supported the construction of public housing and the passage, in New York State, of the MitchellLama program.

President Biden’s administration, together with the Democratically-controlled Congress, is attempting to improve conditions for working people, boost funding for social programs, and roll back tax cuts for the rich. Special note must be made of the progressive leadership of our representative in the House, Jamaal Bowman, and Senator Chuck Schumer.

Our Special Reason to Honor Unions Cooperators have a particular reason to honor organized labor. Our beautiful, affordable community was sponsored and designed not by for-profit real estate developers but by visionary leaders of the Amalgamated Clothing Workers. The founders of the union, over a hundred years ago, were largely young immigrant women who organized garment workers, held strikes to secure their rights, and picketed against sweatshop conditions and for living wages. For these reasonable acts of protest, the workers faced brutal attacks by company thugs and by the police; many union members were jailed. In the end, the intrepid workers won. And, as noted, the union’s visionary leaders established affordable cooperative housing for working families (and we, as cooperators, are the beneficiaries of these forward-looking, community-minded union members).

Fifty-five years ago, under the M-L law, they sponsored and built Co-op City, setting aside 80% of our land for open space and public schools. The spacious apartments, constructed in parklike settings, have ample closet space, parque floors, and central A/C. The sponsors established something unheard of – a non-discriminatory apartment waiting list. And a half-century later, in spite of hundreds of millions spent to repair construction defects and to counter graft, kickbacks, and mismanagement, our community remains, thanks to those visionary leaders, the best deal in town.

Gratitude to Local Heroes Fighting Hurricane Ida Heartfelt thanks to our courageous and dedicated

Cooper Place We have since performed a series of pressure tests and the gas lines have held.”

Since the pressure tests have been deemed successful by staff, tests now need to be conducted by the DOB, and if successful, another test and inspection by ConEd will follow.

“If the City’s test passes, we will reach out to Con Ed for an inspection and test. If that passes, the Con Ed Gas Turn-On team will be called in to turn the gas back on,” said Mr. Ellison.

A quick responding resident in one of the apartments moved swiftly, responding to their carbon monoxide alarm. After hearing the four rapid beeps of their carbon monoxide alarm, the resident called the fire department, who then detected gas coming from a crawl space and shut down the gas line, affecting the cluster of townhouses.

In the event of a carbon monoxide leak, Riverbay’s Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto says one should

Riverbay staff, who braved Hurricane Ida’s torrential storm and responded to General Manager Noel Ellison’s call on Wednesday night, September 1, to tackle the unprecedented flash flooding in Bartow Center and in scores of elevator pits and basements.

With no letup, they labored overnight and into the next day to overcome the damage Ida left in its wake.

Ida’s torrential rain overloaded New York City’s storm sewers and inundated the entire Bartow Center—sparing no office—under one foot of water.

In 12 elevator pits, the rain overloaded the sump pumps, shutting down 24 elevators.

Like a fire brigade, Riverbay staff rushed into Bartow administration offices, sloshing through knee-deep water, disconnecting power cords, securing electrical closet distribution panels as well as our computer data center. And while workers were scrambling to protect our computers, sweeping and pumping the water out, Noel received an alert from the National Emergency Center of a pending tornado. He immediately directed our emergency crews to seek shelter in building basements or garages until the tornado passed.

Champion Elevators and Adriatic Artisan Work responding to Noel’s appeal, sent their employees to help pump water out of Bartow as well as elevator pits. By late Thursday afternoon, September 2, most elevators were back in service, and the water in Bartow Center was swept and pumped away (this work is continuing). Island Team, a remediation company, was called in to remove all new floors in Bartow and install dehumidifiers to prevent mold infestation.

Ida’s fury caused fatalities in some parts of the city, but, to the credit of Riverbay’s Management, staff, and Champion and Adriatic, not a single injury or fatality occurred in Co-op City. To those who rushed in to protect our community, we express our gratitude.

An Examination of Our Finances Last week, I signed an engagement letter from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Bank (our mortgagee), authorizing the bank to submit an application to the federal Housing and Urban Development Agency (HUD) to guarantee a new loan to refinance our existing one.

To date, the balance of our current mortgage obtained in 2012 is approximately $526 million.

Riverbay paid-off close to $100 million of the present loan.

The terms of this new refinanced loan offered

by Wells Fargo are the same as our current loan – $621.5 million, for 35 years at a fixed annual 2.45% interest rate – our annual debt service payment should remain the same – approximately $31

million annually. Although we will be subject to a $6.2 million pre-payment penalty, it should not impact our carrying charges. We expect this loan to provide our corporation with a much-needed additional $100 million cash, the difference between the current balance owed the present loan and the new refinanced one. The additional $100 million will fund costly capital projects. Topping the list of vital capital projects is the upgrading of our dual temperature convector system to reduce annual floor damage from flooding.

HRC Conference As noted in current Co-op City Times issues, New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR), the state agency overseeing Co-op City, has invited cooperators to comment in writing or to participate in a virtual conference on September 21, regarding the Board of Directors’ submission of a proposed 2 percent carrying charge increase, scheduled to be implemented on January 1, 2022. Based on cooperator comments and reviewing documentation Riverbay submitted, HCR staff will make a recommendation to the HCR Commissioner on whether the Board’s proposed increase will be sufficient or not to meet Riverbay’s financial obligations. Commissioner Ruthanne Visnauskas will have the last word regarding the increase and she will issue a “Carrying Charge Order” to be posted in the CC Times.

Why The Increases?

An obvious question that cooperators may ask is this: If, on March 28, 2021, Riverbay had a $38.9 million surplus from operating funds, plus another $7.8 million from reserve accounts, why did the Board recommend increases for garage and storage fees, and in equity, including a 2 percent carrying charge increase? A fair question.

Our corporation is required, by city, state, and even federal laws, to address numerous infrastructure issues to protect the health and safety of all our cooperators. The estimated cost of addressing those issues is $74.5 million over 2 years. Since our available cash was $46.7 million, we faced a shortfall of $27.2 million. To comply with our fiduciary responsibilities, the Board had little choice but to recommend a series of increases that would generate sufficient income to overcome the shortfall.

However, our consolation is that if Management had not generated the $38.9 million in operating savings, we would, in my opinion, be facing mandated double-digit carrying charge increases.

Remain Health Vigilant May all of us in Co-op City, residents and staff, continue to remain health vigilant, wear a mask, and keep social distances. Unfortunately, we are not yet out of the woods in the battle against Covid.

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quickly react if the carbon monoxide alarm starts beeping, do not ignore the warning.

Mr. Barzelatto said: “Leave immediately because exposure to carbon monoxide can quickly lead to health risks including heart disease or fatality. Get pets and everyone out of the house for fresh air.

Call 9-1-1.”

Carbon Monoxide is known as the silent killer; it has no taste or smell – the reason it is essential to have working carbon monoxide detectors.

“Once the FDNY responds, they will check the apartment to determine if there is carbon monoxide present. Do not re-enter the apartment until the FDNY determines that it is safe to do so,” said Mr. Barzelatto.

Mr. Barzelatto also spoke of natural gas used for stoves in Co-op City and safety measures one should take if there’s a possible leak.

He said: “If you smell gas, leave immediately

and call Maintenance once outside. Do not open windows, turn on or off lights, and only call while outside the apartment. Most importantly, gas leaking from the stove will not activate any smoke or carbon monoxide detector!”

Overall, availability and results from both DOB and ConEd inspections will determine the restoration of gas to the area.

“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,” General Manager Ellison told the Co-op City Times last week.

The Cooper Place Townhouse gas shutdown only affects units one thru 16. Riverbay Management says they will continue to update affected residents on the progress as they develop.

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

Bartow Clean-up

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Tuesday of next week, that stage of cleaning will be done, where everything is dry.”

Mold has already begun to take one of the offices, making it a potential hazard for employees and residents to be in the building. As a result, staff members will continue to work from home, if possible, while the clean-up is underway.

Riverbay’s Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto said: “We’ve already had mold start to grow in one of

the offices expeditiously. Mold needs several things to grow – warm temperature, a food source (paper/ wood), and moisture.”

Contractors will cut out sheetrock from the building that absorbed water and remove all wood flooring and furniture to prevent further molding. All damaged items will be thrown away and removed from the building.

“There’s not an office that’s not affected in Bartow –– conference rooms, utilities rooms, computer rooms.

Clean-up of Riverbay administrative offices and meeting rooms in the Bartow Center will continue into next week as Riverbay staff and contractor, ITS Environmental Services, work with Riverbay Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto who is overseeing the effort to dry out moisture and help prevent mold growth in the structure. Flood waters from Tropical Storm Ida entered the entire building last week.

Photos by Rozaan Boone and ITS Environmental Services.

Every square inch of Bartow on the main floor has been affected by the flooding,” said Mr. Barzelatto.

The next stage after the drying process will be the rebuilding process. It will take about two weeks for the building to dry. Due to the impact, some areas have taken longer to dry than others.

“Everyday I see improvements, from where we started to where we are now – it’s getting better,” said Mr. Barzelatto.

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Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

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

Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

Letters cannot exceed – verify •be–typed.

• • letters – • –must – •Co-op – City Times – • by –• – •every – •Monday – •–to350 •be–words.

• –Ideally, they should All be• in the office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, 3 p.m. considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Letters to the Editor

A Community Activist Has Transitioned

Good Samaritans

To the Editor: Let there be memories of Pat Mayo Bonaparte, a consistent community leader in Section 5. Sincere condolences to her family, wishing them strength during this sad time.

Pat welcomed me into the Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club 20 years ago. She has been a consistent and dear friend since that time. Together, we came up with the idea of a Scholarship Fund. The recipient who lived in Building 35 has since graduated from college, is working and has a family. Let there be memories of the dances she initiated in Section 5 to raise funds for community events, always selling the most tickets. What a joy of having been part of Pat’s life journey.

She adored her family, always sharing the success of her awesome grandchildren. Even as her health deteriorated, she kept smiling. She loved Co-op City and served as the building association president. She will be remembered for the laughter she would bring with her uncensored opinions.

To the family, remember there is a circle of friends surrounding you in Section 5 and throughout Co-op City, lifting you up in prayer.

My sincere thanks for the cooperator/organization that taught us the value of a “Go Bag” and Preparedness in case of a natural disaster. It was so sad to witness so many people who did not have a back pack on with personal documents during the last devastating rain storm. Hopefully, we can revisit this training in the near future.

See Something, Say Something: Cooperators are commended for reporting those who attempt to keep gasoline mini bikes in their apartments. Collectively, we must protect our homes and be thankful we have a safe place to call home.

––Evelyn M. Turner

To the Editor: As I was walking to work on Thursday, I saw a small dog lying in the grass on Asch Loop. At first, I thought the dog was dead but saw that the little guy was still alive.

After failed attempts with animal control and NYPD, a man walking by saw my umbrella over the dog and suggested I call CCPD. CCPD officers came right away with a van and with great care placed the injured pup into the carrier. I was told they were going to bring him to the animal hospital.

First, I want to thank the man who stood with me as I was hysterically crying. He kept me (somewhat) calm and it was because of him I even called CCPD. Second, CCPD, in my opinion, those officers went above and beyond. Thank you for showing compassion and for giving me some peace of mind that the dog is going to be taken care of.

––Holly Malone

Notice to Shareholders

Joining Riverbay Board Committees Shareholders who would like to serve on Riverbay Board Committee(s) should contact ONLY the respective chair of the committee(s). The chairpersons of Board committees were announced in the Saturday, August 21, 2021 issue of the Co-op City Times. Contact information for each committee chair was listed in Director Claudia Sampson’s viewpoint, also published in the Aug. 21st issue of the newspaper (page 8). Director Sampson chairs the Board’s Committee on Committees which makes recommendations for Board Committees and chairpersons of those committees to the Board President.

Shareholders are encouraged to peruse the committees and choose the ones best suited to their skill set and expertise to help move the business of Riverbay Corporation forward. Please note that application for a committee seat cannot be made through Social Media or any third party source.

Once a committee(s) of interest has been identified, contact the chair directly to be considered for membership. Be sure to include in your outreach to the committee chair a brief introduction of yourself, describing all relevant engagements/activities, and what skills you will bring to add value to the committee’s work.

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

Let’s Cut The Budget Here To the Editor: In the past, I ask everyone, when did a written request to lower your increases come to life? Why is the budget here always exploding when it is presented? We have tightened our belts to the last notch.

Many of us can deal with a 2% increase if we were allowed to go to work and the government stops deciding what businesses can open. Write to your leadership to create jobs and eliminate unnecessary handouts. And most of all, let’s cut the budget here. I’ve been here 20 years and it’s scary times when a new budget is presented.

Written comments on the increase are for naught but pressuring our leaders to decrease the budget is necessary.

––Nick Liberati

Illegal Dumping in Section 5 To the Editor: There is illegal dumping going on in Section 5. There is a garbage can in the vicinity of the ash cart room in Building 30B, household garbage bags are being dumped at the location. It appears the homeowners on Boller and Hunter Avenues are transporting household garbage into our community. I have observed and reported illegal dumping at the two dumpster pads for the Earhart Townhouses. There are children and adults from the private homes on Hunter Avenue opposite garage 8, walking household garbage into our community. I have observed people driving up in vehicles dumping garbage.

In my opinion, Public Safety should be deployed to address this problem, it is already out of control. We need to know how Management will address this issue going forward. Do we have any legal recourse?

The dumping costs us to remove the garbage, it leaves less space for our residents to discard their garbage. It attracts pests, which impacts all of us.

––Ruth Sharma

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

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Toriea McCauseland

Junior Associate Editor

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Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

7

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

CCPD Offers “Back to School” Safety Tips Public Safety Report

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

As summer goes off into the sunset, the Department of Public Safety would like to remind residents of the following tips to keep everyone safe for the “Back to School” season. This year, New York City Public School students return to school on Monday, September 13, 2021. Drivers, parents and students each have a role in assuring a safe school year. This is a good opportunity to take time out of your busy schedule to make sure that all members of your household are familiar with the safety rules that pertain to them.

Traveling to school on a school bus helps ease traffic congestion in and around schools, which adds to the safety of all students. Most school bus accidents occur when kids enter or exit the school bus. Children ages 5 to 7 are at the greatest risk. Children may be in a hurry to enter or exit the school bus. They may have little experience with traffic and be unable to judge the speed of oncoming traffic in order to safely cross streets. Children believe that drivers will see them and stop and allow them to cross. It is essential that motorists never pass a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing. Never, ever pass a stopped school bus with the stop sign out or lights flashing; this can result in a summons being issued. Safety of children is of extreme importance. Proactive enforcement is conducted to prevent a tragedy.

Instruct children to leave the bus and stand on the sidewalk where the driver can see them and never cross in front of the school bus. Young children may drop something and run into the path of the bus to pick it up. Parents need to instruct children that they should get the help of the driver or another adult if they drop something. Children should never reenter the danger zone, 10 feet around the school bus on all sides. Teach children to take 5 GIANT steps away from the bus in all directions.

Children should keep all items in their backpack. Your child should be able to easily lift their backpack. If they cannot easily lift their backpack, it might be too heavy. This prevents the backpack from impeding the child’s movement.

Send school supplies into school over the course of several days, if necessary.

Check with the child’s teacher if you feel the child is regularly bringing too many heavy textbooks back and forth.

Backpacks and garments should also not have any long straps or drawstrings that can get caught in the bus’s doors or railings. Sweatshirts manufactured prior to this safety rule or adult sized sweatshirts that have drawstrings should always be removed when worn by a child. These strings also present a hazard on the playground. A manageable sized backpack that fits everything the child needs to carry and a sweatshirt without hood strings are important items to keep your child safe.

Parents should always make certain that children get to the bus stop on time, wait away from the street and avoid horseplay near the street. Parents should make sure that an adult arrives at the bus stop early enough to receive young children from the school bus. Motorists should allow extra travel time and avoid areas around schools during arrival, departure and lunch periods. Use extra care to watch for children who may dart out in front of your vehicle to cross the street. Remember that it is always illegal to pass a stopped school bus with its lights flashing from either direction, even on a divided roadway. Children are our greatest resource; we must take every step to keep them safe.

The New York City Department of Transportation recently initiated a program making electric scooters available for rent throughout the community. No docking stations or official staging locations exist as of this date. This program and its impact on our community, both positive and negative, are being assessed to determine how we might be able to adjust the program to reduce any negative impact. Public Safety requests that if you avail yourself of one of these scooters, once you complete your rental, please be respectful to your fellow shareholders.

We request that you place the scooter you are parking in a location that does not interfere with other shareholders entering or leaving our buildings. Avoid leaving them in the middle of the sidewalk, and do not place them where they

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. may create a trip hazard. As Co-op City has a large elderly population, be mindful that our senior citizens may have a difficult time navigating around these scooters if left in an inconvenient location. Please, be mindful that the scooters should never be brought into one of our buildings or left in a lobby.

For the weeks following Labor Day weekend, we remind cooperators of these summer rules. Consumer fireworks of any type are highly dangerous and are illegal in New York State. Zero-tolerance enforcement will be conducted by the Co-op City Department of Public Safety as well as the New York City Police Department.

Barbequing is not permitted on any of the public areas of Co-op City. Strict guidelines are set forth by the New York City Fire Department. Propane tanks are strictly prohibited by the New York City Fire Department in any multiple family dwellings. Charcoal grills are also prohibited. Residents are also reminded that Bike Riding is not permitted near buildings, in shopping malls or anywhere else signs prohibiting bicycle riding are posted. Bicycle rules also pertain to electric scooters and bicycles. If using a rental electric scooter, please be sure to park it in an area that does not block the walkway or street.

If your plans consuming alcoholic beverages be sure not to operate a motor vehicle. Also, be sure to buckle your seatbelt, obey speed limits and avoid distractions when driving. School will be open, drive safely. Never pass a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing.

The Department of Public Safety would like to remind cooperators that it is a violation of your lease to place food out for animals to eat. A Community Complaint may be issued for littering to anyone who puts food out for any reason. Well intentioned cooperators may think they are putting food out for stray cats or birds but the food ends up attracting rats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes or other animals which can be a threat to residents.

Feeding wildlife such as geese also tends to change the migration pattern of these animals as they end up not flying south for the winter. This was the case a few winters ago in the New York area where many geese were found starved to death when they did not fly south for the winter and their normal food source was covered by deep snow. Food placed out for animals is often lacking in the nutrition needed by the animals and serves to upset their ecological balance.

Please resist the urge to place food out for animals in Co-op City or elsewhere.

(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 11, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Sonia Feliciano, First Vice President

Buildings & Grounds Committee Continues Driving Progress to Improve Our Quality of Life Dear Fellow Shareholders, Hope everyone is doing well.

We are commemorating an important national event today: • September 11 marks 20 years that our lives were changed forever. This is a day of remembrance as we pay tribute all the victims and survivors of September 11. We will never forget those who died and those who were our heroes on this day.

I am fortunate and honored once again to chair the 2021/2022 Buildings and Grounds Committee with co-Chair Angelo Rosario. Building and Grounds is made up of building presidents, Management and representatives. Buildings and Grounds, in working with Management, lends support towards being the eyes and ears of the community. We work together to ensure the buildings are well maintained, security is present, grounds are kept clean amongst many other things. The goal for this coming year is to analyze the needs and future needs of our buildings through a well-drawn-out assessment, improving the existing property while working and making recommendations to Management. I have received inquiries about

Vaccinations ––––

interest in Buildings and Grounds and I will contact everyone who has reached out to me. We plan to start our committee on the 2nd Tuesday in October. The community will get updates on things happening and how we can all come together to drive progress to continue to improve our quality of life.

As mentioned in a prior article, we are working to install signs on the buildings that have a good visual and lighted view of our address. Many have had concerns that delivery people, cabs and people coming from outside cannot see our building addresses, especially in the evening. Drawings are being made with installation to begin in the spring once we have completed the type of design we need. Most important, we want to ensure that we have enough budget dollars that we can use to make this happen. This is something the community has asked for and we hope we will be in a position to deliver.

As I walk around the community, one of the things I have seen that has been disheartening is the no curbing of dogs. Seeing large dogs running around the toddler parks is against Riverbay policy.

Toddler parks are for our children and we have to

respect the space that we have made for our children to play. Therefore, we ask that those who have dogs not enter the toddler parks. Dogs urinating in the back of the building is creating a stench that requires power washing. Dog poop is more prevalent than ever before. There are so many other things that our Grounds personnel and our Maintenance personnel can do to improve the look of our community and buildings, however, if they are tasked with picking up after dogs, it reduces Riverbay’s ability to do quality maintenance to our buildings as is needed. Please use the receptacles with the bags that are for your use in the community. We recognize and welcome all dogs in our community that serve a purpose to those who are in need. We thank all the dog owners who always do the right thing by their dogs. We cannot condone those who don’t abide by the rules and violate our space. I ask that we all work together and do what is correct.

If you have any concerns, you can reach me on 917-992-7311.

Please stay well and be safe.

Shareholders First – We Matter.

(Continued from page 1)

Individuals who may have already gotten their first vaccine dose but wish to receive their second dose at home can do so by taking advantage of the program.

Equally important, immunocompromised individuals can schedule their third vaccine dose using the at-home program.

Last month, both the FDA and CDC officially recommended that certain immunocompromised individuals receive a third COVID-19 vaccine shot.

As a reminder, below are examples of individuals the CDC and FDA recommend receiving a third COVID-19 vaccine shot: • Individuals who are actively receiving cancer treatment for tumors or blood cancers • Organ transplant recipients who are taking medication to suppress their immune response • Individuals who have had a stem cell transplant in the last two years or who are currently still taking medication to suppress their immune response • Individuals with a moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency syndrome • Individuals with an advanced or untreated HIV

infection • Individuals who have an active treatment that involves high-dose corticosteroids or drugs that may suppress their immune response For people who may be unsure if their medical condition qualifies them for a third COVID-19 vaccine, the CDC recommends that they discuss their questions with their respective healthcare provider.

Individuals interested in the at-home vaccination service can fill out a form online at nyc.gov/homebound or by calling the NYC Vaccine Hotline at 877829-4692. Those who fill out the form online should expect a call within that same week to schedule their at-home vaccination appointment.

As of this week, 60% of the citywide population are fully vaccinated, according to the NYC vaccine tracker.

Since there is no current vaccine available for children under 12, they remain vulnerable to COVID-19.

The responsibility for containing the virus then remains on the shoulders of individuals who are eligible for the vaccine, which is why vaccine mandates such as the NYC Department of Education’s (NYCDOE) for all

DOE employees exist.

However, some parents and legislators in New York City are calling on Mayor Bill de Blasio and the NYCDOE to offer a remote option for students whose families are hesitant or students who may be at an increased risk of developing serious health complications due to COVID-19.

“Start off with a remote option for the folks that feel the most comfortable as we ease into in-person.

That’s the best thing to do,” NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams said on Wednesday during a press conference outside of City Hall. “All students deserve an environment where they can learn with as little risk to their health and safety as possible.”

Earlier this week, 20 New York legislators signed a letter directed to NYC Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter urging the DOE to offer a remote option for students this school year. The letter was spearheaded

by Catalina Cruz, New York State Assemblywoman, and Jamaal T. Bailey, New York State Senator.

Currently, the NYCDOE has not officially responded to the requests for a remote learning option.

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

9

Marvel’s Newest Hero Shoots Up to #1 Film in the World

BY PHILLIP McCOY

Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings broke box office records with its theatrical debut. Centering on Marvel’s first Chinese-descended hero, the film demonstrates that the action-thriller can be more than just a popcorn film, but rather an experience filled to the brim with stakes, spectacle, and above all, sentiment.

The story line follows our lead as he can no longer escape the nefarious world of his father and must come to terms with both the grim and truly heavenly parts of his past. Despite the hurdles of not being released on Disney Plus with premiere access as previous Marvel properties have, and being banned in China, the film still proves unstoppable in its path to success.

Although Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings won’t see millions of dollars in Chinese revenue, Marvel’s twenty-fifth film has already built a strong connection with its Asian viewers. Fans have expressed their appreciation for the genuine care that director Destin Daniel Cretton has given to traits often overlooked in American films. While only a handful of people can say they saved the world, it is the little things that make Shang-Chi consistently relatable as not only a Chinese man in America, but as a young adult, as a brother, a son, and as a friend. Lead Simu Liu’s charisma and relatability prove that acting is what truly pulls us, the audience, into the characters and puts us in their shoes. The actors and actresses of Shang-Chi delivered on the daunting goal of bringing each character to life.

The film places great weight on the performers’ ability to believably deliver on their roles, particularly with characters Ying Li (Fala Chen) and Xu Wenwu (Tony Leung). Had they not been able to capture the attention of viewers, the whole film would have lacked credibility, however, from the offset they capture the hearts and minds of every member of the audience and leave them wanting more. Acting as the emotional heart of the film, Fala Chen imbues Li with the necessary ever present and unconditional love that surrounds the film.

Legendary Hong Kong actor Tony Leung is then able to bounce off of her performance and deliver one of Marvel’s most compelling antagonists along the ranks of Black Panther’s Erik Killmonger, and Avengers: Infinity War’s Thanos.

While Marvel has struggled with villains in the past, it becomes hard to label the deeply flawed father, Wenwu, as the villain as his history is expanded on, but the brutality of that same history

is demonstrated in Leung’s masterful duality as an actor.

Based on Marvel comics’ aptly titled “Master of Kung Fu,” Shang-Chi had to deliver on the fighting scenes. Stunt coordinator, the late Brad Allen, along with the rest of the stunt team, produced the best fighting ever seen in MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe). Pulling on legendary martial arts films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Old Boy and Matrix (which shares the same cinematographer: Bill Pope) Marvel produces yet another action classic.

The people behind and in front of the camera spent months and years making the fight scenes as authentic as possible, and each one progresses the story.

While his mother practices a graceful Tai Chi and his father a more forceful Wing Chun, Shang-Chi incorporates qualities of both along with elements of slapstick popularized by Jackie Chan (who coordinator Brad Allen often worked with). Director Destin Daniel Cretton employed the expansive and nuanced music score to tell a complete story throughout each fight scene, instead of having action for the sake of

action. With fights ranging from elegant and romantic to intense and emotional, this film cements ShangChi as the true Master of Kung Fu. Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings provides movie fans of all kinds an experience that has been lacking during the pandemic. Serving as the perfect introduction to the larger MCU, and a joy for any martial arts, comedy, or drama fan, it offers something for every movie goer and that earns it the score of A. The only thing keeping it from a possible A+ is that it partially falls into Marvel’s formulaic threeact structure, however that in no way labels it as predictable, for it is impossible to guess the sprawling storyline based on the trailers alone. Luckily for audiences, this is a formula that has repeatedly spelled out success for Marvel films and kept fans asking for more. It is a nearly impossible task to make everybody – young and old, lover and fighter, casual fan and critic – relate to Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, but in defying all odds set against them, the team behind Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings did just that.

Application is also available at the official Co-op City website, coopcitynyc.com.

10

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

Remembrance Today marks the 20th commemoration of September 11, 2001. In all-day television coverage, details of that day will once again be relived, the families will gather, and the names of the lost will be read.

During the first two hours of the somber morning ritual, six moments of silence will mark the attacks and the destruction that – within the time span of 102 minutes – forever changed our country and our world.

Three of the silences mark the moments of impact: 8:46 a.m., the north tower of the World Trade Center was struck; 9:03 a.m., the south tower; 9:37 a.m., the Pentagon. The 10:03 a.m. moment of silence marks the crash of Flight 93 that thwarted a fourth wouldbe assault.

Two more moments of silence mark the collapse of the towers. Minutes before the intended fourth attack, the eyes of the world saw the south tower fall at 9:59 a.m. At 10:28 a.m., the second tower of the World Trade Center, the north tower, fell.

Each year, each commemoration of that day relives the horror – and honors the heroism – of September 11th. We mourn the thousands of civilians lost. We honor the heroic passengers and crew who helped bring down one of the hijacked planes before it could reach either of its intended targets – the White House or the Capitol Building. We honor the heroism of the first responders for their rescue efforts and mourn their sacrifice; so many of those efforts proved futile and fatal.

“The deadliest terrorist act in world history,” took approximately 3000 lives, most that day and many of the thousands injured, afterward.

Unlike May’s Memorial Day or December’s Pearl Harbor Day, the attacks on September 11, 2001, martyred our citizenry. That makes this day a day of personal sadness not just for those who lost loved ones twenty long years ago but for our nation as a whole.

For a myriad of reasons, we will, no doubt, continue these painful commemorations, year after year, so that we never forget. “If time could heal the wounds, [we’d] tear the threads away.”

September 11 is the most solemn of our country’s observances. May nothing in the future of the world replace this day in terms of magnitude.

How Long Will The Pain Last? “‘How long will the pain last?’ “a broken hearted mourner asked me. “‘All the rest of your Life.’

“I have to answer truthfully. …

“We never quite forget.”

– Martha White I Am Not Here “Don’t stand by my grave and weep, “For I am not there, I do not sleep. …

“I am the soft stars that shine at night.

“Do not stand by my grave and cry.

“I am not there, I did not die.”

– Hopi Grief Song/Prayer Billy Collins was the nation’s poet laureate at the time of the attacks. A year later, he wrote “The Names” and in 2002, in New York City’s Federal Hall, he read the poem before a special joint session of Congress dedicated to the victims of September 11th and their survivors.

You can find a visually enhanced reading of the poem – prepared for a PBS 10th anniversary commemoration broadcast – at https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/poet-billy-collins-reflects-on-9-11-victims-in-the-names. But here are some excerpts and the setting: The poet, unable to sleep, begins to trace a list of names of September 11th victims on the fogged-up window pane, alphabetically, one per letter.

“Yesterday, I lay awake in the palm of the night.

“A fine rain stole in, unhelped by any breeze, “And when I saw the silver glaze on the windows, “I started with A, with Ackerman…”

He imagines, as he gets to the letter E, that the names appear everywhere: on the ceiling, on a yellow petal, written on the back of a photograph.

At the letter O, the names appear in the “twigs of an ash” tree, in the “boughs of an ancient maple,” in the sky, in stone, behind a door, blowing out to sea.

The alphabetical list concludes with: “Vanacore and Wallace, “(let X stand, if it can, for the ones unfound) “Then Young and Ziminsky, the final jolt of Z.” But the names continue to be found everywhere: “on the head of a pin,” on a bridge, in a tunnel.

He imagines a name etched in a tattoo: “A blue name needled into the skin.

REMEMBER: We are shareholders, not tenants! There are many ways to become involved in the community...

Join a Board committee, attend your building association meetings, participate in community groups!

Building 25 Association Hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Labor Day holiday before time to settle into the next season and the winter months ahead of us.

Due to the increased spike in the Delta Variant, Riverbay has suspended in-person building meetings until further notice, however our building president, Denise Gerrald, is working on a virtual app for our next meeting. There will be more information to follow in next week’s article once she has finalized the details.

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.

Our next building association meeting will be held Tuesday, September 21, at 7:30 p.m. Look out for posted notice near elevators. 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: “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” ––Nido Qubein ––Wanda Bailey

“Names of citizens, workers, mothers and fathers, “The bright-eyed daughter, the quick son.”

He imagines the names fading with time, along with people attached to those names: “Names wheeled into the dim warehouse of memory.”

But those names and those people, the ones he preserved in this poem the year after their death, the names repeated every year for the past 20 years, have not faded.

“So many names, there is barely room on the walls of the heart.”

Staying safe. The Covid-19 Delta variant is more contagious than other strains. Vaccination is the best protection. Another common sense preventive measures is masking up.

It’s long been assumed that masks help prevent the spread of Covid. Now there’s proof. New studies advise that even the fully vaccinated should wear masks in public indoor spaces and crowded outdoor areas.

As always, this is not my opinion. It’s advice from the experts. See: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html or for more technical information see: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/science/ science-briefs/masking-science-sars-cov2.html.

A plastic frame placed between the face and the mask allows for a bit more breathing room and keeps a multi-layer, well-fitting cloth mask cleaner, dryer, and more comfortable. Children are required to wear masks in school. Let’s make it easier on them.

Stop by the Section 5 Tot Lot (between Buildings 26 and 27) tomorrow, Sunday, 9/12, at noon. I’ll bring a bunch of adult and children’s sized mask frames.

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

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

Section 4 Partnership Calling all Section 4 Building Association Presidents It’s the beginning of the fiscal year (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.

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.

Pictured at left are Laverne Hugine and Riverbay Board Director Francine Reva Jones (R).

About the Section 4 Partnership The Section 4 Partnership is comprised of every building in Co-op City that make up the sectional geographic which is referred to as Co-op City’s Section 4 (Building 20 - Asch Loop; Building 21 - Bellamy Loop; Building 22 - Co-op City Boulevard; Buildings 23, 24, 25 - Benchley Place; Adler Place townhouses; Asch Loop townhouses and 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!

Be safe and well The Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City wishes you and yours and our Jewish shareholders and neighbors peaceful High Holy Days season.

Please continue to observe safety mandates to the ongoing pandemic environment.

––Michelle Marbury

Beware of telephone scammers If you receive a telephone call demanding immediate payment using a pre-paid card, wire transfer or bitcoin, even if your Caller ID identifies a legitimate business, HANG UP and report the call. Do not divulge personal information such as Social Security number, bank account number, date of birth or any other information.

Be smart, be safe!

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11

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

Prostate Cancer Research shows that Black men are at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and the reasons are complex and unclear. However, one of the best ways to detect non-symptomatic prostate cancer is through early screening. Screening can help find some types of cancer at an early stage when they may have a better prognosis. In fact, screening alone is credited for one-third of the recent decrease in prostate cancer deaths. The two most common screening tests for prostate cancer are a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test.

The prostate is just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The tube that carries urine (the urethra) goes through the prostate. The prostate makes fluid that helps keep the sperm alive and healthy. Some signs of prostate cancer are difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, trouble getting/maintaining an erection, and pain in the back, hips, ribs, or other bones. If your doctor suspects prostate cancer, there are several tests to confirm the diagnosis including a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), MRI, prostate biopsy, lymph node biopsy, CT scan, bone scan, and PET scan.

Treatment for prostate cancer is dependent on stage of the disease. The stages are from 1 to 4. The lower the number, the less the cancer has spread.

A higher number, like stage 4, means the cancer has spread to areas outside of the prostate. Treatment for prostate cancer is determined based on the stage of the cancer and you and your doctor’s agreement on a plan. Treatments may include the following: observation, surgery, radiation, cryotherapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy. To learn more about prostate cancer, visit the American Cancer Society.

Caregivers, have you ever felt overwhelmed because you do not know where to begin as you seek services for your loved ones? Connecting the dots and making the connections is the key to a successful caregiver’s journey. Please join us for our monthly 45-min. informational session on Tuesday, September 21, at 7 p.m. Topic: Making the connections as you make sense of it all. Please RSVP online at www.comeoutreach.org. C.O.M.E. is here for you. Please contact us with any questions or concerns, 718-379-3159.

Do you know a family caregiver? Nominate a Family Caregiver with the Leon David Simmons Recognition. Save The Date: November 20, 2021 –– Caregivers Outreach 15th Annual Award Gala via Zoom.

––Diane Cooper

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Rivers Run Community Garden Today, we are opening up the garden to whoever wants to share their experience on 9/11. We will be listening, sharing garden-grown mellons, figs and lemon grass while supplies last.

If you have not signed up for the Mirrors of Blackness theater experience, it is not too late. Mirrors of Blackness is looking for Black-identified participants to join them in creating an interactive theatre experience during the weekend of Sept. 17-19 at the garden. No acting stills are necessary. If you’d like to participate, please call 718-3146764. Please call soon.

On Sept. 25, we will be featuring local artists in the garden. If you’d like to be a part of the exhibition, please call us or write soonest: rivers_run@yahoo.com or 917-232-2982.

Upcoming Events at the Garden: • Friday & Saturday, September 17 and 18 – Mirrors of Blackness Workshop, 2-4 p.m.

• Sunday, September 19 – Mirrors of Blackness Dinner Theater (interactive), 2-3:30 p.m.

• Saturday, Sept. 18 – Garden Member Meeting, 1 p.m.

• Sept. 25 (Rain Date: Sept. 26) – Art Exhibit, 2 p.m.

Rivers Run is open: • Tuesdays & Thursdays – 4 p.m. to dusk • Wednesdays & Fridays – 10 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

• Saturdays & Sundays – 12 noon - 5:00 p.m.

Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome. Please mail your due to Gail Sharbaan, 100 Casals Pl #32K, Bronx, NY 10475.

If you’d like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-2322982 or me at 718-671-3801.

Please continue to stay safe.

––Gail Sharbaan

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

African-American Association 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 Famous African-Americans born on this date Taraji Penda Henson (1970) is an American actress and author. In 2016, Time named Henson one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

That year, she released a New York Times bestselling autobiography titled, “Around the Way Girl.”

Also, that year, she was praised for her starring role as Katherine Johnson in the critically acclaimed drama film, “Hidden Figures,” for which she won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

O’Neal Bryan aka Elephant Man (1975) is a Jamaican dancehall musician and singer.

He started out his musical career as a member of the Scare Dem Crew, later continuing as a solo artist. He was later characterized for several trademarks, such as his dyed yellow-orange hair.

His song, “Willie Bounce,” appeared on several mixtapes in early 2006. It used the first few bars from “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. “Willie Bounce” has been described as one of Elephant Man’s most recognizable songs, with the corresponding dance still enjoying popularity as of 2015.

Christopher Brian Bridges (1977) aka Ludacris is an American rapper and actor. Ludacris is the founder of Disturbing tha Peace. Ludacris has

won Screen Actors Guild, Critic’s Choice, MTV, and three Grammy awards. Along with fellow Atlanta-based rappers Big Boi and André 3000 of OutKast, Ludacris was one of the first and most influential “Dirty South” rappers to achieve mainstream success during the early 2000s.

Shaun Patrick Livingston (1985) is an American professional basketball player who last played for the Golden State Warriors of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He is a three-time NBA champion, winning all three with Golden State in 2015, 2017, and 2018.

(References: BlackCelebrityBirthdays.com) 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 respective 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, 917-903-7073.

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

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

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

––Michelle Marbury

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

Building 9 Association Salutations, Building 9 family.

Many shareholders took note The Building 9 Diamonds remain and were dismayed that the Buildthankful, grateful and blessed. We ing 9A lobby door lock remained continue to support one another broken and the entire building was and our neighbors. accessible to anyone who cared to Wear a mask always, wash your enter from Friday evening, August hands often, social distance when 27, until Tuesday, August 31. Janipossible, get vaccinated if you can. torial Services staff clean the lobby Please consider getting one of the daily, CCPD makes daily security available digital vaccine records checks, and shareholders made for your convenience and to pre- NCO Meeting: Lt. Apollo, Wanda Ran- calls from the lobby emergency call vent loss or theft of your original dall, P.O. Basora, P.O. Murillo and box and from their phones. We all hard copy vaccine record. agree more must be done to ensure P.O. Marcus.

The written comment period on shareholder safety and security. the Carrying Charge increase ends on September 21.

The First Annual Shirley Wells free Back-toYou may submit comments via e-mail to: george. School Raffle drawing will be held today via Zoom. simon@nyshcr.org.

All entrants will have been emailed the Zoom meetOn Tuesday, Sept. 21, at 6:30 p.m., HCR will hold ing ID# and Passcode to watch the electronic random a Virtual Carrying Charge Increase Conference via name selection process in real time. Good luck to all Webex, meeting ID: 146 155 5199, meeting pass- our students. Our special thanks to last week’s raffle word: HCrJy2p9Xp5. See the Co-op City Times for donor, Mr. Harold Stancil. additional access details.

Now that the scaffolding and fencing on the front The community meeting was sponsored by the side of our building (not the back of the building) NYPD 45th Precinct NCO Sector C Police Officers has been removed, the increase in litter has become Anderson, Basora, Marcus, and Murillo on Thursday, unacceptable. Please do not throw masks, water botSeptember 2, outside Dreiser Center. Also in atten- tles, plastic cups, pizza boxes and other trash at our dance, CCPD Lt. Pam Apollo. Topics of discussion curbs or along our walkways and sidewalks. The litincluded vehicle thefts, motorcycle racing, late night ter is unsightly and attracts rodents and other animals. noise from Peartree Mall, late night noise from night Please do not leave bread, rice and other food for club on Baychester Avenue, illegally parked tractor the pigeons. It attracts other animals to our grounds. trailers behind Peartree Mall and along Baychester We are planning an outdoor building association Avenue, people setting up lawn chairs on our side- meeting for September 22 at 7 p.m. walks while drinking, smoking, playing cards, playThe RRCG will host Mirrors of Blackness “Suning music from vehicles, etc., and the new nuisance day Dinner: An Interactive Theater Experience” on of e-scooters in the community sidewalks. Those who Sunday, September 19, 2 p.m. attended the NCO meeting included Linda Collins, “Poverty is what happens when people give up Wanda Randall, Linda Holley, Celeste and Harold caring about one another.”

Stancil, and Carolyn Joseph.

––Linda Collins

Building 32 Association Hello from the Building 32 Association!

It’s been a long time between posts. Hopefully, this will change as New York City begins to open up more. With the passing of Labor Day as the unofficial end to Summer, we hope you had a good one in spite of the ongoing pandemic, social distancing, and having to wear a mask. You are still social distancing and wearing your mask where designated, right? Good. While you’re at it, get vaccinated if you haven’t already.

The Building 32 Association has not scheduled any meetings as of yet. Once Riverbay gives us the go ahead, you, fellow cooperator, will be the first to know. Hopefully, we will meet in person soon.

In the meantime, place your suggestions on how to improve the quality of life in and around Building 32 by dropping the association a note. You can do so by placing your suggestions in the blue suggestion box mounted on the wall inside of the laundry room.

We hope and pray you are staying safe as we attempt to ride out the surge of the Delta Variant of COVID-19. Stay vigilant. The threat isn’t over.

We can get through this to a more normal, brighter future if we are a bit more selfless, more mindful, and more considerate.

For those of you who, like myself, have recovered from COVID-19: Bless you and your continued good health. For those going through it, stay strong, quarantine, and get medical treatment. And for those who have lost loved ones to the virus, we not only extend our deepest condolences, but pray for your strength, and offer our support where possible.

Hope to see you all soon, ––Ezekiel Springer Jr.

YOU ALWAYS KEEP THEM SAFE. WITH VACCINES, THEY’LL BE EVEN SAFER. CHILDREN AGES 12-17 CAN NOW BE VACCINATED AGAINST COVID-19.

Get your child vaccinated for a safe return to school. Children who have been vaccinated against COVID-19 are less likely to get and spread COVID-19.

LET’S KEEP OUR CHILDREN SAFE AND OUR SCHOOLS COVID-FREE. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines and where to get one, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine.

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Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Kevin Lambright, Assistant Treasurer

No Digression!

Security Committee Let me first state that the only way you may qualify to join the Security Committee is by directly emailing me from your email address. Riverbay does not officially use Facebook as a portal to join committees.

We will be looking to change the criteria of how we select Security Committee members this year.

If you are interested in serving, please send me an email describing why you want to be on the Security Committee and why you believe that you are best suited to serve.

Because we may end up doing virtual meetings, it is important that we recognize the people who will be on with us. For that reason, we are asking that you email a photo of yourself with your request. All requests will be considered. Also note that previous participation on the committee does not automatically make your request eligible. The deadline to request through direct email is Friday, September 17, 2021 at 9 p.m.

Stifling Progress I am aware that it is difficult to keep so many people focused on the same subject and not have

different opinions. Opinions based on the information they are fed and choose to absorb. If you are only given one perspective, then you are left to form an opinion based on that information. Right? Wrong!

Fortunately for us, we are a mature community with many diversified life experiences. This allows us the ability to read between lines and separate some fact from instigated fiction. These tactics are used against us everyday in mainstream media. Too often these sensationalized agendas peak our lust for entertainment in the form of gossip and a need for relevance in our community. So, as in religion, beware of false prophets. In communities, beware of those who project surface power in order to gain your confidence and your respect. Remember, real servants of peace and positive change actually do things to make those changes happen.

Our community is based on a collective cooperative quorum. No one person can resolve change.

However, a singular mindset can be injected into a majority pool. History teaches us that a confused mind does nothing. It waits to be guided and then without independent thought, follows its pied piper.

But eventually something else happens in nature.

That confused misguided mind takes on a life of its own, separates itself from the pool and attempts to toot its own horn seeking its own followers. This viral effect is what destroys families, communities and even countries.

Vaccination How do we kill this virus? It’s simple. Isolate it and don’t feed it. It will eliminate itself. A virus feeds off of attention but it needs a host. Don’t allow yourself to be the host and don’t feed it by publicly reacting or responding to its need for attention. Trust me. It will soon cease to exist.

The best thing that we can do as a cooperative unit is maintain awareness and join in on the process of making things better. There are mechanisms in place for us to do this. The virus will try to steer us in other directions. The virus will insight us and become our friend by pointing out to us everything that is wrong.

The virus will appeal to your fears and sense of loss and degradation. The virus will give you unrealistic solutions that not even it will attempt to resolve. But it will make you believe that it has the answer.

Start the Solution Process. Join a committee!

Please email me at: klambright@riverbayboard.com.

Building 18 Association Hi, neighbors.

Our Free ice cream give-away was Saturday, August 28, and Saturday, September 4, went very well.

Thank you to our servers: Reneé Worthan, Phyllis Ravenel, Lorraine Turner, Janet Frazier, Alfred Lynch, Carlene Fowler, and last, but not least, our youngest member, 7 year old Kamryn Ravenel, our “Youth Observer.” We also want to thank Sylvia Kwasi for picking up the ice cream. You all helped to make this ‘delicious activity’ a success. Thank you.

Free Back to School Supplies We plan to give out free school supplies in the near future to our membership families. Anyone who would like to donate supplies, you may contact Gertie Brown at 347-275-2995.

We do hope that all is well with everyone and that you are practicing safety measures wearing your mask, washing hands frequently, etc. Remember, the Delta variant is still going strong. Please be safe and stay well. Please take the vaccine, protect yourself

and others around you.

To the sick and homebound, we wish you a speedy recovery, and to the bereaved families, we give our deepest sympathies.

To Mrs. Estelle Thomas and family, our sincere condolences to you on the loss of your loved one, Mr. Jimmy Thomas.

Happy Birthday to those with that special day this month. Enjoy!

––Gertie Brown

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

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Building 13 Association September 11, 2001 – Twenty years ago on 9/11, the country and, more specifically, New York City, experienced a catastrophic event that changed many lives forever. It is but another day that will live in infamy. “One of the worst days in America’s history saw some of the bravest acts in Americans’ history.

We’ll always honor the heroes of 9/11. And here at this hallowed place, we pledge that we will never forget their sacrifice.”

Yom Kippur, Day of Atonement, is the most solemn of Jewish religious holidays. It is considered the holiest day of the year in Judaism. It’s a high holiday that follows Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. To all, Shanah Tovah (Good Year) and “Yom Tov.” As summer continues to rush towards the winter trail, I am thankful for the moments we did get to see one another from time to time at various outdoor events. Here’s hoping we get additional warm weather during September and October.

I have not received word yet but I hope we are on the way to having a full complement of porters servicing our building. It appears some additional painting has to be done in the basement. Although recently done, water damage seems to have some areas peeling and in need of a touch-up. I hope to schedule a Zoom meeting the third week of September. Please make sure to attend for updates and answers to your questions.

For repair assistance, make sure to contact the Call Center for specific items you need addressed or contact our CSO/Jr. Property Manager Ms. English.

Additionally, I have asked the Supervisor to request contractors remove pieces of their equipment. They left fencing and poles lying around our property.

Build A Block – 45th Precinct: It was very encouraging seeing the folks who took the time to attend the in-person meeting with our Neighborhood Community Officers on September 2.

A flooding condition resulted in NCO’s changing from the lower level to the ground level but the meeting went on and was very informative. There are several issues going on in our community that are beyond the scope of CCPD and it was good to know the 45th is on it.

Reminder: HCR wants to know your thoughts on the upcoming carrying charge increase. There is a 30-day comment period. Comments submitted by mail must be postmarked no later than September 21, 2021 or e-mailed to George Simon at george.simon@nyshcr.org. They will also host a virtual meeting on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. See the Co-op City Times and information sent to you for details on how to attend the Virtual Carrying Charge Conference.

As always: “If you see something, say something” to CCPD at 718-671-3050 or your CSO –– Property Manager for your area.

Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370, president, or Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Leslie Peterson

Broun Place Townhouse Association Good day, neighbors. It’s twenty years since September 11, 2001. I bet you remember where and what you were doing when the Twin Towers were attacked. Let’s memorialize and remember the people who the world lost. There are many in Co-op City. I remember Christian Regenhard from Building 17.

His mom was a community activist and Christian was the young fireman you wanted to live next door to. May he never be forgotten.

We are so lucky to have a huge green area with parks and play areas included. Please pay attention to your children and grands. Do not let them run barefoot in the Greenway. The mother said as she holds her cell phone, he took his shoes off!

Congratulations to everyone for their due diligence as we continue to fight the Delta Covid-19 variant and live in the new reality. This is the time to just do it, get vaccinated. The numbers are clear, that the sickest and those who are dying are the ones who haven’t been vaccinated. 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. Thank you, Robert, for reminding me of the rules.

Good to see the grounds work has progressed between Adler Townhouses and Broun Place Townhouses. And here we are, 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’s or Pelham Parkway? Contact your local officials and get this program modified or gone from Co-op City.

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

Section 5 entrance to I-95 south is a new dumping zone. Something needs to be done! The truckers are creating a horrible deposit of waste. Contact Jamaal Bowman, Jamaal Bailey and Michael Benedetto about this.

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 Jewish High Holy Days have begun. Here’s to another year and may we live in peace. Another school year is beginning, good luck to all these bright lights. Keep masked! Please submit your tidings to me. Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever!

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

National Council of Negro Women Membership – September is here already and our first membership meeting will be tomorrow, September 12, at 3 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 p.m. - 2 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. In addition to blood pressure screenings, there will be health professionals with information on COVID-19, depression, women’s issues, skin care for people of color, massages, back to school health concerns, CPR training and Yoga demonstrations.

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. 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.

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

––Joyce Howard

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Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

Remembering 9/11 Remembering 9/11 September 11, 2001 has to go down as one of the worst days in the history of this country. And, now, it’s hard to think that 20 years has passed since we were attacked by a group of violent terrorists. So, let’s briefly review some of the major events that occurred on that day.

Looking Back There are a lot of security protocols at our airports now. So, it’s very hard to think that some violent terrorists were able to hijack four airplanes in just one day. Four airplanes! Thereafter, they were able to crash two airplanes into the Twin Tower buildings.

Next, they were able to crash another airplane into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Then, the fourth airplane crashed in Pennsylvania.

And, when all was said and done, we learned that 2,976 people were killed and thousands of people were injured by those attacks. And, even after 20 years, lots of families, emergency service personnel, survivors, and lots of other people are still suffering from those attacks. Therefore, I want everyone to know t):iat our community cares about you. Moreover, I pray that God will bless you and your family.

The SCRIE Program We received a 1.9 percent carrying charge increase on September 1, 2019. Then, we were supposed to receive another 1.9 percent carrying charge increase on September 1, 2020. However, that increase was changed to January 1, 2021 because of the pandemic, On July 1, 2021, our parking rates were increased by 10 percent, and our hall closet rate was increased by a whopping 40 percent. What about a storage closet in the basement? That fee was increased by 25 percent.

On top of these increases, the cost to get an apartment here skyrocketed from $5,500 to $7,500 per room. So, again, that’s a $2,000 increase per room. And, now, we’re going to get another 2 percent carrying charge increase on January 1, 2022.

However, there’s a somewhat decent program that is administered by the NYC Housing, Preservation

and Development (HPD) agency that can possibly help you to avoid this upcoming carrying charge increase. And, based on your continuing qualifications, it’s possible that you can avoid all future carrying charge increases.

The name of the program is called the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE, pronounced Scree) program.

Now, can you believe that an article in last week’s edition of the Co-op City Times stated that “only 1,203 senior shareholders are active in the SCRIE program?” How is this possible?

Look, some of our seniors have approached me and said that they don’t make a lot of money. Yet, they still do not qualify for this SCRIE program.

Therefore, they still have to pay for these continuous carrying charge increases. To me, this fact is very sad for our seniors and for our community.

Furthermore, this nonsense undermines the original purpose of affordable housing within the MitchellLama program.

Anyway, let’s go through the exact requirements for this program: A. You (or your spouse) must be 62 years or older at the time of the increase and the tenant/ shareholder of record. B. You (or your spouse) lived in the apartment at the time of the increase.

C. The total household income did not exceed the income maximum of $50,000 annually. D. Your monthly basic rent/carrying charge was more than or equal to one-third of your total annual household income. E. You are NOT on any other rent/carrying charge subsidy program, such as Section 8, SCHE, DRIE, or RAP. So, as you can see, the requirements to enter this program need to be changed so that more seniors can qualify for relief from our continuous carrying charge increases.

The DRIE Program The Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) program can possibly help our cooperators with disabilities to avoid the upcoming carrying charge

increase. However, again, they must meet all of the requirements for this program: A. Be at least 18 years old. B. Be named on the lease or the rent order or have been granted succession rights in a rent controlled, rent stabilized, or rent regulated hotel apartment or an apartment located in a building where the mortgage was federally insured under Section 213 of the National Housing Act, owned by a Mitchell-Lama development, Limited Dividend housing company, Redevelopment Company or Housing Development Fund Corporation (HDFC) incorporated under New York State’s Private Housing Finance Law. C. Have a combined household income that is $50,000 or less. D. Spend more than one-third of your monthly household income on rent. E. You must have been awarded one of the following: Federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI); Federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI); U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs disability pension or disability compensation; Disability related Medicaid if the applicant has received either SSI or SSDI in the past; or a United States Postal Service (USPS) disability pension or disability compensation.

Again, you must meet all of the above-cited requirements to get into the DRIE program.

Bottom line: Last week, an article in the Coop City Times stated that “only 190 shareholders in Co-op City are taking advantage of [the] DRIE [program].” So, these two programs must be changed to accommodate more cooperators.

Lastly, the article in last week’s edition of the Co-op City Times stated that applications for SCRIE and DRIE can be “obtained from the Riverbay Finance Department by emailing RiverbayFinance @riverbaycorp.com. Please take your time and Type This Address Correctly.

Close Do not give up! I hope that God will help and bless everyone that was involved or affected by the 9/11 events. We care about you and your family.

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 11, 2021

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 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#.

The Free Call Conference dial-in number has changed to 857-357-0254, access code: 660065, will remain the same.

Tomorrow, Sunday, Sept. 12, at 11 a.m., we will celebrate Family and Friends Day and recognize National Grandparents’ Day. Please join us for this celebratory service using the Zoom or Free Call Conference information shown above.

Wednesday Bible Study classes is held at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. You can join using the Zoom or Free Call Conference Line.

Thursday Prayer Warriors is held at 12 p.m. You can join using the Free Conference Call.com Line, 857-357-0254, PIN #: 660065.

Friday Prayer held at 10:00 a.m. will continue through the summer. You can join using the Free Conference Call.com Line shown above.

Friday Evening Prayer Service is held at 7:30 p.m.

All are welcome to join using the Free Conference Call.com line shown above.

The Scholarship Ministry will be going to Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands, and Black Hills of South Dakota on August 12, 2022, for 11 days and 10 nights and they are inviting you to travel with them. Price per person, based on double occupancy is $1,225, which includes 18 meals, 10 breakfast and 8 dinners, and motorcoach transportation. You will have 10 nights lodging including 4 consecutive nights in South Dakota. Book your tour along with a deposit of $100, due by October 31. You may contact Sister Claudette Cutlar Day at 718-3790541 or Sister Brenda Robinson at 718-671-1271 for additional information or to make your reservation.

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

17

Goose Island Seniors

I want to thank everyone who came to see “Jonah” on Sight & Sound TV last Friday. We hope it was a blessing to you.

Sight & Sound TV’s “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 – This Tuesday, September 14, 7:30 a.m. Full bus. The Cameos, a Doo-Wop 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 due or your seat will be given to someone on the waiting list. Must show proof of vaccination and mask required. 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, had to change seats for people on bus #2.

Wind Creek (Sands) Casino – Tuesday, October 19, in Bethlehem, PA. Time: 8 a.m. Price: $45, bonus $30 slot play. For reservation, $45 to hold seat.

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 Sept. 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, Gloria M. Bobyn, 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) Tues. & Thurs., 1 p.m. 6 p.m., and Mon., Wed., and Fri., 6 p.m. - 8 p.m., or call/text Stephen, (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net.

––Stephen Roberts, Sr.

AARP Chapter 4997 From President Mickens First, let me extend our prayers for all the American people who have been so devastated by Ida. Between the fires on the West Coast and the storms on the East Coast, we are all in perilous times. We will stand tall again and be stronger for it.

Due to the uprising effect of the Delta Variant, AARP National office is now rethinking some of their original plans for reopening the services and how to best reach our members. The national organization had planned to reopen to our membership with the September and October activities. We at Chapter 4997 had planned to have an in-person meeting in October and this may not be advisable for our members. Our executive Board had their meeting on Friday, September 3, and there was much discussion on how to proceed with many aspects of our organization.

The next General Membership Meeting is scheduled for: Monday, September 13, at 1 p.m. Zoom information: Meeting ID: 831 6500 1346, Passcode: 196217. Based on our executive meeting, Riverbay concerns and the National Organization rules, we will be advising on our on-going agenda.

Regardless of how we proceed, we are still working to increase our membership rolls and will be holding General Elections for the year 2022! All po-

VISION CARE SPECIALIST

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

• COMPLETE VISION CARE - EYE EXAMINATION

• OCULAR DISEASE TREATMENT

• EYEGLASSES

• CONTACT LENSES • GLAUCOMA TREATMENT High Fashion Frames on Premises. “Your Vision Health Is My Concern.”

Much of Learning Is Done Through The Eyes. Insist on a Professional Eye Examination.

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

718-379-8029

Medicare and many insurances accepted.

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

sitions are available, and we welcome new members to apply to fill any position they feel confident about.

New thoughts are always needed and accepted. As previously stated in this column, there are many states trying to make changes to our benefits and services in the government. New York Senators are trying hard to maintain the benefits we have fought for already and enhance our chances for victory.

Continue to contact your local officials and ask them to support the Senators in all they do for us. For more information on joining or renewing membership, contact Ms. Stella Baker at 718-379-2088, our Membership contact.

Mrs. Frances Wilson, Good and Welfare contact, advises me that currently we are in good shape with the health and wellness of our members. Mrs. Wilson can be reached at 718-671-5493 with any information, good or bad, that you wish to share.

Please continue to check in on your family, friends and neighbors during these extreme weather days and with the health of all at stake. A “Hi” from an unexpected caller can put a smile on anyone’s face and brighten their week! I can be reached at 718379-3742 with any questions or concerns about our organization and I will see you on September 13.

Be well and stay safe.

––Ann Purnell

18

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Leslie Peterson

e-Scooter Facts and Our Quality of Life 9/11 – Twenty years ago, the country and, more specifically, New York City, experienced a catastrophic event that changed many lives forever. It is but another day that will live in infamy. “One of the worst days in America's history saw some of the bravest acts in Americans' history. We'll always honor the heroes of 9/11. And here at this hallowed place, we pledge that we will never forget their sacrifice.”

Yom Kippur, Day of Atonement, is the most solemn of Jewish religious holidays. It is considered the holiest day of the year in Judaism. It's a high holiday that follows Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

To all, Shanah Tovah (Good Year) and “Yom Tov.” Prior to the pandemic and during the height of the pandemic, we were dealing with various issues.

Everything from the monopole lighting on the corner of Bartow and Baychester, the proposed MTA bus cuts, Animal Shelter, ramp and parking issues.

Collectively, shareholders expressed concerns in the CC Times and to our elected officials about securing a Covid testing site for us. Shareholders also collectively advocated for a vaccination site. Although we had some defeats, we also had many victories. I mention this to say if you believe you have an opinion or something to say that concerns you and your community, by all means state your case.

Carrying Charge Increase: 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 Avenue, 4th floor, New York, NY 10022.

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 30day 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.

E-Scooters: A common denominator in many of these issues was that we, Co-op City Stakeholders, were not informed or consulted. In some instances,

our Community Board was not made aware. My question is this, who decided we needed the e-scooters? It is true that shared e-scooter systems have become popular in cities over the past few years, allowing millions to rent publicly accessible e-scooters. The idea was for them to function like the dockless bike share. Many shared e-scooter systems utilize designated parking corrals to organize vehicles, reduce sidewalk clutter, and ensure a clear right-ofway. The problem is that I don’t see any designated areas in our community. There is a clutter of scooters all over the community. E-scooters have also been left in the middle of the street obstructing traffic.

Searching the City Council calendar revealed this bill was an ongoing discussion in the City Council especially because the electric bikes used for food delivery were under fire. The compromise seemed to be the MPH the vehicle can travel. It appears the bill was voted on in June of 2020. Yes, right after the city was on lockdown. Reading about the three companies and their statements, they said, “We work with the communities we serve to set up parking and riding guidelines. Some ask for ‘no parking’ areas to keep bikes and scooters from being left there.

Geofencing allows the company to restrict where you can take the scooter and via GPS can locate when the scooter is not deposited in an approved zoned area or if left on the sidewalk. If you try to park your vehicle (scooter) in one of the no parking areas, you won’t be able to end your trip and stop the fare meter. So, to avoid being charged for parking inappropriately, just avoid those areas when you’re done riding and you’ll be good to go! Well, I guess they spoke to some stakeholders because I have seen signs stating no e-scooters allowed.

• E-scooters may be ridden in bike lanes and on streets with speed limits no greater than 30 MPH. • Do not ride e-scooters on sidewalks.

• Helmets are recommended for all e-scooter riders, and required for 16 and 17 year olds.

• You may keep a rental active for up to 48 hours, however, the fare meter will keep running until you park your bike or scooter in the appropriate geofenced area. If you park outside of a service area, you may be charged a retrieval fee that can range from $15 to $120, depending on the distance.

The pilot program also requires participating e-scooter companies (Lime, Bird and VEO) to make

sure their vehicles don’t obstruct sidewalks or ramps.

This will benefit all New Yorkers walking our narrow sidewalks – and especially people with disabilities or restricted mobility. Shared e-scooter operators will also be required to offer e-scooters that are accessible for use by people with disabilities.

The bill will also require that the DOT (Department of Transportation) report to the City Council on the progress of the program and issue recommendations to the Council regarding the creation of a permanent shared electric scooter program.

NCO (45th Precinct): The NYPD Neighborhood Coordinating Officer program is available to assist you resolving a host of issues. The 45th Precinct has assigned two officers to Co-op City, Officer N. Anderson and Officer 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.

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, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Father Johnson also conducts daily weekday services at 12 noon.

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

Grace and Peace!

––M. Chambers

Retirees of Dreiser Loop Marina del Rey Luncheon: Thursday, December 16. Time: 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Donation: $100.

Transportation included (first requested, first seated).

Face masks and proof of vaccination required. Tickets are available, contact Daisy Young, 718-671-6122; Beverly Waller, 718-671-2978; Jay McKenzie, 201-301-2972.

Scholarship Fund: Deadline for all applications for 2020 graduates is due October 16. Completed applications are to be submitted via mail drop box at 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19. For questions and information, contact Dorothy Byrd, 646-842-2458.

Condolences: To Clarence Polite on the loss of his son, Angelo Polite. Brother, there is no pain more far reaching and deeper than losing a child. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family during this most difficult time. Our condolences, Mr. Polite.

Health corner: In the United States, flu season lasts from October to May. Getting a flu shot is the best way to protect yourself against the flu. Make your appointment. Build your immune system (consult your health provider on supplements), drink fluids, eat a well-balanced diet, wash your hands frequently, and rest up.

Encouragement: As we continue to experience the signs of the times, are you overwhelmed?

FOCUS! Are you anxious? FOCUS! Are you worried? FOCUS! Are you fearful? FOCUS! Turn to the one who holds everything together. His name is Jesus Christ. He promised to never leave us nor forsake us. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged (Deuteronomy 31:8). He will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him, because you trust Him (Isaiah 26:3). Beloved, stay connected to one another, and reach out to family and friends. Stay alert and active. May the peace of the Lord be with you always.

––Gladys Baez

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

Bartow

Wed., Sept. 15

Tues., Sept. 14

Mon., Sept. 13

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Einstein

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

19

MENU

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Kosher

Non-Kosher

Rib Eye Roast Mashed Potato Steamed Carrots Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit & Juice

Tofu Broccoli Curry Pasta Steamed Carrots

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m.

Zoom.us Login: Meeting ID: 992 Arts with Laura 10 a.m.-12 p.m. 3169 6108; Passcode: 503637; Walk w/Odessa 9-10 a.m.

Dial-in: 1-929-205-6099 Zoom and Phone) Computer learning Zoom Meeting Meeting Place by the Library on (via Must call or email to register: w/Ralph is now Tues. @ 6 p.m.

Asch Loop 929-399-1387 Zoom.us Login: Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554; Dial-in: 929-205-6609

BBQ Grilled Chicken, Egg Barley w/Mushrooms, Grilled Vegetables, Whole wheat bread, Fresh fruit & Juice

Jerk Chicken Rice & Beans Braised Collard Greens

Computer Literacy Zoom Class w/Julesa Grimes 1 p.m.

To register, please email jgrimes@ jasa.org; 9/15, 9/22, 9/29,10/6, 10/13 & 10/20 Bodies in Motion w/ Ola 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Zoom.us Login: Meeting ID: 912 6304 7892; Passcode: 237257; Dial-in: 1-929-205-6099 Game Day 1-2 p.m.

Zoom.us Login: Meeting ID: 910 4221 6993; Passcode: 7A5RaD Mobile: 1-929-205-6099 Meeting ID: 910 4221 6993

JASA CLOSED Yom Kippur

JASA CLOSED Yom Kippur

Arthritis Exercise Class w/Damion every Mon. in the Bartow Courtyard 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Bereavement Group 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month 12-1 p.m.

Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387 Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa, 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Bartow Senior Center Courtyard

Line Dance w/Ellie 10-11 a.m.

Meeting Place by the Jungle Gym @ Einstein Loop, left of Erdman Place

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler Time: 10-11 a.m.

Zoom.us Login: Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173, Passcode: 855423

Weight Mgt. Support Group w/ Gigi – 2nd Wed. of the month, 1-2 p.m. Conference call: 929299-1045, Passcode: 1386 BINGO Time: 1 p.m. Join Zoom Meeting: Zoom.us Login: Meeting ID: 828 4139 6474; Passcode: 194662; Dial-in: 1-929-205-6099

Fri., Sept. 17

Thurs., Sept. 16

Passcode: 59849 Arts with Laura 10 a.m.-12 p.m. via Zoom and phone

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., Zoom.us Login: 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.us Login: Meeting ID: 967 1196 0602; Passcode: 526096; Dial-in #: 1-929-2056099

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.

Line Dancing w/Ellie Thurs., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. @ the Section Manicotti 1 Greenway Stage. For more Mixed vegetables Whole wheat information, please call 718bread 320-1345 MUST WEAR MASKS AND PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING

Fresh fruit & Juice

Acceptance Meditation with Breaded Fish Paola Rice & Vegetables Friday, July 23, 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Whole Wheat Zoom.us Login: Meeting ID: 442 Bread 136 6695; One Tap Mobile: 929Fresh fruit 205-6099

Chicken Legs w/ Stewed Tomatoes Italian Blend Vegetables

Tuna Fish Salad Cabbage Carrot Slaw Simple Potato 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.

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

JASA Closed on Thurs., Sept. 16, for Yom Kippur.

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

Every Tuesday Yoga Classes w/Margarita Titana – 9:30-10:30 a.m., zoom.us, Dial-in: 929205-6099, 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.

Every Wed. Painting Classes – 9-11 a.m. 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: zoom.us, Meeting ID: 967 0893 1492, Passcode: 491268; Dialin: 1-929-205-6099.

(New) Line Dancing w/Ellie – Thurs., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. 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 Sat. Zumba Classes w/Damion – 1-2 p.m.

Zoom meeting: zoom.us, Meeting ID: 929 2810 9097, Passcode: 374977; Dial-in: 929.205.6099.

JASA Dreiser Senior Center “Walk with Ease” adventure w/Terry Webb starting Wed., Sept. 22, 9:15 a.m. Meeting place: Section 1 Greenway 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 email pogando@jasa.org. Please register early.

New York Common Pantry – Scheduled for Tues., September 21, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. in the Bartow Mall by Dollar Tree.

Nursing Students from Pace and CUNY University available on Tues. & Thurs. by appointments (calls and home/office visits); Blood Pressure Screening, Tues., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. by appointments.

Call 718-320-2066.

Want to learn technology class? Are you interested in any of the wide range of topics to do with smartphones, computers, and smart devices? Thurs., 6-7 p.m. Join Zoom meeting: zoom.us, Dial-in: 929205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

Would you like to learn how to play Chess starting in Oct. on Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.? To register, call 718-320-2066.

20

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Rod Saunders

Concerns Mount About e-Scooters and Our Water Distribution System I sincerely hope that all of you had an enjoyable summer season, and that you are continuing your daily regimen towards being safe, and staying well.

The East Bronx e-Scooter Pilot Program Roll Out – Fall Out Months ago, the Riverbay Board was briefed by our Executive General Manager that the City’s Dept. of Transportation (DOT), in partnership with e-scooter companies (Bird/Lime/VEO), were given the rights to participate in bringing an e-scooter (micromobility) program to the east Bronx, and that Co-op City was designated to be included in the pilot program.

Riverbay Board directors did not participate at the Community Board 10’s Municipal Services Committee meeting, nor were we given a separate Power Point presentation by the DOT, giving detailed information explaining exactly how this new pilot program might positively or negatively impact our community. Based upon the information that the Riverbay Board was given, the generally accepted impression was that the rental of the e-scooters under the East Bronx Pilot Program would operate similarly to the Citi-Bike program. Pick up at one location, and simply return the rented e-scooter to the same or nearest “docking” station location. e-Scooters Left Abandoned On Our Property Abandoned e-scooters left in undesirous locations on Co-op City’s private property when their allotted time runs out, should have never been a consideration, or an option!

The digital technology involved here, combined with the very type of e-scooters that are currently made available to rent in Co-op City, make these rentals mostly attractive to our younger residents.

They’re not designed for engagement by our more seasoned cooperators, although there are DOT stipulations addressing such issues.

In addition, as a Board director, I was not made aware of the following options: 1. Could Co-op City have opted out of the Pilot Program?

2. The type of e-scooters that were going to be offered to the Co-op City community.

3. Requiring parking arrangements (corrals) be

made available for the rented e-scooters, https://nycdotscootershare.info/sites/default/files/2021-05/ EScooter_CB10.pdf In learning more, the answer to the first question is probably “yes.” Based upon the anomaly that we are, Co-op City, could have presented a host of reasons as to why the e-scooter pilot program was not in our community’s best.

There are more types of e-scooters available for transportation than the two wheel, no seat e-scooter predominately available in Co-op City now. There are other models (better for seniors) available. It’s possible that some more seasoned adults here in Co-op City might consider renting e-scooters designed for people with disabilities.

Located within the NYCDOT link above, they’ve provided a map, indicating where proposed “corral” parking for the e-scooters would be placed. The map indicates that only a 12 block area, beginning from Eastchester Road (between Blondell and East Tremont Avenues) southerly to Westchester Square, were provisions made to install 12 e-scooter corrals.

No other locations are shown. Why was that specific 12-block area singularly approved for the installations the e-scooter corrals? The bottom line – your Riverbay Board of Directors should have had much more input before this pilot program was deemed acceptable to come inside our community.

The DEP’s Distribution of Water follow-up In my previous director’s viewpoint, I let all of you know of a situation uncovered while researching the answer(s) as to why a cooperator was experiencing displeasure with the quality of water coming from their kitchen & bathroom faucets.

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) was very forthcoming with their answer.

The cooperator pursued the answer via 311, while I went directly to the DEP’s NYC DEP website. The answers were identical.

The abbreviated version is: Because of infrastructure work being performed on the City’s aging water delivery system, NYC’s water distribution is currently coming from a different reservoir source, therefore “differences in the geology, soil conditions, and naturally occurring minerals in the watershed that surround their reservoirs” makes a difference in how the water may look, smell or taste,

however, the quality of the water that we consume remains high. Therefore, ignore the water’s brownish looks, odorous smell, and different taste.

My subsequent focus became the manner in which NYC’s water supply was being distributed.

The boroughs of the Bronx and Manhattan, which are arguably the two closest boroughs to the upstate reservoirs, are sub-divided into multiple water distribution zones, while the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island all receive one single source of their water distribution. Why? Assemblyman Benedetto’s office reached out to the DEP for an explanation. The DEP’s initial answer re-addressed the quality of look, smell, taste issue. When I wrote directly to the DEP’s respondent specifically addressing the water distribution, the answer was: “Regarding your question about ‘selective distribution’ – there is none and there is no policy.

The link I had provided of the water distribution map on our website represents what happens when both the Cat/Del and Croton systems are in use, based on how the system was built out decades ago.

Parts of the city that are close to Croton receive more Croton water than other parts.”

Solely based upon that response, I have written an appropriate follow-up because, in my opinion, the map shows the exact opposite of the explanation being given. I will continue with my pursuit of clarity on the matter as more information unfolds, or in case it does not.

Maintenance – Restoration – the Call Center I am adamant about addressing the majority of our cooperator’s #1 concern – Maintenance. There are several directors who want to address what occurs in the interactions between the Maintenance Department’s Call Center, and the scheduling of the work to be done in cooperators’ apartments. We know the issues. Board directors have heard, and personally experienced, a lot of what every cooperator has, so we know exactly what your concerns are.

At the end of our last informal Board meeting called by the president, I requested that the next meeting’s focus be primarily about our “maintenance/restoration/call center” issues.

As always, thank you for reading my viewpoint.

I can be reached at rsaunders@riverbayboard.com.

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

Location for services is not confirmed. We will probably be on Zoom for Yom Kippur. We are using the same book as last year, “Gates of Repentance” (Red Book). Please call 973-769-3915 or email: RabbiDennisTobin@aol.com for location.

Kol Nidre Evening Yom Kippur Wednesday, Sept. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Morning Yom Kippur Thursday, Sept. 16, 10 a.m.

Yiskor will be at the end of the Morning Service.

If we are having services in Co-op City, there will be a Public Yizkor at 2:30 p.m.

Afternoon Service begins Thursday, Sept. 16, at 4 p.m.

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 Zoom via a computer, iPad, or phone.

There will also be information coming for the “Book of Remembrance.” Please send me an email: RabbiDennisTobin@aol.com, to let me know you will be attending, or call me: 973-769-3915.

––Rabbi Dennis Tobin

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• Pre-need counseling

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Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

21

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 started July 4. Also 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

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City High Holiday Schedule Erev Yom Kippur – Wednesday, September 15 Candle Lighting, 6:46 p.m.; Kol Nidre Services at 7 p.m.

Thursday, September 16 – Yom Kippur Day Services at 9:00 a.m.; Yizkor at 11 a.m.; Mincha at 5 p.m.; Neila (Closing of the Gates) at 6:00 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.

We invite you as well for Festival Services – Sukkoth, September 21, 22 and 25, Shmini Atzeret, September 28, and Simchat Torah, September 29 – All at 10 a.m., followed by Kiddush.

Simchat Torah Night Services, 6:30 p.m. on September 28 (tentative, pending an announcement of confirmation or cancellation during the morning services of September 28).

The High Holidays are coming up soon and it is time to reserve your synagogue seats and make

your charity donation. Please call Marilyn, (347) 449-5005.

The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services which start at 10:00 a.m. A mask and social distancing will be strictly enforced during all synagogue services.

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

The synagogue has Services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After Services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate would help. Men are 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.

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.

Sunday 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 His only begotten Son to make reconciliation possible between humans and Himself.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, Sept. 11, at 8:02 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, Sept. 17, at 6:41 p.m.

Good and Welfare We sell Tree Certificate in Honor or Memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15.00 per tree (if you want to buy a tree, call 347-449-5005). Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

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

Fun and Games After services and kiddush, members play games.

Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

––Bruce Gitelson

22

Co-op City Times / September 11 , 2021

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Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

Public Safety

(Continued from page 7)

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 of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website.

Co-op City is a diverse community with people of all ages, abilities and characteristics. All persons should remember to respect each other and embrace their differences. Do not forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street while observing six-foot social distance.

Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. It is also important to remember that not all disabilities are visible. Someone who appears to be healthy may have a physical or developmental disability.

It is still important to wear a mask and practice good personal hygiene. Wear gloves, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. Wear a mask indoors and in situations where six-foot social distancing is not possible. Consult your physician and see if getting a vaccine is a good idea for you and anyone, 12 or older who reside in your household. Also, check with your doctor and see if a third or booster shot is recommended.

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

RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by 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).

23

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 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 p.m.

Our Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study starts at 7:00 p.m. on our Conference Line: (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, September 5, Worship Service theme: “Let Us Come Together.”

Scripture: Hebrews 10: 19-25 “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

(Hebrews 9:14, 10:23, 9:28; Ephesians 4:5; Corinthians 13:13) 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

Newsong Church

What’s so amazing about the Bible?

16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. –2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) The Bible is amazing because it’s unique.

It’s made up of 66 books that were written by over 40 different authors, over a period of 1500 years. People from all different walks of life, living on three different continents (Asia, Africa, & Europe), speaking three different languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, & Greek), all telling a beautiful love story that flows from beginning to end.

It’s amazing because it’s miraculously survived over time. People have banned it, burned it, and bashed it, yet it’s still here.

It’s amazing because of what it teaches. Just a quick study of the fulfilled prophecies have to make you notice that the Bible is no ordinary book! For instance, Isaiah & Micah wrote about 700 years before the birth of Jesus, yet Isaiah declared the virgin birth of the Messiah, and Micah prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. (See Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2) King David wrote about crucifixion 500 years before crucifixion was invented (See Psalm 22) and 1,000 years before Jesus was crucified for our sins! I could go on showing you how the Bible mentions specific people, & empires hundreds of years before they came into being!

This is an amazing book because it’s God speaking to us, revealing Himself to us. From Genesis to Revelation, it tells us that God exists, that He created us, that He loves us, that He wants a relationship with us, and how we can have that relationship with Him through His Son Jesus. We don’t read the Bible, the Bible reads us! The Bible speaks with power, authority, wisdom and truth, because it’s from God! It’s been said that the Scripture is shallow enough for a child to wade, and deep enough for an elephant to swim in, I love that!

The Bible is amazing because we get to know the author personally. You see the Bible isn’t about us, it’s all about Jesus. From beginning to end, the Scriptures anticipate, spotlight and find resolution in Jesus…

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. –John 1:1,14 (NIV) I know the author personally, because the Word (Jesus) became a man, and paid the ultimate price for my sin. When we come into this relationship with Him, His Word (The Bible) comes alive to us. It feeds us and refreshes our soul!

Join us this Sunday at 11 a.m. as we open the greatest book ever written and ask the Word of God to speak to us! In person: 135 Einstein Loop; Online: www. newsongchurchnyc.org.

––Pastor Mike Tolone

24

Co-op City Times / September 11, 2021

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