Co-op City Times 09/24/16

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

In Wake Of Regional Terrorist Bombing, Public Safety Asks Residents To Stay Vigilant

© Copyright 2016 Co-op City Times

Vol. 51 No. 39

Saturday, September 24, 2016

This past weekend’s detonations of homemade improvised explosive devices (IED) in two unsuspecting residential communities – one in New Jersey and one in Manhattan – brought home the point to all that no community is immune from the threat of terrorism.

In the wake of these most recent reminders of this new reality, Public Safety Chief Frank Apollo said that his department is doubling down on its efforts to keep the community vigilant and prepared to report any suspicious items and activities that they observe.

“Our dispatchers have been instructed to prioritize all calls they receive regarding suspicious packages or suspicious actions and patrol officers are instructed to prioritize

BY BILL STUTTIG

(Continued on page 25)

Riverbay appeals ruling in MSI lawsuit Attorneys for Riverbay have filed an appeal to reverse a judge’s ruling that Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc. is entitled to damages for being removed as managing agent of Co-op City.

In court papers, the Riverbay attorneys allege that the judgment was premature because discovery to uncover facts in the case had not yet been conducted; that consideration should be given to the fact that MSI carried out no duties while suspended; and that any payment to MSI could be offset by future rulings of misconduct by MSI. State Supreme Court Justice Paul Wooten ruled on June 20 that MSI’s November 2014 suspension was a de facto termination and breach of its management contract.

BY JIM ROBERTS

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Day with the Spanish-American Community Club in Dreiser Auditorium

(Continued on page 4)

2016 Financial Statement And Much More To Be Discussed At Open Board Meeting Wednesday The 2016 Financial Statement presentation will be one of the major highlights of the next Open Board meeting which will take place on Wednesday, September 28, in room 31 of the Bartow Community Center at 7:30 p.m.

The meeting’s agenda is full of important items which the Riverbay Board will tackle when they meet this coming week. Riverbay’s new executive general manager, Bob Klehammer, will also be introduced to the community and is expected to present remarks from the community’s new management company, Douglas Elliman Property Management, which has been getting acclimated over the course of the past three months.

“I am looking forward to seeing the community come out on Wednesday evening,” said Board President Cleve Taylor. “Some of the critical issues being discussed are a report from our auditors on our financial statement, a presentation regarding a new voting process and remarks from our new managing agent Douglas Elliman. Every shareholder should be interested in hearing these details.”

On Wednesday night, the board will hear a presentation from Election America in order to take advantage of new and updated voting technology for the annual Riverbay Board of Directors elections to make the process more cost-efficient and save shareholders money. The last Board election cost the shareholders of Co-op City approximately $110,000.

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Annual Co-op City College & Career Fair Next Saturday, October 1, Dreiser Auditorium (Continued on page 2)

Grades 3-6: 9 a.m. – noon;

Registration: 9 a.m.

Grades 7-12: 12:30-3:30 p.m.; Registration: 11:30 a.m.

tomorrow, Sunday, Sept. 25th, 1-6 p.m.

ADMISSION IS FREE!!!

Performances, raffles, refreshments!

Local Law II work Begins In Section 5 Monday

Local Law II work on the community’s balconies and facades will begin in Section Five on Monday, September 26.

Local Law 11 requires that all exterior walls and attached appurtenances of all buildings that are greater than six stories high be inspected at least once every five years to ensure it is in safe condition.

The last such inspection took place in Co-op City during the 2011/2012 cycle.

This week’s inspections will be conducted from Monday, September 26 to Friday, September 30 and will start with Buildings 31, 32, 33, 34 and 35.

Riverbay’s management advises shareholders to be aware that workers will be outside their windows and to keep their blinds closed for privacy.

During the inspections, Riverbay construction staff and engineers from

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Merritt Engineering Consultants will need to gain access to at least 10% of the apartments in each line in each building. It is anticipated that one building per day will be addressed. All balconies and railings will be examined during the inspections.

“We are currently making phone calls to make sure we will have access to the required number of balconies in each building type,” said Mark Warren, Riverbay’s Assistant General Manager for Construction. “Once we are on one balcony, we will be looking at least one or two balconies up and down to see if there is anything of concern, and at the same time, we’ll have a crew of masons to manage any major issues that may arise while we are on the site.”

(Continued on page 2)

25¢

(See flyer on page 4)

Co-op City’s Second Disabilities Expo Set for Sunday, October 2nd In Dreiser Center The organizers of Co-op City’s Disabilities Expo see next Sunday’s daylong fair highlighting support services for a wide variety of disabled people and their caregivers as more than just a local event.

Cheryl Silvera of the Co-op City Seventh Day Adventist Church is one of the founders and principal organizers of the annual event which attracted more than 500 people last year.

“This year, we hope to attract more than 700 people,” Ms. Silvera said. “We are trying to make this more than a community event and reach out to the entire city. There are similar events held in New Jersey, but there, you have to pay for the services provided and reachBY BILL STUTTIG

ing New Jersey is next to impossible for many disabled people here.”

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. next Sunday, October 2nd, nearly all the meetings rooms of the large Dreiser Community Center will house exhibits featuring services and information on dealing with disabilities of all types from mobility impairments, to sight and hearing deficiencies, to cognitive impairments, psychological complexities and hidden conditions that only the victims can fully understand.

This year’s expo strategically coincides with the beginning of National Mental Health Week, October 2-8. A representative from the Mayor’s Office (Continued on page 4)

2

Open Board

Also on the agenda is a presentation on UPS’ Access Point Locker Program which the company initiated in June to improve the online shopping experience and expand delivery options for customers, especially those for whom front-door delivery is not option.

Essentially, if a customer is not home to receive their delivery, the UPS driver will leave a delivery notice letting the customer know when and where their package will be available for pick-up at their local UPS Access Point location, which could be a local convenience store, grocery store or gas station. To pick up their package, the customer will need to provide their UPS InfoNotice® alert (left by the UPS driver); or if they choose to receive notification on their smartphone, the barcode that will be sent to their device; or the tracking number for their package; proof of address and a valid photo ID. Another important item on the agenda

Local Law 11

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016 is a discussion on water conservation which all shareholders should be mindful of and practise in their homes in order to save on the development’s water charges, an issue that Board President Taylor has been championing. Earlier this summer, Riverbay received approval from the city to convert the remaining Co-op City buildings over to the Multi-Family Conservation Program (MCP) which offers multi-family dwellings such as Co-op City the opportunity to pay a fixed cost for water and sewer charges. By doing so, the corporation will be able to realize another $1.2 million, or 12%, in savings on its water bills.

In order to participate in the MCP program, Riverbay had to pre-pay its annual water and sewer charges. To raise the money, shareholders who were in a position to pre-pay their annual carrying charges were asked to do so and in return, receive a 6% discount on their carrying charges, half of

(Continued from page 1)

During the inspection period for each set of buildings, scaffolding drop inspections will be conducted on the exterior of the structures to examine the masonry work on the facades of the buildings for loose and/or cracking concrete so that those items can be addressed concurrently.

“Based on the conditions of the balconies and buildings, brick and concrete work will be necessary to address repairs and compliance with the law to ensure the safety of Co-op City shareholders,” Warren said.

the resulting savings from the city to Riverbay for participating in the MCP program. Therefore, although not every family was able to pre-pay their annual carrying charges to raise the money to take advantage of the savings from the city, all shareholders benefitted because the community’s water and sewer bill was significantly reduced. Nevertheless, more needs to be done on an individual basis so that even more savings can be realized and these initiatives will be discussed at next week’s board meeting.

At this point, all of Co-op City’s residential buildings are enrolled in the MCP program which translates to annual savings of $2 million to $2.5 million. The only structures not enrolled are the power plant, parking garages and shopping properties, which are not eligible for the MCP program.

Second readings to be voted on will include resolution 16-56 – Board presi-

After this first phase of inspections is completed, work will move into the second phase when the next group of buildings will be inspected until all 35 highrise residential buildings are addressed.

In the second phase, Buildings 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 will be inspected beginning on Wednesday, October 12 to Friday, October 14, and work will pick back up on Monday, October 17 through Tuesday, October 18.

“This phase of the Local Law 11 process will be deemed completed in February of next year,” said

(Continued from page 1)

dents’ recognition, and resolution 16-58, administrative fee adjustment.

There will be a gallery session following the presentations and shareholders who would like to ask questions of the board and management are encouraged to come early and sign up.

As is usually the case, personnel from the various Riverbay departments will be available during the open information session which precedes the official start of the Board business meeting to address any shareholder concerns. This will take place from 6-7 p.m. in the Bartow Center.

Riverbay’s First Vice President Linda Berk said: “I believe it is important for shareholders to come out and participate in the open board meeting. Everything that goes on at Riverbay impacts every shareholder. Here’s an opportunity to speak with department directors and ask Board directors questions during the gallery session. I hope to see many seats filled on Wednesday evening.”

Warren.

Once the work is completed development-wide, Merritt Engineering Consultants will provide both Riverbay and the New York City Department of Buildings with a report.

“After that, we will have to develop a more detailed scope of repairs whereby teams will be available to address any safety issues which we will then have five years to address until the next cycle of Local Law 11 kicks in again,” stated Warren.

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

• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program • Evening and Saturday appointments

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Co-op City Times 2 n d Family Fun Day

Front Pa ge

3

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

NCNW Community Health Fair today

Your health is important, so please come out, bring your family members and invest your time for FREE at the NCNW Community Health Fair, scheduled to take place today, September 24, at the Co-op City Bartow Community Center, room 28, from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. There will be various health care providers and organizations available to share information and provide services onsite. If you have attended the NCNW’s health fairs in the past, you surely don't want to miss this one. Hope to see you there!

Bereavement Support Group back in session

The JASA Bereavement Support Group, facilitated by Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, has reconvened for those who are mourning the loss of a loved one and in need of support. The bereavement group meets every Monday in room 13 of the Dreiser Center, at 1 p.m.

For further information, Dr. Smith may be contacted at (917) 734-4058.

21st annual Friends & Family Day Celebration

The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. will host its 21th annual Friends and Family Day celebration on Saturday, October 15, 1:00 p.m., 177 Dreiser Community Center, Auditorium B, (Co-op City) Bronx, New York. The Keynote Speaker will be Mr. Jerome Rice.

Admission is free and all are invited to attend.

There will be games with prizes for the children, entertainment, inspirational messages, family reunions and networking, as well as vendors. Please come out and support this event.

Section 1 Family Fun Day was held last Saturday, Sept. 17 on the Section 1 greenway. It was a day for Co-op City families and neighbors to come together and enjoy a host of family-oriented activities that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

In Memoriam – Irwin Toplitsky

Irwin Toplitsky, a devoted father and husband who worked mainly for the Riverbay Corp. in Co-op City for over 25 years, passed away on Aug. 31. He was 76 years old.

Toplitsky retired from his position as a Co-op City Public Safety officer and was a hard worker who would often hold multiple jobs to provide for his family. Part-time jobs included driving a school bus, janitorial work, and pumping gas. Work was a very high priority for him and making sure his family had all that they needed.

Irwin Toplitsky, an original; a true Bronx original, a man who was a central figure in the Díaz, Garcia, Guridy, and Toplitsky families for more than 50 years. Irwin was born on Sept. 9, 1939 to Yetta and Abraham Toplitsky. His birthplace and residence was Tiffany Street in the South Bronx. He was very proud of where he came from and he became upset if anyone talked disparagingly of his native borough.

His childhood games included Johnny-on-the-pony, Ringolevio and, of course, stickball. He grew to love

to play and watch sports, especially softball, baseball and football. Irwin was a pretty good athlete. As a kid, he even had the opportunity to become a boxer in the Golden Gloves.

In 1963, he met his wife Ruth while they worked in Rue Factories. They dated for a while, and then, in the characteristic no-nonsense fashion that characterized Irwin, he proposed to her by saying something like, “So, whaddya think, ya wanna get married or what?”

And, of course, she said “yes!” How could she say anything differently? They were married on Sept.

25, 1966.

Even though he worked hard, it seemed like he was always at home.

He made sure to go on outings with his kids to places like Orchard Beach and Nathan’s. He was an avid swimmer and beach lover who made sure his children loved the water as well.

To Irwin, not knowing how to swim (Continued on page 25)

4

Disabilities Expo

on Disabilities will be the opening speaker for the event and the agency will be presenting throughout the day, along with other invited elected officials.

“With the city’s strong emphasis on mental health, there will be information for faith communities in approaches to mental health,” Ms. Silvera said. “Often times, the challenges of finding resources for disabilities can be likened to asking a toddler to describe the constellation.

That’s what it feels like seeking resources for disabilities – they are out there, but you don’t know where. The 2016 NYC Disabilities Expo seeks to be that navigator to families who are in need of the services – some they don’t even know exist. The message we are trying to convey is a simple one, ‘Don’t count us out, yet. Poverty and disability are not our barriers; attitudes of stigma and exclusion are’.”

Co-op City’s John Rose, who has suffered throughout his life with cerebral palsy, has been a leading advocate for the disabled in the community for several decades and is a founding member of the Riverbay Disabilities and Accommodation Committee. He encourages all of Co-op City – not just the disabled – to visit the expo to find out how they can help the disabled not only in this community but everywhere in New York City.

Mr. Rose said he attended the disabilities expo in New Jersey several years ago and hoped one day that something similar could be brought to Co-op City.

He advocated for the community to have a separate Disabled Rights Committee for several years, but it wasn’t until 2014 when newly elected Riverbay President Cleve Taylor and Board Director Linda Berk agreed with him

MSI

The judge decided that MSI would not be reinstated as managing agent nor be entitled to recover any attorney fees from Riverbay.

In his ruling, Judge Wooten determined that damages, if any, would be limited to the time period between its November 2014 suspension and the date that NYS HCR terminates MSI’s contract. The state Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) has ruled that MSI’s management agreement is considered ended six months following their removal from Co-op City. That decision is also the subject of a separate court challenge. Riverbay maintains that the termination should have been made as of November, the date that MSI was suspended and the date that MSI stopped providing any services.

Riverbay argued that MSI did not provide any services after November of 2014 and that its failure to properly manage employment matters and other management obligations damaged Riverbay in an amount in excess of $7 million.

If the two sides cannot reach a settlement, Judge Wooten ruled a special referee would be appointed to determine the amount of MSI’s contract claim.

The judge did not make any determination of Riverbay’s counter claims in the lawsuit for money damages against

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016 that the Disabilities and Accommodations Committee (DAAC) was formed and DAAC was then instrumental in setting up last year’s successful expo, as well as this year’s.

“The one we had last year went very well,” Mr. Rose said. “But this year, we hope to have a wider outreach, get more elected officials involved and bring in more disabled people from outside the community.”

DAAC Chairperson Linda Berk, who is also the First Vice President of the Riverbay Board, said: “I believe the work of the Disability Committee, especially with the Expo, is extremely important because of my sense of community and the needs of those living with disabilities. It is my hope that, as a community, we become more empathetic so that we can prioritize the needs of shareholders living with disabilities.”

The Disabilities Expo will feature a wide array of attractions and services, including an art museum for inclusive works by the disabled, a calming room, a children’s activity center, and a main hall of exhibitors and speakers on the vast array of disabilities and where to get treatment and services. The day will also feature a seminar for victims of sexual abuse, a drive to collect used eyeglasses for the vision impaired living in poverty, and a lunchtime Gospel concert.

“There will be numerous opportunities for one-on-one conversations with the professionals dedicated to helping people not only live with their disability but overcome it,” Ms. Silvera said. “If we can start something to make people’s lives better and, in doing so, obtain a better understanding of someone else’s life, than maybe we can end up making our own lives better.”

(Continued from page 1)

(Continued from page 1)

MSI. Riverbay has countersued MSI for more than $7 million. Those claims remain outstanding and are in discovery.

Riverbay is represented by former U.S. Attorney Michael Battle, and by Tom Kissane of Schlam Stone and Dolan LLP, in the litigation against MSI. In a separate action in state Supreme Court, MSI has filed a lawsuit against the state DHCR, alleging that HCR President Mark Colon “…arbitrarily and capriciously retroactively set the nonrenewal date of MSI’s managing agent agreement with Riverbay…” Riverbay is also filing papers in the Supreme Court, arguing that HCR’s failure to complete an investigation of MSI, and HCR’s selection of a May termination date, rather than November, was arbitrary and capricious.

In another legal development against MSI, a federal judge has certified a collective action against MSI and Rochdale Village, finding that MSI’s employment practices at Rochdale may have violated the Fair Labor Standards Act. The papers allege that MSI failed to pay proper overtime and wages to Rochdale employees. The lawsuit seeks damages believed to be in excess of $15 million against Rochdale, MSI, Marion Scott individually and Herb Freedman individually.

Co-op City Spotlight Di’Mon Monique Freeman – Outstanding young Co-op City resident

Di’ Mon Monique Freedman, a resident of Section 5, was recently awarded a contract to do the next four murals for Bronx Psychiatric Children’s Hospital.

Di’Mon has lived in Co-op all her life and attended local schools in the area. She graduated from the High School for Contemporary Arts in the Bronx. Di’Mon created the first Annual Co-op City College Fair flyer for Board director Evelyn M. Turner who is the organizer of the event. Di’Mon’s mother, Arlene Freedman, continues to volunteer for the annual College, Career & Resource Fair which is scheduled to take place next Saturday, October 1 in the Dreiser auditorium.

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

5

First Responders’ Appeciation Day Board Director Junius Williams, the chairperson of Riverbay’s Security Committee, joined his fellow Board Directors in expressing gratitude to local first responders for their hard and life-saving work every day. Public Safety officers, detectives, and lobby attendants joined with representatives of the 45th Precinct, CB 10 CERT team and the local firehouse in enjoying the picnic-style day on Co-op City’s Little League fields. The event included a full service barbecue. Jamaal Bailey, Co-op City’s future State Senate representative, stopped by along with City Councilman Andy King. United States Track and Field Gold Medalist Phyllis Chanez Francis, a New York City success story, also stopped by to accept congratulations and allow picnickers to pose for pictures with her and her freshly issued Olympic Gold Medal.

Photos by Bill Stuttig

6

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

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 – verify authors. or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

• –the•authenticity – • – •of–the•– • – Anonymous •– – •Letters – • cannot – • –exceed • – 350 •–words.

• – Ideally, • – they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be 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

Time for HCR to change nonsensical rules

To the Editor, It's high time that the residents write to our senator and HCR about getting these apartments rented. Lost revenue is apparent and those who make the rules can change them. We need participation from residents to pressure these policy changes; as one Board member stated, families who have the equity money or are in a quick position to pur-

chase an apartment should automatically go ahead of those who can't get the equity in a feasible time period. It's crazy to have these delays.

If I had a lot full of cars and someone is interested in buying, but has no money, why should I hold that car while someone willing to buy is waiting in the rear – poor business and this is absurd to expect us to follow these

Riverbay Open House Job Fair

Riverbay’s Open House Job Fair for positions in the Buildings & Grounds Department will be held on Thursday, September 29 in Dreiser Auditorium B from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees are advised to come prepared with resumes.

Riverbay Human Resources Department will be interviewing candidates for: temporary building porters & temporary groundsmen. Positions can last up to 6 months; 25 hours per week at $12 per hour. Successful candidates will have prior experience for the position for which they are interviewing.

Register by sending an email to: HR @riverbaycorp.com and write “Job Fair” in the subject line, along with your name, e.g., “Job Fair – John Doe.” The Dreiser Auditorium is located at 177 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 (2nd floor)..

rules. It unfair to us as residents here to allow this to happen!

Write to your local officials and directors to stop this and please mention that apartment transfers to down size or upgrade should be given priority as long as their history is creditable. Look, if you’re having trouble getting the equity to live here, how long can you last here?

—Nick Liberati

Fall Shut-Down

The annual fall shut-down at the Riverbay power plant will begin on Monday, September 26, when the cooling system will be taken offline and maintenance, repair and preparation will begin before the heating season begins. It is expected that the power plant will start up winter operations on Friday, October 14.

Fun Day Basketball Clinic

More than 45 young people took part in the popular basketball clinic held by Section 1 resident and Fun Day committee member Ulysses Barnes at the Fun Day event held last Saturday, Sept.

17. Barnes is a Co-op City shareholder who grew up playing ball on Co-op City’s courts. He eventually won a basketball scholarship to attend college and hopes to teach the rudiments of the game to young people so that they too can take advantage of available opportunities to attend college. Barnes says he would like to team up with GameOverNY, the company responsible for the restoration of the community’s basketball courts.

GameOver has hosted several basketball clinics for Co-op City’s youth on the newly restored courts.

“We’d like to hold structured basketball tournaments and clinics in the future and hope to get at least two more in during October before it starts to get cold,” said Barnes. “I feel honored that the Section 1 Association allowed me to be a part of this wonderful event.”

Photos to Eric Hicks and Steven Mason

Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period.

If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

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

Bill Stuttig

Associate Editor

Jim Roberts

Business Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

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 verify the authenticity of the authors.

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

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

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

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

All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times.

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

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

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 27 Building 27

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Building 27 100, 120, 140 Erdman Place

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2019

Public Safety Report

If You See Something, Say Something

As we’ve marked the 15th anniversary of the fateful events of September 11, 2001, we are remin-ded of how important it is to observe and report suspicious activity. “If you see something, say something” is a series of public service announcements put in place by the Department of Homeland Security, the New York City Police Department and various other agencies. The New York City Police Department reports that every year more than 2,000 people do just that.

Last weekend, explosive devices were placed at high traffic areas in New York and New Jersey. Fortunately, no deaths were associated with the placement of these devices. Observant citizens were instrumental in the apprehension of the person responsible for the placement of these devices. Here in Co-op City, we may not be faced with incidents of that magnitude, but it is still very important to be vigilant here and anywhere your travels may take you. In this community, calls from cooperators have always been instrumental in our success in fighting crime and maintaining a high quality of life.

If there is an emergency, a person is in immediate danger or you observe suspicious activity — do not take action — alert local authorities immediately by dialing 9-1-1. To provide the most useful information to law enforcement, record and report: • Who did you observe?

• What did you see? Be specific.

• Where did you see it?

• When did you see it?

• Why is it suspicious?

Callers are encouraged to be accurate, fast and complete in their reports. When describing a suspicious person, try to provide as many details as possible – height, weight, age, hair color, eye color, clothing description from top to bottom (hat, shirt, pants, shoes).

If the person is driving a vehicle, callers should try to provide the vehicle's license plate number in full or as much as you can remember, color, make and model of vehicle. When you are on the phone, you may feel like

Anonymous calls to Public Safety

7

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

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

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

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

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

Thank you very much for your cooperation.

—Riverbay Management

BY LT. PAM APOLLO

the dispatcher is asking too many questions, but they are skilled professionals who know exactly what questions to ask.

In the United States as a whole, with New York City being the most high-profile city, terrorism alertness should always be a consideration. It is very important for all citizens to remain vigilant for the possibility of terrorism wherever they go. New York City emphasizes calling if you see something suspicious, mostly unattended packages especially in transportation facilities. This is important, but it is also important to remain observant wherever you go at all times for all types of violations. As cooperators, your observations are instrumental in helping Public Safety fight crime in the community.

If you observe suspicious or suspected terrorist activity in New York State, call 1-(866) SAFE-NYS 1(866) 723-3697. In New York City, call 1-(888) NYC-SAFE, 1(888) 692-7233. In Co-op City, call (718) 671-3050. If you cannot recall these numbers or if out of New York State, call 9-1-1 nationwide.

Many of the serious arrests made in Co-op City begin with a telephone call from an observant cooperator. Many of the auto crime arrests are made because a cooperator calls in a suspicious person in the garage.

Active involvement by residents allows auto crime rates within Co-op City to remain among the lowest in the city. Please continue to be observant when parking in the garages.

Arrests for trespassing in the stairwells are often the result of a cooperator calling in that they saw, heard or smelled something in the hallway. Co-op City’s 65,000 residents have some 130,000 eyes. All of these eyes can be an effective tool in fighting crime. Call 91-1 and the Co-op City Department of Public Safety, (718) 671-3050, immediately.

Objects out the window, noise and dogs in the building are also areas where calls from the public are very useful in helping with enforcement. All of these are lease infractions and can be a very sensitive and technical situation. Cooperators should just call Public

Safety instead of confronting the potential offender.

Try to remember and convey as much information and details to the dispatcher.

In the event that an affidavit needs to be signed and a Community Complaint issued, the caller’s information will not be revealed to the offender. In cases where a Community Complaint is appealed, it may become necessary for a witness that signed an affidavit to come forward. However, this does not take place until much later in the process.

Calls received from cooperators have been responsible for numerous arrests throughout the years. The Public Safety Department would like to thank members of the community who took the time to notify this department and 9-1-1 when they saw something suspicious. These calls continue to be essential in our battle against crime. Remember “If you see something, say something.” Call 9-1-1 and the Co-op City Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or go online at www.ccpd.us. You do not have to give your name, all information is kept confidential.

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. Don’t forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street.

Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. As Stevie Wonder said at the Grammys, “We need to make every single thing accessible to every person with a disability.” 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.

September is known as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, Cholesterol Awareness Month, as well as Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month. This is a good opportunity to learn about disabilities or conditions that may affect your friends, family members or neighbors. It is also a good opportunity to schedule a full physical examination with screening tests recommended by your physician. Knowledge is power, the more you

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbay corp.com; and Barbara Penn at Bpenn@riverbaycorp.com.

Please note that emails should be sent to both parties.

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails.

For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see bottom of the employment listings for specific directions.

CONTRACT SUMMARY

Contract P978, Garage Access & Revenue Control Bids Due: September 30, at 2 p.m.

Insurance: Winning bidder must provide insurance If interested in bidding, please send request to bpenn@riverbaycorp.com.

Contract 1000, Installation of Backflow Prevention Devices Bid Due: October 5, 2016 at 2 p.m.

Insurance: Winning bidder must provide insurance.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Please see page 6 for our Open House Job Fair.

8

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Linda Berk

First Vice President

Community engagement has been a major concern of mine for many years now; having a voice is one of the reasons I ran for the Board of Directors. I believe it is critical and of self-interest for shareholders to be engaged. Currently, in my opinion, we do not have enough of the community involved, either on committees or in the voting process.

Recently, fellow Board directors have brought up the need to establish another forum for the community to become involved. I agree that we need a way to get a better sense of the pulse of the entire community. To leave it up to the handful of shareholders who join two or three committees does not give the Board or management a realistic sense of what the entire community is thinking or interested in seeing happen. There are some who would say, then do not worry about those who chose not to get involved. However, I believe it is in everyone’s best interest to encourage a more diverse representation of shareholders to speak out and get involved.

To that end, I will submit a resolution with the support of fellow Board directors to create a Co-op City Congress, representing every building. This would be resurrecting an organization that used to exist years ago. I seriously believe that the Board can receive more comprehensive and community-wide recommendations from a body that reflects the entire community. Those shareholders who have been involved with committees would have another option to be involved. We will work out the details and research this concept as it is at other cooperative developments.

There will be more to come as we develop the resolu-

Community Engagement

tion together.

Acts Make a Difference I am grateful to other Board directors who take the time to explain to our community the details involved when contractors present change orders to the Board. I am proud that this Board does not just rubber stamp everything put in front of us from management. As I stated in a previous viewpoint, we consider the circumstances including cost, timing and the pro and cons that will affect shareholders. When management presents a change order to the Board, they might expect us to take their recommendation. However, our fiduciary responsibility to this corporation requires us to consider all the details, particularly because of the immediate legacy issues our immediate past managing agent left behind.

Unlike one of my fellow Board directors who states that this Board approves all change orders put in front of us, within the past few months, we tabled two very large change orders that we believed needed additional vetting and research. If this Board just votes “NO” on every change order, I can assure you, this community will not have the necessary parts and/or services that are vital and necessary for comfortable living. Voting “NO” on everything is not getting business done. As a Board, we are not effective, efficient or productive if we vote “NO” without discretion.

Anyone who works in construction, design, architecture or engineering understands that as projects progress, especially on fifty-year-old structures, one may discover unanticipated situations that will require

Building 27 Association

Greetings, neighbors, welcome to the fall. The days are getting shorter, so stay aware and alert of your surroundings.

The 5th Annual College Career & Resource Fair – will be held October 1st at Dreiser Loop Auditorium beginning at 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. These recourses and opportunities will be for elementary 3rd to 6th grade, and middle and high school students. This event has been presented to our community for 5 years already, what an accomplishment and service to our community.

Our General Meeting – will be Thursday, September 29th at 7 p.m. in Building 27C rear lobby. The association is looking forward to seeing our committed cooperators who have hung in there with the association. Remember, the association exists only because of you and you. We also encourage our new cooperators to become involved, election of officers will also be discussed at this meeting.

We will have different problems in life, but what choice do we have, be not a part of the problem, but be a part of the solution. So on that note: there is lots of volunteer work to be done, will you help?

We do not have a commitment of a speaker at this writing, but if so, a confirmation of a speaker will be posted via the bulletin board.

Youth Committee – We so desperately need one; please come willing to chair and serve on this committee for the children and youth of our building for they are our future and could continue this association well into the future.

The function of the building association is to keep our cooperators informed of what is happening in their building, as well as the community.

Happy birthday to all in this month. Please share with the Sunshine Committee, Ms. Lydia Rondon, by calling her at (718) 583-3040. If a neighbor in our building is ill, home-bound, celebrating birthdays, experiencing bereavement, Ms. Rondon will respond on behalf of the association.

Please keep our Board of Directors in prayer that they will be granted wisdom and harmony to continue moving forward and to make the right decisions. Please pray for all leaders for PEACE, for there is unrest everywhere. —H. Overman

Certified Co-op City clubs & organizations, feel free to post your upcoming events.

a change in the scope of work. To be foolish and assume this will never happen would leave us regretfully deficient in repairs, upgrades and services. This Board will continue to vet every change order and insure that we are approving the necessary.

Express Bus Service Survey For those who participated in the express bus survey, thank you for taking the time to complete the questions and have your input in this very important issue for those shareholders who commute from here to lower Manhattan. I have delivered the results to Martin Prince of Community Board 10 for a meeting he was having with the MTA. I will also share these results with all local elected officials for their input as well.

We received response from 288 Co-o City residents.

I had hoped for more, however, there may not be more than this number who make that lengthy commute every day. Here are the results:

Please see additional results of the survey elsewhere in this issue.

I continue to encourage shareholders to be engaged. I am interested in your thoughts and opinions. Please contact me at Riverbay Board of Directors, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or Lberk@riverbayboard.com.

9

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Survey Results – Express Bus Service to Lower Manhattan

The following are the results of the survey on Express Bus Service to Lower Manhattan that was conducted by First Vice President of the Riverbay Board, Linda Berk. Please see Ms. Berk’s viewpoint on page 8 for additional details.

Way To Go, Michael!

Four year old Michael Bishop won the 4-5 year old division race at Family Fun Day last Saturday, September 17 in Section 1. Michael is the son of Halimah and Elliott Bishop, residents of Section 1.

Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association

We are meeting on Monday, September 26th, activity room. On the agenda will be your suggestions and ideas regarding our building’s events for the coming year. For example, game afternoon, movie afternoon or evening, Halloween, casino or shopping trip, etc. I hope to have an update on the ongoing Cooper Place project.

Our Annual College Career & Resource Fair is Saturday, October 1, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop. Grades 3 to 6 should attend from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Middle School and High School students from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Annual College Fair is an important resource for all who are planning to go to college.

Some of you may be eligible for the NYS STAR Program that is based upon your age and income. To find out whether or not you are eligible for the Basic Star or Enhanced Star Program, call 516-457-2036, Monday thru Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. We suggest that you call before the end of this year to avoid the rush of individuals applying for the STAR Program.

“Straight Outta Co-op City,” shirts are back by popular demand as a fundraiser for our 2016 Summer Fun Day, Section 2, Bldgs. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14. If you are interested in purchasing a shirt, please contact the president of Building 11 (A, B, C) Deborah Henry, 718-379-6312. The costs of the shirts are: Children (small-x1), $10, adults (small-x1), $12 and adults (2x3x), $15. Payment can be made by cash or money order. Send money orders to Deborah Henry, 140 Carver Loop, 24F. Payment for the shirts to be made

by October 31.

Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who has suffered a loss or is sick and shut-in.

If you see something, say something. To contact CCPD (Public Safety), call 718-671-3050. .

We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718379-7841.

—Sonja Maxwell

10

Proposed Agenda

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Bernard Cylich Second Vice President

The Construction/Power Plant/Building and Grounds Committee will meet on Thursday, September 29, at 7 p.m. in Bartow Center, room 31.

Proposed Agenda 1. Buildings’ and townhouse associations’ concerns.

2. Sample fixtures installed in restored vacant apartments.

3. Status of upgrading building lobby doors.

4. Status of Power Plant issues.

5. Solar power Cooperators interested in attending, please call 718320-3300, Ext. 3351 or 3352 or email bcylich@riverbayboard.com or mail attention Bernard Cylich, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

Correcting Misinformation Some misinformation contained in a director’s viewpoint column last week must be addressed. Referring to the installation of the 150-ton high pressure boilers in our reconfigured tri-generation plant, the director states, “The next problem is that the ground below the power plant cannot support the weight of this 150-ton boiler.”

That categorical statement is only half true. All of Co-op City, including the power plant, stands on marsh land on which 300,000 cubic yards of clean fill was dropped. That surface certainly cannot support the 150ton new boiler. Nor could it support the 150-ton low pressure boiler that was installed 50 years ago and recently removed to make room for the new one. That ground could not have supported the power plant’s generators, high pressure boiler, chillers, water treatment equipment, cooling towers, and massive non-utility electrical transformers. That ground could not even have supported our 35 high risers, seven townhouse clusters, 8 garages and three shopping centers.

What Then Has Been Supporting That Immense Load For Nearly 50 Years?

And what will support the new 150-ton HP boiler and

all other existing Co-op City structures? The answer is PILES, 50,000 of them. Piles are two-feet diameter steel cylinders — as long as 100 feet — driven down by pile drivers through the soil and on to five feet of bedrock, piles that are then filled with concrete. Concrete pads are then installed on top of these piles which become the foundations supporting all our Co-op City structures.

The new boiler can be reliably supported by a proper foundation and the right number of piles.

There’s a difference of weight distribution between the new high pressure boiler and the low pressure one it’s replacing. That weight distribution difference required design and construction of a new foundation for the new boiler. Our engineers, utilizing 50 year-old original drawings, designed the foundation for the new boiler before the old one was dismantled. This design was included in Riverbay’s RFP package to installation bidders, and the Board approved Boilermatic, which was the best qualified and, at $5,923,100, was lowest bidder. Their bid included $120,000 for modifying the existing foundation.

However, after the old boiler was removed, it was discovered that a number of essential piles were missing and the foundation had to be redesigned to include installation of four additional piles. The new design forced a price change. Management considered Boilermatic’s initial change order price too high. After weeks of negotiations with them – while work was delayed – our executive manager, Bob Klehammer, secured a much lower price.

The Board approved that change order.

Could we have avoided that change order?

I have not heard any convincing answer.

In her September 10, 2016 viewpoint, First Vice President Linda Berk clearly spelled out mounting cost to Riverbay if the Board had rejected that change order.

Why A New High Pressure Boiler?

1. The old boiler was 50% functional and was long past its useful life.

2. It was failing emission requirements.

3. It could not supply the high pressure steam to the steam generators.

Although the final cost of the new boiler will be over $10 million, it promises to more than pay for itself by

Building 33 Association

The association wants to inform the building, starting Tuesday, September 27, we will start the process of collecting building dues.

I want to remind the building that giving up the $8 per apartment for dues for the year is purely voluntary.

We encourage you to give, so we can do all the things we need to do for the building, like giving the porters a little Christmas gift for the service they do in the building.

We also like to decorate the lobby for the holidays, and give the children a little Christmas Party with Santa Claus.

There was a time when we collected enough to give 2 young people going away to collage a $500 scholarship. It would be really nice if we could have 100% participation, then there would be enough money to do that again, but we need your help.

The building fund also donates to the American Cancer Fund if your loved one passes away, and that is your wish, we send flowers or fruit to your home or funeral parlor. We have a Sunshine Committee to send get-well cards and candy to a cooperator when they are ill. These are just a few things the association does with your building dues.

The association is considering in light of the hardship some cooperators might have with the $8, we would like to offer a discount for about 5 weeks of $5 per apt. for dues.

If this is acceptable, please come down to the lobby during the month of October.

Get well wishes to all the shut-in and the sick.

Remember, this is your home, keep it safe and clean.

—Patricia Bonaparte

optimizing the production of electric power by our steam generators.

Initially, when considering a new high pressure boiler, MSRE, our former managers had several options. They could have engaged a company to design, fabricate and install the new boiler and turn it over to Riverbay when fully operational. That is called turn-key agreement.

They could have hired an engineering company to design the boiler and foundation, and another company to build the boiler in the plant.

A third option was to contract separate companies for each of the tasks: design, prefabrication and installation.

Against the advice of our highly experienced power plant consultant, MSRE went with the last option.

Numerous and costly mistakes were made – foremost among them – MSRE failed to hire a full-time project manager to oversee the entire operation from the beginning.

One big error – the boiler fabricated and delivered by Victory from Oklahoma was two feet too high and blocked by an existing smoke stack. Too big to be rigged through the back of the building, it was determined to lower it through the roof – a very challenging proposition with many potential problems.

Fortunately, our installer, Boilermatic, offered to cut the smoke stack allowing the boiler to be rigged through the back of the plant after all.

Then it appeared that the economizer that will sit on the second level of the power plant and next to the boiler whose function is to recirculate hot water from the steam generator back to the boiler, was too big also. Management is now planning to modify it to allow it to be rigged in and installed.

They say, “There’s always hope for a solution!”

How would we have fared if MSRE had instead followed the advice of our power plant consultant and hired a company under a turn-key agreement to install the boiler?

Presently, our managers, together with our contractors, are working to get that boiler into the plant before the winter.

We are still cleaning the mess left by MSRE.

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

11

12

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Francine Reva Jones Secretary

There is a limited amount of street parking in Co-op City and that is why there are eight garages. Cooperators should refrain from parking in the “No Standing” zones. Those that are on the waiting list for a garage space are permitted to park in Garage #5 at half price, until there is space in the garage nearest to them. Please note that it has become a hazard on the streets of Co-op City because so many cars are parked in the loops or cul-de-sacs. There are some drivers that park their vehicles in these circles for hours at a time and sometimes overnight. Some people even double park in the loops, making it very difficult for other cars to drive through.

To make matters worse, I have recently seen cars parked on the inside of the loop, by the centerpiece.

Please obey the signs that say “No Standing.” When cooperators and visitors park their cars in these circles, it makes it difficult for others to stop there for a few minutes to unload groceries, babies, moving trucks with furniture, etc. You are not showing a cooperative spirit by taking advantage of community space from cooperators that might be in need. Cooperators who must double park beside you are placing themselves in harm’s way. Kindly awaken your cooperative spirit and refrain from parking and double parking in the community loops/circles. It would be appreciated.

NY State Senate Race Congratulations to Jamaal Bailey who received an overwhelming number of votes in the NY State Senate race, to wit, 8,292. He was followed by Rev. Edward Mulraine, who captured 2,385 votes; Pamela Hamilton-Johnson with 2,092; Rev. Que English, 1,132 and Dr. Alvin Ponder, 888. NY State Senator-elect Bailey was introduced at the First Responders Appreciation Luncheon on September 16th. I trust that he will be able to resolve some of the many issues plaguing our community, including the annual asbestos costs of nearly $4M, the equity charged when transferring

Street Parking

apartments, the tax breaks that we deserve for paying for our own sanitation facility, etc. I wish him the very best in his new position.

First Responders Appreciation Luncheon Director Junius Williams was the originator of this event last Friday, especially for FDNY Engine 66, Ladder 61 in Co-op City, although others were invited. It was a beautiful day for an outdoor event and the food and music were tasteful. Many of the First Responders lost their lives when the twin towers were struck on 9/11/2001. Every year, New York’s Bravest are recognized for their heroic actions on that day. The names of all of the individuals, civilians and firefighter who lost their lives in the devastating episode are read as the families gather at the Trade Center to remember their loved ones.

The main duties of a firefighter are to help protect the public in emergency situations. In addition to fires, they respond to calls, such as car crashes, chemical spills, flooding, water rescue and general rescue. With many fire crews being trained as first responders, they can provide first aid until the arrival of ambulance personnel; they even deliver babies. They also attend to emergency situations and rescue people and animals from life-threatening situations. The work can be stressful and dangerous, but there is a great deal of job satisfaction to be gained from providing such a valuable service to the community. They are highly respected for their work efforts. You might want to consider a career as a firefighter for yourself or your child.

African-American Day Parade The members of the African-American Association participated in the 47th Annual African-American Day Parade last Sunday on Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd. from 111th Street to 137th Street, wearing the T-shirts donated by NY City Councilman Andy King and NY State Senator-Elect Jamaal Bailey. Over 200 organizations across multiple sectors, including communitybased organizations, business, political, civil servants, religious/spiritual, performance groups and more participated. Our group was announced by On-Air Radio personality Debi Jackson and Doctor Bob Lee from 107.5 WBLS.

Building 21 Association

Want a chance to win $300?

The 21 Association Rewards Point Program starts this month. We are going above and beyond to make your involvement in the association fun, exciting and worth your time. The rewards are for all 21 Association members, but not 21 asso-

ciation board members. Note: A member is a shareholder who has paid their annual $5 dues to the building association. Any shareholder of Co-op City is eligible to be a paid member of the Building 21 Association. The idea came from our own Rose C. Reyes and developed in a round table

Please join us on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 8:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome! Our next meeting will take place on October 13th in room 16 of the Dreiser Community Center.

On Sunday, September 25th, beginning at 1:00 p.m., the Cultural Committee and Riverbay Fund will co-sponsor the annual ‘Hispanic Heritage Day’ celebration in the Dreiser Loop Auditorium.

Folkloric groups from Puerto Rico (Danza y Fiesta) and Mexico (Grupo Baile Folklórico), along with other talented dancers, will perform, and a variety of Latin American artists will also be participating. This event will be FREE and refreshments will be provided. Please join us in celebrating the musical contributions of the Hispanic culture. Additional details are available on our website.

Our ‘Social Friday’ get-togethers will return on September 30th at 7:00 p.m. in the club room.

On Saturday, October 22nd, the club will host the annual Halloween Party.

Costumes are encouraged. More information will be available soon.

The club is co-sponsoring a dance on Saturday, November 5th in the Dreiser

Auditorium, beginning at 8:00 p.m. Proceeds will benefit our Scholarship Fund.

We are extremely pleased to announce that our main performer will be Charlie Aponte, former member of the legendary salsa band ‘El Gran Combo.’

Additional performers include meringue and bachata star Juancho and DJ Psycho.

Tickets are $45 in advance, more at the door, and are available at Havana Café, 3151 East Tremont Avenue, or contact Al Gonzalez at 347-249-3403. Details can be found on the flyer on our website.

‘Cantares Navideños’ and the Christmas Party will be combined into one festive event on Saturday, December 17th.

Additional details will be available in the coming months.

Membership renewal dues for the coming year are now being accepted.

Dues are $30 per household.

Additional information for all of our upcoming club events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website: http://spanamcccc.synthasite.com. You may also contact the club at (718) 379-7017 or email us at SpanAmCCCC@gmail.com.

—Carmen Rodriguez

Spanish-American Community Club

Despite the overcast day, the weather held up. On practically every other street, The Soul Latin Line Dancers of Co-op City performed one of their unique dances. Thanks to the dance group leader, Cynthia Dixon, who participated in a wheelchair due to an injury she sustained in Co-op City two days before.

And thanks to Ebony and Kevin Lambright for their organizing efforts. It was a fun day.

Board Committees I have been appointed Chairperson of the Community Relations Committee once again and cooperators who would like to join can submit a request during the month of September. Some of the matters that this committee will focus on are: the Cooperators MoneySaving Award Program; approving new organizations, clubs and churches requesting to become approved Riverbay community organizations; reviewing community events; assisting community organizations in resolving issues, etc. The meetings will be on the third Tuesdays, 5:30 p.m. Please submit your contact information to Riverbay Board Director, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, you may call the Board Liaisons at 718-320-3300, ext. 3352.

Vaccines In honor of the late Dr. Sebi and the more than 50 holistic practitioners who have died of mysterious causes over the past year, please beware of the inoculations and vaccines you are being encouraged to allow into your body and that of your family. Investigate building up your immune system naturally. Dr. Sebi became known as the man who developed an all-natural cure for AIDS, cancer, diabetes, and other diseases.

Dr. Sebi’s supporters testified as to how he cured them of leukemia, asthma, diabetes and osteoarthritis. It has been done and can still happen. You can go online to learn more about the amazing Dr. Sebi and his legacy of healing.

Contact Me If you would like to share your thoughts with me, I can be reached at 718-671-5957. Remember that school is now in session. Please drive carefully and watch for bike riders also. Don’t drink and drive. Don’t text and drive. Be careful and be safe.

discussion at Think Tank…

Here is how you earn valuable points: 1. Show up on time for the association meeting (i.e., once a month) — Earn 1 point. Meeting starts at 7 p.m. (after 7:30 p.m. NO points will be issued). You must stay for the entirety of the meeting.

2. Bring a new shareholder or neighbor who signs up as a paid member. The new paid member earns a point also. — Earn 1 point.

3. Serve on a committee • Hospitality (i.e., commitment and follow thru is a must) • Clean-up • Decorating (i.e., seasonal) • Committee that you create — Earn 1 point. (Must be acceptable by the Board Members and Charter Members of the 21 Association).

4. Attend the Think Tank. Bring your ideas and a friend — Earn 1 point 5. Become a floor captain. Must be active and assigned and certified by your building association.

6. At the end of the fiscal year, the shareholder with the most points wins!!

What is the prize???

Grand Prize is $300 cash.

Note: We raise the prize money at our fundraisers during the year.

Each point will be issued at the building association meetings only, no exceptions.

• Points will be issued on individual cards/stubs and is the responsibility of YOU, the member or shareholder, to keep track of your points.

• Any shareholder of CO-OP City is

eligible to be a paid member of the Building 21 Association.

The next 21 Association gathering will be on September 28th. If you have any questions regarding the 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information. EMAIL your building association at 21association@gmail .com. CALL your association at 347-504-1821. ATTEND the monthly meetings which are held every 4th Wednesday in the gathering room in the rear of the B-section at 7 p.m.

All monies collected (i.e. annual dues, etc.) are turned in to our treasurer and installed in the association’s bank account.

THINK TANK at Building 21 is in session every Friday at 8:30 p.m. This is where we develop each other’s ideas and make dreams a reality. We meet in the gathering room in the rear of the B-Section. Come and share our passion for this community. Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals A FORCE FOR GOOD. See you around the neighborhood!

—Michelle Marbury

JASA Closures JASA Senior Services will be closed on Monday, October 3rd and Tuesday, October 4th, in observance of Rosh Hashsnah.

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Co-op City Sports

Co-op City Little League 2017 Season Board of Directors Election

The Co-op City Little League (CCLL) will hold its 2017 Season Board of Directors election on Thursday, September 29th, at the Dreiser Loop Community

Co-op City Little League

Center, LL room 17, at 7:30 p.m. It is the responsibility of the board to conduct the day-to-day operation of the league within the rules, regulations, and policies of LL Inc. and the CCLL constitution. The newly elected board term runs from October 1, 2016 until September 30, 2017.

Any active league member who has submitted a completed 2016 Volunteer Background check form is eligible to run and vote for the 2017 Board of Directors. All twelve board positions will be filled by this year’s vote.

Absentee ballot, for those members not able to be present, will be available. Ballot pick-up date, time and place will be emailed to the active members.

Upon the completion of the elections,

CCLL Major players having fun at the NYM Jamboree Tournament…Top row: Nelson Diaz, Anthony Rodriguez, Chris Perez, Milon Dawson. Bottom: Marquel Wicks, Jerlyn Pichardo, Jaime Suero, Jordan Ingram, Timothy Aldo, & John Perez.

Velocity Track Club New York

Velocity Track Club New York came home with plenty of hardware from the Nelson A. Keyes Metropolis Cross Country Invitational at Van Cortland Park. On Sunday, September 18th, we competed in our first official cross country meet and won 11 trophies & 10 medals.

Trophies were given to the top three in each event/gender & age group. Plus, medals went to the 4th – 10th place finishers in all non-invitational events. I’m pleased to note that 21 out of 23 Velocity athletes who participated in the

in the 800 meter race. In the boys’ 11 & 12 years old division, Kabir Gaydarik took 1st in the 1 mile race. In the girls’ 13 & 14 age division, Jean Messiah took 6th in the 1 mile race and Kaseam Shand took 4th in the boys’ 1 mile race. In the 15 & 16 girls’ division, Jessica Rivera took 2nd place in the 1 mile and Jaelah Eargle took 4th place. In the boys’ 8 years old & under division, Pierce Parker took 1st place and Dillon Hampton took 2nd place. In the girls’ 9 & 10 division, Aysya Brown took 5th place, Adonijah Washington took 6th and Tiarra Jackson took 10th place in the 1.8 mile (3K) race. In the girls’ 11 & 12 years old division and Allyson Wright took 10th place. In the boys’ division, Dontae Lindo took 3rd, Jordan Ingram took 7th and Julian Caldwell took 10th place. In the boys’ 15 – 18 years old division, Darius Velocity Track Club athletes sporting their awards from Gordon took 1st place in the Nelson A. Keyes Metropolis Cross Country Invitational. the 3.1 mile (5K) race. event won hardware. The two who Our next meet will be on Sunday, didn’t win awards are mid-distance runSeptember 25th, the USATF Season ners who are trying out the cross counOpener at Van Cortlandt. Come out and try races and they ran well. see your future Olympian.

In the 8 years old & under division, Velocity Track Club New York is a Miniya Fraser took 6th place in 800 501(c)3 not-for-profit. One hundred meter race. In the 9 & 10 years old girls’ percent of your donation will go to help division, Dakota Hickman took 1st our children. place; Jada Clarke, 2nd place & Saniah For additional information, you can Caldwell, 3rd place in the 800 meter go to our website, Velocitytrack.org or race. In the boys’ 9 & 10 years old divicontact me, Coach Winston Dinkins at sion, Jalen Martin-Percell took 1st and 914-441-6196 or via email at watclt Mattiaus Love-Anderson took 2nd place @aol.com.

the new board will meet to vote for its officers. Afterwards, one of the first set of business will be to set-up the 2017 Baseball Season registration dates. The CCLL program is open to the community youth ages 4 – 16. The regular season runs from April to June. Invitational tournaments will follow for selected players. An indoor baseball fundamentals clinic starting in January is offered to the signed up players as part of their registration fee.

The Co-op City Little League is a non-profit organization operated solely by dedicated volunteers and run by the elected Board of Directors. Its two baseball fields, with a concession stand, picnic area and restrooms, are located on Co-op City Blvd. opposite the green way. The league’s mission is to provide a safe baseball-playing environment for our area boys, girls and teens, and to help develop their skills. Its focus is to endorse teamwork and promote community pride. The many sponsors who have contributed to the league have expressed their belief in the importance of supporting our youth.

During the 2016 season, the Montefiore Inspired Medicine CCLL Major team participated in the Little League Urban Initiative New York Metro Jamboree sponsored by LL Inc. The Jamboree was a competitive weekend of games, special events and camaraderie with teams from throughout NY, LI &

13 NJ participating. At this mini-tournament, just like in the regular season games, the Perez brothers, John and Christopher, continue their home-run barrage. They were like the 1961 NY Yankees “M&M” boys. Playing in their last year as Major players are Jerlyn Pichardo, Rashan Khan, Timothy Aldo, John Perez and Christopher Perez.

In a sad note, the CCLL mourns the recent passing of Irwin “Topper” Toplitsky.

Topper was a former coach, Board member, mentor to the players and a retired CCPD Safety officer. Fellow CCPD officer Frank Sinclair posted on Facebook, “Our mutual Lieutenant in CCPD, Clarence Dickens, used to have a hard time saying Topper's name, calling him Topa-lip-sky. A truly wonderful man.”

Doris Jusino, former CCLL president and a big admirer of Topper, said, “He was a great friend and the wonderful person who dedicated so much of his time with the little leaguers...we had good times...RIP, my dear friend...”

Topper now joins “Mr. J - Poppa Jeff,” “Coach Bruce,” “Coach Wade” and “Big Mike” in the CCLL Hall of Fame in the heavens.

For more information on the CCLL Board elections and the 2017 Baseball Programs, visit the website, www eteamz.com/coopcityll/ —Hector Ayala

14

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Co-op City Is Evidence Of Growing Middle Class

Director’s Viewpoint

Rod Saunders Assistant Secretary

This past Friday afternoon, September 16th, based upon the thoughtfulness & guidance of Riverbay Board Director Junius Williams, we celebrated the first (and hopefully annual) “Co-op City First Responders Appreciation Event.”

That remarkably beautiful day served as a reminder to every man & woman who is always rushing into situations that the rest of us are running away from, that we support what you do, and this is but one way that we can say thanks for all you do, and I was personally gratified that Director Williams allowed me, and other Board directors to be a part of this outstanding event.

Director Williams had extended the invitation to all of the First Responders serving the Co-op City area, starting of course with our very own Co-op City P.D., the 45 Precinct, Co-op City’s Fire House Ladder 61, and supporting back-up fire unit, the EMT’s, CERT’s and our own lobby attendants.

New York City Councilman Andy King came to address the attending participants of the day and brought with him a very special surprise guest. Arriving with Councilman King was a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic team’s 400 meter relay winners, Gold Medalist Phyllis Chanez Francis.

Ms. Francis is a remarkable young woman who spoke so eloquently to everyone who engaged her in conversation. In what may be the only opportunity in my lifetime, Phyllis gave me, and everyone who asked her, the opportunity to actually touch & hold (while still around her neck – she was not taking it off) the actual Olympic Gold Metal.

You have no idea of just how heavy it really is!

Jamaal Bailey, winner of the New York State Sen-

ate Democratic Primary race, addressed the attendees and thanked everyone for their support in the primary, and asked for all of us to support him in the upcoming general election as well.

I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Jamaal Bailey on his democratic primary victory and I am particularly proud of the manner in which he ran his campaign.

The Speaker of the NY State Assemblyman Carl Heastie was represented by Kevin Riley, community relations director, who acknowledged the event on behalf of Speaker Heastie, and bestowed the Speaker’s greetings, thanking the men and women first responders for their continued service.

We’re so much better than this One of the most widely understood tenets of middle class life is that those of us who are lucky enough to achieve this particular stature in our lives are always continuing to strive for an even better lifestyle, always looking to get further ahead, always wanting the very best for our children, our families, and ourselves.

Those who are rich enough make their own rules and live in areas that are basically isolated from the rest of us so no one cares too much about whatever they do.

Those who have not been fortunate enough in life to achieve a decent socio/economic stature above the poverty level are often preoccupied with day-to-day survival, and less concerned with rules, especially those that do not specifically affect their day-to-day interest.

For many of us, middle class life was always more closely related to being a state of mind, than actual state of finance or living conditions, and that is perfectly acceptable.

The availability of better paying jobs with benefits and pensions, access to better education, have greatly contributed to a growing middle class, especially here in the Bronx, where the population had been dropping from the early seventies, until its revitalization in the late nineties/turn of the century.

The aforementioned financial growth has greatly

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Community Health Fair – will be taking place today in Bartow Community Center, room 31. The time is 1 p.m.-4 p.m. This is a perfect time to have a dental check-up, to have your flu shot, find a good therapist, check your blood pressure, etc. The Mammography van will be stationed on Asch Loop in front of the library from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Any questions concerning the van, please call A. Walther at 718-379-3788.

45 Anniversary – We are celebrating 45 years as a Section in Co-op City on Saturday, October 29, from 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. The luncheon will take place at Villa Barone Manor, 737 Throgs Neck Expressway, Bronx, NY 10466. Our guest speaker for the luncheon will be Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark. Anniversary greeting will be given by Pat Battle of NBC-TV! We will be honoring two of our Charter members: Roberta Booze and Olive Glasgow. The ticket price is $100. Tickets are available and may be obtained by calling: (718) 379-3788. Tickets may also be obtained on Sun., October 9, from 3 p.m.- 5 p.m. at our next membership meeting in Dreiser Center, room #11. Members are requested to please come prepared to report for their outstanding tickets.

Membership in the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Inc. Co-op City Section is open to all. Males may be Associate Members. They may serve on committees and chair committees, but may not be officers. We are a service organization and extend an invitation to you to join and share ideas of how we may serve women and their families in our community. Membership also gives you a chance to develop leadership! There are many committees to join, a chance to chair a committee and we have elections every two years. You will have a chance every 2 years to be nominated for an office. Membership dues: National - $30 a year and Section dues, $25 a year. Life membership is $500 to national, which may be paid in installments in our Section. Once a Life member, you do not pay dues to National, only Section dues. We meet on the second Sundays except May, July and August.

—Eleanor Donnley

contributed to the long waiting list for potential shareholders, so Co-op City is further evidence of the growing middle class.

Growth of the middle class mindset here now – not so much.

Co-op City, with everything that is offered here, supports the very essence of upwardly mobile middle class life – great apartments and grounds, good schools, plenty of places for worship, great transportation (except for the MTA’s 26/28 bus fiasco), retail establishments aplenty, and one of the safest community’s anywhere, for the best price in town!

We have a serious issue.

In my opinion, one of the strongest bonds that keeps a middle class community viable is that our strongest reference point is the caring about your home, as well as our neighbor’s well being.

Too many individuals with dogs in Co-op City are ignoring the rules and, as such, you are ignoring the most significant aspect of middle class living, which is to obey the rules so that EVERYONE will be comfortable.

There is NO clause in the ruling that allows you to legally house your dog as a comfort pet that is written in fine print with wording that says, “except me!”

The laws & rules for having your registered comfort pet are specific, and designed for everyone’s accommodation. Cooperators who do not have, or want to have pets, have rights as well, and the common decency among middle class cooperators should provide all of the structure that we need for the barometer to measure the difference between right and wrong.

The rules are rather basic – we just need everyone to please follow them.

Arguably, the most effective solution to make those who cannot abide by the rules and respect the rights of others, we must all, collectively, act as participants in agreeing to take a more pro-active approach with our responsibility to call it to the attention of our Co-op City P.D., and management so that they can correctly, and responsibly address the situation.

Association of Building 14 Cooperators

The “newness” of the fall season, much like the unfolding of winter into spring, is an invigorating time and invokes a spirit of starting fresh. In that respect, as we reconvene our building association meetings, we welcome you back, along with the prospect of identifying new ways to engage you into your community.

The association’s executive committee recently met to begin scheduling meetings and traditional events through year-end. Our first building association meeting will be on Thursday, September 29th. Please mark your calendar. We are waiting on the confirmation of a guest speaker. The agenda will include the dates of future meetings, and a discussion of proposed projects and activities, ranging from a Meet & Greet event, a Food Drive, scholarship awards, decorating the lobby for the holidays, our annual Holiday building party and more. We invite and encourage new cooperators and families to attend association meetings.

News Flash: October 31st is the deadline for ordering the “Straight Outta Co-op City” t-shirts (picture shown); they were a big hit at this year’s Summer Fun Day. Available sizes are: children S/M/L at $10; adults S/M/L/XL at $12 and 2X/3X at $15.

Orders are prepaid by check, money order or cash; expected delivery is in November. Use the contact information below or as listed on the lobby bulletin case.

Lastly, the community-wide bus outing to Quassey Amusement is still planned for next summer. It was difficult making contact with building presidents over the past months and there was no one-stop resource for getting their contact information. I’ve continued to complete that task and will be in communication very soon.

Here’s wishing a productive and knowledge-filled school year to students of all ages. Be your best wherever you are; it’s a temporary point along a life-long journey!

Contact us: theab14c@hotmail.com or 917.612.1951.

—J.D. Ferguson

Free Mobile Food Pantry To Visit Co-op City Monday

NY Common Pantry’s “Nourish” program will visit Co-op City on Monday, September 26 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The mobile food pantry will be parked in front of the bingo hall on Bartow Avenue.

Seniors who are 60 years and older are eligible to sign up for the NY Common Pantry’s “Nourish” program which provides nutritious, balanced meals. Staff will be on-site to determine eligibility for the program. Seniors interested in signing up must bring photo ID and proof of income, i.e., social security statement, and pay stubs, if they are still working. For seniors living by themselves, the income threshold is $1,287; for households of two, $1,736; households of three, $2,184 and for households consisting of four, the income threshold for eligibility is $2,633.

Please bring a shopping cart and 2-3 heavy shopping bags.

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

15

Vaccination Protects You and the Ones You Love

Nicole Harris-Hollingsworth EdD, MCHES – Assistant Vice President for Community and Population Health at Montefiore Medical Center shares how influenza “Flu” vaccination can help you and your family members avoid the flu and hospitalization, as well as local places where the flu shot is available.

Are You At Risk?

With almost 15,000 residents in Co-op City living in 35 towers and 7 townhouse clusters, it is easy to come into contact with someone who may have been exposed to the flu.

Influenza, also called “the flu,” is a respiratory illness affecting the nose, throat and lungs, and is caused by a virus. Influenza is not the same as the stomach flu.

The flu is easily spread by coming in contact with hard surfaces exposed to the virus, such as door knobs and counters – even your cell phone! You can also be exposed to the virus by taking care of someone with the flu, or by breathing in particles through the air, such as after someone sneezes. The symptoms include high fever, body aches and pains, runny nose and cough. These symptoms can be mild or very severe, even life threatening!

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the groups most at risk for developing complications from the flu include those that are: • Children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old • Adults 65 years of age and older • Pregnant women (and women up to two weeks postpartum) • Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities • People who have medical conditions including heart disease, diabetes, HIV/ AIDS, cancer, liver disease, kidney disorders and extreme obesity.

Top Reasons to Get Vaccinated As the influenza virus changes every year, it is important for everyone to get immunized every year. While there are many good reasons to get immunized against the flu, here are a few of the top ones: You Might Hold A Baby. Most people do not realize that you can have the flu virus and not feel sick. This does not mean that you can’t spread the flu. If you are infected and come into contact with someone who cannot get vaccinated – like a baby under 6 months of age, they may get sick. Young children with the flu may need to be hospitalized and may even die from the flu. Older adults are at risk too. Older adults exposed to the flu virus are at increased risk for heart attack, so get your flu shot, and encourage the older adult in your life to get theirs also. By getting vaccinated, you can reduce the chance that you'll pass on a serious disease to your loved

Health News

Building 18 Association

Hi, neighbors.

Welcome back from summer vacation full of energy and ready to get involved in our building activities, meetings and other happenings September 2016 thru June 2017. Our first general meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 27, at 7:00 p.m. in the meeting room; a 50/50 drawing and refreshments will be served, so please come with your suggestions and complaints. We look forward to seeing all of you at this meeting. New move-ins are welcome.

Thank you all for your donations and purchasing of food and drink on Saturday, September 17, (Annual Fish Fry). A special thanks to: Renee, Phyllis, Avis, Brenda, Estelle, Leah, Sylvia and the entire Executive Board for their hard work in shaping this event. Your support helps to make this occasion possible.

To all with that special day in October, happy birthday! Enjoy and be safe.

To the sick and homebound, we pray that your health will be restored to your normal limits very soon, and to the bereaved, we give our deepest sympathies.

Please stay alert!! If you see something, say something!

—Gertie Brown

Building 30 A & B Association

Our first building meeting will be on Wednesday, September 28th. At this meeting, we will discuss what our agenda for the association will be this year.

We will start collecting association dues at our first meeting which is still only $5.

We need floor captains on every floor.

The door opens at 7 p.m. with the meeting starting at 7:30 in the association room in the lobby of Building 30B. Movie night will start next month. If you have any other ideas what the association should do, don’t be afraid to voice your opinion.

For all those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and new additions, congratulations. Those who are under the weather, get well soon. Those who lost loved ones recently, our prayers go out to you.

–Linda Werner

Please Refrain From Littering.

Keep Co-op City Clean! Thank you!

ones and you can help them protect their lives.

It Can’t Give You The Flu. Many people believe that you get the flu from getting a flu shot. That isn’t true. According to the CDC, there are several reasons why someone might get flu symptoms, even after they have been vaccinated against flu.

The most common are: • Other respiratory viruses besides flu, cause symptoms similar to flu, and also spread and cause illness during the flu season.

• It takes most people two-weeks after vaccination to develop immune protection from the flu. It is possible to be exposed to influenza viruses, which cause the flu, shortly before or after getting vaccinated, which may result in a person becoming ill with flu before protection from the vaccine takes effect.

• If you have been exposed to a flu virus that is very different from the viruses the vaccine is designed to protect against, you may get still the flu.

• The flu vaccine can vary in how well it works and some people who get vaccinated may still get sick.

It’s Everywhere and It’s Inexpensive (Or Free). Flu shots are now widely available at a broad range of locations including doctor’s offices, local pharmacies, and because it is important to protect everyone from avoidable illness, many flu shots are distributed at “Flu Clinics” in local communities. All insurance plans cover immunization for flu and many local governments, community groups and pharmacies offer access to flu shots at a low cost or for free.

Where To Get Vaccinated For the 2016-2017 Flu season, there are a large number of places to receive flu vaccinations. Many local health care providers and pharmacies have flu shots available. Information on alternate locations to find flu shots is available at www.flu.gov.

In and around Co-op City, there are flu shot clinics offered, for adults over the age of 18, at the following locations: Location Address Time Date 9/29/16 JASA Dreiser 177 Dreiser Loop 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

10/5/16 RAIN Boston Secor 3540 Bivona Street 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Bronx, NY 10475

(Note: Geraldine O’Connell, RN, Community Health Nurse; and Carlos Tejada, Community Health Specialist, both in the Office of Community and Population Health at Montefiore, contributed to this article.)

16

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

FIND AND DRIVE CARS NEAR CO-OP CITY— AND ALL OVER NYC Download the app.

Join and drive instantly for $35 or go to zipcar.com/coopcityad

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

17

18

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Why “NO” Is Not Always A Feasible Option

Director’s Viewpoint

Claudia Sampson Assistant Treasurer

As a serious and concerned Board director elected to advance any personal or partisan agenda, I take strong exception to one of my Board colleagues’ critique that I’ve fallen under the Svengali sway of management when voting for resolutions. Nothing could be further from the truth. I was elected to serve in the interest of the entire community and not just that of those with the loudest voices or the biggest megaphones. I have spent more than two decades working collaboratively with teams with which I’ve not always been in agreement.

What I’ve learned by working with a disparate group of 14 other individuals with different personalities and talents, is that there is always going to be constant push/pull dynamics influencing our decision-making and final votes. Yes. I grant you that it’s a messy process. But, so is the democratic process on which our nation was founded. No one on the Board is asleep at the wheel. In fact, we’re quite alert and focused on pushing back on management’s presenting of requests for Board approval when they fail to persuade us of the need to take swift action. As assistant treasurer, along with the treasurer, Pastor Deb Jenkins, I have raised questions about the vendor payment policy and procedures. The conflating of the issues of change orders which became too much of the standard operating procedure during the MSRE reign with the new Board’s tireless efforts to get many stalled and overdue projects completed in a more timely manner and avoiding bigger expenses due to delays as in the case of the 150-ton boiler installation are not only disingenuous, but also designed to divide our Board and misinform the community.

Directors Cylich and Berk, in their previous viewpoints, helped explain why the majority of the Board

voted “yes” to move to get the 150-ton boiler installed.

Voting “no” on this resolution would not have served the community’s best interest. Voting “no” is not a strategy, but a highly charged political statement designed to alarm shareholders and question the new Board’s integrity and capabilities. This is not the way to run a critical enterprise of this size!

Good Times At Section 1 Family Fun Day There are so many reasons to celebrate our Section 1 Family Fun Day. The event, held on Saturday, September 17 between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., featured an array of activities including performances by Piragramac Dance Arts (African dance troupe); Nieves Latin Dance Group (Hip Hop & Salsa), Xonia Belly Dancers, Lorenz Dancers (Salsa), Co-op City Latin Soul Line Dancers, basketball tournaments with music by deejay Christopher Williams, owner of the Martial Arts School in Dreiser; and Montefiore Hospital Breast Cancer Screening, among other community-based organizations in attendance. Free refreshments, including hot dogs, popcorn, juices and water, were provided by the Section 1 building associations and donations collected. Although the event was the first time that Section 1 held its Family Fun Day, we look forward to more of the same in the coming years.

Kudos to the Section 1 Committee members who all pitched in and worked collaboratively: Adeline Martinez, President; Yvonne Burrus, Vice President; Diane Windley, Shahidah Shakoor, Fernando Garcia, Shirley Holiday, Jeffrey Schwartz, Steven Paintner, Joe Garnette, Ulysses Barnes, Joe Guzman, Winston Dinkins, Lee Rivers, Yvette Livingston Brown, Sonia Soto and Cheryl Martin.

School Days Are Here Again What an awesome sight to see all the happy faces of our young children heading off to schools wearing crisp uniforms and colorful backpacks. Watching harried parents rush to get their children off to school before the final bell sounds the alarm brought back fond memories of days gone by. But wait: the peaceful sounds and sights of happy school days were suddenly shattered by the jarring experience of the constant traffic standstills on

African-American Association

We had a wonderful time at the African-American Parade in Harlem. Special thanks go to Cynthia Dixon and her line dancers. Co-op City was represented and recognized by the Harlem community. We were met with cheers and recognition by HOT97 and 103.9.

We were joined by organizer Ebony Rae of www.ebonyraespeaks.com and Riverbay Board member Francine Reva Jones. We would also like to thank Stuart Richards of CTSAH for marching with us.

Great news!!!! Our meetings are moving to Tuesdays in order to accommodate those of you who have had challenges on Thursdays. We think it is only fair to make it more convenient for our members mutually, so it was voted on and accepted by the attendees of our last meeting.

We are missing a key element, one that is crucial to the propulsion of our success and that is you. Be sure to join us at our next official African-American Association meeting on Tuesday, October 11th at 7 p.m. Become a member and be part of our progressively growing community.

The association sponsors the following ongoing programs and encourages your participation: Acting Classes – Children’s and Adult classes are available. Contact: Meca Talent for more information: 646-373-4122.

Belly Dance Classes – Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. For more information, call Xonia, 646301-9438.

Children’s Programs – For information about the early morning school drop-off program and the after school programs, call 718-379-5555.

Evening Line Dance Classes – Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Cynthia, 917-903-7073.

Music, Rhythm & Dance – Most Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 15; most Saturdays, 10:00 a.m., Dreiser Center, room #2. Call Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga & Pilates Mat Classes – Classes on Tuesday, 7:15 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 2.

Lose weight, tone and strengthen your muscles with exercises that reduce stress through breathing techniques. For more information, call 718-671-8364.

General Membership Meeting – The next meeting will be Tuesday, October 11, at 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser Community Center, room #15. If you are unable to attend the meeting, please read our weekly column for updates. Also, if you wish to join or update your membership, please send a check or money order (DO NOT MAIL CASH) of $15 for a single membership or $25 for families to: African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Donations are welcomed.

Like us on Facebook: CoopcityAfricanamericanassoc/ —Kevin Lambright Email us at: aaaccpower@gmail.com.

Baychester Avenue between Donizetti Place and Bartow Avenue. We all understand that the school buses must pick up and deliver their precious cargo on time, but why must commuters pay the ultimate price of getting to work late due to horrendous traffic delays that take place twice daily during school days? We need a workable solution that will satisfy not only the DoE start and end of the school days. We should be able to get to and from work on time without enduring the stressful commuters’ nightmare created by this traffic horror. Fire trucks and EMS vehicles are impacted, as well as commercial buses and private cars. Perhaps, we should invite the MTA to visit the area to see what we must endure and come up with a feasible, more equitable plan. Goodness knows we need one ASAP because getting to school on time should not be the only concern. We all have buses, trains and planes to catch on time, free of stress and worry.

Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are There are some other worthwhile events scheduled over the next few weeks that should not be missed! The Co-op City Spanish American Club is planning to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month on Saturday, September 24 with exciting free traditional and contemporary dance performances. There’s also the 5th Annual College and Career Fair on Saturday, October 1 featuring, among a number of exciting offerings, a NASA guest speaker with a robotics demonstration, as well as financial aid workshops for parents and students seeking scholarships and resources and the Inaugural Co-op City Disabilities Expo on Sunday, October 2. We urge you to come out and show your support for these communitysponsored events — all of which will take place in the Dreiser Auditorium. There are posters in your lobby and laundry room bulletin boards, as well as ads in the Co-op City Times.

Finally, I sincerely welcome your comments and suggestions as I look for ways to be more effective and responsive to your needs. I can be reached at csampson @riverbayboard.com.

U.S. Gold Medalist visits Co-op City

Phyllis Chanez Francis, Gold medalist in the Women's 4x 400m relay for Team USA in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, and Michelle Marbury, representing the African-American Association, at the 1st Annual Co-op City First Responders Day, the brain child of Riverbay Board Director Junius Williams.

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

American Legion Post 1871

Post 1871 ranked at the top in the Bronx Post 1871 might not be the oldest American Legion Post in the Bronx, yet her achievements and involvement in the community had placed it above other posts in the Bronx County vis-à-vis the district that comprises of both the Bronx and New York Counties. Just recently, during the September General Membership meeting, after two months of being away for summer break, Post 1871 sworn in its first African-born Commander, Legionnaire Adeyemi LaCrown TOBA. Until his ascension as the commander, Legionnaire TOBA, a wartime USAF veteran, had served the post as the Adjutant.

The swearing in ceremony was conducted by the District Vice Commander, Legionnaire Henry Payne. After giving the necessary charge to the new board members, Vice Commander Payne noted that Post 1871 has the second largest membership in Bronx County even though it was only chartered in 1971 compared to other Bronx County Posts who were established years before Co-op City. He also commended the Post for being the fifth largest post with more than 100 memberships in the district. He applauded the great work done by the immediate Past Commander, Jerome Rice, and the unparalleled efforts of his predecessor, Past Commander Robert Feliciano who was the first Post 1871 comrade to become the County Commander.

In appreciation, Commander Toba thanked Vice Commander Payne for his volunteer service to the Legion family. He also congratulates his fellow board members for their patriotic spirit, noting that the end of one service through the active participation in the military is the beginning of another service to the nation through the legion. Commander Toba promised that the issue of membership will be given the utmost priority during his reign and efforts will be geared towards recruitment and retention. He also promised that it will be an era of collaborative efforts with other local organizations in Co-op City. The ceremony would have been a mere event but for the birthday celebration of one of its icon, Legionnaire Hattie Harris, a World War II veteran of the United States Army Post 1871 Celebrates Hattie Harris’ 96th Birthday Hattie Harris will be 96 today, September 24th and the Legion decided to honor her in the September General Membership meeting. She is a World War II veteran of the United States Army who started her basic training from Fort Davis, Massachusetts in 1944. She proceeded to training school immediately in Motor Transport School in Fort De Moines in Iowa. After her successful technical school, she was stationed in Fort Dix, New Jersey until she was moved to Holland General Hospital in Staten Island where she was an expert in driving ambulance. She was so diligent and selfless in her assignment that she was recognized as one of the trailblazers of her time.

When the Commander paid a courtesy visit to Hattie Harris at home, it was evident of her meritorious service to the nation. She has received every award and recommendation possible from various organizations in the community ranging from NAACP to Women’s League. She dedicated a side of the wall in her home for the display of these awards and recognitions. She was one of the first groups of women who volunteered to serve in the women’s army auxiliary corps and women’s army corps.

—Adeyemi LaCrown Toba

Church of the New Vision

Pastor Kenneth Hodge and the congregation of the Church of the New Vision extend a warm and friendly invitation to everyone to worship with us every Sunday at 8:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. We are a church where inspirational messages from the Word of God, the Bible, are delivered every Sunday morning.

The church is designed to meet the spiritual needs of our community by offering anointed singing and preaching, and a general atmosphere of Christian love and friendly hospitality.

We also invite the youth of our community to attend our Sunday Morning services, which are designed to meet the special needs of our young people. Parents, please send your children to learn of the Lord Jesus.

Prayer Service takes place every Wednesday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by Bible Teaching from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Be with us to learn the truth from the word of God. Upcoming Events Please come out for a discussion of the book, “Unmasking the Jezebel Spirit” by John Paul Jackson on Saturday, October 15 at 11 a.m. Books can be ordered through Amazon, Christian books or downloaded through your e-reader. We look forward to an enjoyable afternoon with an enlightening discussion and Christian fellowship.

Kindly contact Sis. L. Scott at 718.671.2823 for further information.

Our Annual Building Fund Banquet will be celebrated on Saturday, November 5th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Seashore Restaurant on City Island. Tickets are: adults, $60; children 12 and under, $25. For tickets, you may contact the church at 718-671-8746.

Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475; Telephone #: 718-671 8746.

Our mailing address is: Church of the New Vision, P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, NY 10475.

Please visit our website at www. churchofnewvision.com.

—Carole Haque

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

19

Travel Events: (price includes transportation/Coach Bus, Dreiser Loop, opposite H&R Block) • Jan., 11&12, 2017 (Wed. & Thurs.) to FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO. CT. Price: Double/$130 (Deposit: $65) & Single/$175 (Deposit $90). Full payment/balance ($65 & $85) due no later than Monday, December 5. Contacts: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500.

• Tues., March 14, 2017 to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, NJ. Enjoy Luncheon cuisine, full service cocktail bar, onsite Lobby Bake shop and Gift Boutique. Price: $75 (deposit $35/ full payment/balance $40 due Mon., Feb. 6, 2017). Contacts: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500.

Theatre Committee: (price includes transportation via 20 passenger van): • Sat. Oct. 29th. Paramour, a Cirque du Soleil musical, Lyric Theatre. Showtime: 3:00 p.m. Price: $75. Contact: Eleanor B., 718-324-7847.

• Thurs., Nov. 17th. RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SHOW. Showtime: 3:00 p.m.

Price: $70. Contact: Ione E., 718-379-7756.

• Sat., Dec. 10th. Alvin Ailey. NY City Center. Showtime: 2:00 p.m. Price: $52.50. Contact: Eleanor B., 718-324-7847.

Members and friends, we do require a deposit/payment along with your name and telephone number when signing up for trips and/or shows. First paid, confirmed seating. Committee members in Dreiser clubroom 19 (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30-5:00 p.m.

Good and Welfare: To members at home recuperating, “As you rest and heal, know that you are thought of warmly and wished a quick recovery.” Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements.

As a group, we are planning to return to the SPA on Wednesday, Oct. 12th. However, we regret to inform you that our maximum number, 10 participants, signed up at our September 7th General Meeting. Consider joining us the next time – date to be determined.

Call 718 379-4784 – leave your name and phone number to be placed on wait list.

ATTENTION! The RETIREES need ASAP experienced part-time freelance drivers with a CDL license with at least 3 years’ experience and a clean driving record. This volunteer position requires transporting members and friends safely to and from special events within the Bronx, as well as to outer boroughs. Stipend can be expected for each trip. Please call the RETIREES office, 718-379-0377, and leave your name and telephone number.

“The only way to get through Life is to laugh your way through it. You have to either Laugh or Cry. I prefer to LAUGH. Crying gives me a headache.” —Marjorie Pay Hinckley —Claudette Davis

CO-OP CITY FOOT CARE CENTER SECTION 5 • BUILDING 29C 4240 HUTCHINSON RIVER PARKWAY EAST

(718) 671-2233 DR. LOUIS JACOBS, DIRECTOR ALL FOOT CONDITIONS TREATED The in-office surgical correction of BUNIONS • HAMMERTOES • INGROWN TOENAILS PAINFUL CORNS and CALLOUSES The treatment of traumatic foot injuries, heel spurs, bursitis and arthritis of the joints of the feet, toenail and skin infections, as well as other conditions.

Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted.

HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted.

We participate in Postal Workers, Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Verizon Workers, 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire Plan, Medicare, Travelers, United Health Care and many other union and major medical plans.

Se Habla Español MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.

20

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson

In an effort to set a new standard for transparency in this community, our Public Safety department has decided to purchase body cameras for all of their officers. And, now, all of the interactions between our officers and the public will be recorded.

Go to the Video In 2009, a police department in California started using body cameras. Then, in 2014, someone allegedly hit a wrong button during a software upgrade and deleted 25 percent of the footage from all of their cameras. But, they had a backup system. However, that backup system was allegedly never set up.

In North Carolina, people have to go to court to see footage from body cameras that are worn by police officers. In other states, controversy has emerged over the enormous storage fees for the data in their cameras.

Therefore, some police departments have decided to suspend or not use body cameras.

On April 22, 2015, our board approved a resolution to purchase 25 body cameras for our officers. Thereafter, our officers started recording their interactions with the public. When complaints were made, videos were pulled and those disputes were settled.

Now, in reference to what’s going on in some areas of this country, it’s refreshing to see that our Public Safety officers are willing to record their interactions with the public.

Outrageous Overtime As of March 31, 2015, our payroll expenses for the fiscal year totaled $78.9 million. Then, as of March 31, 2016, our payroll expenses skyrocketed to $86.4 million.

To make matters worse, we’re spending a lot of money on overtime. Between April 2016 and July 2016, Riverbay managed to spend $457,903 on overtime. Here are the departments that spent the most money during this On behalf of our Pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone: (718) 862-9172.

Church Schedule Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. (begins Sunday, September 18th. Registration on September 11th.)

Worship Service - 11:00 a.m.

Communion Service - Every first and third Sundays Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.

The following programs are at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) Morning Prayer Services - Tuesday, 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m.

Extension of Prayer and Worship Service – Every first, second and third Fridays at 7:00 p.m.

Other Scheduled Events Celebrating And Thanking God For 50 Years Of Preaching And 40 Years Of Faithful And Spiritual Pastoral Leadership Sunday, October 2, 3:30 p.m., please join us for a Pre-Pastoral Anniversary Service for our Pastor, Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens. Our guest church will be New Mt. Zion Christian Baptist Church, Mt. Vernon, NY. Pastoral Anniversary Gala In observance of his 40th Pastoral Anniversary, Community Protestant Church most cordially invites the community to join us at a Celebratory Banquet in honor of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, on Saturday, October 15, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Marina Del Rey, Bronx, NY. Donation: $150/adults; $50/children (under 15 years of age). For tickets and/or additional information, please call the church at (718) 862-9172.

Saturday, October 8 – The Sepia Players Ministry presents the play “EVERYBODY TALKING ‘BOUT HEAVEN AIN’T GOING THERE,” written by James Plummer, at the church. Donation: $20. For tickets

CCPD to get new body cameras period. The power plant had overtime expenses of $141,699. Next, the maintenance department spent $99,552 on overtime. Thereafter, Public Safety spent $78,185 on overtime charges. Now, yes, sometimes we have to spend money on overtime to deal with serious issues. But, to spend over $450,000 during this short period of time is only hurting us. So, we need for management to crack down on these overtime expenses.

Leak Repaired - Behind Building 21 As this paper reported last week, a leak near building 21 (Bellamy Loop) was recently fixed. And, now, I’m hoping that management will decide to replace the pipes that are located across the street from the baseball fields. As reported before, we’re losing 28 gallons of water per minute from those pipes. Riverbay has tried to fix those pipes on fourteen different occasions.

And, just recently, Riverbay spent $250,000 to try to line those pipes with an epoxy-based solution.

I’m hoping that management will consider replacing those pipes to save a lot of time, inconvenience, and money.

Boiler Misinformation?

There was a director’s viewpoint in last week’s paper that basically challenged whether the current foundation at the power plant can support our new 150-ton boiler.

And, my answer is that the current foundation cannot support this boiler. If you go online and type in ‘Co-op City Times 8/20/2016,’ you’ll see that a resolution was approved for $600,000 to make improvements to this foundation. By the way, this is just one reason why that boiler has been sitting outside since October 2015.

Riverbay Fund I want to thank Director Deborah Jenkins for conducting a recent meeting about the Riverbay Fund. And, I’m hoping that our board will be able to bring some really nice programs here for our youths. Additionally, I want to make it very clear that I will do my best to work with Jenkins and everyone to make this program a success.

Disabilities Expo There will be a ‘Disabilities Expo’ on Sunday, October 2, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The flier for this program encourages people to: “Come and learn valuable

info at the many excellent training sessions, connect with attendees, obtain resources, supplies, and advice from a wide variety of vendors.”

Zumba Fitness There will be an outdoor Zumba Fitness program on the section 1 greenway on Monday, October 3, at 7 p.m. If it rains, then, this program will be held in room 31, at Bartow. There’s a lot of dancing and aerobic exercises in a typical Zumba class.

Councilman Andy King - Looking Out For Our Community If you go online, you’ll see that our CouncilmanAndy King is working with several communities. Additionally, he attends a lot of events for adults and children. King is also involved with our community, Co-op City. For instance, he has offered to donate $1 million to Riverbay so that we can renovate the auditorium in Dreiser. Then, he wants to bring a trolley here so that people will be able to travel from section to section. King has also offered to provide $50,000 for next year’s Tunes on Tuesday program. This program is our own summer concert series on Tuesday evenings. Lastly, King has mentioned that he wants to have a Freedomland Carnival show next year for our community. So, he has pledged $50,000 for this event. I want to thank King for working with our community and for providing funds for our programs.

Close I’m hoping that our board will have a meeting with all of our politicians soon. Thank you.

Questions or comments? Please send a letter to: Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, please send a message to me at darylhjohnson@optonline.net. (There are absolutely no problems with this email address. So, please double-check the spelling of this address if your message bounces back to you.) Also, please call me at 718-671-4544 if you don’t receive a response from your message. You can also join me on Facebook by typing in: Daryl H. Johnson.

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

and/or additional information, call (718) 513-3308, (718) 671-5961, (718) 671-8691 or the church at (718) 862-9172.

Save The Date: September 12–15, 2017 – The Missionary Ministry sponsors a trip to THE HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA.

(More information to come.)

The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing.

—Evan G. Mitchell

Community Protestant Church

Family Owned and Operated

• Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

• Casket Showroom on premises

• Cremations

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

All areas are handicapped accessible

Personalized & Professional Care • 50 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665

NOW WEBCASTING TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABROAD

www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.

Serving all cultures & faiths

Greater Love Baptist Church

Spiritual Food for Thought: Just as you are the apple of God’s eye, He wants to also be the center of your life and everything that exists in it. Your place of safety is in your ability to allow Jesus Christ to be your all in all.

Let everything in your sphere of existence be in accord with His word and His presence. Give Jesus preeminence; that is the place where you can be in health and prosper in all things. “Keep my commands and live, and my law as the apple of your eye.” Proverbs 7:2.

Senior Pastor Boyce Landrum and Pastor Carol Landrum and the Greater Love family welcome you to fellowship with us on Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. Worship at Greater Love Baptist Church means gathering with people of all ages and cultures to express our love for God our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ our Savior. Greater Love is conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg. 2A), on the ground level, Bronx, N.Y. 10475; main entrance – red button. Free parking is available in Garage #1 on Darrow Place – parking passes will be validated at the church.

Church telephone: 347-920-5607.

Food Pantry: Reopens today from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. If you would like to donate items, please call the church office or bring them directly (see schedule below).

Sunday School: We encourage you to attend our morning Sunday School/Bible Study for children, teens & adults. Our lessons are biblically sound, interactive and provide insight to principles for life application.

MOSAIC Women’s Fellowship: The next Women’s fellowship at Greater Love will be on Saturday, October 8th at 1 p.m. If you would like to be on our mailing list, please email your information to clandrum82@gmail.com and put MOSAIC Mail in the subject line.

Youth Movement: We are building a powerful youth ministry and seek young people with a desire to learn and use their God given gifts and talents in a way that glorifies God; the Lord has need of you! Our team has been recruiting young adults and

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

21

Co-op City Represented At The Annual African-American Parade

The Soul/Latin Line Dancers, lead by Cynthia Dixon, enjoyed marching and dancing in the African-American Day Parade on September 18th in Harlem, NY. They are pictured above with the African-American Association President, Kevin Lambright.

speaking to the parents of younger children in the Co-op City community.

Please call us if you are interested in more information or stop in to chat with Elder Crystal Jones on Friday evening, September 30th between 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Our youth will lead morning worship on Sunday, October 30th at 11:30 a.m.

Weekly Schedule Church phone: 347-920-5607 Sunday Morning Prayer & Meditation: 9:30 a.m.

Adult Sunday Bible School: 10:00 a.m.

Children Sunday School & Mime: 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship: 11:30 a.m.

Holy Communion – First Sunday Adult Bible Study/Discipleship Class: Tuesday evenings: 7:00 p.m.

Prayer Meeting: Wednesday afternoon: 1:00 p.m.

Deacon Training: Alternate Thursday evenings at 7 p.m.

Food Pantry: 4th Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Mosaic Women’s Ministry: Meets on the 2nd Saturday Family Movie/Game Nite: 3rd Friday, 7 p.m.

—Pastor Carol Landrum

Rivers Run Community Garden

Today is the members’ meeting starting at 1 p.m. Topics will include fences and hardware for beds, winter hours of operation, decorating for the holidays, among others. Looking for participants for the decorating committee to help with our October display.

To schedule your volunteer hours for October, please email jam239@aol.com and rivers_run@yahoo.com.

Important dates (All are welcome) • Sept. 24th – Members meeting, 1 p.m.

• Sept. 27th – Bronx Green Up, Question and Answer Day • Oct. 19th – PS 153 Visiting • Oct. 29th – Trolley Day Rivers Run is open: • Tuesdays, 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (or until dusk) • Wednesdays & Fridays, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

• Saturdays & Sundays, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

If you’d like to take advantage of the opportunities to get your hands dirty and make your heart happy, there is always something that needs doing. 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 If you’d like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or me at 718-671-3801.

—Gail Sharbaan

OPEN BOARD MEETING Wed., Sept. 28, 7:30 p.m., Bartow Center, rm. 31 Be an informed cooperator!

Attend & participate!

22

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Co-op City College Fair – To Enrich And Empower

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner

Please join us on Saturday, October 1, for the Fifth Annual College, Career & Resource Fair to enrich and empower the lives of the most impressionable members of our community – our youth – while providing them with resources to prepare for higher education and future career success.

Co-op City has more than 55,000 residents, many of whom have children attending grades 3 through 12, who deserve a fair chance to gain communitybased access to stellar academic advice and financial resources to help them succeed in the future.

There will be concurrent interactive workshops for students and parents covering various topics. Our youth will have a chance to learn about career opportunities in medicine, as well as get personal inspiration from dental students and doctors who will be a part of

a panel on health.

Also attending will be Iona College and the Admission Advisor for New York Institute of Technology, NYIT. They have a campus in Manhattan at 61st and Broadway and a campus in Old Westbury on Long Island. They are well-known for their Engineering and Architecture programs, as well as over 60 undergraduate degrees for students.

If we stand together, come out and volunteer for a couple of hours, I know we will make Saturday, October 1, a very special day for our youth and their parents.

Riverbay Board Meeting Our last Board Meeting was from 7 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Kevin Lambright was invited by our president to attend as he is next in line if a Board member resigns.

Resolutions were previously printed for your information. It appears that the “majority” Board members will continue to ensure that applicants without adequate funds for a down payment will be able to obtain assistance from a new bank lender to become a cooperator.

Donizetti Building Four Association

Welcome back. Hope all had a great summer.

Fun Day – To all who joined us for Section One’s first Family Fun Day Buildings 1 – 8, hope you enjoyed yourself.

Meeting: Come join us at our building association general meeting to be held on October 13 at 7:30 p.m. in our meeting room 4B rear. We would like to welcome all our new cooperators from 100, 120 and 140 Donizetti Place. You are invited to join us at our monthly meetings.

Our topic for discussion will be suggestion and ideas for activities for the

New Year 2016/2017. So stop down, voice your ideas.

S.T.A.R. – It’s not early to get information and/or register for the STAR Program, either Basic or Enhanced, for information. Call 518-457-2036. Application deadline for this year is March 17, 2017.

To the Section One Family Fun Day Committee and volunteers, “Good job;” you are the best.

Congratulations to all those celebrating special event. Get well wishes to our sick and shut-in.

Remember, this is our home; “if you see something, say something.”

—Yvonne Burrus

Defensive Driving returns September 24 The Black Forum defensive driving course will return on Sat., October 8, 8:50 a.m. – 3 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm.

1. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to 4 points from your driver’s license. Please make your check in the amount of $35, payable to “the Black Forum of Co-op City,” and mail to P.O. Box 563, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least 1½ weeks before the class, or you can walk in on the day of the class, but you must have $35 in cash to pay for the course. Please also bring your current driver’s license and a pen.

Call (718) 320-8035.

Black Forum Aerobics and Zumba It’s time to get in shape, get healthy and feel healthy. Body by Andrea’s aerobics classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays, and Zumba on Thursday.

Classes are in the Dreiser Aud., 7:30 p.m. To register, please call (718) 3208035. Nominal fee for each class.

Volunteers needed We need male and female volunteers, 2 hours a day, preferably Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. -12:45 p.m., flexibly. Especially need men who live in close proximity.

Food distribution sites On Thursdays, residents of Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up

food at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Likewise, residents of Building 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursdays to pick up food. For information, please call (718) 320-8035.

Emergency Food Program We are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., rm. 20 in Dreiser Center.

Also, due to budget constraints and shortage of available food, you must live within zip code 10475 to participate in this program. You must also have your card with you and bring two clean plastic shopping bags. Please also have your current photo ID, such as a non- or driver’s license or any photo ID card with proof of address. You will then be issued a card in order to pick up food in the future.

We Need You - Join Us Today Membership is $5 per year/person.

Call (718) 320-8035 or write to Black Forum, P.O. Box 563, Bronx, NY 10475; email: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com or tonyshome10475@gmail.com. Help us keep independent community organizations alive in Co-op City. Everyone is encouraged to join. Call or visit us, room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center.

—Tony Illis

Black Forum

Riverbay Fund Meeting: One of the same concerns was discussed. Do we move forward without a staff for the not-for-profit and just utilize the services of the Community Relations Director? Options were discussed. In the past, a part-time position was proposed and resumes received, however, the plan, as well as alternative space for the not-for-profit was defeated. The former Bingo Hall remains empty and will never be used for anything except to spend and “make money” as per the majority Board members.

Please be informed that I have NO shame for the countless FREE hours and cooperators’ money spent attempting to get the facility approved for our youth and community! When I was denied an elementary school in the South, a man name Rosenwald built a facility for the community. The concept is called “paying it forward.”

Cooperators should continue to reach out to the CSOs for assistance. You may also email me at: eturner@riverbayboard.com or call: Evelyn M. Turner, 917-324-1033.

SULLY, A Movie’s Movie

“Delay is better than disaster”… A quote from the fortune cookie that Capt.

Sullenberger carried with him for years as a memento, truly stuck with me.

Once in a blue, if you can set aside the remakes, the reboots and the superhero films, Hollywood can really make a true gem. SULLY is a movie’s movie. It is a film made by a true master filmmaker, Clint Eastwood, and SULLY is his best film in a while. What I loved endlessly from the film was it wasted no time. There was not a wasted frame in the film. It started from the get-go, and it did not let up. It never felt like something was left in the editing room – big kudos for sure to the editor and Clint for this decision. SULLY was a truly gripping story from start to finish.

It really is a phenomenal story to tell.

Eastwood’s decision to not make it a full-fledged autobiography was genius.

Some flashbacks and storyline developments were all that the film needed. It worked superiorly.

And now to Tom Hanks … I mean what can I even mention that has not been mentioned before about him without sounding repetitive. Not many actors can fully dive into a character like Tom Hanks can. For 90 minutes, Tom Hanks was Sully. His speech, his mannerisms, body movements, laugh, smile, probably even the way he ran (Sully loved to jog), Tom Hanks mirrored it to perfection. It was very hypnotic. Tom Hanks’ Sully will be another classic in his extensive repertoire of phenomenal roles he has taken on his career. During conversations with his wife Lorraine (Laura Linney), we saw Sully playing with his ring, almost as if it was a nervous tick. Tom knew to do that. It was just breathtaking. Those scenes with the conversations were gutwrenching. They were cities apart and their phone conversations were all they had for a while. I was very taken aback by that. A huge kudos also to Aaron Eckhart – he was phenomenal as Sully’s co-pilot. They were incredible

together as a team. The actors who played the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) who were investigating Sully’s situation, you couldn’t quite really hate them because they were just doing their job, but as the film goes they might have been the only antagonists and to that extent they were phenomenal because you knew they were against Sully. You, as a moviegoer, wanted the NTSB to fail. Excellent cast all around for sure; Anna Gunn was a highlight as well. Couldn’t help to see as her as Walter White’s wife (Breaking Bad, one of the best TV series’ of all time). IMAX never has been so brilliant.

The whole film was shot in IMAX, also one of the best decisions Clint made. NYC is made for IMAX and truly made it a whole other experience for me. Everything about it was gorgeous. NYC on the brilliant huge screen was breathtaking. The gripping airplane scenes were very, very intense. It would give cold sweats to anyone as some of the scenes definitely hit close to home. An incredible line from the film comes to mind when the airline company president was making Sully and his co-pilot feel comfortable in the hotel room from the whirlwind they just encountered, “Don’t worry, Sully, this is the best news that New York has heard in a long time, …especially with an airplane in it.”

That was a beautiful quote. Welcome to the Academy Awards, Tom and Clint!

Clint Eastwood – Director Todd Komarnicki – Writer Chesley Sullenberger – Writer Film is based on his novel “Highest Duty” Tom Hanks – Chesley ‘Sully’ Sullenberger Aaron Eckhart – Jeff Skiles Laura Linney – Lorraine Sullenberger Anna Gunn – Elizabeth Davis Mike O’Malley – Charles Porter

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Building 13 Association

Broun Place Townhouse Association

23

From Broun Place Townhouse Association: Our first meeting was September 22, Thursday, in rm. 31, Bartow Community Center. It was an opening of the year, “Hot Topic” party. We had party refreshments and talked about: the summer, positives and negatives. There will be more notes from the meeting next week. Neighbors, I hope you attended.

Our agenda was to get together and hear what has been going on in Broun Place, the good and not so good. Our October meeting will have a CSO representative and the agenda will be ready. Dues are in order and they are $12 per year. Communication between neighbors, between Riverbay departments and to have conversations about Co-op City and what is ahead, “down the pike” is vital. Forums give neighbors an opportunity to speak directly with those in charge, for example, the recent, “Coffee with a Cop.” Broun Place wants to have a return of separate committees, rather than the merged Construction and Buildings and Grounds. It is hoped that Building and Grounds will have its own committee in the future. There are needed things to share and discuss that won’t get proper hearing as a merged committee. However, we continue to participate.

Just as a reminder, if you need to make a purchase from CSO, Riverbay does not accept cash for items purchased from CSO, come with a blank check. A neighbor was told, if your new towel rack is longer than the towel space, bring it to Dreiser for cutting to specification.

We have been running an “Adam Tanaka” blurb, but no more; the Harvard graduate student has completed his video and it is already being shown at special locations. More information will be forthcoming. Congratulations to Mr. Tanaka on completing this and thanks for letting us know.

Water is such a precious commodity. Let’s preserve it. No cooperator should run water for their plants for hours at a time. Regarding “Service Animals,” Public Safety intervenes when the animal is unleashed, shown to be aggressive, or not cleaned up behind. This week, I saw folks letting their dogs run unleashed. Next time, I will click and forward. Keep your “Service Animal” leashed! Remember, “If you see something, contact Public Safety.”

You know, the national election is coming up. The percent of turnout for the primary was really low. Get out there for the national election. We encourage all eligible citizens to register to vote. This is your responsibility as a U.S. citizen. Your vote We’re asking one question this month, “What If?” At Newsong Church, we counts. Be ready to vote, in the November election. believe that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8 Get on the “Do Not Call Registry” by phoning “1-888-382-1222.” Call from a NIV) What if what happened to the people we read about in the scriptures happened phone that you want to register. This includes cell or house phones. Ask a neighbor to to us today? What if we stopped looking at the Bible as a “history book” filled with stories about what God did in the past and started looking at it as a “destiny book” pick-up newspapers and flyers if you are going away. Report road issues to #3-1-1 and Bronx Community Planning Board 10, located 3165 E. Tremont Avenue, Bronx, full of “what if” possibilities for our future? How would that change us? How would NY 10461; Phone: 718-892-1161, Email: bx10@cb.nyc.gov. that impact our homes, our schools, and our city? Join us this Sunday as we continue Hope you attended the meeting. our teaching series, “What if?”

—Eva Lazaar Newsong Church is a multi-cultural church that believes God has a purpose and a plan for your life. We exist to reach people who are far away from God and teach them how to follow Jesus step-by-step. That’s why you will find our Sunday Worship Experience to be so warm and friendly, we genuinely care about you! We’re not concerned about where you’ve been, but where you’re going. You see we’ve all got a past, we’ve all made mistakes, and we still do. When you step into our worship experience you won’t find a bunch of “Holier-than-thou” people pretending to have it all together.

Instead, you’ll find that we’re all broken people, but we’re allowing God to put us back together. We’re not perfect, but God is! As God puts us back together, we’re Shareholders can now pay their carrying realizing that although our past has shaped us, it does not define us! We’re finding out charges online by logging onto the Riverbay that not only does God love us with a radical and unconditional love, but that He loves website at www.riverbaycorp.com, and clicking us just as we are! At Newsong Church, we believe that the Bible is the greatest book on the “PayLease” icon on the home page, or by ever written, containing the greatest story ever told, and that each of us is part of Hissigning in directly at the PayLease website at www.paylease.com. story! In fact, we have a saying at our church: “If you’re not dead, God’s not done with you!” We don’t just believe this for the adults, but for our children as well! At Go green, go paperless! Register today.

Newsong Church, we’re so passionate about our children learning about Jesus, that we created a church just for them called “Kidsong!” At Kidsong, our children learn about Jesus in a safe, fun, age-appropriate learning environment! We also have a fully staffed nursery!

We hope that you will join us this Sunday, as we conclude our teaching series “What if?”

Please Note: On 9/25 & 10/2, our Worship Experience will be temporarily relocated to 2049 Bartow Ave., rm. 31. Our service starts at 11 a.m. Deaf interpretation is available during our adult worship experience. If you have any questions, you can contact us: Church office: 140 Alcott Place, Bldg.19.

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

Phone: 718-708-8385.

For more information, check out our website: www. newsongchurchnyc.org; email: info@newsongchurchnyc.org You can also interact with us on social media!

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

Thanks to everyone who stopped and chatted with us, sat and asked questions and met their neighbors last Saturday. Share the information you received and by all means, contact us if you have additional questions or concerns.

One of our goals is to have 100% of our neighbors enrolled in STAR (School Tax Relief). If you are under 65 and household income is less than $500,000 – you qualify. If over 65 and your household income is not more than $86,000, you qualify for Enhanced STAR. Both are available to you because Co-op City is your primary residence. For more information about the STAR credit, call 518-457-2036 or https://www.tax.ny.gov/star.

Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, October 6, at 7:00-8:30 p.m. and our guest speaker will be the director of the Parking Facility Department.

Women Keeping It Real – Returns Saturday, October 22, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at 100 Casals Place (Bldg. 13) association room. Women Keeping It Real is an inspiring, insightful and informative social gathering of women of all ages exchanging information, empowering and encouraging each other. We welcome new participants. Remember! You must be 18 and over to participate.

Arts and Crafts Workshops – Children of all ages are invited to join our workshops (under 5 must be accompanied by an adult) on the following Sundays, October 16, November 20 and December 18 from 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Congratulations to Section 1 for a fantastically awesome and diverse Family Fun Day. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and from the smiles and conversations I had with your neighbors, they did also. Kudos to the awesome building leaders and volunteers for an amazing day.

Please check the bulletin board for dates and times of upcoming workshops you can enjoy with neighbors and friends in your own backyard! No need to go far. If you have a trip or event you would like to recommend, please let us know.

Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to Building 13 Assoc., 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. For information, contact Gail Sharbaan, Treasurer, at 718-671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370. Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen. assoc@yahoo.com.

As always, thanks for making our team work.

—Leslie Peterson

Newsong Church

Online payment of monthly carrying charges

24

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Sonia Feliciano When I ran for the Riverbay Board of Directors in May 2016, one of the things I was a firm advocate for was term limits. I believe that imposing term limits has merit and needs to be addressed. The pros and cons of term limits continues to be a hotly debated topic amongst public boards, members of Congress and volunteer boards like ours for different reasons.

In speaking to shareholders, some are divided in the belief that term limits can be a way to infuse the Board with new ideas and new energy while others believe there is value in continuity of work and progress so as not to restart a process that is working.

Each side of the debate has many important points to make.

Advantages of term limits: • It provides a structure that thrives on new ideas.

• The same people sitting in the same seats term after term can lead to stagnation. It is in the best interest of the Board to strike a balance between board continuity and board evolution. The presence of new people will bring a new perspective; promote creativity, innovation and a different mindset.

• Having term limits offers boards the time to eval-

Term Limits

uate the type of talent the board needs for well thoughtout plans that benefit the community.

• Seasoned board members may be concerned that new members will slow down the momentum that they worked hard to achieve.

• Best practices in corporate governance show that board directors and management should not be closely aligned.

• Rotation of committee assignments giving all members an opportunity to chair a committee creating diversity and inclusion.

Disadvantages of term limits: • Members who have been on the board for a while have established far more skills from years of experience using their expertise to provide guidance and direction.

• The team dynamic and coherence of the team may need to be developed after every election.

• Investment in training a new member on roles and responsibilities.

• A relationship established by a board member with elected officials, government and outside agencies is crucial and can delay the progress already initiated in obtaining funding for community projects.

• Preserving a balance between new and experienced board members ensuring that major board initiatives/projects in progress continue to be carried out.

• Reduction of the experience level may become inappropriately reliant on management in terms of

Building 9 Association

Greetings: We’re back!

Reminder, schools are open. Be aware of children darting out into traffic. School zone speed cameras are in full force. On that note, there is a red light camera at Bartow Avenue and Co-op City Blvd. Drive safely.

The annual Co-op City change over from air conditioning to heating is upon us. It is also a great time to clean your window screens and enjoy some fresh air; change over your seasonal wardrobes, and to winterize your vehicles.

Movie Day/Movie Night is scheduled for Saturday, October 1st. The children’s movie, “The Jungle Book,” from 2:00-4:30 p.m. and the adults’ movie from 7:009:00 p.m.

Another Paint Party and another Game Night are also in the works.

For S.T.A.R. applications, call (518) 457-2036. Our goal is 100% building participation. Go Building 9!

The First Responders’ Appreciation event on September 16th. It was a pleasant day for an outdoor event; the music was good and the food was better. Thank you CCPD, NYPD, FDNY and CERT for your valued service to our Co-op City community.

On that note, please join me in extending warm appreciation to our Riverbay Corporation management staff as they give generously of their time and expertise on behalf of the shareholders of Co-op City.

On Friday, September 16th, I met with, and conducted a walkthrough of the Building 9 laundry room, storage area, some stairwells, compactor rooms, and the building grounds with Riverbay Corporation managers: Warren Mitchell, Assistant General Manager; Vanessa Aldea, CSO Director; Luis Salazar, Janitorial Services Director and Tony Alcidie and John Somura, Maintenance Supervisors (my last walkthrough with Riverbay staff was on May 11, 2016). The stated goal this month was to identify lingering concerns and to enhance communication regarding delivery of service to the Building 9 shareholders. The meeting was positive and the outcome insightful. We should see improvement in the general condition of our building in the very near future. Please remember to call the Riverbay C.S.O. with any individual concerns you may have. Keep a record of all contacts including date, time of call and the name of the person with whom you make contact, especially CCPD. If you are not satisfied with the service, feedback or response time, feel free to ask to speak with a supervisor. Please do not shrink back from your own personal responsibility as a shareholder. Please do not litter in our garages. Clean up after yourselves, your children and your pets. Maintain the cleanliness of our compactor rooms, take your bulk items and boxes to the basement ash cart area, pick up dryer sheets you drop on the laundry room floor, do not throw items (including water) from your windows or balconies, etc. Do not remove carts from the laundry room. Remove your clothes from the machines promptly upon completion of their cycle. This your home; you must do your part to take care of your home.

Your Building 9 Association Executive Team continues to work hard on your behalf; please be cooperative and support our efforts. United we stand.

—Linda Collins

oversight.

There are a lot of great individuals who have a lot of potential within our community. Communities tend to thrive when there are more people involved in community service. Term limits give individuals the opportunity to share their talent and their ideas for the betterment of the community. Boards are stewards and responsible for ensuring the long-term viability and health of the corporation so that we meet every aspect of building a sustainable community that will improve the quality of life, provide effective governance supported by shareholder participation and responsible leadership.

The institution of term limits at Riverbay will require a referendum at an election requiring 51% of the voting shareholders. An example of term limits could be three consecutive three-year terms. This involves a change in the by-laws and the approval of HCR. It is only doable if the community takes a stance to make this happen.

I believe in term limits, but I also respect the will of our shareholders to make an informed decision on this topic. I would like to hear from shareholders I have not spoken to. What are your thoughts?

Please email me at: SFeliciano@riverbayboard.com , write me at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or call me at 917-992-7311. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent you.

Shareholders First! – We Matter!

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church invite you to join us tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for worship service. Sunday School for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us.

The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774.

Join us for a mid-week spiritual pick-up at our mid-week worship service which is held on Wednesdays at 12 p.m. Bible study is held on Wednesdays at 1:00 and 7:30 p.m. Bible study will also be held on Wednesday, September 28 at 5:00 p.m.

Prayer Service is held on Fridays at noon and 7:30 p.m.

The Building Fund Ministry is sponsoring a Gospel Explosion featuring the Ecstatistics, the Co-op City Baptist Church Choir and other entertainment on Saturday, October 8 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at 177 Dreiser Loop, Auditorium B. Donation: adults, $50; children, $25, ages 6-17. Dinner is included in the donation. For tickets or additional information, call 646-418-7102, 347-290-3081 or the church at 718-320-3774.

Co-op City Intergenerational Outreach Center is pleased to announce that their Second Community Awards Ceremony will be held on Friday, October 21, at 6:30 p.m. at the Eastwood Manor. Tickets are $75. The distinguished honorees are Colville Ivor Bascomb, President of the North Bronx Youth Sports Association; Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens, Pastor of Community Protestant Church; Milagrina, Educator, Co-op City Daycare Center (now closed); Dr. Anderson Torres, CEO of R.A.I.N., Inc and a representative from the legal field. For tickets or additional information, call the church at 718-320-3774.

Save the Date!!! On March 12 to 20, 2018, the church will be going to the Holy Land Pilgrimage (Israel). Join us and worship sailing on the Sea of Galilee, be baptized in the Jordan River; share in communion in the Garden Tomb, all where Jesus walked!! For additional information, call the church at 718-320-3774 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

Building 24 Association

With a fresh coat of paint and new leadership, the Building 24 Association is ready to start meeting. Our first meeting will be held Thursday, September 29th at 7 p.m. in our community room, just to the right after exiting the building’s rear door.

All are invited to join your neighbors in planning building events and correcting quality of life problems in and around our building and the community at-large.

We hope you will join us on the 29th for coffee and cake and conversation and help us build a strong building association.

—Bruce Silberman

25

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Andrea Leslie

On October 2nd, our community will celebrate the second annual Disability Expo in Dreiser Auditorium A-B-C. The Expo, which will start at 10 a.m. and end at 4 p.m., is designed to bring together persons disabled with vision, hearing, psychiatric, cognitive, mobility functions; their caregivers and family with programs, available service providers and professionals who can assist in their daily living and long term plans to thrive despite their disabilities.

I hope the expo also attracts persons who are not disabled because I believe that will be an opportunity

Toplitsky

was like not knowing how to walk.

Being afraid of the water was unacceptable to him.

Irwin was a big time sports fan.

Though he loved to talk about his favorite football team – the Giants – he was most passionate about baseball, especially the Yankees. He would frequently wax poetic about “Joe D,” Joe DiMaggio, the legendary center fielder for the Yankees who he worshipped as a kid growing in the 1940s.

Irwin, or “Toppa,” as friends and coworkers affectionately called him, was a neighborhood fixture and he was very

Vigilance

Disability Expo

for sharing, learning and a chance to dispel some of the stigma associated with the disabled.

As our consciousness rises with regard to the disabled, it will create a better community for all. As we do so, please be aware that in October, the US will celebrate Depression Education and Awareness Month and on October 10th will observe World Mental Health Day. I chose to co-chair the Disability & Accommodations Committee because of my own experience dealing with my disabilities and my awareness of insensitivities to those who deal with the disabled. I truly believe that with the opportunity and increased awareness, we will all have a better life experience. Please make all efforts to attend our Disability Expo, October 2nd in Dreiser Auditorium A, B & C; it promises to be a life-changing experience.

much part of the local baseball scene, becoming involved in Co-op City Little League (CCLL) as a coach, and later, as a CCLL board member for over 10 years.

In 2009, Irwin suffered a stroke.

Although the stroke impaired his speech and mobility, it never affected his frank, no-nonsense personality. While he became stronger, he would very emphatically say, “When am I going home?” as well as, again, in characteristic Irwinian fashion, “I wanna get the (bleep) outta here!”

Irwin spent the last four years at the Beth Abraham nursing home, where he (Continued from page 3)

(Continued from page 1)

such calls and respond immediately and appropriately to any such reports,” said Chief Apollo.

The most likely terrorist target within Co-op City is the Power Plant and ever since the first terrorist attacks on soft targets in Paris in November of last year, Public Safety has assigned round-the-clock surveillance at the Power Plant and additional periodic patrols around the perimeter of the plant each shift.

“We don’t know if Co-op City could be a target, but we have to be prepared for anything,” the chief said. “The thing that concerns us is that the terrorists are now regularly choosing soft targets rather than high profile targets such as tourist attractions and government buildings. This tells us that all communities need to be prepared. The odds of an unexpected attack in a low profile area is that much more likely now given the events of the past year.”

Apollo added that the events of this past weekend is further evidence that no location is safe and terrorists can strike at any location, even in a small town, such as Seaside Park, New Jersey. “We don’t want Co-op City to be alarmed because we are under no greater threat now than any other community, but we need to be alert, know the signs of a potential incident in the planning stages and be prepared to report whatever someone sees that might be suspicious whether it be suspicious behavior or objects.”

This week, Co-op City officers have been distributing pamphlets from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services advising residents of the many signs of terrorism and how to respond if they think they see something that is not right.

“In the case of the IEDs found Sunday evening at the train station in Elizabeth, New Jersey, it was the actions of ordinary citizens that found and reported the deadly devices before they were detonated,” Chief Apollo said. “Those actions perhaps saved dozens, if not hundreds, from serious injury or death and provided additional clues that led to the quick capture of the bombing suspect before he could do further damage.

“We cannot understate the importance of such cooperation from the general public,” the chief added. “It is better to report something that checks out to be innocent or innocuous than not report something that has the potential to be deadly serious.”

All residents are urged to report anything suspicious by calling 9-1-1 and Public Safety at (718) 671-3050.

If You See Something, SAY SOMETHING!!!

Co-op City Public Safety 718-671-3050

Classical Music The Coalition to Save Affordable Housing will once again present their annual FREE classical music concert, October 9th in Dreiser Auditorium A at 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Bardekova Ensemble will perform the music of 400 years. It makes me very happy to know that our community can experience this music without leaving home. It will be great exposure for our children to classical music especially now because music experiences have been removed from many schools. Please make it a family affair, come out and enjoy a wonderful musical experience.

Thank you always for your love and support.

Keep Your Eyes on the Prize Contact me at the Boardroom 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

was loved by the staff and was well taken care of by visiting family. On Aug. 31 at 1:30 p.m., he ate lunch and fell asleep. The nurses at Beth Abraham were astonished at such a peaceful passing.

Irwin Toplitsky was a singular personality. An original who embodied the best qualities of the people of the Bronx – an ability to get along with people from different walks of life, a willingness to work hard, and a desire to enjoy life. He was an honest (to the core), many would say, blunt, person. A man who had no time for pretense, artifice,

and speechifying, which often left him impatient with a family whose many members love to speechify.

Irwin is survived by Ruth, his wife of almost 50 years; his three children, Aron, Jessie (husband Joe) and Richie.

He is also survived by his sister, Gloria, and his brother, Jerry. He also considered his in-laws his brothers and sisters as well: David, Louise, Ampy, Frankie, Lydia, Jacob, Gene, Alina, Sammy, Sue and Evelyn. His many nieces and nephews and their children will miss him as well. Irwin will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Laundry Room Etiquette Please be considerate of others when sharing use of the laundry room. While using the machines or waiting for your clothes to finish: • Please refrain from playing loud music; • Keep an eye on young children accompanying you; • Do not leave clothes unattended in washers and dryers for long periods of time; • Do not remove carts from laundry rooms; • Do not use the laundry baskets and/or laundry tables to sort dirty clothes.

26

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

Activities in Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Activities in Room 49 unless otherwise noted Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm 45 Line Dancing 10-11 a.m.

Activities in Room 7 unless otherwise noted

a.m.

Rm 45

Stay Well Exercise 10-11

Mon., Sept. 26

Word Games 9:30-11 a.m.

Library 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Weight Management Arthritis Exercises

Around The Lunch Table 11:30 a.m.

Word Search 11 a.m. -12

11 a.m. - noon

p.m.

Bartow Center – 10 a.m.

Bingo 12:30-2 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Tues., Sept. 27

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

2nd Monday - 1 p.m.

Pokeno 3-4 p.m., Rm. 3

Dominoes 10 a.m.

Walking Club 10:3011:30 a.m.

Tai Chi 11 a.m., Rm. 45

Wed., Sept. 28

a.m., Room 2

p.m., Room 13 Gentle Yoga 1:15-2pm, Rm. 2

Basic Cell Phone & iPad training 12:30-1:30 p.m., Rm.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4

Green Life Trail Fitness instruction

Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Afternoon Movies

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

1 p.m. w/popcorn

Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Spelling Bee 10 a.m.

Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Computer Lab

Zumba 11 a.m.-12 p.m.,

Sewing 9:30 -11:30 a.m.

Tai Chi 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4

Rm. 45

African Brazilian Dance Room 2, 1 p.m.

Walk Group 9:30-a.m.,

Art Class 1-3 p.m.

Rm. 40

Yoga 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2 Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30

Library 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Grandparent Connection

a.m.

Word Games 9:30 a.m.-

1st Thursday, Rm 35, 10:30

Blood Pressure 10 -11:30

11:30 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise

Line Dancing 10-11

Chat Session 9:30 a.m.-

11 a.m., Rm. 45

a.m., Aud. A

Spelling Bee 11 a.m.

Piano Sing Along 11 a.m.

-12 p.m.

Word search 11 a.m.-12

Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m.,

1 p.m.

a.m. 1st & 3rd Thurs., Rm. 8

Bingo 12:30- 2:00 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Men’s Line Dancing

Rm. 4

p.m.

1:00 p.m., Rm. 45

Drama Club 1:30 - 4 p.m.

Purple Life Trail Fitness Instruction 1-2 p.m.

Crochet & Knitting

Dominoes 10am, Rm. 45

10am-12:00pm

Art 10am, Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10

Bingo 1pm – 2pm

a.m.; 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Karaoke by Steven

Fri., Sept. 30

9-10am

Word Games 9:30am-11:30am

Women’s Line Dancing 10-11:30am

Meditative Moments

Chat Session 10am Bingo

Card Games 2-4pm

11 am-12 p.m., Rm. 8

12:30-2:30pm, Rm. 25

Pokeno 2-4pm, Rm. 35

Mind Teasers 12pm-1:00pm, Rm. 4

Piano Sing-along 11am-12pm

Card Games 2-4pm Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Turkey burger w/cheese, Plain hamburger bun, Roasted sweet potato fries and tossed salad w/dressing

Wed., Sept.

28

Orange pineapple juice, Beef & vegetable stew, Yellow rice, Zucchini w/onions & peppers and fresh fruit Alt: Grilled Caribbean breast

Oven fried fish, Italia blend vegetables and roasted potatoes

7

1 p.m. - 2 p.m., Rm. 45

Beginner 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Intermediate 1:30 – 2:30 p.m., Bartow Main office

Orange juice, Chicken Francaise, Barley, California blend vegetables, Whole wheat bread and fresh fruit Alt: Egg salad

Intermediate Yoga 2-3 p.m.

Karaoke by Stephen

Smartphone Class

Tues, Sept.

27

Rm. 4

Caregiver Support Group 1 p.m. 1st & 3rd Tues

10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Walking Club 10:3011:30 a.m.

Line Dancing 11 a.m. -12 p.m.

Bingo 12:30 - 2:00 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Beef & broccoli, White rice, Cauliflower w/carrots & parsley

Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Diabetes Support Group 1

10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Cultural Dance 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Aud. B

Stay well Excercise -

Apple juice, Turkey burger w/bbq sauce, Green beans, Roasted potatoes, Whole wheat bread and fresh fruit Alt: Tuna salad

Adult Coloring Book 11 a.m.,

10 a.m.-noon, Rm. 45

Blood Pressure 9-10

Thurs., Sept. 29

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30

Alert & Alive Matinee Movie

a.m., 1st & 3rd Wed. Word Games 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Mon., Sept.

26

12 p.m.

Bingo 12:30-2:00pm

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

p.m. Last Monday of the month

Bingo 1-3 p.m., Rm. 35 Diabetes Support Group

Non-Kosher

Kosher

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-

Bereavement Counseling 1

Word Games 9:3011:30 a.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Date:

Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Friday 10:00 - 11:30am,

Bingo 1-3 p.m., Rm. 7

Rm. 45

Card Games, Dominoes 2-4 p.m.

(Schedule subject to change without notice)

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest *Menu subject to change without notice.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk

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

Bartow Center (718) 320-2066, Ext. 2010 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161 New Payment Schedule - Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made

Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Only) Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging,

The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Orange juice, Baked fillet of Thurs., Sole fish, Moroccan fish sauce, Cous cous, Vegetable mix, Sept.

Whole wheat bread, Apple 29 sauce Alt: Turkey salad Fri., Sept.

30

Apple juice, Spanish style roast chicken, Brown rice w/beans, Broccoli soufflé, Challah bread Alt: Gefilte fish

Arroz con pollo (chicken w/rice) Steamed kale

Vegetable lasagna, Baby spinach salad

Upcoming Events/Trips

JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Trip registration policy: No refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation! All trips must be paid in advance – No Exceptions!

Payments for trips can be made at all 3 centers. You can register for all trips starting the Monday after it has been published in the newspaper: JASA will not accept checks under $5.

(FREE) LiveOn NY-SCRIE Application Assistance/SNAP (Food Stamps) – Friday, Oct. 14th, 28th, Nov. 11th & 25th, Dec. 9th & 23rd, 10 a.m.3 p.m. First come, first served! JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. Circle of Care Lounge – Please join a FREE six week support group series meeting once a week for caregivers caring for an older adult.

Refreshments will be served. Topics include: Managing Caregiver Stress, Living Your Vision, Connecting with other Caregivers, Gifts and much more!

Fridays: 9/30, 10/7, and 10/14, 1 -2:30 p.m., 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 40, in Partnership with PSS. To register, please call or email Diana King at 718585-1640 or dking@pssusa.org.

NY Common Pantry is partnering w/JASA NORC to do a six month long Live Healthy! Workshop. The workshop will focus on learning the difference between healthy & unhealthy choices. How to read nutrition labels and small steps you can take to create a lasting healthy lifestyle -135 Einstein Loop, rm. 49, Mondays, Oct. 10th, Nov. 14th, Dec. 12th, 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 7; Oct. 31st, Nov. 28th, Dec. 19th, tentative. Call 718320-2066 to sign up. Please sign up for one location only.

Influenza Vaccine Clinic - In collaboration with Walgreens – Thurs., Sept. 29th, 10 a.m. -12 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop Senior Center, rm. 7.

Please call the Bartow main office to register, 718-320-2066.

SCRIE Presentation and Eligibility check up – Tues., Sept. 27th, Dreiser Senior Center, rm. 4, 11 a.m.

Aldi – Thurs., Sept. 29th, $2. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Central Avenue – Fri., Sept. 30th, $13.

Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. 2 hrs. Xmas Tree Store, 1 hr. Trader Joe’s & 2 hrs. Amazing Savings.

National September 11 Memorial & Museum – Wed., Oct. 5th. Additional information: TBA Wal-Mart – Thurs., Oct. 6th, $15.

Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m.

Empire – Fri., Oct. 7th, $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m., Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Farmers Market – 168th Street, Manhattan, Tues., Oct. 11th, $2. Pickups: Bartow, 9:40 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Woodbury Commons – Wed., Oct. 13th, $15. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m.

Influenza Vaccine Clinic – In collaboration w/ Stop N Shop, Tues., Oct. 11th, 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 40, 10 a.m.

– 12 p.m.; Tues., Oct. 18th, 2049 Bartow Avenue, rm. 31, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.; Thurs., Oct. 27, 177 Dreiser Loop, rm.

7, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Empire – Mon., Oct. 24th, $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Empire – Wed., Oct. 26th, $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Wal-Mart – Thurs., Oct. 27th, $15.

Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m.

Ridgehill –Fri., Oct. 28th, $7. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Central Avenue – Mon., Oct. 31st, $13. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m., 2 hrs. Xmas Tree Store, 1 hr. Trader Joe’s & 2 hrs.

Amazing Savings.

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Scheduling Activities Calendar

AARP Chapter #4997

27

Congratulations! to President Jean Mickens and the new officers of AARP Peachtree Chapter #4997.

The first meeting of the Fall was off to a great start. We were honored to see so many of you (80+) in attendance – seasoned and new members.

NOTE-1: We are in the process of updating our membership address list. Please give us any changes in your address, phone numbers and an email address (if possible). This will help our Good/Welfare Coordinator in sending get-well, condolence and missing you cards to our membership.

NOTE-2: Please contact our Good & Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, about any of our members we have not heard from or seen in a few months. We want them to know that they are in our thoughts and prayers. Also, if you have a family member who has passed, please contact Frances.

2016 Tour Activities November 15 (Tuesday): Ace in the Hole at the Royal Manor: A Tribute to the Temptations w/a family-style luncheon and shopping. Cost: $96. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370.

2017 Tour Activities March 17 – 24, 2017: 7-night Cruise to Cuba. Fly to Montego Bay, Jamaica; board Celestyal Cruise Ship to Santiago de Cuba; Havana, Mariola Gorde, Cienfuigo. Roundtrip airfare, tours, food, drinks, taxes and port fees all included. Please pay your deposit A.S.A.P. as prices will go up if we lose cabins assigned to our group. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370.

—Delores Debnam

Einstein Cancer Fund

Goose Island Seniors

Thank you everyone for attending our Indoor Picnic. We had so much fun. Goose Island Seniors has been in existence since 1972 (44 years), it was great to see so many of our members coming together. We hope you enjoyed yourself. We want to thank all those who volunteered their services to help make the event a success.

Bingo – Tomorrow, Sunday, September 25th, at 1:30 p.m., with Stephen, in our club room 39.

Everyone is invited, members and non-members. Admission is $3, plus $2 for a jackpot card.

Fourteen games will be played, including Jackpot round. Snacks and refreshments will be served.

Extra cards are .25¢ each. Come early so we can start on time.

Mohegan Sun Casino, CT – Tuesday, September 27th. Come join us this Tuesday. Price $33.

Rebate is $15 voucher for wheel and $15 for food.

They have the wonderful Seasons Buffet with lots to eat. The desserts are scrumptious. Pick-up time is 8:30 a.m. at our 3 usual bus stops: Einstein Loop - Asch Loop (by library) and Dreiser Loop (in front of the hardware store). The bus is USA Coach.

Bring your Mohegan ID card with you. Come on time.

Bingo – Wednesday, September 28th, at 1:30 p.m., with Stephen, in our club room 39. Members only. Admission is $1.25 for 3 cards and .25¢ each game. Win up to $7 each game and the Full Card is even more. Refreshments and snacks will be

served. Come early to get your lucky seat.

“Mama Mia” – Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at Westchester Broadway Dinner Theatre, Elmsford, NY. Come and have a great day with us. Price is $79 includes dinner, show and transportation. We only have 40 seats. Only a few seats left. First come, first served. A small deposit will hold your seat at theatre. See Ann or Mary.

“Come Blow Your Horn” – Thursday, October 12, 2017 at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, NJ. Come dine with us and enjoy Neil Simon’s Hilarious Comedy. Price is $79 for dinner, show and transportation. See Ann or Mary for reservations.

Our Lounge – Come sit and relax, read a book from our library, play cards every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Members only.

Join our club for $15 per year. Special for 2016, $5.

Happy birthday, happy anniversary – to all members who celebrate their day in the month of September: Loretta Palomeno, Mary Smith, Myrta Zazus, Janis Brown, Anita Abel, Lyone Hall, Elaine Kluft and Thalia Roach.

Note: For information, call Goose Island Seniors at 718-3 79-9613 or visit us Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at 135 Einstein Loop, rm.

39. You can also call Mary at 718-379-4899 and she will return your call. Leave a message and your phone number.

Good health to all.

—Mary Pilla

Thursday, Oct. 13th – Sands Casino, $35 per person. Casino bonus, $20 slot play and $5 buffet voucher.

Time of pick-up is 8:30 a.m. at Einstein Loop, followed by Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop. Please bring your casino card.

Thursday, October 27th – Crab Shanty members luncheon. Members can bring their friends. Member cost is $28 and friends will pay $5 more. ($33). You will have a menu choice of lobster with 2 clams & shrimp, shrimp scampi, shrimp - broiled or fried, BBQ chicken & ribs, chicken parmesan or snow crab legs.

Time of luncheon at 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, October 4th members meeting at 1:30 p.m., room 38. New members are welcomed. Refreshments will be served.

“Born Yesterday” at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, April 26, 2017. Cost per person is $79, which can be paid off by April 1st, 2017. A small deposit of $5.00 or more will hold your reservation. You will be issued receipts for your deposits. “Born Yesterday” was a huge comedy hit on film which featured Judy Holiday.

You will enjoy this show and for those who saw the movies.

For the above trips, please call Lydia at 718-6713005 or Annie Eutsey at 718-320-1874 for dues and donations.

As always, remember to give a call to the homebounds and those in nursing homes. Your calls will cheer them up and they will know they are always in your thoughts and prayers.

Good health and healings are wished to all.

—Lydia Ruas

Shareholders, “if you see something, SAY SOMETHING!” Contact Public Safety, (718) 671-3050.

28

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

Reflections

by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue There is a beautiful saying that should be engraved on our hearts. The Rabbi of Kotzk once noted that a truly religious person is “One who goes beyond the letter of the law.” Interpreting this ideal, the Rabbi pointed out that according to the letter of the law, one should be honest in his dealings with others. But a thoroughly honest man goes beyond the letter of the law, which means that he is not only honest with others, but honest with himself as well.

It is a kind of spiritual dishonesty that makes us scan the faces of a social set cringingly, searching for approval. Does the need for acceptance by others blind us to the fact that G-d gave us intelligence to think for ourselves?

It is important for a life of honesty to do what is right in the eyes of G-d and our conscience, and not what is right in the eyes of our neighbors.

A life of honesty is achieved by a person who is less concerned with being

Young Israel of Co-op City High Holiday Prayer Schedule

Rabbi Solomon I. Berl will officiate and deliver the Holy Day sermons.

Slichos – Penitential Service – Saturday evening, September 24 – 7:45 p.m.

Rosh Hashonah Eve – Sunday, October 2 – 6:20 p.m.

1st Day Rosh Hashonah – Monday, October 3rd Morning Service – 7:30 a.m.

Mincha – 4 p.m., followed by Tashlech – Maariv – 7:00 p.m.

(We meet at the synagogue at 4:30 p.m.)

2nd Day Rosh Hashonah – Tuesday, October 4th Morning Service – 7:30 a.m.

Mincha – 6:15 p.m., followed by Maariv Evening Service – 7:15 p.m.

Sabbath of Repentance As an integral part of this Holy Day period, attendance at the Sabbath of

Repentance Service is most important.

Service begin Saturday morning at 9:00 a.m. and end at 11:30 a.m. Don’t miss this service!

Mincha – 6:10 p.m.

Maariv – 7:10 p.m.

Yom Kippur – Tues., October 11th Mincha – 3:00 p.m.

Kol Nidre – 6:10 p.m.

Yom Kippur Day – Wed., October 12 Morning Service – 8:00 a.m.

Public Yizkor – 11:00 a.m.

Fast Ends – 7:05 p.m.

Rabbi Berl and the officers of Young Israel wish all Co-op City residents a happy new year of good health, good tidings, contentment and fulfillment in the year to come.

May peace and harmony throughout the world become a reality in the coming year.

Let us know…

If you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, please give us a call at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375/6; email: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or fax (718) 320-2595.

Shalom Jewish Funeral Home, Inc. George Farr - Funeral Director

(718) 828-1700 / 914-654-1700 Keeping Tradition Under Rabbinical Supervision

1528 Castle Hill Avenue Bronx, NY 10462 www.shalomjewish.com Services from Our Chapel, Graveside or Synagogue Parking Facilities • Pre-Arrangements

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of Building 27B. Phone #: 718-379-6920.

Note: Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. If no one is in the office, leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

SHABBAT ends today, September 24, at 7:29 p.m.

CANDLE LIGHTING for Friday, September 30, is 6:21 p.m.

The Synagogue has services Friday night at sundown and Saturday morning at 9 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddish. We need all Jewish men, if you can give 2 hours Saturday between 10 a.m. and noon, we need your help to make a Minyan. Saturday, September 24, Cantor Daniel Sayani will conduct the services.

Jewish Holiday Schedule October 2, Rosh Hashanah – Evening service, 6:20 p.m., Candle Lighting, 6:16 p.m.

October 3, First Day – Morning service, 8 a.m., Shofar at 10:45 a.m.; Tashlich, 5:30 p.m. (near the water), Shul evening service, 6 p.m.; Candle Lighting, 7:15 p.m.

October 4, Second Day – Morning service, 8 a.m., Shofar at 10:45 a.m.; Holiday ends at 7:15 p.m.

October 11th – Yom Kippur-Kol Nidre Service at 6:10 p.m., Candle lighting, 6:02 p.m.

October 12th – Yom Kippur Day, Morning service, 8:30 a.m. Yiskor, 11:15 a.m., Shofar will sound after the evening service. Fast ends, 7 p.m., next year in Jerusalem.

October 17th and 18th – Sukkot Holiday, Morning service both days at 9 a.m.

Oct. 24th – Shimini Atzeret, Morning service, 9 a.m. Yiskor, 10:45 a.m.; candle light, 6:43 p.m.

Oct. 25th – Simchat Torah, Morning service, 9 a.m. Holiday ends at 6:42 p.m.

Good And Welfare: We sell tree certificates in honor or Memory of a loved one.

The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazol Tov to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing all a speedy recovery.

Your support of the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing everybody peace, good health.

—Gary Schwartz

Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue

Try your luck with the Men’s Club.

This Sunday, September 25, is our casino trip to the Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. The weather is predicted to be sunny. We still have many seats available.

Everyone in the community over 21 years old can attend our trips and functions.

You need a Resorts card, or a government picture ID, passport, non- or driver’s license to receive the bonus.

If you don’t have a card, the casino will issue you a card so you’ll receive the bonus.

On the bus, we provide a drink, snack, play bingo, 50/50 raffle and show a movie on the way back. We keep you entertained, the trip goes fast to Atlantic City.

The cost of the trip is $ 35 per person. You will receive $25 slot play. Also, enjoy the boardwalk, visit the outlet stores and the other casinos.

Please Note: We will have no trips in October. Our next trip will be to the Tropicana Casino in either November or December.

The bus stops and returns to all 3 shopping centers. We leave Einstein Loop at 8:00 a.m. by the supermarket, Asch Loop by the back of the library at 8:15 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 8:25 a.m. by the hardware store. We will return to Co-op City around 8:30 p.m., depending on the traffic.

For reservations, call Gary at 718-671-8424 or Bruce, 718-320-2234.

Please make out check or money order to Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place, Lobby, Building 27B, Bronx, New York 10475.

Hope to see you on the trip. Wishing everyone good health, and peaceful year.

—Gary Schwartz

DIVORCE - BANKRUPTCY • ABSOLUTE LOWEST FEES • FREE CONSULTATION • EVENING APPTS. AVAILABLE• FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS • IMMEDIATE FILING

“COURTEOUS AND PROMPT SERVICE AT AN AFFORDABLE FEE”

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

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome.

Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service.

Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meets immediately after service on the first Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church and dues are $2 per month. The men hold their meeting after service on the second Sunday of each month.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 25, when we will celebrate the Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Our Supply Priest, Father Simeon Johnson, will be the preacher and celebrant.

Fundraising Event: Please remember to come out and support our Annual Homestyle Dinner Sale TODAY, Saturday, September 24, from noon until sold out.

This event takes place at the church and we are depending on you.

Reminder: After service on Sunday, October 2, the ECW Group Fellowship will take place at Don Coqui in City Island.

Outreach Program: We continue to collect non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. Please remember to donate.

For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718-3200844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org.

“Hallelujah! Praise the Lord, O my soul! * I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.” —Psalm 146:1 —M. Chambers

Faith In God Church & Bible Institute

Rev. Dr. Gladys R. Little, Apostle, and Pastor & Evangelist Vernon Little greet everyone in the name of Jesus, that name which is above every name. We want you to know that you are welcome in this house of the Lord! It is His house by ownership: it is our house by stewardship: and it can be your house by membership; so come on in and join with us. May God bless you in this house!

Our words have the power to build up or tear down. Scripture supports this. Psalm 34:11-18 New International Version (NIV) says: 11 Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.

12 Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, 13 keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.

14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

15 The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth.

17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.

18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Invitations Sweet Hour of Prayer is today at 3 p.m. Sunday School is tomorrow at 10 a.m.

Our Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 11 a.m. Every 3rd Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion.

If you’re into gospel rap/holy hip-hop, go to www.reverbnation.com/vernonlittle and download music from Vernon Little free of charge. He also has videos on YouTube.

You will be blessed, encouraged, and inspired.

We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone # is (347) 276-4925.

Jesus loves you, and so do we! Happy Resurrection Sunday!

—Apostle Gladys R. Little

Building 29 Association

On Friday, September 16, the Building 29 Association held a well-attended meeting for ratification (or new nominations) of the current board members.

All members (Marie Stanford, Norma Jean Barnes, Valerie McNeil, Marie Smith, Novella Thomas and Katharine Wood) were ratified. The building captains are: James Estwick (A), Cynthia Dixon (B), and Josh Harris (C). Membership dues of $5 were paid.

Next, concerns and suggestions were solicited. Again, dog-related issues were discussed, and a suggestion to join forces with other Section 5 buildings was made, as this is a complex issue.

There were also several different complaints regarding the mis-use of the

laundry room. A suggestion was made to post a larger sign listing all the ‘rules’ of laundry room etiquette.

Announcements were made regarding the Cablevision class action suit, the Disabilities Expo (Oct. 1 & 2), the College Expo Fair (Oct. 1, including a speaker from NASA!) Light refreshments were served and a 50/50 raffle was held. Our next meeting (slated for Friday, October 14, at 7 p.m.) will include a much-anticipated visit from Chief Frank Apollo. Be sure not to miss this!

Finally, many thanks to those cooperators who came to our meeting!

Together, we hope to make a difference for our building.

—Katharine Wood

Pentecostal Tabernacle

29

The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to Worship Service every Sunday morning at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 Services for this week are as follow: Sunday School for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Mid-day Service begins at 11:45 a.m. Prayer and fasting service will be held every Wednesday morning at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Youth service every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: The End Time, we are moving toward a grand finale. Therefore, be ye also ready: for in an hour as ye think not the son of man cometh. (Matthew 24: 44) Then shall the kingdom of heaven be like unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps.

And the foolish said unto the wise, give us of your oil, for our lamps are gone out.

But the wise answered, saying, not so; lest there be not enough for us and you, but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us but he answered and said, verily I say unto you I know you not Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the son of man cometh. (Matthew 25:113). The son of man will soon return in an hour that we think not. We must give ourselves to prayer and fasting, continually studying of the word of God, and be prepared for His return.

Let us not be like the five foolish virgins who did not take enough oil in their vessels, and oil in their lamp. Titus 2:13 states: Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ. Noah had spent many years building the ark, and he knew that the season for divine judgment was near, but he did not know the exact day. The same applies to us in this time, we have seen signs and wonders, strange things are happening all around us, but we do not know the day and time of Christ return. Therefore, let us maintain a sweet fellowship with God and prepared for the coming of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.

For further information, call (718) 324-0334 or (718) 320-4218.

—Rev. R. Sibblies

30

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

31

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS

Cleaning Service

718-320-3300 x3384 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Locksmith 7/15/17

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS Licensed and Bonded

Apartment Furnishings For Sale

Hospital Bed; Standard Size Wheelchair; Walker (Rollator) Doubles as a Wheelchair with Footrests; Stationary Walker; Lift Chair - Recliner (Upholstered) Multi-Positional with Remote; Rocker Chair w/ Matching Ottoman; Folding Cot (Twin-Sized) on Wheels; Computer Desk w/Shelves; 5-Drawer File Cabinet; Shower Bench; Chest of Drawers (5 Deep Drawers); Baker’s Rack. Contact Robert for details at 10/1 917-689-8384.

Get Top Cash for your Jazz, Soul, R&B and Gospel albums from 50s to 70s. Call Howard at 212-873-4016 anytime.

10/22 Records Wanted

— SERVICES — SERVICES — SERVICES —

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS 20% Off Any Lock Job!

Medeco • MultiLock • Wilson High Quality Labor, Low Price!

NEW STYLE BLINDS

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

Cleaning Service - Windows

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION

GEORGE’S CLEAN WINDOWS Professional Window Cleaning • FAST RELIABLE SERVICE Cell:

1-203-482-6337

10/1

Repair - Upgrade - Trouble-shooting - Data Recovery Virus Removal - Laptop Overheat - Cracked Screen Broken Power Jack. Call James 646-281-4475 • 718-324-4332

Painting

FATHER & SON

Appliance Repair 9/24

ACE APPLIANCE REPAIR

Top Quality Work - Painting, Plastering, Wallpapering, 9/24 Floor Sanding, Refinishing, Waxing.

Call Wesley 212.996.7347 or

Refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, washers, dryers, dishwashers. Free service call with repairs.

(718) 379-8782

9/24

2/25/17

Decorator

For prompt service call:

“When you see me, You’ll know me.”

Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290

Computer Consultant, Sales & Repair JB RYAN COMPUTER REPAIR & UPGRADE

Re-installation of any types of Blinds.

Repair Closet Doors and Sell New Bi-Fold Doors!

Serving Co-op City for over 25 years.

917.325.5334

9/24

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

Advertise!

YOUR AD HERE! Call for rates!

• Stoves • Washers • Dryers • Refrigerators • Vacuum Cleaners and more

DJ Services

vacuums 10% DISCOUNT (except and lamps)

Fully Insured NYC License #1233497

Call 718.792.2655 10/8

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L&L APPLIANCE REPAIR

$20

OFF

Present This Coupon (except vacuums/lamps)

STOVES • WASHERS • REFRIGERATORS • VACUUM CLEANERS and more. LIMIT — One Coupon Per Person.

Fully Insured • NYC License #1233497

718.792.2655

10/8

9/24

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

Handyman

9/24

No Job Too Big - or Too Small! Cabinetry, Painting, Tiles, Electrical, Plumbing, All General Appliance Repair, Carpentry.

My Motto - Honest, Reliable, Fair.

Upholstery/Blinds

DARREN HANDYMAN EXTRAORDINAIRE

• ALL MAKES & MODELS • Stoves • Washers • Dryers •Lamps • Dishwashers • Refrigerators • Bags • Hoses • Belts • Vacuum Cleaners

917-541-6528.

Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497 10% DISCOUNT Fully Insured

Home Improvement

(except vacuums)

1-800-479-2667

718.792.2655

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

10/8

Cleaning Service

A BEE CLEANING • Call 718-798-4259 Cleaning or Carpet Cleaning Cleaning - $90 Basic Cleaning 2 rooms of Carpet Cleaning - $120 SPOONER DOMESTIC SERVICE • • • •

9/24

9/24

11/19

Basic Cleaning $90 • Deep Cleaning $130 Non-Medical Senior Care — $80 4 Hour Minimum + 8.78% sales tax Bonded • 7 Days • Accept Cash, Pay-Pal

www.spoonercleaning.com (718) 320-5112

STYLISH DECORATORS • 718.881.7691

CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH

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

Breathe Easy

3314 White Plains Rd. • Bronx, NY 10467

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

• COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

Grout & Carpet Cleaning Co-op City Resident Specials

Elim in Bugsate

CO-OP SALES BLINDS! Vertical, Mini, Wood, Pleats

www.co-opsales.info DON’T PAY MORE AT YOUR LOCAL HARDWARE STORE!

REUPHOLSTERING

Custom Craftsmen - 40 yrs. experience.

Sofas & Chairs upholstered; Slipcovers-Fabric & Plastic; Kitchen Chairs - $8.99 & up.

Caning; Venetian Blinds; Drapes - Custom made Refinishing, Touch up & Polishing of Furniture

9/24

9/24

CCPD

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

32

Co-op City Times / September 24, 2016