Co-op City Times 12/16/23 by Co-op City Times

Vol. 58 No. 50

Saturday, December 16, 2023

CB #10 Exec. Board to Meet with Cannabis Retail Applicant on Dec. 18

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Community Board #10 District Manager Matthew Cruz announced this week that Mello Tymes, the applicant for 675 Co-op City Boulevard and one of now two proposed locations for a retail cannabis dispensary, will meet with the community board’s executive members on Monday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m. As reported last week, the community board has also received a second retail cannabis dispensary application for the property at 725 Co-op City Boulevard (and Carver Loop), the CapitalOne Bank building, approximately 880 yards away from the 675 location, (at Peartree Avenue), (Continued on page 3)

Applying for SCRIE and DRIE BY ROZAAN BOONE

Senior shareholders 62 years and older, and shareholders who are disabled may be eligible for the city’s SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) or DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption) program. Those who qualify may be minimally affected by the proposed 2.1% carrying charge increase to be implemented on April 1, 2024, pending approval by Co-op City’s state-supervisory agency, New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR). Shareholders already receiving SCRIE or DRIE do not need to reapply. Riverbay will submit the paperwork when the increase becomes effective. Both SCRIE and DRIE are part of the city’s (Continued on page 2)

BSA Appeals Hearing for 500 Baychester Avenue, Feb. 26, 2024 BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The New York Board of Standards and Appeals has scheduled a new hearing date to hear an appeals case from Baychester Retail III LLC. February 26, 2024 is the new hearing date when the BSA will decide on Baychester LLC’s appeal. Baychester Retail III LLC is appealing an August 2022 NYC Department of Buildings (Continued on page 6)

27th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration

$1.25

DHCR Notice STATE OF NEW YORK DIVISION OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY RENEWAL In The Matter of the Application of RIVERBAY CORPORATION HCLP-81 NOTICE for an increase in the maximum average monthly room carrying charge charges, including utilities pursuant to the provisions of the Private Housing Finance Law as amended. TO ALL TENANT-COOPERATORS OF CO-OP CITY: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the annexed application has been submitted to the Commissioner of Housing and Community Renewal for an order to increase the maximum average monthly room carrying charge charges, including utilities, as follows: Present Effective 4/1/2024 Carrying Charge Increase Carrying Charge $255.87 $5.37 $261.24 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that by direction of the Commissioner of Housing and Community Renewal, you may comment in writing on the proposed carrying charge increase. An opportunity to submit written statements is afforded so that cooperators may comment on the allegations and figures contained in the application. Cooperator representatives may assist cooperators in preparing those comments. The Commissioner may fix carrying charges, appliance and parking charges so as to secure, together with all other income of the company, sufficient income for it to meet, within reasonable limits, all necessary payments to be made by the company. The financial reports of Riverbay Corporation Inc. are available for inspection by cooperators or their representatives at: Riverbay Corporation, Administration Office 2049 Bartow Avenue Bronx, NY 10475 Comments in writing on the proposed increase may be served by mail/ email to George Simon (George.simon@hcr.ny.gov), Office of Integrated Housing Management, Division of Housing and Community Renewal, 641 Lexington Avenue, 4th Floor East, New York, N. Y. 10022 on or before January 29, 2024. A virtual conference has been scheduled for January 30, 2024, 7:00 P.M. at which cooperators, their representatives and representatives of the housing company may meet with DHCR staff to discuss the proposed carrying charge increase and budget for Riverbay Corporation.

Dated: New York, Bronx this 8th day of December

The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations and the African-American Association held the 27th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa celebration on Saturday, Dec. 9, in Room 31 of the Bartow Center. This year’s Keynote Speaker was Lawrence Hamm, social activist and chair of the People’s Organization for Progress. The 2023 honorees were Ms. Lorraine Alexander, co-founder with her late husband, Milton Alexander, of the Co-op City Tennis Club which inspires young children to strive for excellence in all their endeavors; and Commander Antonio Codrington of the American Legion Post 1871 in Co-op City. Celebrants enjoyed a traditional Griot Ceremony and Karamu feast. The youth also had a significant role in the lighting of the Kinara, with each candle representing one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa –– Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba and Imani. In photo above (L-R) are Ebony Lambright, MC; Guest Speaker Lawrence Hamm; Borough President Vanessa Gibson; Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba, president of the Coalition of African American Churches & Community Organizations; and Norman Thomas, vice president of the Coalition. (See page 24 for more highlights from the celebration.) Photo by Lovely Grant

(Continued on page 4)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

SCRIE/DRIE ––––– (Continued from page 1) Rent Freeze Program, and for homeowners in Mitchell-Lama developments such as Co-op City, SCRIE is administered by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), not the NYC Department of Finance. Information on SCRIE can be obtained by calling HPD’s SCRIE Unit at (212) 863-8494, or 311, or by going online to nyc.gov/hpd. Shareholders applying for DRIE do so through the NYC Rent Freeze program which is processed through the NYC Department of Finance. For information and application forms, visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/rentfreeze/index.page, or use https://on.nyc.gov/3T7fZLN, or call 311. Shareholders already enrolled in the SCRIE and DRIE programs are sent recertification packages, however, both initial and renewal applications are available online. Completed SCRIE applications and supporting documents can be returned by mail directly to: SCRIE Unit, New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Division of Housing Supervision, 100 Gold Street, 7th floor, New York, NY 10038, or emailed to SCRIE@hpd.nyc.gov. Completed DRIE applications and supporting documents must be returned by mail to: New York City Department of Finance Rent Freeze Program: DRIE, P.O. Box 3179, Union, NJ 07083. For assistance, call 311 or send DOF a message by visiting www.nyc.gov/contactdrie. TTY callers, use (212) 639-9675. Virtual appointments are also available. To be eligible for SCRIE, applicants must meet all of the following criteria on the effective date of the carrying charge increase: • You (or spouse) live in the apartment • Your (or spouse) are head of the household • You (or spouse) are 62 years of age or older • Total household income does not exceed $50,000 (household income for all persons living in unit) • Monthly basic carrying charge is more than or equal to 1/3 of your total annual household income (Any portion of your carrying charge that is for other fees/charges is not considered part of your base carrying charge) • You are NOT on any other carrying charge assisted program (i.e., DRIE, Section 8) Supporting documents for SCRIE applicants must be provided for all persons living in the unit. All financial information required is for the calendar year immediately prior to the year in which the carrying charge increase becomes effective. Supporting documents include: • Current year Social Security award letter • Proof of age (government issued Driver’s license, ID, passport or birth certificate) • Federal and New York State tax return with all schedules or tax transcripts. If taxes not filed, provide a non-filing verification letter from the IRS for each occupant in unit • W-2 for all wage earners • 1099-R form for all pension(s) held • November and December bank statements to verify SSI and SSP • Proof of public assistance or unemployment, if applicable • Retirement letter, if applicable Eligibility for DRIE (must answer “yes” to all of the following): • Be 18 years old or older • Be named on the lease/occupancy agreement or have been granted succession rights • Have a combined household income of $50,000 or less • Spend more than one-third of your monthly household income on carrying charges/maintenance • Have you been awarded one the following benefits? – Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) – U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability pension or compensation, or – Disability-related Medicaid if the applicant has received either SSI or SSDI in the past • Do you live in NYC in one of these types of housing? – a rent stabilized apartment – a rent controlled apartment – a Mitchell-Lama development – a Limited Dividend development – a redevelopment company development – a Housing Development Fund Company (HDFC) Cooperative development – a Section 213 Cooperative unit – a rent regulated hotel or single room occupancy unit Supporting documents to accompany a DRIE application (for applicant and each additional household member): 1. Proof of Age – Copy of birth certificate, baptismal record, passport, Driver’s license, government-issued photo identification card, or other federal, state, or local document displaying date of birth. 2. Proof of Income – Copy of federal or state income tax returns with all schedules and 1099s (for calendar year immediately prior to date carrying charge increase becomes effective). If applicant or any additional household member who did not file a federal or state tax return, submit copies of all sources of income including wages, salaries, and tips; Social Security benefits (SSA, SSDI, SSI); Pension payments; unemployment, workers’ compensation, or disability benefits; IRA earnings; annuity earnings; capital gains; Interest or dividends (taxable and non-taxable);

child support or alimony payments received; public assistance (cash); ﬁnancial support from family or friends for rent/carrying charges; debt cancellation, and all other sources of income 3 3. Proof of carrying charge – For Mitchell-Lama shareholders, submit HCR Commissioner’s Orders, carrying charge history printout or letter from management ofﬁce specifying the date of your last carrying charge increase and the amount before and after the most recent carrying charge increase 4. Power of Attorney (if applicable) – If a power of attorney or court-appointed guardian signs the DRIE application on behalf of the applicant, documentation for the power of attorney or guardianship must be submitted. Applicants of both SCRIE and DRIE are urged to consult the application package for more details or call 311, or visit the respective agency’s website online. SCRIE and DRIE exempt those who qualify from future carrying charge increases, essentially freezing their carrying charges, and provides the housing corporation with a tax credit. Shareholders not currently enrolled who believe they qualify for either program are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible.

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Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Co-op City Times COMBING

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

Winter Wonderland is Today in Dreiser

The Riverbay Fund and Renaissance Music Center are collaboarting today, Saturday, Dec. 16, for Winter Wonderland, a Holiday party for children, in Dreiser Auditorium B, from 2-4 p.m. This is a free event and pre-registration is required. There will be toys, games and loads of fun, including a Holiday performance by Music with a Message. All children must be accomapnied by an adult.

Coffee with Mike

Assemblyman Mike Benedetto will host the next Coffee with Mike session today, Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Section 5 pizzeria in Einstein Loop, from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Community Donation Bins

Donate clothes, shoes, outerwear, accessories, household items, toys, books and more at the donation bins located next to the parking garages in Co-op City. Funds generated from your donations help support community events such as Splash Days and the outdoor concert series – Tunes on Tuesdays and Wicked Wednesdays – in the summertime, as well as block parties and so much more. Support your community, donate unwanted items.

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CB10 ––––– (Continued from page 1) the Chase building, both in the Peartree Mall. District Manager Cruz said that the community board has not yet heard from the applicant for 725 Co-op City Boulevard and it is still unclear whether they will be attending the Dec. 18th meeting with the community board. The executive board meeting will take place at CB #10, 3165 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461. This is an inperson meeting that the public is invited to attend and observe. However, because a sizeable crowd is expected and due to limited space, the meeting will also be available virtually on Webex. To join the meeting remotely, interested shareholders can use the following information: Meeting link: https://bit.ly/41BAYff, or use your smart phone to scan the QR code at right: Meeting number: 2337 509 5923 Meeting password: Cb10exec2024! Dial-in Number: (646) 992-2010 The meeting portal will open at least 15 minutes prior to the meeting’s start time. “The meeting is open to the public. However, it remains at the discretion of our chairperson on whether the Executive Board will take public comment or questions,” said District Manager Cruz. “You can either send in your question or comment to us via e-mail or you may call us, or you may wait for the subsequent public hearing. Some of you have already contacted us to express your opinion and for that, I thank you.” CB #10 can be contacted by phone at (718) 892-1161; email: BX10@cb.nyc.gov; Facebook: @BronxCommunity Board10, Twitter: @BronxCB10, Instagram: @BronxCB10. Community Board #10 informed Co-op City shareholders about the application from Mello Tymes for 675 Co-op City

Blvd. on Nov. 17. A meeting between Mello Tymes and the executive board of CB #10 scheduled for Nov. 29 was cancelled because of a scheduling issue. Section 76 of the New York State Cannabis Law states that not less than 30 days or more than 270 days before filing an application for licensure as an adult-use dispensary or registered organization adult-use cultivator processor distributor retail dispensary or an on-site consumption licensee, the applicant shall notify the municipality (in this case, the local community board) in which the premises is located of such applicant’s intent to file such an application. The local community board can express an opinion for or against the granting of such a license for adult-use cannabis dispensaries and/or on-site consumption sites which then becomes part of the application record on which the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) makes a recommendation to the Cannabis Control Board to either grant or deny a license. Before a final license is awarded, OCM considers a number of criteria including, but not limited to, distance from any existing or proposed adult-use dispensaries (1,000-2,000 feet, depending on the population of the municipality in which the dispensary will be located), whether a house of worship is on the same road and within 200 feet, and whether a school is on the same road and its school grounds, as defined in the education law, is within 500 feet of the dispensary. “Community Board 10 has up to 60 days to issue an opinion,” District Manager Cruz said. “As constituents, the public is more than welcomed to pose a question or issue a comment to bx10@cb.nyc.gov. Our Executive Board will review and take into consideration your comments or questions.”

First Co-op City Comic Con Attracts Die-Hard Local Fans By P.M. CAMPBELL

Nearly two months after the world famous New York Comic Con was held in the Javits Center, Riverbay Corporation hosted its own Comic Con in the Dreiser Community Center on December 9. Lovers of pop culture, including comic books, ﬁlms, anime, and manga, came to the second ﬂoor auditorium

dressed as their favorite characters. Mount Vernon Public Library, Baychester Library, and Bronx Bound Books joined comic and graphic novel vendors from all around the city. After taking pictures with iconic heroes, people bought comics from companies like Marvel and DC, but also businesses from the Bronx, like Jean Paul Deshong’s

Vornado Recalls Steam Irons Vornado has issued a recall on its Steamfast Home and Away Travel Steam irons with model numbers SF-717, SF-720 and SF-727, sold from January 2009 through September 2023. The power cord can become damaged and lead to overheating, posing ﬁre and burn hazards. In addition, damaged cords can result in exposed copper wires which can pose a shock hazard. Consumers should stop using these irons immediately and visit the Vornado or Steamfast website to register for the recall and receive a refund or free replacement iron.

Happy Holidays

“The Characters” were out in full force at Co-op City’s first Comic Con. Special guest artist Will Torres, cover artist for “The Boys,” autographed copies for fans. Photos by PM Campbell

“BlackberryJuice Publishing,” and Hutchinson Boyd’s “Black Maverick Comics.” Edgar Campusano, 55, lives in Section 4 and sold his comic, “Joe Box: The Box of All Trades.” “It’s a very interactive character to reach young kids to inspire them in their adventures,” Campusano said. “It’s to inspire the new generation to do the correct thing, and to give them support.” People left the event with comics, posters, and pictures, as well as high hopes for their next Comic Con. (See more photos on page 20)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

HCR Letter to Riverbay on Notice of Rent Increase December 7, 2023 Ms. Sonia Feliciano, President Riverbay Corporation 2049 Bartow Avenue, (Mgmt. Ofﬁce) Bronx, New York 10475

Development: Riverbay Corp. Co-op City Cooperator Comment Postmark Deadline: Jan. 29, 2024 Conference: Jan. 30, 2024, 7 p.m. Location: Virtual, see attached Notice of Rent Conference

Dear Ms. Feliciano: Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) staff has reviewed the proposed Budget/Rent Determination forms and related documents recently prepared for your housing development. Projected revenues for the two-year budget period may not be sufficient to fund housing company operating expenses. Accordingly, enclosed is a set of documents relating to a proposed carrying charge increase. Under NYCRR, 9 Executive (C), Sections 1728-1.1 and 1.2, you are directed to distribute and to post copies of the enclosed material as described below. Each Cooperator is to be served with the following items: 1. Notice, to be signed by the housing company’s attorney; 2. Carrying Charge Increase Application/Motion; 3. Memo to Cooperators concerning Preliminary Determination of Carrying Charge Increase, (Form HAA-255B.l); 4. Budget/Rent Determination Schedules, page 1 (Synopsis of Budget). One set of the following material must be posted conspicuously in the lobby or adjacent area of each building of your development and in the site management office: 1. Notice, to be signed by the housing company’s attorney; 2. Carrying Charge Increase Application/Motion; 3. Memo to Cooperators concerning Preliminary Detennination of Carrying Charge Increase (Form HAA-255B.l); 4. One complete set of the Budget/Rent Determination Schedules (Form HM 2). Service must be made to each cooperator by first-class mail with a proof of mailing (POD Form 3877). Such service must be completed and postmarked in sufficient time to reach the cooperators at least thirty (30) days prior to the Cooperator Comment Postmark Deadline prescribed by DHCR and indicated on the front upper right corner of this letter. An Affidavit of Service, together with the post office forms indicating proof of mailing, must be received by DHCR’s Housing Audits and Accounts Bureau within fourteen (14) days of receipt of this letter. The Affidavit and proof of mailing, together with a copy of this letter, must be sent to: Robert Landy, Vice President New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal Financial Operations, OHP 641 Lexington Avenue – 4th Floor New York, New York 10022 Your failure to comply with this directive may result in the exercise of any and/or all of the remedies authorized by the provisions and regulations of the Private Housing Finance Law. The housing company, as well as cooperators and their representatives, may comment on the enclosed financial schedules and the proposed carrying charges increase. Comments must be submitted in writing by the mail/email response deadline and sent to: George Simon (george.simon@hcr.ny.gov) New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal Office of Integrated Housing Management Bureau, OHP 641 Lexington Avenue – 4th Floor New York, New York 10022 A conference for the housing company, cooperators, and other interested parties to discuss the financial data, proposed carrying charge increase and possible time frames for implementation, has been scheduled with DHCR. The conference is presently scheduled for the date, time and location indicated on the front of this letter. We suggest that you contact Mr. Sing Wong, at (212) 872-0685 within two days of the scheduled date, to confirm the conference date, time and location. We welcome your participation. Very truly yours,

State of New York Executive Department Division of Housing & Community Renewal In the matter of the application of: Riverbay Corporation For an increase in the maximum average monthly Room rental pursuant to (Article II) (Article IV) of the Private Housing Finance Law as amended. TO THE COMMISSIONER OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY RENEWAL OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK: Applicant, Riverbay Corporation (hereinafter referred to as the company), respectfully shows and alleges that: 1. Organization: Riverbay Corporation is a corporation formed in 1965 under Article II of the Private Housing Finance Law of the State of New York for the ownership and operation of Co-op City, a cooperative housing development, 2. Project: Riverbay Corporation (Co-op City), is located at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. It consists of 15,372 apartments and 72,666 rooms, and also 85 commercial tenants and 34 professional tenants. 3. Capitalization: As of 3/31/2022, there were 1,307,988 shares of stock authorized and 1,304,451 outstanding. As of the date of this application, the equity per room is $7,500.00. 4. Return on Investment: N/A 5. Need: The increase in carrying charges and other items as listed in number eight (8) below are needed due to a shortfall in funding for Riverbay Corporation’s operating expenses due to rising Insurance costs, asbestos abatement costs, increased funding of the replacement reserves and general price increases of supplies, materials and services, 6. Economies: All operating costs have been reviewed to keep at the lowest possible level while providing the current level of services. 7. Present Rents: For the month ended February 2023, the average carrying charges per room, per month was $255,87 and this amount includes utilities. This amount became effective 1/1/2023 based on authorization by the DHCR on December 08, 2023. 8. Requested Increase: The amount of the requested carrying charge increase is 2.1% to be effective April 01, 2024. The 2.1% carrying charge increase effective April 01, 2024 will raise the current average carrying charges from $255.87 per room, per month to $261.24 per room, per month. 9. Other Information: None. (Continued on page 5)

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

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Carrying Charge ––– (Continued from page 4) Substantiating Exhibits: Exhibit A, Riverbay Corporation Budget FY 2023/2024 & FY 2024/2025. Dated: 4/6/2023

Riverbay Corporation By: ________________________________ Robert Klehammer Executive General Manager

Verification for Corporate Housing Companies State of New York County of Bronx: ss. I, Sonia Feliciano, being Duly Sworn, deposes and says that she is the President of Riverbay Corporation, the housing company named in the within application; that she has read such application and knows the contents thereof; that the same is true to her own knowledge except as to those matters stated to be based on information or belief, and as to those matters she believes them to be true. Deponent further says that the reason this verification is made by deponent and not by Riverbay Corporation is that the said housing company is a domestic corporation and deponent is an officer thereof, to wit, the President.

EMERGENCY RESOLUTION #23-19 SUBMITTED BY: Claudia Sampson SECONDED BY: Bernie Cylich, Michelle Marbury & Anika Green-Watson BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: March 29, 2023 WHEREAS, Management has prepared the proposed budget for fiscal 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 for Riverbay Corporation based on maintaining the current level of services for shareholders; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget also includes funding for the Five Year Capital Plan which will provide necessary infrastructure repairs to Co-op City; and WHEREAS, the proposed budget requires a 2.l% increase in carrying charges effective April 1, 2024 in order to maintain a balanced budget through March 31, 2025 all subject to review, analysis and discussion with the NYS HCR; and WHEREAS, the average carrying charge per room, per month is $255.87 and this amount includes utilities, that became effective January 1, 2023 based on authorization by the NYS HCR; and WHEREAS, the 2.1% carrying; charge increase effective April 1, 2024 will raise the current average carrying charges from $255.87 per room per month to $261.24 per room, per month; This increase will enable Riverbay Corporation to meet its obligations; and WHEREAS, the Transient Parking and Parking Pass rates were last increased in July, 2021 effective April 1, 2023 those rates will be increased 30%; and NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE, RESOLVED: that the proposed Riverbay Corporation Budget for the ﬁscal years 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 is approved and Management and the Board President are authorized to process the necessary application with the NYS HCR for the above stated carrying charge increase. Upon the NYS HCR’s review and approval, Management is authorized to implement the carrying charge increase that the Commissioner of the NYS HCR authorizes. And that the Transient Parking and Parking Pass rate increase of 30% is approved and Management and the Board President are authorized to submit these increase requests to the NYS HCR, and be effective April 1, 2023. YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, NO: Johnson, Wright ABSENT: Peterson PASSED

(Continued on page 9)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

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. 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 are solely the writer’s and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

– • Letters to the Editor • –

“War is Hell”

Talk to Your Children

To the Editor: A letter in last week’s paper discussed the situation in Gaza, but conveniently left out the fact that Hamas initiated the current war by attacking Jewish civilians, raping numerous women, and by killing and kidnapping defenseless women and children. The savagery of October 7 should remind us of what happens when terrorists or criminals have weapons, but the civilian population does not have access to them. The United States did not simply take the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 in stride, and continue with what was business as usual. We declared war on Japan, and later against Nazi Germany. The German city of Dresden was ﬁrebombed, and Tokyo was the subject of massive bombing. Hiroshima and Nagasaki were A-bombed. As U.S. General Sherman stated during the Civil War, “War is Hell.” If we want to blame someone for the deaths of innocent civilians in Gaza, blame Hamas – who are responsible for initiating the war. Unlike Pearl Harbor, which was a surprise attack on a military installation, Hamas attacked civilian targets. The issue of supplying aid to Israel is another matter. Foreign aid is unconstitutional (read your Constitution.) In my opinion, the U.S. shouldn’t be giving aid to any country. The U.S. has a long history of aiding communist nations through our aid and trade. (Examples include the Soviet Union and Communist China.) I believe this issue is not properly discussed because of the suppression of this information by the mass media. —David Hammer

To the Editor: Are you parents talking to your children? Do they know what is not acceptable behavior to you as their parent? What type of despair are they feeling when they think it’s okay to tear down holiday decorations? This is something done to beautify your lobby. And to celebrate the holiday. Why would you do that? Listen, I was a teenager once too and we never did anything like this. Please, parents, talk to your children and let them know how disappointed you would be if you found out your child did something like this! —Andrea D. Mayo

Contacting the Riverbay Call Center Riverbay Management has heard your concerns regarding “How do I reach the Call Center?” and will update the phone prompts to make the process easier and more direct. Currently, callers to Riverbay’s main line, (718) 320-3300, select option #2 to be directed to Maintenance, Restorations and Inspections. Once the phone prompt recording is updated, Option #2 will be dedicated to the Call Center, which will include Maintenance, Restorations and Inspections.

BSA ––––– (Continued from page 1) (DOB) revocation that prohibited the developers from advertising in their C7 zoning district. The developers of the property aim to erect two LED panels on their 60-foot tall structure to advertise in the direction of the New England Thruway. In November, BSA ofﬁcials decided to reopen the appeals case after receiving new testimony from Baychester Retail III LLC on the

morning before a scheduled appeals hearing. Since the testimony arrived on the same day of the previously scheduled hearing, chair of the BSA Champa Shanda explained that in order to review the document, the appeals case would need to be reopened. Since the matter is reopened and no ﬁnal vote has occurred, BSA Deputy Director Matias conﬁrmed

to the Co-op City Times that interested shareholders can still email their testimony to submit@bsa.nyc.gov or mail their testimony to: NYC Board of Standards and Appeals, 22 Reade Street, Main Floor, New York, NY 10007. Those with any questions about the process can call BSA directly at 212-386-0009. Written testimony should be no longer than 10 pages in length.

NY Congressional Maps Must Be Redrawn BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The New York Court of Appeals ruled on Tuesday, Dec. 12, that the Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) must develop a second set of redistricting maps. In a close 4-3 vote, the Court of Appeals sided with a lower Appellate Court ruling and found that the IRC did not fulfill its requirement and must redraw a new set of maps. The IRC was in charge of creating the new Congressional District, State Senate and State Assembly maps using the data provided by the 2020 Census. IRC officials must develop a new set of maps by no later than February 28, 2024, as ordered by the Court of Appeals. Explaining the reason behind the ruling, Chief Judge Rowan Wilson detailed that the IRC failed to redraw the maps in accordance with the Constitution. “The IRC failed to discharge its constitutional duty. That dereliction is undisputed. The Appellate Division concluded that the IRC can be compelled to reconvene to fulfill that duty; we agree. There is no reason the Constitution should be disregarded,” Judge Wilson wrote in the majority opinion of the court. “The People of New York are entitled to the process set out in the Constitution, for which they voted. That process may include a judicially directed creation of districts that is limited expressly to the ‘extent’ that the court is ‘required’ to do so, but not at the expense of the IRC process when time exists to follow that process. There is no good argument as to why New Yorkers must be prohibited from ordering the creation of legislative districts through the process the Constitution requires, adopted by the direct vote of the People,”

Judge Wilson went on to write. Notably, the Court of Appeals also ruled that the “existing judicially drawn congressional districts are limited to the 2022 election.” The Court of Appeals emphasized that the IRC’s final set of maps will not be open to future litigation and “would remain in place through the end of the decade.” In summary, a New York Appeals Court ruled in July of 2023 that the IRC must convene and redraw a new set of maps. Prior to the Appeals Court ruling in July, the IRC failed to develop a second set of maps in 2022, leaving the process to New York State legislators. However, the maps developed by state legislators were also rejected and ultimately thrown out by the New York State Supreme Court. Tuesday’s ruling represents a step forward in the redistricting process as the IRC will now be tasked with finally completing a second set of official maps. Redistricting is a critical process that redraws district boundaries to ensure each district in a state has roughly the same amount of people, and that districts are reflective and representative of the people who are voting in the respective area. Voters in these districts are responsible for electing members of Congress, as well as the many local county offices that govern municipalities and towns. While local elections may not garner the kind of national media attention that the presidential race does, local elections are directly impactful for the constituents in the respective district. For example, in New York City, the city government is in charge of public education, correctional institutions, public safety, recreational facilities, sanitation, water supply and welfare services.

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

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writer and include their address and phone number, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the author. Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m. Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475. Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp. Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corp. of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available. The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor, only from Co-op City shareholders, at cctimes@riverbaycorp.com. Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner. Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The Co-op City Times does not publish anonymous material. Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which will be kept conﬁdential – so authenticity and residency of the writer can be veriﬁed. Thank you for your cooperation.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Public Safety Offers Home Repair Tips For Smart Cooperators The holiday season is a time filled with joy, festivities, and the warmth of family and friends. However, amidst the celebration, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to ensure that everyone can enjoy the season without any accidents or mishaps. This comprehensive guide aims to highlight various aspects of holiday safety, from decorating your home to traveling and enjoying festive meals. When adorning your home with festive decorations, prioritize safety. Choose flame-resistant decorations and keep them away from heat sources. Ensure that Christmas lights are in good condition, with no frayed wires, and turn them off when you’re away or asleep. Be cautious with candles, placing them in stable holders and away from flammable materials. If you opt for a live Christmas tree, ensure it is fresh by checking for green, resilient needles. Keep the tree well-watered to prevent it from drying out and becoming a fire hazard. Place the tree in a stable stand, away from heat sources. Artificial trees should be labeled as fire-resistant. With the holidays often involving travel, secure your home properly. Lock all doors and windows, and consider investing in a home security system. If you’re away, ask a neighbor or friend to collect mail and keep an eye on your home. Avoid advertising your absence on Social Media. The holiday season is synonymous with festive meals. Exercise caution in the kitchen by staying attentive while cooking. Keep flammable items away from the stove, and never leave the kitchen unattended when cooking. As temperatures drop, heating systems are in full use. Ensure that heating

Public Safety Report

Public Safety Blotter

December 3 – December 9, 2023 December 03, 2023 140 Casals Place A CCPD supervisor was alerted by a Riverbay worker of a suspicious package by a trashcan. Upon investigation, a loaded firearm was discovered inside. The firearm is being processed for further investigation. December 04, 2023 140 Elgar Place A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission. 2081 Bartow Avenue A Rite Aid employee reported that a non-resident suspect removed various items from the shelves without paying or authority or permission to do so. The suspect was placed under arrest by CCPD and charged with Larceny. December 05, 2023 140 Benchley Place An employee of the Chinese Buffet in the Bartow Mall reported leaving his electric bike in the lobby while making a delivery. Upon his return, he observed that the electric bike was removed from the lobby an unknown individual without his permission. December 06, 2023 120 Aldrich Street A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from the lobby of her building by an unknown individual without her permission. 100 Benchley Place While conducting a building check, a Public Safety officer observed Christmas and Hanukkah decorations were damaged and placed on the floor of the lobby by person(s) unknown. An investigation is ongoing.

December 07, 2023 100 Donizetti Place A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door without her permission. 2063 Bartow Avenue An employee from Rite Aid reported a suspect removing items from the shelves and leaving the store without paying. A canvas of the area by CCPD yielded negative results. December 08, 2023 100 DeKruif Place CCPD was informed of teenagers loitering and making noise between the 11th and 12th floors in the “B” stairwell. Upon arrival, CCPD observed four teenagers loitering with one of the teenagers residing in the building. The parent shareholder of the teenager residing in the building was issued multiple Community Complaints as shareholders are responsible for the conduct of their guests. 120 Co-op City Blvd. A cooperator reported an unknown individual damaging the lock to his storage closet with no items removed. 100 Dreiser Loop CCPD responded to a call of a suspect removing food from the establishment without paying. The suspect was detained by the employees until arrival of CCPD officers. The suspect was found to be in possession of stolen property and placed under arrest for Larceny. December 09, 2023 100 Casals Place A cooperator reported discovering holiday decorations in the lobby that were damaged. The decorations included a Menorah that was taped to the wall. An investigation is ongoing.

appliances are in good condition. Keep space heaters away from flammable materials and turn them off when you leave a room. Candles can add a warm and inviting atmosphere, but they also pose a fire risk. Use flameless LED candles as a safer alternative, especially if you have pets or small children. If using traditional candles, never leave them unattended. If you’re hitting the road for holiday travel, plan your route in advance and check the weather and road conditions. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with proper tire pressure and fluid levels. Avoid distracted driving and always wear seat belts. If flying, arrive at the airport with ample time to spare. Keep essential items, such as medications and important documents, in your carry-on bag. Be aware of the airline’s safety guidelines and follow instructions from the flight crew. When using public transportation, stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings and follow the safety guidelines provided by the transportation service. In the current global landscape, it’s crucial to prioritize health and adhere to COVID-19 safety guidelines. Stay informed about local regulations and guidelines, practice good hand hygiene, and consider vaccination. The holiday season can be stressful for many. Take time for self-care, get enough sleep, and don’t hesitate to seek support, if needed. Manage stress through activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending quality time with loved ones. When selecting gifts for children, ensure they are age-appropriate and free from small parts that could pose a choking hazard. Check for recalls on toys and follow safety guidelines provided by manufacturers. While celebrating, be mindful of the impact on pets. Keep potentially toxic foods, such as chocolate and alcohol, out of reach. Secure Christmas decorations and wires to prevent pets from getting injured or causing damage. Prepare for unexpected situations by having an emergency kit on hand. Include essentials like first aid supplies, medications, flashlight, batteries, and important documents. Share emergency plans with family members. Make a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, neighbors, and family members. Ensure everyone is aware of these contacts and knows how to reach them in case of an emergency. The holiday season is a time to create cherished memories, and by prioritizing safety, you can ensure that these memories are positive and lasting. Whether you’re decorating your home, traveling to visit loved ones, or enjoying festive meals, a focus on safety will contribute to a joyous and stress-free holiday season for all. Remember, a little precaution goes a long way in making the holidays truly special and safe for everyone involved. SCAM ALERT: Remember not to divulge personal identification, including date of birth, address, Social Security number; bank accounts, bank or credit cards to anyone who do not know and trust.

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

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

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

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023 Director’s’ Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

Do Not Destroy Your Home Can you believe that someone went into building 25 on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, and made a horrible choice to destroy some holiday decorations? Furthermore, there was a report that a group of teenagers destroyed some decorations in another building. This Nonsense Has To Stop The Co-op City Times published two photos of the vandalism that occurred in building 25. (Building 25 is located across the street from the baseball fields.) In one photo, you’ll see that there are two empty tables and some items on the floor. Well, those two tables had several items on them that represented the traditions of Hanukkah. Then, there were some Christmas decorations that were knocked onto the floor. I left building 25 early in the morning through the rear entrance to go onto the greenway. Then, I returned to the front entrance of building 25 shortly after 5 a.m. And, that’s when I discovered this horrible scene. So, what should a reasonable person think when they see that all of the decorations for Hanukkah were thrown onto the floor? Now, yes, some items from our Christmas Tree were also on the floor. But, the Christmas tree wasn’t thrown onto the floor. Regardless, is this type of conduct appropriate for Co-op City or for anywhere? No! Some people might disagree with a number of things in other parts of the world. However, should anyone develop so much anger and hatred in their heart that they should go out and attack people, decorations, or any type of property? No! But, unfortunately, that’s what some people are doing. Therefore, news reports are filled with horrible stories about people getting beat up for no reason. Then, there are horrible stories about property being destroyed. Furthermore, some people love to express their wicked thoughts by drawing terrible signs and messages onto houses of worship and other buildings. Now, can we tolerate this type of insane conduct in Co-op City? No! Therefore, anyone that commits these types of crimes in Co-op City must be arrest-

SATURDAY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOOD DISTRIBUTION 10:30 AM AT THE CO-OP CITY FRIDGE Interested in volunteering? coopcitycommunityfridge@gmail.com

ed. Thereafter, we will institute holdover proceedings in Housing Court to have that person evicted from Co-op City. Bottom line: Initially, I thought that those decorations were vandalized at some point during the night. However, Chief Riley sent a message out that stated that one of his officers noticed this vandalism at 10:30 p.m. So, the officer wrote a report about this matter and an investigation was started. Therefore, I want to thank that officer and our Public Safety Department for handling this matter in a proper manner. Ride or Die Bike Articles about the dangers of e-bikes and their batteries have been published in the Co-op City Times. Furthermore, Riverbay posted signs on the front window of every building prohibiting these e-bikes in our buildings. Thereafter, some cooperators removed their e-bike from their apartment. Then, well, let’s just say that our Public Safety Department had to issue some heavy fines to some cooperators that refused to remove their e-bike from their apartment. Now, is it possible that some cooperators might still have an e-bike in their apartment? Well, the answer could be yes. And, hey, they might think that they’re beating the system by hiding an e-bike in their apartment. Similarly, some incredibly violent thieves have robbed some delivery workers of their e-bike. Thereafter, they may have stored that stolen e-bike in their apartment. And, they might think that everything is going to be fine. But, as you continue reading, you’ll see that these folks might find out that they placed a devastating time bomb into their apartment. For instance, about two years ago, someone placed seven e-bikes into an apartment in the East Village. Then, without any notice, the batteries inside of these bikes exploded in a monstrous manner. In fact, the explosion was so horrific that it blew out a wall in their apartment. Furthermore, flames were raging throughout this entire apartment. Horrible, right? Yes! But, this story gets far, far worse because there were two teenagers that were asleep in that 4th floor apartment when this fire

erupted at 7 a.m. Now, generally, the chances of those teenagers surviving this type of outrageous fire are almost zero. Zero!!! But, like a scene in an action movie, they were able to climb out of a window and onto a pipe that was miraculously placed near their window. And, this pipe ran all the way to the ground. So, they survived by climbing down this pipe to safety. Thereafter, 180 firefighters raced to their building and put out this fire. Bottom line: An e-bike can literally destroy you and everyone in your apartment. So, please get rid of that e-bike today. Thank you. Close Why was Co-op City selected for a cannabis dispensary store? What does a professional marketing plan for this type of business say about our community and our cooperators? Do you think that a lot of effort will be made to get our cooperators to try cannabis? Addiction? Look, drugs can ruin your life. So, I want to encourage everyone here to not get involved with drugs. Thank you. Contact Information Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Currently, here is my ONLY email account: djohnson@riverbayboard.com. I will never ask for or accept money from anyone. Therefore, please do not respond to any message with my name on it that requests money, money transfers, gift cards, personal information, or anything from you. And, please do not ever send money or anything to anyone because you saw my name on a false message. Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. And, please hang up your phone immediately if someone calls you and says that they’re Daryl Johnson or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Carrying Charge Notices ––– (Continued from page 5) To: All Cooperators of RIVERBAY CORPORATION From: DHCR Counsel Subject: Preliminary Determination of Carrying Charge Increase Cooperators Comment Postmark Deadline: January 29, 2024 Conference: January 30, 2024, 7:00 P.M. Location: Virtual, see attached Notice of Rent Conference Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) staff has reviewed the proposed Budget/Rent Determination forms and related documents prepared for your housing development. As the housing company’s income may not be sufficient to meet all of its obligations, a carrying charge increase may be necessary. We are enclosing a preliminary budget and carrying charge increase Application/Motion for your review. Please note that the actual amount of your carrying charge increase will be determined only after DHCR has further reviewed, with your input, the actual needs and circumstances at your housing development. In order for you to participate in this review process, DHCR requires that you be provided with copies of the legal notice, the carrying charge increase Application/Motion and a summary of the financial schedules. The amount of the increase needed to eliminate the deficit shown on these schedules is not final; the figures shown reflect only DHCR’s preliminary analysis. Additional financial schedules which show greater detail on the housing company’s budget are available should you wish to review them. DHCR requires the housing company to post the complete set of schedules in a prominent location at the project. You Have The Opportunity To Comment: The budget figures shown on the enclosed schedules are projections of the expenses and income for your housing company. DHCR has provided a 30-day comment period so that you may review the budget and comment, in writing, on the proposed carrying charge increase. During the comment period, cooperators may ask the housing company to make its financial records available for inspection. You may send your written comments to: George Simon (george.simon@hcr.ny.gov)

New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal Office of Integrated Housing Management, OHP 641 Lexington Ave. – 4th Floor East, New York, New York 10022 A conference for cooperator, the housing company and other interested parties to discuss the financial data and proposed carrying charges increase and possible time frames for implementation, has been scheduled with DHCR. Interpreter services will be made available by the Housing Company for deaf persons wishing to attend the conference. A written request for such services must be submitted to the Housing Company at least two weeks prior to the conference date. The conference is presently scheduled for the date, time and location indicated on the front of this letter. We suggest that you contact Mr. Sing Wong at 212-872-0685 within two days of the scheduled date, to confirm the conference date, time and location. We welcome your participation. DHCR Review of Comments: Comments will be reviewed by DHCR accountants, attorneys and housing management representatives. After receipt of comments, additional analysis may be made of financial aspects of housing company operations and the financial schedules may be revised in the light of information obtained. Division staff will then make recommendations to the Commissioner concerning the carrying charge increase. The Commissioner will make the final determination as to whether or not an increase is necessary and, if so, the amount required. The Commissioner may allow all or part of the proposed increase. In determining the amount of the carrying charge increase, the Commissioner will consider the extent to which the present carrying charges are sufficient to enable the housing company to meet its necessary expenditures, the vacancy rate, the size of the waiting list, the economic impact the carrying charge increase would have on the residents and the market demand for apartments in the housing development. Issuance of Rent Order: After the Commissioner has reached a decision, each cooperator will receive a copy of the Commissioner’s determination in the form of a Carrying Charge Order. The Order will state the amount of the carrying charge increase, if any, and the Commissioner’s basis for the decision. The Order will also state the increases in any miscellaneous charges, such as those for parking or air conditioners. (Continued on page 13)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023 Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson

Bulldozed as we Dozed How’s it going with the Project X first do no harm struggle, you ask? Well...the Change.org petition has stalled at 1,223. That was the petition to stop the frivolous and illogical destruction of poor old Ramp C – Section 5’s chosen road home. Twelve hundred anonymous appeals ain’t hay, but it’s pitifully low considering how many Section 5 cooperators are, or will be, affected by its loss. The really sad thing is, action on this issue could have actually yielded a positive result for all if only sufficient pressure were exerted, because it’s such a close-to-home, quality-of-life issue. Letting Ramp C be snatched away without a fight was a mistake, because See ya, Ramp C was only part one of the many-part, slow-moving disaster heading Co-op City’s – and specifically Section 5’s – way. Here’s a such as... Ever notice the signs that were posted within the Bay Plaza shopping center directing drivers to travel through Section 5 to get to I-95S? They’ve been replaced. Now they’re giant flashing signs, the generator-fed kind you see on highways, proclaiming This-a-Way to I-95S and Hutch N. Why the upgrade? No doubt bracing for the enormous increase in traffic soon to accompany the Bartow-exit-off-the-Hutch opening. Just in time for Christmas? Maybe not, but soon. It wouldn’t be so bad if there were any chance of us getting the Hutch S entry ramp reconsidered. A Bartow/Hutch entry/exit pairing would actually be beneficial so it’s most likely considered to be out of the question! Did you know the Bartow to Hutch S sister ramp was in the original Project X plan before being removed for price? A couple of years later, it was explained that the change of plans was necessary because lo and behold servicing Bay Plaza with public money is verboten. But isn’t that exactly what the Hutch N exit ramp’s actual purpose is? To

service Bay Plaza? Oh no, that’s not what it’s for, it’s to provide access to the coming railroad station but primarily we’re building it so Section 5 has another way home. Now, that would have been the perfect time to mention their intention to destroy Ramp C. Anyway, the railroad was the rationale, to avoid appearing to benefit Bay Plaza when in fact it was meant to do exactly that. That plus limiting unnecessary Co-op City-, Section 5-, and Mallseeking Pelham Bay traffic. I have nothing against helping Bay Plaza. It’s a very needed tax revenue source. I have nothing against the people in Pelham Bay getting some relief. Afterall, their neighborhood has been used as a detour to reach Co-op City and the Mall for decades. But I do have a lot against the callous disregard for the well-being of the people of Section 5 while these plans were being thought up and carried out behind our backs. We don’t need another way home, we said at the time. We have Exit 9 off I-95 and the very lovely Ramp C that gets us here from every other direction. Or we would have said that if we knew our go-to way home from Pelham Parkway to Palmer Ave. had a name. (Ramp C only got its name from the paperwork labeling it to be destroyed.) The updated response – we’re providing Section 5 and the rest of Co-op City another way home. That’s right. Don’t address the problem, just change the language. And it’s just the beginning. There’s more fiddling with ramps on the I-95S side on the horizon and that includes widening the Erskine exit. And that’s just our NYS DOT at work. What about the MTA? They’ve already cut Erskine in half. It’s already a free-for-all at De Reimer. But don’t worry, a traffic light may be coming in... ‘26, ‘27,

RIVERBAY VIDEO DOORBELL REQUIREMENTS 1. LOCATION: On apartment door within 2 inches on either left or right side of the existing peephole and doorbell. Device must not block or cover existing peephole, doorbell or apartment number.

Approved Installation Location

2”

Approved Installation Location

2. INSTALLATION: No drilling or use of screws allowed. Use double sided tape. 3. POWER SOURCE: Must be battery operated. No hard wiring allowed 4. STICKERS: No sticker or signs may be affixed to door or wall.

Approved __________________________________ Robert Klehammer Executive General Manager

Date:_________________________

‘28... maybe. In the meantime, you be careful out there. I’m still not ready to quit advocating for a ﬁghting chance for Section 5, even now that both ends of Ramp C are closed off (its north end most dramatically, with a lamppost – as if from spite – plopped on top of it). More inconvenience is certain to befall us, courtesy of both DOT and MTA (MetroNorth) construction if left to their own devices. If those who are supposed to work for our best interest aren’t stepping up, we’ve got to do it ourselves till they do. I’ll back off a little bit in honor of the multiholiday season, but I’m not stopping and I do hope you won’t either. The Reparations Commission Bill– A7691/ S1163A. The bill passed both chambers (state senate and assembly) and is waiting for Governor Hochul’s signature. Give her a call, but before the end of the year, or it’s back to square one. (To leave your message without hearing a lengthy introduction, call (518) 474-8390 and press #1.) Once the bill becomes law, if it becomes law, nine experts will be chosen “to study the historical and lasting impacts slavery has had on Black New Yorkers and potential reparations for the legacy of slavery.” Participatory Budgeting. I see no new comments or votes at https://ideas.pbnyc.org for your favorite 2024 NYC projects. How can that be?!?! Typo corrected. Visit https://Bit.ly/ Section5ProjectX to stay updated on the area roadwork and Metro-North construction details and problems. We’ve been bulldozed and railroaded enough, Co-op City! You can reach me at 718-219-2211 or MPearson@ RiverbayBoard.com.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Building 26 Association

Sparkling Success: Recounting the Inaugural ‘Light It Up’ Event in Section 5

The inaugural “Light It Up” tree lighting event in Section 5 was a dazzling spectacle, etching unforgettable memories in our hearts. The festive spirit that blanketed the evening has already set the stage for heightened anticipation for next year. Kicking off with enchanting music and a warm welcome from Executive General Manager Marvin Walton, the crowd’s excitement soared as they eagerly awaited Santa Claus. When Santa made his grand entrance, joy

Building 25 Association Wishing all neighbors born in December a happy birthday. For those of you who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon; and for our neighbors who continue to lose loved ones, our heartfelt prayers go out to you. Our next Building 25 Association meeting will be held Tuesday, December 19, at 7:30 p.m. Due to holiday scheduling that may change, look for detailed information posted near elevators as we get closer to the meeting date. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by logging onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know. Keeping in the spirit of holiday diversity, we will close with the following in celebration of Hanukkah: “Happiness is not made by what we own. It is what we share.” –Rabbi Jonathan Sacks ––Wanda Bailey

After last week’s lobby vandalism, cooperators in Building 25 have restored the damaged Holiday decorations.

Highlights from the Section 5 “Light it Up” tree lighting spectacular held last Saturday. The occasion was a powerful testament to the collective spirit that binds us. See more photos on page 18.

erupted, with candy canes distributed to ecstatic children whose enthusiasm knew no bounds. As the countdown from ten commenced, our community witnessed our tree shine brightly, smiles from ear to ear, embracing the magical ambiance amongst neighbors of all ages. Attendees indulged in hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and an assortment of pastries, creating a cozy atmosphere. The Elf Services station offered raffle opportunities, providing a sneak peek into upcoming events hosted by Building 26. People’s United and friends generously gave out free produce, adding an extra touch of community care. The journey to this emotional moment began just three and a half weeks ago with an idea posted on Section 5’s Facebook page. The overwhelming support, expressed through likes and positive comments, inspired us to pursue this endeavor in collaboration with other Section 5 building associations. In a short timeframe, the determined community pulled through with pouring donations, endless volunteering, and the hard efforts of Riverbay Corporation staff, including Mike Ambo, Reggie, Louis, Tamira King, Cary Smith III and Michelle Sajous, to name a few. A heartfelt thank you also goes to New Vision Church for their generous donation of two tickets for their play production, contributing to the success of our vibrant community event. Key community members, including Deputy Chief of Staff Jamal Yapp from Council Member Kevin Riley’s office and Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, witnessed the event, emphasizing the strength of our community coming together in unity. It was a powerful testament to the collective spirit that binds us. The night continued with shareholder Michael Peters, our lead caroler, hyping the crowd and leading them in singing the 12 days of Christmas. Two mesmerizing performances by vocalists Melissa Camacho and Lynn Torres followed, accompanied by DJ Frank from Building 29, keeping the crowd dancing. Santa’s Workshop at the teen center welcomed children and parents to craft ornaments, write letters to Santa, enjoy snacks, and take photos. The entire Section 5 community proudly stayed until the very end, contributing to the clean-up. Our hearts were truly full, and we are proud to be members of the Section 5 community. A special thank you goes to the Light It Up crew for their dedication and hard work in making this event a shining success: Jasmine, Eunice, Alice, Pat, Aaron, Kim, Sharon, Thalia, Nicholas, Tracey, Erika, Tanysha, Nelson, Carol, Grace, Andrea, Susan, Hattie, Novella, Cynthia, Isabel, Bibiana, Willie, Gloria and Wanda. ––Tanya Cruz-Cooke

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

African-American Association of Co-op City

Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration Review! The AAACC, along with the Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations, at the Bartow Center’s Room 31, celebrated the 27 Pre-Kwanzaa Gathering and Feast. Families, neighbors and friends of our Co-op City community came together to honor the ancestors and share in the Karamu. Keynote Speaker Lawrence Hamm gave a rousing speech to affirm the bonds between us and the ancestors. Pre-Kwanzaa Highlights – The Griot Ceremony The Griot Ceremony is where we celebrate the Elder Stateswomen and Statesmen of our community. This year’s celebrants were Lorraine Alexander and Antonio Evaristo Codrington. “Ms. Lorraine,” as she is affectionately called, is the co-founder of Co-op City Tennis Club, a New York Junior Tennis & Learning program in New York City, and since 1983, countless children have gone through the program at a pace of about 300 each year and left a better version of themselves. “I see them as my children,” explained Ms. Lorraine. “I do not see them as just kids doing tennis.” Antonio (TONY) Evaristo Codrington McKenzie is Commander of the American Legion, Coop City Post 1871. He is involved in the Co-op Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba, president of the Coalition of AfCity community as: rican-American Churches and • Commander of the American Legion Co-op Community Organizations of City Post 1871 Co-op City (L) and Michelle Marbury, president of the Af• Strategic partner in the Riverbay Fund rican-American Association of • Member of the NAACP of Co-op City and Co-op City, a member of the the Retirees of Dreiser Loop. Coalition of Churches and Community Organizations. The AAACC Stimulus Package To show you how much we want your presence and impact on this organization, we are offering a gift. Our very own stimulus package. These are important and pivotal years. We are passionate about the struggle of all people and the importance of banding together to show the generations after us the importance of our “push.” Our youth must see us helping, supporting, and pushing each other into a bright, productive, prosperous future. Our gift to each member is a complimentary 4-night Hotel Stay or Cruise. Hopefully, you will be stimulated enough, refreshed and renewed enough, that you will “join us” and enjoy your “vacation on us,” and make an impact, just by being a part of the African-American Association of Co-op City. Tell a friend about this incentive. Help us put the AAACC on the map! Join the African-American Association of Co-op City Membership is $25.00/year single membership and $35.00/year family/ household. You can Zelle us your payment to become a member using our email address. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com. Call us at: 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. The AAACC sponsors the following programs for your participation: Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917-903-7073 Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917-863-1507 Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” with Joyce Smith – Contact: Joyce, 718-320-0714 We bid you peace, this holiday season. ––Michelle Marbury

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JASA Knitting Class

Co-op City seniors display their knitting and crochet projects at JASA’s weekly class with instructor Lynne Horton, in Bartow Center, Room 31, from 11:0012:30 p.m. Photos by P.M. Campbell

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023 13

Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay) For The Budget Periods Ending 03/31/2025 and 03/31/2026 Total Dwelling Units Including Staff Apartments: 15,372 Total Dwelling Units Including Staff Apartments: 72,666,000

(Continued on next page)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay) For The Budget Periods Ending 03/31/2025 and 03/31/2026 (Cont’d)

(Continued on next page)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023 15

Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay) For The Budget Periods Ending 03/31/2025 and 03/31/2026 (Cont’d)

This event is for CHILDREN. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. (Continued on next page)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay) For The Budget Periods Ending 03/31/2025 and 03/31/2026 (Cont’d)

(Continued on page 21)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from Capri II Pizza! Serving Co-op City for over 50 years!

Scan Our QR Code For Our Full Menu

All credit cards accepted. Co-op City, stronger than ever together! Menu down below:

Free delivery to all Co-op City, catering to all sizes. Call now and get a free 2-liter drink with any order of $30 or more this holiday season!

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Lighting Up Section 5 for the Holidays By P.M. CAMPBELL

Section Five held their ﬁrst annual “Light it Up: Holiday Tree Lighting” on Saturday, December 9, in front of

the MMCC Section 5 Teen Center. Tanya Cruz-Cooke, vice president of the Building 26 Association, which spear-

headed the inaugural celebration, hosted the event and introduced Carols, music, and speeches from Riverbay Board President Sonia Feliciano and Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton. Assemblyman Mike Benedetto was also in attendance as well as Jamal Yapp, representing Council Member Kevin Riley. Volunteers distributed cookies, hot chocolate, and light-up headbands to the audience. Santa Claus greeted the crowd and handed out candy to everyone. After lighting the tree, and listening to singers like vocalist Lynn Torres, people lined up to get into the Center where kids received refreshments, wrote letters to Santa, and took photos with him. “We need to spread the spirit of the holidays everywhere,” said Santa. “These times are hard so I’d like to bring the spirit of joy to all the kids and adults, to make sure the holidays go smoothly, and make sure everyone has a smile on their face.” Photos by PM Campbell and Tanysha Farley

CAR CARE SPECIAL

GET (4) FREE

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When you puchase a set of 4 tires. Up to 5 quarts of conventional oil only. See store for details. Offer expires 12/31/2023.

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 Lube, oil change & new filter (up to 5 quarts oil)  Top off fluids under the hood  Complete tire rotation  Inspect brake pads  Adjust tire pressure to manufacturer’s specs  Check tread depth on all 4 tires

Most cars & light trucks. No other discounts apply. Must present coupon to get this price. Offer expires 12/31/2023.

Visit Us For New Tires & Full Service Repair

 Axle, CV Joint &  Differential Repair  Preventive Maintenance  Tire Services Driveshaft Repair  Electrical Systems  Transmission Repair  Starting, Charging  Belts & Hoses  Engine Diagnostics  Vehicle Inspection & Batteries  Brake Repair  Four Wheel Drive System  Steering &  Wheel Alignment  Climate Control Systems  Lube, Oil & Filter  Wheel Services Suspension Systems  Cooling System Repair  Mufflers & Exhaust  Tire Pressure And More!  Diesel Engine Repair  Nitrogen Inflation Monitoring System

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BATTERY

REPLACEMENT THE INSTALLATION OF ANY DELCO BATTERY

Most cars & light trucks. No other discounts apply. Must present coupon to get this price. Offer expires 12/31/2023.

OFF

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FRONT DISC

BRAKE SPECIAL (718) 994-9600 www.co-opcitytire.com

3525 CONNER ST BRONX, NY 10475

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm | Sat 8am-5pm

FREE BRAKE CHECK WITH COUPON Most cars & light trucks. No other discounts apply. Must present coupon to get this price. Offer expires 12/31/2023.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Holiday Price Drops in RED

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SUPER JUMBO KING CRAB LEGS (6-9) $59.99lb JUMBO SNOW CRAB (Clusters)....$19.99lb IMITATION CRAB (2 1/2 lb).....$12ea. CALAMARI (T+T, 2 1/2 lb)......$19.99ea. CALAMARI (Tubes, 2 1/2 lb)......$19.99ea. ANCHOVIES (Tubes, 28 oz.)........$15.99ea.

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Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

More Fun Times at the First Annual Co-op City Comic Con

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay) For The Budget Periods Ending 03/31/2025 and 03/31/2026 (Cont’d)

(Continued on next page)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay) For The Budget Periods Ending 03/31/2025 and 03/31/2026 (Cont’d)

(Continued on next page)

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay) For The Budget Periods Ending 03/31/2025 and 03/31/2026 (Cont’d) Budget/Rent Determination For Co-op City (Riverbay)

Notice of Rent Conference CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS BELOW Date: December 7, 2023 Tenant: Riverbay Corporation/Co-op City Subject: Carrying Charges Increase Conference Please take notice that rent conference has been scheduled as follows: Date: January 30, 2024 Time: 7:00 P.M. This rent conference will be held by Webex on the date and time listed above. Please see the last page, ·which provides the Webex information to allow the parties to join by video. You may use the call-in number to access the conference if you are unable to arrange for computer access. If you have any additional questions concerning this rent conference, you may contact Mr. George Simon at george.simonr@hcr.ny.gov call (212) 872-0744, Please see attached Webex information for Rent Conference. 1. To join this meeting (Now from mobile devices) https://riverbaycorporation-205.my.webex.com/riverbaycorporation-205. my/j.php?MTID=ma7f86b8de3e574ac51fa491a4fe2ea16 Meeting number (access code): 2631 015 9320 Meeting password: fJxGCdCa687 (35942322 from phones and video sys-

tems) 2. If requested, enter your name and email address. 3. If a password is required, enter the meeting password: fJxGCdCa687 (35942322 from phones and video systems. 4. Click “Join.” 5. Follow the instructions that appear on your screen. Audio conference information Join by phone: Dial by your location +1-650-479-3208, United States Toll Join from a video system or application Dial 26310159320@webex.com You can also dial 173.243.2.68 and enter your meeting number. IMPORTANT NOTICE: This Webex service includes a feature that allows audio and any documents and other materials exchanged or viewed during the session to be recorded. By joining this session, you automatically consent to such recordings. If you do not agree to the recording, discuss your concems with Mr. George Simon at george.simon@hcr.ny.gov or by calling (212) 872-0744 before the start of the recording. Please note that any such recordings may be subject to discovery in the event of litigation.

Grateful to Food and Pantry Volunteers in Section 5

Did you know that community volunteers not only distribute fresh produce to our Co-op City community but also meet other volunteers in St. Helena’s parking lot on Olmstead Ave. every Saturday to pack, load up and transport the variety of fresh produce to neighbors near and far? The Community Fridge and Pantry organizers are grateful to all Co-op City volunteers and encourage more volunteers to join them in Section 5 every Saturday directly next to the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center. Hope to see you there –– join the produce party! Photos by Yolanda Ramirez

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Highlights from 27th Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration

Photos by Lovely Grant

Governor Hochul Signs Legislation to Address Healthcare Disparity in NY By BRANDON ORTIZ

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a legislation package last week aimed at improving healthcare access for all New Yorkers. The four pieces of legislation in the package addressed different aspects of healthcare disparity. Under the first law, officially Legislation S.1839A/A.2609A, the Health Equity Council is mandated to advise the Commissioner of the Department of Health on Sickle Cell Disease and “create recommendations to promote the screening and detection of Sickle Cell,” as explained by the Governor’s Office. Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited blood disorder that “disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic people,” the Governor’s Office also highlighted. The second piece of legislation, Legislation S.1451/A.782, will build on the existing Hospital-Home Care-Physician Collaborative Program, by expanding that collaborative program to also include additional ones that “address disparities in healthcare access or treatment and/or conditions of higher prevalence in certain populations such as: racial and ethnic minority groups; persons with disabilities; women; the poor; and persons living in rural and other medically unserved and underserved geographic areas,” State Senate records showed. In the third piece of legislation, Legislation S.3609B/A.3113A, reproductive health services and maternal health care must now be included in health equity impact assessments. Governor Hochul’s Office described health equity impact assessments as a process that occurs when “a hospital submits an application for approval to change, merge, or close its services or facilities.” The assessment determines if the hospital’s proposed changes will adversely affect the customers in their service area. As for the last law included in the package, Legislation S.4097B/A.5817A, this law aims to create more transparency for hospital healthcare expenses by establishing a New York State benefit hospital pricing report. The president of the Civil Service Commission will be in charge of organizing the healthcare claims data needed to develop the New York State benefit hospital pricing report. Specifically, the Governor’s Office said the data collected for the report will be on “price and utilization of hospital benefits by active employees, retired employees, and their dependents.” Overall, Governor Hochul’s latest announcement on healthcare improvements builds off of a previous announcement that the Governor made earlier this month. In that prior announcement, Governor Hochul announced $4.6 million to repair healthcare disparities and improve physician workforce diversity.

Be on the Lookout … IMPORTANT TENANT INFORMATION

ANNUAL SAFETY NOTICES ABC MANAGEMENT

COMPANY

c/o SiteCompli Safety Notice Processing P.O. Box 20240 Greeley Square Station New York, NY 10001-99 98

W YORK NE

WHAT IS IT?

FIRST CLASS US POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT 482

IMPORTANT SAFE TY INFORMATION ENCLOSED

In early January, look for a packet in the mail containing important fire & life safety, lead paint and window guard information for this building and your apartment.

OFFICIAL NOTICE

Annual Lead Paint, Window Guard & Fire Safety Informat ion Enclosed

Dear Tenant This booklet contains important safety information. It contains important fire safety informatio n and some questions that will determine whether your apartment requires a lead paint inspection or window guards. For your safety, please take a few minutes to read the information provided. Be sure to complete the enclosed form and return it in the postage-paid envelope that is included to enable your landlord to ensure a safe environment for you and your family. ੡ıĀӮϢ ĔǕŇ७Ŕ̞ߒą ȶđĀȫƼ Ʊʜ뼶Ⱥġ̞ಗą ȶđĀϥ֑ ȫƼѺնŠĂȏɝ ʚůŗಉ‫ג‬ ǷĀȓ฿Ąۚ̀đ ɘǄߒ໾Ѕ ࿚নзͱȫ̔‫ܢ‬е ‫܀‬᢬뼶 ħąǷĀȫƼŐȒ 뼷ɑɒǴŒ ѧĴǎ୯փĈȱƱ ʜ뼶Ӫɑฒ ϶ʭઐȩϜ˄݇Ę ࡬Ж௾ƫ뼷 ̹ǷĀӭʁĻ‫̝ڨ‬ ǷŠǷĀŝ ĉǃĈȫƼĀց‫ؗ‬ 뼶

Chè Lokatè Ti liv sa gen enfòmasyon enpòtan sou sekirite. Li gen enfòmasyon enpòtan oka gen dife ak kèk kesyon k ap detèmine si apatman w bezwen yon enspeksyon pou gade si gen plon nan penti kay la oswa gen bezwen enstale gad fenèt. Pou sekirite w, tanpri pran kèk minit pou li enfòmasyon yo bay lan. Tanpri ou ranpli fòmilè ki nan anvlop asire w lan, ajoute tenb lapòs lan, epi poste l pou asire l anviwonman an san mèt kay lan danje pou ou ak fanmi w.

Resident 123 Main Avenue New York, NY 10001

This includes a response card which you are required by law to return to building management.

Estimado inquilino

Este folleto contiene informaci ón importante sobre la seguridad Contiene información important . e sobre la seguridad en caso de incendios y algunas preguntas que determinarán si es necesario a cabo una inspección para llevar detectar pintura con plomo o instalar rejas en las ventanas de su apartame nto. Por su seguridad, dedique algunos minutos a leer la información que se proporciona. Asegúrese de completar el formulario adjunto y de devolverlo en el sobre con franqueo pago que se incluye para que el propietario pueda garantizar un entorno seguro para usted y para su familia. ໞၮၴ ࿥೻ึ

ၦ ໴ᅙၴ࿝௴ თဠዽ ྦ ၦ ༘ഛ౗࿌ ၰཀఁఋ ႖ શഏ ຫጃ ጷႁ શഏ ྦ႖ ຫጃ ෟ ችᎁ თဠዽ ྤኒቼਜ਼ இ ໜึၦ ዅጀໞၮၴఆၡ ᆷጄႦ ၦ࿝ ఝዽ ႙અၦ ౘ ኲၨቼച ವ௴ ᅖබ࿝ ෮ጭමၦ ዶ ዶဠዽხ ႜዻ௴వ ᅒધዾ ൢዽ ඘ ဠዽხ൐ છ ၕ ዅጀዻધ ၰཀఁఋ ਜ਼ხ ჲබ ໞၮၴఆၡ ྦ႖ၕ ၁ጄ གྷ࿌ ႞લ౗௴ ႜพ൐ ၪ ၻଉ ᄁၕ ஏ ೦ఁఋ ౏ฦౘ ࿅ངၕ ၵ࿌พགྷૺ ෡ ဨዑ൐ ฿࿥ ႔፻࿝઎ ဨ ໜዻཅ ፎ ጄ ჎གྷඓ ၭఝ჎ਜ਼ ໞၮ ኻၒച ෧໽ ၴ ึ ਜ਼Ⴏၡ ྦ႖ዽ ჎੿ၴ ึ઴ ໞၮ ၿዾ ༘ ၰ౅ഛ ிഎዻઔ ጹઠၕ พ ཀఁఋ

Your response helps us serve you better.

Уважаемый аренда тор Данная брошюра содержит важную информацию по безопасности найдете важную информацию . В ней Вы по пожарной безопасности и некоторые вопросы, которые определят, нуждается ли Ваша квартира в проверке покраски или в оконных решетках. Для Вашей же безопасности найдите несколько минут , пожалуйста, для ознакомления с данной информацией . Пожалуйста, забудьте заполнить прилагаемую не форму, уплатите почтовые расходы, и вышлите обратно, чтобы Ваш домовладеле ц мог обеспечить Вам и Вашей семье безопасное проживание. © SiteCompli. All Rights

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Reserved.

1. Fill out and tear off the response card 2. Place card in pre-paid envelope 3. Drop in mail

OTHER WAYS TO RESPOND For details on these methods refer to your information packet.

PHONE

ONLINE

FAX

Thank you for helping keep your apartment and building safe!

The annual Window Guard Notice (depicted above) will be posted in every residential building lobby. The Notice will be mailed to each unit beginning in January 2024 and must be completed and returned to Riverbay Corporation by February 15, 2024. That mailing will also include the Fire Safety plan.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Section Five Association

Church of the New Vision

The Section 5 Association trusts all in Section 5 are doing well. We hope that you have a peaceful and good winter. Please stay vigilant. There are new variants and Covid-19 is on the rise again. Keep wearing your masks when around crowds. RSV and Covid-19 are still spreading. Happy Holidays – Merry Christmas and we wish all the best of health, goodwill, peace and happiness. There are many celebrations going on, enjoy, have fun and stay safe. Section 5 Christmas Tree Lighting – Bldg. 26 president, Section 5 Association (SFA) and MMCC Section 5 Teen Center, joined in presenting the holiday tree lighting last Saturday and it was a successful event. Many neighbors were out, and parents brought their children. It was a delight to see them enjoying themselves as well. The event was proudly presented with opening remarks by our own Marvin Walton, Executive General Manager of Riverbay Corporation. Mr. Walton offered holiday greetings and congratulated Section 5 on its first annual tree lighting. Afterwards, Santa came around to greet the crowd and passed out goodies. Assemblyman Benedetto gave a few remarks; Jamaal Yapp, Deputy Chief of Staff of Councilman Kevin Riley, was in attendance. Sonia Feliciano, president of Riverbay Board, also offered remarks. There was some caroling, soloist performers, a DJ with music, hot chocolate, pastries and goodies. It was a grand affair. We thank the parents for bringing out the little ones, who RSVP’d for photos with Santa, and enjoyed the arts and crafts so much. For our first grand event other than Section 5 Fun Day, it may be just the beginning of better things to come. Garage Rates – For the holidays, discounted rates and multiday rates will be offered by Riverbay. Let your family and friends know. Saturday Volunteers – Volunteers are needed for food distribution at 10:30 a.m. at the Co-op City Fridge. Interested in volunteering? Contact Coopcitycommunityfridge@gmail.com. One may reach Nelson Sweeting, president of SFA, at 646-644-4055. “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” –Henry Ford –– H. Overman

Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The Church of the New Vision and Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge welcome you to worship with us at 115 Einstein Loop North, Bronx, NY 10475. Church phone: 718-6718746, and Pastor’s phone: 914-522-5039. “Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” Luke 2:10 May the Christmas Season bring Hope in your Heart, Grace to your Spirit and Peace to your Life. Wishing you a wonderful Holiday and God’s blessings in the New Year. Happy Hanukah, Kwanzaa, Advent, Christmas Season and a Happy, Healthy New Year to all. Our scripture verse for 2023 is: Luke 10:27 “And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.” Sunday service at 11:00 a.m. All are welcomed. Masks are required and temperature will be taken. Noon Day Prayer Line now open 12-12:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study, 7:00-8:00 p.m. The Conference Line Number: 646-7699900; Access Code: 3099388#. Please mute your phone. December 10th Worship Service Theme: “He Was Born to Be.” Scripture: 1 John 1: 1-4 KJV “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life – the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us—that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us, and truly our fellowship is with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. And these things we write to you that your joy may be full.” Announcements & Save the Dates: A Bronx Christmas Story on Saturday, December 23, 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Youth: $10/Adult: $20. Hosted by Church of the New Vision, 115 Einstein Loop N, and presented by Co-op City Baptist Church’s Youth & Young Adult Department. For ticket or information, call 646-926-1035. Sunday, December 31 – Join us for Watch Night Service at 10:30 p.m. as we bring in the New Year on Zoom. Meeting ID: 710 493 0171, Passcode: 373966, Phone: 646-558-8656. Friday, January 12, 2024 – Join the Women’s Zoom book discussion on “Of Fire and Lion” by Mesu Andrews. To RSVP and obtain Zoom information, call 718-671-2623, or email Sis. L Scott at LJSCOTT_2000@yahoo.com. Wednesday, August 14, 2024 – Now accepting $50 deposits to see “Daniel” at the Sight & Sound Theatre. Adults: $215/Youth: $175. We continue to pray for speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, and offer condolences to families who lost loved ones and good health and wellness for all. Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you. ––Brenda Brown

Co-op City United Methodist Church IEMU de Co-op City

Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds.

Come and Visit Us – We are a multi-ethnic and bilingual, Bible-centered congregation with spirit -filled worship. We offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service to God and our community. Services are held in person at 2350 Palmer Avenue across from Building 30. Parking is available. You can also participate with us via Zoom (904 4685745) or Facebook Live (United Methodist Church of Co-op City). You’re always welcome. – Pastor, David Jolly “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, he LORD himself, is my strength and my defense[a]; he has become my salvation.” With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. In that day you will say: “Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; this be known to all the world. Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you.” Isaiah 12: 2-6 On this third week of advent, we have hope and joy because Jesus was born, and His second coming is getting closer and closer. The joy that this third Sunday of Advent announces is not the superficial and worldly joy of a Christmas that is usually commercialized by the consumerist society we live in. Instead, the joy to which we are invited to experience is born from the fact of knowing and believing that Christ Jesus came into our lives to fulfill God’s promises of salvation and liberation. Isaiah 12:2–6, the prophet is delivering a promise to God’s people as He describes the future when the Son of God, will establish His kingdom on earth. Together, they will joyfully declare thanks to Him and publicly praise Him with singing and shouting. The Lord’s will invite the world to join in and praise God’s name. During this season, as God’s people in a world that need to hear some good news, we are called to actively await and prepare our heart for Jesus glorious return. So, it is our responsibility to share with the world the good news of Jesus our Savior and source of Joy in the midst of trials. Be blessed with a joyful heart during this week! Come and Receive a Blessing Tuesday: Online Bible Study (Zoom: 904-468-5745) Español at 12:15 p.m.; English at 6:00 p.m. Thursday: Bilingual Prayer Service, in-person: 10:00 a.m. Food Pantry: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Health Workshop at 11:30 a.m. Upcoming Events – Save The Dates. All are welcome! Sunday, December 17 – Bilingual Service at 11:30 a.m. Celebrating Christmas. Bring Food to share. Invite your families and neighbors. Sunday, December 24 – Bilingual Service at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, December 31 – Bilingual Service at 11:30 a.m. ––Graciela Abadia

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Building 22A & B Association Our community is having main events. So please read the Co-op City Times for all that’s happening. I want to thank everyone for their generous Christmas donation to the staff. Please be mindful of safety. Look, listen and be alert. Compactor Rooms: We will be getting a lot of packages. Please take large boxes to the basement. The small boxes are to be folded down and put on the wooden edge or under. Bottles & cans are to be washed out and put in the plastic bag. Place raw garbage in chute. Laundry Room Etiquette: Continue to follow the rules for coming back at a timely manner. Others want to ﬁnish their work. Also, please check the ﬁlter on the dryer. Happy birthday to all. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones. Please check on the sick and shut in. If you see something, say something. Thank you. —Betty Leak

Building 17 Association

Building 17 cooperators are enjoying the Holiday Season with decorating the lobby and sharing with our service workers in our building. Thanks to all cooperators for their support in the collection for the porters. Thanks to Building 17 Association’s members for the support of decorating the lobby and for the Porters’ collection. Wishing all a Happy Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and Three Kings. Be safe this Holiday Season. Report anything that looks unusual, and … “Remember today is the beginning of the rest of your life.” —Barbara A Johnson

American Legion Post 1871

2023 Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration in Co-op City

Last Saturday, the Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. (herein the “Coalition”), with Riverbay Corporation co-sponsorship, celebrated their 27th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration. The event was well attended by Co-op City residents and its neighboring community. Our Post, a member of this Umoja (Community Unity) coalition, also had legionnaires in attendance in support of Commander Codrington who was one of the two honorees receiving “Griot” awards. Of special legionnaires in attendance, were Robert Morton, Daisy Young, and John Gale. Pictured at right (L-R) are Coalition president Adeyemi Photo by Lovely Grant LaCrown Oloruntoba, Honorees Mrs. Lorraine Alexander, NY Junior Tennis Club in Co-op City; and Antonio Codrington, American Legion Post 1871; Coalition vice president M. Thomas, and Coalition secretary Francine Reva Jones. Commander Codrington, in his acceptance of the award, thanked the Coalition for the award. The Coalition defines “Griot” as elders in the community who have given their retirement-time for community involvement, leadership, and wisdom for the betterment of the community. Commander Codrington acknowledged his family members in attendance – wife of 33 years, Charlotte Saunders; sister-in-law Lynn Miller, a new Co-op City cooperator; his brother, sister-in-law and grand niece, Ruben, Yvonne, and Luciana McKenzie; and his son, daughter-in-law and grandson, Shawn, Isannah, and Courtney Saunders. In today’s Meeting, We Convey Best Wishes for the Holidays! If your schedule permits, you can still attend our last General Meeting of calendar year 2023 at 11:00 a.m. We will be highlighting 2023 accomplishments, lessons learned for betterment of services to our community veterans and our plans for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. Save The Date The 105th Annual Department Mid-Winter Conference takes place January 19-21, 2024. The Conference, to be held at The Desmond, Albany, NY from January 19-21, 2024, is an opportunity to experience a small sample of the National Convention regional camaraderie – right in your backyard. The Registration form is available at https://nylegion.net/news-events/mid-winter-conference/. Contact Us American Legion Post 1871, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 41, Bronx, NY 10475; (718) 320-8165; email: post1871@oponline.net; website: https: www.legion.org. —Antonio Codrington

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Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Season’s greetings, retirees and friends. We hope everyone is well and getting into the holiday spirit. Entertainment Committee – We want to thank everyone who attended our annual holiday luncheon at the Marina del Rey on December 14. We are grateful for your support and appreciate your joining us in celebrating the holidays. Carnival Cruise 2024 – There are a few cabins remaining for our Eastern Caribbean nine-day/eight-night cruise (traveling to Amber Cove (Dominican Republic), Grand Turks, and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas) on the beautiful new ship Venezia leaving from NYC on July 16 to July 24, 2024. Please contact Serita at (347)564-5722 for additional information. Membership Committee – New members and renewing members can remit a check for the $25 annual dues for 2023. Checks should be made payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Please note “new member” or “renewing member” in the memo line on your check. Questions may be addressed to Mary at (718) 655-9170. Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our December birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year. Good and Welfare – We continue to extend our get well wishes to Estelle Richmond. Please keep all of those who are sick and/or shut in, in your thoughts and healing prayers. We hope they will soon see brighter days ahead. Please notify Lorraine Parker at (718) 671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths. Condolences – Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who have recently experienced the loss of loved ones. General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held in January. The date will be determined and announced soon. ––Georgianna Rodriguez

Building 20 Association Greetings, Building 20 shareholders, The Holiday Season is here and all of Building 20 residents are invited to our December 20th holiday experience. There will be an update of community events over the past month followed by holiday music, holiday games, holiday gifts and holiday refreshments. Feel free to bring your favorite dessert or beverage. Also, please invite your neighbors to come with you, especially if they need help getting there.

Many thanks to our dedicated volunteers who gave of their time, energy and decorative skills to beautify our lobbies for the Holidays.

Several Building 20 residents attended the Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration last Saturday and commented on how magniﬁcent it was. The executive board members thank all the residents that who helped to decorate Buildings 20A, B and C lobbies. We took inventory and divided the decorations among the three building lobbies and our volunteer residents worked together to get the job done. Some also donated decorations and accessories as well. It was a wonderful team effort. And, the lobbies look beautiful. Have a wonderful week ahead. Happy Holidays! —Francine Jones

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Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment You are about to leave 2023 and enter a new year. Take a deep breath, exhale, and let your fears, worries, hurts, and pains go. There may have been things you could control, something you had no control over, and things that this year may have taught you. Your neighbor is not only the person who lives next door to you. Your neighbor is the person who may live on your block, borough, state, or even another country. We all have something to give: a donation, a phone call, a meal, a warm coat, gloves, toys, a listening ear, encouraging words, and prayers. Trauma and tragedy are universal experiences that impact us all, some more than others. Know that people do care about each other. Caring is a natural human response. Love is sacriﬁcing oneself for another. The love of family is something to treasure. Human touch, hugs, and embrace are a power of healing. Your eyes are the window of your soul. Your eyes can foster a sense of peace and assurance to others. Change is a constant. Change brings out creativity. Change can take you to a level you did not know you could achieve. Let’s enter 2024 with a sense of hope! I hope you arrive at a new normal this year. People’s deﬁnitions of hope differ. Hope in a spiritual context and believing that good things will happen with faith in a higher power. For others, hope may mean always looking on the bright side and seeing challenges as opportunities. In other words, always “hoping

for the best.” Having hope is essential to the very act of being a human being. “Hope is a light in a dark tunnel, just enough to reveal the path and ultimately the way out.” Having hope links your past and present to the future. By planning, motivation, and determination, you get what you hope for. To have hope is to want an outcome that makes your life better somehow; it can help make a challenging situation more bearable and eventually improve your life because envisioning a better future motivates you to take steps to make it happen. Whether we think about it or not, hope is a part of everyone’s life. Everyone hopes for something. It’s an inherent part of being a human being. Hope helps us deﬁne what we want in our futures and is part of the self-narrative about our lives we all have running inside our minds. Hopefully, you have learned the power of sacriﬁce, family, community, and hope this year. Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment wishes you all a safe and pleasant Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Kwanzaa. Join us on December 21st for our monthly 45-minute caregiver information support session, “Let’s Talk.” Holiday Stress: What does it look and feel like? Tips on destressing your life. Presenter: Cheya Thousand, author of “Making Space For Self.” —Diane Cooper

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow at 8 a.m. in person only and at 11 a.m. in person and on Zoom. Sunday School classes for all ages are held at 9:30 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: 718-320-3774. Masks are required. The service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web.zoom.us/j/ 9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102#, Password: 788175#. The Church Free Call Conference.com Line dial in number is 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#. Rev. Williams asks everyone who calls into the Sunday Worship service to use Zoom through your computer or dial-in using the Zoom information shown above. On Sunday, December 10th, at 11 a.m., the Missionary Ministry will celebrate their 51st Anniversary. Rev. Grace M. Emanuel will be the guest speaker. All are invited. The 1 p.m. Bible Study class is held on Wednesdays on Zoom. The 5 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study Class is not held this week. Prayer Warriors Prayer Service is held on Thursdays at noon; Friday Mid-Morning Prayer Service is held at 10 a.m.; the 7:30 p.m. Friday Evening Prayer Service is held every week, except ﬁrst Friday of the month – all are on the church’s conference call line. The Co-op City Baptist Church Youth and Young Adult Ministry, in conjunction with Latrell Antonetty, presents, “A Bronx Christmas Story” on Saturday, December 23, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. It will be held at Church of the New Vision, 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. Price: children tickets, $10; adult tickets, $20. For further information, contact 646-926-1032. The Scholarship Ministry invites you to cruise with them aboard the beautiful Celebrity Equinox Ship on Tuesday, July 30, to Thursday, August 8, 2024. Ports of call are Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Price for inside double occupancy staterooms is $3,995.00 per person. This price includes cost of cruise, airfare, transfers and taxes. Only two staterooms in this category remain at this price per person. To make the required deposit of $450 per person, double occupancy or $900 for single occupancy, please contact Ms. Hermena Smith, travel agent, at 646-780-9813. A credit card will be required for the initial deposit. Also, you will receive an insurance quote at that time. All balcony staterooms at the price of $4,250 per person, double occupancy have been sold. However, if you are still interested in acquiring a balcony stateroom, please contact Sis. Claudette Cutlar Day at 718-379-0541 for a price quote. The church has a free app available on your app store by putting in Co Op CBC. This APP is open to all. 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. ––Marilyn C. Williams

Rivers Run Community Garden Thank you to those who came to celebrate with us on Thursday. So nice to see folks enjoying each other’s company again while eating and making merry. We’d like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday. See you online in January so we can plan out the next planting season together. 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. Together, we evolve. —Gail Sharbaan

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – Members and Associates, have you paid your dues? It’s not too late to pay your annual National dues of $50 that must be paid by all except Life Members or Legacy Life Members. These National dues must be submitted directly to our National office via the website, NCNW.org. Our local Section dues are $35 per year. These Section dues may be paid by check, or through our website, www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com. Checks can be made payable and mailed to NCNW Co-op City Section, 3300 Connor Street, P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. National and Section dues must be paid to be fully financial, that is, able to vote or hold office. Those whose dues have been received by our January Membership Meeting will qualify to be in a raffle. Giving Tuesday was a day that encourages people to do good. It’s a movement to inspire people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. We are asking you to donate however much you wish, towards the programs and events that NCNW Co-op City Section produces in our community. To support our programs, please use this link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2DJWUPHZ3HYC6, or mail your check payable and mailed to NCNW Co-op City Section, 3300 Connor Street, P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. Christmas Party – Today is the day of our “Tropical Holiday Party” from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Eastwood Manor, located at 3371 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY. There will be an open bar, live DJ, buffet dinner and good vibes. Invite all of your friends! The ticket price is $100 payable at the door at this late date. For more information, contact Candacie Daniels, 646-305-8013. NCNW Co-op City Youth Section – Our young members met Saturday, December 9th, for a “Letters of Love” workshop. The youth members wrote positive affirmations to the patients at the Children’s Hospital of Montefiore and also recorded a heartwarming video which will be displayed on their Get Well Network. Does this sound like an activity that you’d like a young lady you know to be a part of? If she’s between the ages of 9 and 18 years, have her contact us at email: ncnwcoopcityyouth@gmail.com or visit our website: www.coopcitysection.com for more information. They meet once a month on the second Saturday in Room 14 of the Dreiser Community Center. Kwanzaa – This holiday celebrating African culture and heritage lasts from December 26 to January 1. The seven-night celebration stretches across millions of homes and communities around the world. The origins of the non-religious holiday are tied back to the first harvest celebrations in Africa. The Swahili phrase, “matunda ya kwanza,” means “first fruits.” People celebrate with feasts, also known as karamu, music, dance, poetry, narratives and gifts that are encouraged to be educational and promote African heritage. Social Media – Remember you can find us on our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com; on Facebook: NCNWCoopcityBethune; on X, formerly known as Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; on Instagram: NCNW Co-op City, and email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com. ––Joyce Howard For up-to-date communication from Riverbay Corporation, read the Co-op City Times, delivered to your building lobby and the community centers on Saturdays, tune in to the Crawler on your home TVs, watch the lobby monitors, and register for Phone Tree notifications.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Building 21 Association

A Special Gift The 21 Association will be distributing free two-night hotel stay vouchers. Our gift to each member (one per apartment unit): a complimentary two-night hotel stay to be picked up in your gathering room (back of Building 21B lobby) on Saturday, December 16, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and Tuesday, December 19, from 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Here is how it works. In order to take advantage of a “vacation-on-us,” consisting of two-night hotel stay: 1. Once you receive it, you must redeem your gift online (you have 20 days to redeem your gift. The cost is $14.95 non-refundable) 2. You now have 24 months (two years) to use your gift or you forfeit your voucher. 3. All of the information you need, including nationwide locations and any other questions, are covered on the redemption site. We truly hope you enjoy your “vacation on us” and help us make an impact on our community just by being a part of the Building 21 Association. Please, tell your neighbors about this incentive. Help us put the Building 21 Association on the map! Holiday Decorating In the spirit of the holidays, we are asking everyone to contribute at least one decorative holiday item and hang it in the lobby to express holiday cheer. Please make sure it is non-obstructive to the doorways, entry and exit paths. You may do it anytime at your leisure between December 16 and 25. All decorations must come down by January 3. Dues Our Building Association dues are only $10 for the year. You can place it in an envelope with your building and apartment on the outside of the envelope. Place it in the dues lock box in the laundry room next to the TV. Floor Captains on each floor – In Every Building Every floor of every building should have assigned Floor Captains. If you have not volunteered for your own floor, it is time. The most active floor captains will receive special rewards. All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows: 1. Contact Numbers (For your floor only): List All Emergency Contact Numbers And Distribute To Each Neighbor 2. Co-op City Times: Place them at each apartment door (Delivered on Saturdays) 3. Elevator Notices: Read them and talk to your neighbors about them 4. Promote: Meetings, Clubs and Gatherings 5. Encourage Your Neighbors To: Pick up after themselves when they make a mess in our hallways and lobbies Make calls to the Riverbay Offices: Security: 718-671-3050 CSO Offices: 718-320-3300 That is all we ask! That is it! If you have questions regarding the 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information: email: 21association@gmail.com, call: 347-504-1821, or attend the monthly General Meetings on the fourth Thursday of every month. Thank you for your participation. ––Kevin Lambright

Building 23 Association Hello, shareholders and friends. We appreciate your continued support and welcome your participation. Many thanks to our shareholders who came out to help decorate our Bldg. 23 lobby on Sunday, December 10th. Fun was had by all, in addition to enjoying the light refreshments. Also, we thank our shareholders and friends for their contributions to our Bldg. 23 staff holiday collection. Things to Know: • On December 18, 2023, the cannabis dispensary applicant is scheduled to make a presentation to Bronx Community Board 10 executive members. All will have an opportunity to observe this meeting virtually. For details, contact Bronx Community Board 10 at 718-892-1161. You may also email or send a letter to Bronx Community Board 10 regarding your opposition or support for a cannabis dispensary at the old Chase Bank located on Co-op City Blvd. within the PearTree Mall. Bronx Community Board 10 email address is BX10@CB.NYC.gov. • Several in and around the Co-op City community such as cooperators, schools and small businesses, are signing petitions to send Bronx Community Board 10, opposing the dispensary’s location. • For those interested in joining Bronx Community Board 10, you may contact the Bronx Borough President’s Office at 718-590-6001 or reach out to your local Council member. Please stay informed about Community Board 10 by visiting their website at www.nyc.gov/bronxcb10 for announcements, resources, minutes, joining committees and more. We encourage our members to stay updated by reading the Co-op City Times. Reference our Bldg. 23 Lobby Bulletin Board which lists current events and additional things to know in and around our community. Please continue to alert our Bldg. 23 president (929-732-4132) about your Bldg. 23 concerns/ issues. Also, call our CSO (718-320-3300) for repairs/maintenance, parking, etc. Let’s remain engaged and continue to educate ourselves as we actively participate in shaping our community’s future. The next NY Defensive Driving class is Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023. To register, call 347-927-1069. A limited number of seats are available. In closing, well wishes to the sick and shut-in. Condolences to those who have lost loved ones and Happy December birthdays and anniversaries! —Betty Smith

Black Forum Greetings! Please accept the following updates for Black Forum of Co-op City. Have a great week! Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (basketball court). The pantry is open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11:00 a.m-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pick up or after. It is a 30/31 day rotation, on average. Black Forum will text registered guests if items outside of regular distribution become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring at least 4-6 clean shopping bags with a handle and a shopping cart. Please do not bring black shopping bags, since they pose a health hazard. We require guests to wear masks when visiting the pantry. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11:00 a.m-1:00 p.m. Religious affiliation is not necessary to receive food. During food distributions, we kindly ask that you behave in an orderly, courteous, and polite manner. Our goal is to distribute food as quickly as possible. Large guest attendance and deliveries made during distribution hours could cause delays. We have no control over when deliveries take place. We respectfully request that you treat the volunteers with respect as they try to move the line forward. Not

obstructing the entrance door is part of this. To answer questions, a staff person will emerge, thus, please refrain from approaching the front entrance. If stopping distribution is necessary to protect our visitors and staff, we will do so. Thus, let us work together to ensure that our community gets fed. New Client Registration & Recertification For Returning Guests The period of registration and recertification is January 4 through April 2024. Guests must be 18 years or older to apply or recertify. The required identification is as follows: NYC I.D. (zip code 10475), NY State Driver’s license, or NY State Non-Driver’s license. Passports, Medicaid and Medicare cards, employment identification, and Access-A-Ride identification are not accepted. At the time of registration or recertification, every member of the household must be present and produce valid identification. Every member of the household needs to have the same 10475 address. The intake forms will only include the number of household members who are able to show up in person at the office. Those living in Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 will register or recertify at the 920 Baychester Avenue location. Those living in Section 5 will register or recertify at the 2350 Palmer Avenue location. Holiday Closures On Tuesday, December 26, 2023 and Tuesday, January 2, 2024, the pantry will be closed. Contact Us coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. —D. Illis

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Broun Place Townhouse Association Hi neighbors, how are you all doing? Broun Place cooperators have decorated their patios and front gardens beautifully. As you come through, enjoy the holiday lights and holiday ornaments that have been displayed by our residents. Broun Place is collecting our holiday gift for our hardworking Grounds department staff. This is ongoing to December 27, 2023. Please participate and please indicate on your envelope what your apartment number is, so we will write that on the card we give to our Grounds person. Thank you to neighbors who have given our family holiday cards. We will once again be giving to the holiday Toy Drive with CCPD. Look out for the scam of the week coming by mail. It says, “Personal and Private.” It warns that our “Home Warranty” is expiring. If you get this piece of mail, discard. Co-op City apartments don’t have such a thing. After being cooperators in Broun Place since 1996, we learned CSO installs safety handles on bathroom walls over the tub. This is great news for those of us over 65 years old. We will be looking to have this done. We have observed that new signs have been placed designating the north and south lane entries to I-95 off Pelham Parkway West, plus each has a light, lighting it up. Pay attention and drive carefully. The rain flooded the road to City Island but by the time this is published, the road to City Island should be

Goose Island Seniors

Wind Creek Casino – Sat., Jan. 6, 2024 in Bethlehem, PA. Price: $60, bonus: $25 slot play. Bus arriving: Einstein Loop, 8:15 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:40 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 8:50 a.m. Call 646-5791701. Resort World Casino – Thu., Jan. 18, 2024 in Monticello, NY. Price: $55, bonus: $25 slot play, $15 food voucher. Balance due Dec. 21, 2023. Wait list only. Bus arriving at Einstein Loop, 8:15 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:45 a.m., and Dreiser Loop at 9 a.m. Make checks payable to Goose Island Seniors. Mail to 135 Einstein Loop, Room 39, Bronx, NY 10475 or Zelle to 347-847-1941. Vaccination required. Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA. Thu., April 25, 2024. Price: $215. For more information, call 646-579-1701 Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA. Tue., May 7, 2024. Price: $195. Deposit: $50 to reserve a seat on bus. Balance due: April 17, 2024. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors or Zelle to 347-847-1941. Vaccination required. Villa Roma – Tribute to Diana Ross and Gladys Knight, Tue., June 11, 2024. Price: $125. Down payment, $50, to reserve seat. Balance due by May 20, 2024. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Mail to 135 Einstein Loop, Room 39, Bronx, NY 10475 or Zelle to 347-847-1941. Vaccination required. Tribute to Whitney Houston – at Tropicana Casino, June 27, 2024. Price: $150. Bonus: $25 slot play and $20 food voucher. Deposit, $50, to reserve a seat on bus. Balance due: June 5th, 2024.

viable, perhaps even repaired. Changes and updates need to be communicated to Bronxites. Signage is minimal, scarce, and hard to see. Be careful! Share your tidings and remembrances here in your townhouse article. Just submit a note to our mailbox and it will be included. Broun Place Townhouse cluster is seeking Broun Place residents to serve on our Executive Board. Our executive committee is: Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar, president; Vivian Burrus, vice president, and Lillian Richardson, treasurer. Join, be part of the Broun Place Association. An email has been sent to Riverbay regarding the garbage in the Bartow Mall parking lot, Sunday, December 10, 2023. This needs to be professionally kept up and looking good especially during the holiday. The basketball court and gutters around Bellamy Loop also need to be swept. Regarding garbage bins in the dumpster pad, they are assigned as follows: the white bin is paper, the blue and green are designated for house garbage, plastic and glass. Read the signs! Mattress disposal requires covering them before bringing them to the dumpster pad. Neighbors and drivers please don’t walk and talk on your cell phone. Parents, teach your children to look before crossing. We are having too many close calls with kids running into the streets, especially at the basketball court. Read the Co-op City Times for our news. Hoping for healthier days for all. —Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

2024 Norwegian Cruise – Hawaii, Aug. 31 – Sept. 7, 2024. Call 646-579-1701. 2024 Las Vegas Trip – Oct. 11, 2024. Call: 646579-1701. Notary – With Yvonne Menefee, Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.-5 p.m., 135 Einstein Loop, Room 34 or 39. Bingo – Mon., Wed. and Fri., 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for 3 cards; $0.25 each additional card; 12 games and jackpot. Refreshments. Game day – Tue. and Thu., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, Bid Whist, movies, socializing and more. To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of December: Nellie Rivera, Paquita Myke, Janie Wllliams, Barbara Hines, Jose Lopez, Brenda Brown, Janet Coles, Clara Howell, Louise (Cookie) Hernandez, Mary (Pat) Randolph, Bobbi Chin, Barbara Owens and Elaine D. Whitty. The birthday cake celebration will be at the Holiday party on December 13th. Sick and Shut-in – Our former president, Mary Pilla, is doing fine and says hi to everyone. Call her at (718) 753-1816. Ella L. Thorne (treasurer) sends her love. Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, the Section 5 Community Center, (718) 379-9613, Stephen cell (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. Good health to all. ––Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Bartow Mall Parking Alert Shareholders, guests and shoppers are reminded that there is a two-hour parking limit in the Bartow Mall. Parking is for the exclusive use of customers while shopping in the commercial establishments within the Bartow Mall. There is a posted twohour parking limit. Vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Building 13 Association Holiday Party – The time has come for us to eat, drink and be merry. This event, held after Christmas but before the New Year, is our “After and Before” party. Join us for this event on Saturday, December 30, at 7 p.m. with music by DJ Val in the Association Room. We welcome donations of dishes, desserts and sodas. We just ask that you let us know prior to the event to prevent many duplications. (Reminder) Donation Collection: Kudos go out to new volunteers for assisting with the collection process and, of course, to our faithful volunteers who always step up to the plate. We appreciate all who have given so generously. Check the lobby flyer to see additional collection dates. (Today) Workshop: The workshop, part three, is scheduled for today, Saturday, December 16, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Association Room of Building 13, located at 100 Casals Place. Last Friday, the looming workshop with the Girl Scouts was with over 20 young ladies, and although challenging, it was fun to see them learn something new. Lobby Door – Thank you to our Electrical department for their expertise and repair of the outer door. I spoke with Management regarding the mechanical problems we continuously have with our main entrance doors. Elevator #1 was malfunctioning off and on for several days. Eventually, the elevator was taken out of service. Notices were sent to shareholders and before the end of the day, it was back in service. Thank you to our shareholders who do a great job of contacting the Call Center and informing me and the vice president. Building 13 Election – Nomination for offices shall take place at the regular membership meeting in February. The election shall be at the regular membership meeting in March. The newly elected officers’ term shall commence April 1, following installations, and shall be for a term of two years. Guidelines for eligibility and election for office are currently posted on the bulletin board. The FDNY fire safety education unit reminds us that the winter holidays are a time for everyone to be aware and take precautions to protect yourselves and your loved ones from fires. Make sure to keep burning candles away from curtains, lampshades, blankets and other flammable objects. Space heaters must be kept no less than three feet away from bedding, drapes and Christmas trees. If you are using a space heater or air conditioner, make sure to never use extension cords for large appliances. Candles should always be kept away from the reach of children. Stay safe! “We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community.” –Cesar Chavez Visit our Facebook page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City.Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370; or Wendell Mattison, V.P. at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team. ––Leslie Peterson

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. We trust all is well. Stay vigilant, cautious and wear your masks in crowds. Now, we are being told Respiratory Synclinal Virus (RSV) is on the rise and contagious. Go to the doctor, take your flu shot and do whatever you need to do. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas. Wishing all happiness, warm wishes, love and that we will cherish the peace and goodwill amongst each other. Holiday Tree Lighting – Building 27 volunteers joined in on the festival in Section 5. It was the first ever tree lighting event in Section 5. Thank you to Bldg. 26 Association and younger adults with their brilliant ideas and who willingly shared with their neighbors and community. Thank You to Our Dedicated Shareholders – Building 27 has been graced with such dedicated shareholders who have held up and represented their perspective building since the establishment of a building association. The torch has been passed on to a younger adult, Mr. Aaron Carnegie, who hit the road running and has not stopped. We take this moment to thank our wonderfully dedicated shareholders who decorated our lobbies and volunteered in the collection of donations for our building staff. For Building A: Aaron, Ardelle, Wanda, Dawn, Robert, and Yevette; Building B: Thalia, Lillian, Yolanda, Sharon, Mamie, Fred, and Hattie; Building C: Evelyn, Joann, Margie Lillian and Paquita. May God bless you faithful ones. Laundry Room Carts – We, as cooperators of this building, are asking that the laundry carts not be removed from the laundry room. Remember, there are cameras and one can be identified throughout the laundry room area and building. One faces a Community Complaint and a possible fine. Also, let us be respectful when using the washing machines and dryers. There are more people than machines, so stay mindful of removing your clothes timely. Lobby – Cooperators are leaving the postal bin doors wide open. This is very tacky, so please close the doors. Our lobby is clean and neat, and we want to keep it that way. Newspaper Bins – If we see the Co-op City Times dumped into such nice bins, would you please take the time and a picture of this dumping and send it to the Co-op City Times editor. We should not allow this to take place Saturday after Saturday. We will not cater to an unconcerned attitude in our building. Happy birthday to all celebrating this month. We offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the families who lost loved ones. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card; she is excellent in sharing goodwill. Also, notify her of any illness, or if a neighbor has deceased or transferred to a nursing home. “For our community to be a better place to live is for the people of the community to understand and accept their personal responsibility for what happens.” –Davis Merritt, Jr. ––H. Overman

Newsong Church Christmas at Newsong “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:11) Hope came for those who needed it most over two thousand years ago, and it is still available to us today. The birth of Jesus is truly good news, and we cannot wait to celebrate it with you this Christmas season! This Christmas at Newsong, you will find a safe place for you and your family to belong and find hope-filled promises to carry with you. We will worship and celebrate together, serve free coffee, provide photo opportunities and give a gift to every child! Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: Sunday, Dec. 24, at 11 a.m. About us Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We believe that every person can know God, find freedom, discover their purpose and make a difference in this world! No matter what you have been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family. Check us out, we are located at 135 Einstein Loop! Sunday Worship Experience Our Sunday worship experience starts with celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. (Colossians 3:16) says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” For us, that is what making music is all about. We sing to bring glory and honor to God and celebrate who He is and what

He is doing in our church! Our Adult Worship Experience starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. in Room 45. Newsong Deaf Church (Room 35) Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language! Kidsong (Room 49) We’ve created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level! Newsong Church Youth NSCY is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world. At NSCY, our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus. NSCY meets every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. in Room 42. So, what are you waiting for? There is a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5? Remember, a church alive is worth the drive! Come and find hope. Come and find healing. Come and find freedom. Contact Us: Mailing Address: P.O. Box 100 BX NY 10475; Phone: 917-342-2559 Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org Website: www.newsongchurchnyc .org Social Media: Instagram: @newsongchurchbx; Facebook: @newsongchurchbx; Twitter: @newsongchurchbx; YouTube: Newsong Church NYC ––Pastor Mike Tolone

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities

Until the end of December, the Bartow OAC is having their Annual “Give Back” Drive for the Vets at the Veterans Hospital. They will be collecting personal items that must be brand new (not used). You can donate gloves, undershirts, sweaters and hats/ scarfs for both male & females. Drop off at Bartow OAC, Rm. 31 only. The JASA NORC Office will be having a Jewelry Making Class – Wed., Jan. 10th & 24th, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Workshops will be held in back of the JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. Office phone # is 718-320-2066. Einstein OAC Public Notary Service – Tues. & Thurs., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Common Pantry is scheduled for Tues., Dec. 19th, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. The state still has a freeze and we will not be taking any new participants at this time.

Bartow

Sat., Dec. 24

Fri., Dec. 23

Thurs., Dec. 22

Wed., Dec. 21

Tues., Dec. 20

Mon., Dec. 18

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED (NORC) Line Dancing w/ Bartow Swingers ONLY 12-1 p.m., every Mon.

Walk w/Odessa, On Break Until Spring 2024 Blood Pressure, 12-1 p.m. (1st and 3rd Tues.) Health and Wellness w/Ann, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Adult Coloring, 12-1 p.m. Smartphone and Tablet Class w/Julesa, 1:45-2:45 p.m. Dinner Hour: 3-4:30 p.m.

JASA NORC Nutrition/Education Workshops Thurs. until Jan. 18th, 2024; 11 a.m.-12 noon in collaboration with the Department of the Aging (DFTA). Workshops will be held in back of the JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. Office phone # is 718320-2066. JASA OAC invites you to come and see “Christmas Layers,” an interactive play w/Dazee & Friends – Wed., Dec. 20, noon-2:30 p.m. Admission: $4.00. Purchase tickets at 2049 Bartow Ave. OAC, Rm. 31. Caringkind: The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving representative will be in the Bartow Main Office every third Mon. of the month, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for Alzheimer and Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation & other services. Weight Mgt. Support Group w/Gigi – 2nd Wed. of every month in rear of JASA NORC Office, 1

Einstein

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Mindful Mornings Tai-Chi, 9 a.m.-10 a.m. Line Dance w/Sassy 10:30-11:30 a.m. Book Club, 11 a.m.-noon. Ageless Facials & Self Care, 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 35 Appointments Only

p.m.-3 p.m. Steel Drum Classes – JASA NORC Office on Wed., 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Medicare Information – Thurs., 9 a.m.-12 noon, JASA NORC Office. Notary – JASA NORC Office, Tues., 9 a.m.10:30 a.m.; Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. By Appointment. Technology Class – Thurs., 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989. Line Dance with Bartow Swingers – Wed. & Fri., noon-1 p.m., Dreiser Loop, Aud. A. Please call Einstein OAC – 718-671-5161, for: Hair Styling: 1st & 3rd Wed. of the month, 9 a.m.-11 a.m.: Braids, Haircuts, Shape-Up, Twist, Pony- Tails, Curls and more. Facials & Manicure: Every Mon., 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Call for Appointments.

Dreiser

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler, 10-11 a.m. Virtual. 863-4924183, Passcode: Dreiser23

LUNCH: KOSHER: Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers, Cous Cous, Yellow Squash NON-KOSHER: Curry Chicken, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Corn & Peas, Sautéed Green Beans w/Onions

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Smartphone & Tablet Literacy Class w/Julesa, 1:15-2:15 p.m.

NO DINNER SERVED

Morning Meditation, 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Never Too Old To Learn LUNCH: KOSHER: Chicken Shawarma, Spanish 10-11 a.m., Rm. 35 Art w/Lovie, 11 a.m.-noon (twice Israeli Salad; NON-KOSHER: Black Bean per month) Bridge To Care Arthritis Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Exercise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Tai Chi for Arthritis w/Jimmy, 2 p.m.-3 Fajitas, Sautéed Spinach Rm. 45 p.m., Auditorium A DINNER: BARTOW ONLY Computer & Tablet Class w/Ralph Creative Arts & Painting, KOSHER: Chicken Shawarma, Yellow Rice, 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. 1-3 p.m., Room 35 Israeli Salad, Pear; NON-KOSHER: Black Dial in number: 347-893-2966; Bean Fajitas, Brown Rice, Sautéed Spinach, Go Easy on us Computers Meeting ID: 854 2963 5300; Apple 2:30-3:30 p.m., Rm. 40 Passcode: Dreiser23

Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa Hair Care 4U, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Arthritis Exercise w/Damion 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Appointments Only 11 a.m.-noon, Room 2 Spring in Your Step Stretch, Bereavement Hour w/Dorine (1st Wednesday only per month) & Tone w/Ola, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Afternoon Crafts w/Ines & Julesa, 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Action Bodies In Motion 12-1 p.m. 11 a.m.-noon, Room 45 Drama Club Line Dancing w/Cynthia Prize Bingo & Board Games 1:30-3:30 p.m. Wed. & Fri., 12:30-1:45 p.m. 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 49A Self Defense w/Jimmy, 2 p.m.-3 Dominoes w/Jose, 1-2:30 p.m. Grab & Go, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., p.m., Rm. 2 (Twice a month) Dinner Hour: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Free w/$2.00 donation Arthritis exercise w/Damion, Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-noon 10 a.m.-11:15 a.m. Morning Meditation, 10-11 a.m. Visual Arts w/Laura via Zoom Health & Wellness (AMOB), 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Pace Nursing Students PresentaKnitting/Crocheting with Lynne 10-11 a.m. tion, 11:00-12:00 p.m. and Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Salsa Dancing, 11 am-noon Computer Learning w/Steve, Walk With Ease, 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Manicure Services for Seniors 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Grab & Go, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Card Games with Frankie, 2 p.m.-3 p.m. (twice per month) 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Free w/$2.00 donation Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Sewing Class w/Joy, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-noon Coloring for Calmness Knitting & Crocheting w/Loretta, 10 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m Manicure, 10:30 a.m-noon a.m.-11 a.m. Chess Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Alert & alive w/Cathy and Essie, 10-11 a.m., Line Dance with Cynthia Rm. 4 Blood Pressure Screening 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Line Dance w/Sassy, 1-2 p.m. 10:30 a.m.-noon Dinner Hour, 3-4:30 p.m. Auditorium A Water Color Art Class w/ JASA Holiday Celebration Dmitriy, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Drama Club w/Dazee Windley Dreiser Auditorium Meeting ID: 827 9919 1332 3-4 p.m., in the back of the 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Passcode: Dreiser23, (Twice a month) JASA NORC Office Bingo w/Gay, 1:20 p.m.-2:50 p.m., Rm. 4 Intergenerational Arts & Crafts w/Denise, 10 a.m.-noon Salsa with Rasheed 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Word Games 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Bingo on Saturdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the back of the JASA NORC Office.

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

Menu Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice. For information, please call: (718) 320-2066. Schedule subject to change without notice. Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. & 2 p.m.-4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Flounder, Barley, Moroccan Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish Marsala w/Mushrooms, Perfect White Rice, Vegetable Mix DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Baked flounder, Pearled Barley, Moroccan Vegetable, Banana; NON-KOSHER: Curried Chicken, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed Green Beans, Orange LUNCH: KOSHER:Pepper Steak, Vegetable Lo Mein, Oriental Blend Vegetables; NON-KOSHER: Caesar Salad w/ Grilled Chicken, Whole Wheat Pasta Salad DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Pepper Flank Steak, Vegetable Lo Mein, Oriental Blend Vegetable, Orange; NONKOSHER: Baked Fish Marsala w/Mushrooms, Perfect White Rice, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, LUNCH: KOSHER: Italian Roast Chicken, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini; NON-KOSHER: Beef Meatballs w/Sofrito, Yuca w/Onions, Oriental Blend Vegetables DINNER: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: Italian Roasted Chicken, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini; NON-NONKOSHER: Caesar Salad w/Grilled Chicken, Whole Wheat Pasta Salad, Apple

Saturday: Lunch served at 12:30 p.m. until finished: BARTOW ONLY

JASA BARTOW

KOSHER: Moroccan Style Roasted CLOSED Chicken Legs, Brown Rice, Steamed Green Beans, Plum NO LUNCH NON-KOSHER: Soft Taco w/Vegetables., Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots w/Parsley, Banana

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

AARP Chapter #4997

Retirees of Dreiser Loop Season’s greetings, retirees and friends. We hope everyone is well and getting into the holiday spirit. Entertainment Committee – We want to thank everyone who attended our annual holiday luncheon at the Marina del Rey on December 14. We are grateful for your support and appreciate your joining us in celebrating the holidays. Carnival Cruise 2024 – There are a few cabins remaining for our Eastern Caribbean nineday/eight-night cruise (traveling to Amber Cove (Dominican Republic), Grand Turks, and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas) on the beautiful new ship Venezia leaving from NYC on July 16 to July 24, 2024. Please contact Serita at (347) 564-5722 for additional information. Membership Committee – New members and renewing members can remit a check for the $25 annual dues for 2023. Checks should be made payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Please note “new member” or “renewing member” in the memo line on your check. Questions may be addressed to Mary at (718) 655-9170. Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our December birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year. Good and Welfare – We continue to extend our get well wishes to Estelle Richmond. Please keep all of those who are sick and/or shut in, in your thoughts and healing prayers. We hope they will soon see brighter days ahead. Please notify Lorraine Parker at (718) 671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths. Condolences – Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who have recently experienced the loss of loved ones. General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held in January. The date will be determined and announced soon. ––Georgianna Rodriguez

Building 18 Association Hi, neighbors. Thanks to all who attended our last General Meeting. Our guest speaker was Ms. Milsa Vega, Junior Property Manager of Riverbay Corporation’s CSO department. She gave an excellent and knowledgeable presentation and important handouts as well. Thank you, Ms. Vega. Because this is a very busy holiday season, we will not have a meeting in December. Our next General Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Association Rxoom. We do hope you all had a very enjoyable and happy Thanksgiving with family and friends. A hearty thank you to Marta Rodriquez, who decorated our Christmas tree. Special thanks to Brian Kornblum, Brenda Robinson and Phyllis Ravenel for their help with decorating the lobby. You all helped to make our annual activity a success. Together, we can make a difference. New Year’s Eve Party – You are invited to a New Year’s Eve Party on December 31 right here at home in the Association Room. If you wish to share a special dish with us, please call Deborah Hughes at 718-379-2551 or Gertie Brown at 347-275-2995 and tell us what you would like to bring. Further information will be posted on the bulletin board. All are invited. Come let us bring in 2024 together. To the sick and homebound, we wish you a speedy recovery. To the bereaved families, we give our deepest sympathies. Please stay alert. If you see something, say something. Be safe. Stay well. Merry Christmas. Happy Kwanzaa and Happy Hanukkah. ––Gertie Brown

There are just a few weeks left until the end of 2023. We have seen many changes, yet many things remained the same. We all have much work still to do in 2024 if we want to improve our living conditions and the world around us. Starting from our home base, Co-op City, we should all take more of an interest in the community. AARP Chapter #4997 had the last General Membership Meeting of 2023, and we wish to thank all the members and friends who attended and hopefully had a pleasant time. We had food, fun, conversation and shared plans for the new year. Our offices will be closed from December 12 until January 4, 2024. Next year, our schedule will remain the same. Our offices are open from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Thursday at 177 Dreiser Loop, Room “0” on the second floor. Our number is 718-320-1946; our email is aarp4997@gmail.com. Our office will be open to discuss issues that are important to you and our community. The new year brings awareness to new changes in the IRS tax structure for most Americans, Medicare changes, serious health outbreaks that we still do not understand and general safety for everyone. Feel free to come into our office and remember to wear a mask. All our offices and meetings are mask mandated and you will be provided with one if needed. The Tour Committee is continuing to make reservations for “A Tribute to The Supremes” on April 30, 2024. The tickets cost $169 and there is insurance to be purchased, if you choose. The Hawaiian Cruise does have space available, and your questions can be answered by contacting Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962. Be mindful that these are private residences, and you should not call after 8 p.m. If you have suggestions for trips, please tell the Tour Committee. Ms. Baker, our Membership contact at 718-379-2088 and Mrs. Wilson, our Good and Welfare contact at 718-671-5493, will be offline for the length of our office closing. Our next article will be in the January 5, 2024, issue of the Co-op City Times. There are continuing medical problems affecting all people in this world. Covid-19 has been reduced from the pandemic category but is still a high cause of death if you do not take care of your personal health. The flu and RSV are now more prevalent than in previous years, yet some refuse to be vaccinated. Vaccination is a personal choice but remember to respect the wishes and rules that are put in place by others. Vaccinations have proven to be effective and useful. AARP Chapter #4997 wishes to extend to everyone a blessed, happy, healthy holiday season and we look forward to doing good work with all in the new year. Happy Hanukkah. Merry Christmas. Happy Kwanzaa. ––Ann Purnell

Building 33 Association Good day, shareholders. The “Light It Up” tree lighting ceremony in Section 5 on December 9 was beautiful. It was our first ever in Section 5 and the brainchild of the Building 26 Association. Eunice, Tanya and the rest of the Building 26 Board, we cannot thank you enough. You guys put this event together in about a month and you did great. And what a turn out! Section 5 residents showed up and showed out with their children. We even had dignitaries out there. Riverbay Executive General Manager, Mr. Marvin Walton; Riverbay Board president, Sonia Feliciano; Assemblyman Michael Benedetto; Jahmal Yapp from Councilman Kevin C. Riley’s office, and Santa. And the Christmas lights! What a beautiful job! Everything was just great. Much love to Shante Armstrong and the staff from the Teen Center who donated their space, and the volunteers, like me, who donated their time. I served up some hot chocolate, coffee, and tea whose kettles were donated by Carol Arthur. I also gave out cookies donated by Michael Benedetto. There were muffins, cupcakes, and gifts won from raffles; everything was nice! And if I left anyone out, good job to all who participated; the event was phenomenal! Do not forget, the holidays are here, so reach out to someone who might be feeling a little lonely. Keep our building clean and clean up after your dogs! Happy holidays. Take care now and walk good. ––Andrea D. Mayo

Family Owned and Operated • Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

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Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Traditional Synagogue The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to WWW.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate, or mail to the Traditional Synagogue, located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. The synagogue will be serving a hot kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Entrance to our synagogue for Saturday services is on the side door of Building 27B. General Information: The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the ground floor of Building 27B; it is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone #: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message. The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10:00 a.m. After services, we always have a Kiddush. The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue. The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help the synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please

come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah. The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbath ends on Saturday, December 16, at 5:22 p.m. Candle lighting for Friday, December 22, at 4:12 p.m. Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. If you want to buy a tree, call (347) 449-5005. Mazel Tov, to all having simchas. If you are ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue. To All Members: Happy birthday to our members who will be celebrating their birthday in December. Happy anniversary to Saul Weber. Please send me your name and I will add it to the list. Fun and Games: After services and Kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health. ––Bruce Gitelson

Greetings, neighbors. We hope this finds you in great spirit and overall wellness. Happy Hanukkah to all of our neighbors of the Jewish faith. Shalom. We have had a busy week with our second Association meeting with the distinguished Assistant Executive General Manager, Mr. Cary Smith, as our guest speaker. He took questions from the shareholders in regards to Building 6 issues and Riverbay as a whole, and he shared his and Mr. Marvin Walton’s vision for Co-op City. Mrs. Lumari Coriano was sworn in as Building Association secretary by Ms. Lois English because she was on a family vacation at the time of the election. Several neighbors picked up their Building Association membership cards that Mrs. Coriano had on hand. Please remember, annual dues are $20. I will provide an impromptu holiday mixer in the Association Room, so stay tuned for the tentative date, time and details in the Association bulletin board. The Building 6 Association wants to give a huge thank you to Mr. Harry Fletcher for the donation of the two delicious bundt cakes. His dedication and service to the building is always appreciated. If neighbors have questions or an issue they need assistance with, feel free to contact the Building 6 Association via email at Bldng6assoc@gmail.com, vice president Gilliard at 917-613-2520 or president Lassiter at 347-366-7690. “My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” –Bishop Tutu ––Lauren K. Lassiter

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. E-mail: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-3200844. Priest-in-Charge: Fr. Simeon O. Johnson, cell: 917-227-4303. Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic and related repairs to our space, St. Joseph’s Church has made some adjustment to our schedule of services until further notice. We are gradually getting back to normal. In-person worship service will take the form of Lessons and Carols on the third Sunday of Advent. The service will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, December 17, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference. Please also remember to tune in for the usual teleconference weekday prayers at noon. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign. The Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration last week went very well. Many thanks to the Coalition for organizing this event. It is that time of year again when we collect, complete and return our Pledge Cards. Please remember to pray about it and do the best that you can. Sincere condolences to our members, families and friends who have recently lost loved ones. May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace. To our sick and shut-in, we extend our well wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery. Happy birthday and best wishes to all the December birthday celebrants. We at St. Joseph’s are collecting food (cans and dry goods) for the food pantry at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. If you can, please contribute to those in need. Grace and peace! ––Merville Chambers

Building 6 Association

NAACP

Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. Known as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), it profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and the course of 20th Century American History. Reminder: Change of meeting date due to the upcoming holiday. The General Membership Meeting is on Sunday, December 17, at 3:00 p.m. on Zoom. Meeting ID: 868 6261 8000. Passcode: 573425, or dial-in: 646-558-8656. Happy Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Merry Christmas. Season’s Greetings. Happy and healthy New Year to all. Youth Scholarship: The Bronx Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has published their 2024 Youth Scholarship. Applications must be postmarked by February 23, 2024. Please share this with anyone you know who may need it. You can find out more by contacting scholarship@dstbx.org. Voting: This election season, we hold the most powerful tool to make democracy work for Black Americans: our vote. The issues that affect our community will make or break how we continue to thrive in this country. We can fix America’s broken democracy. For more information on the NAACP’s work to mobilize Black voters, visit naacp.org/vote. The Reparations & Remedies Community Act: Get involved. Contact Governor Kathy Hochul at 518-474-8390 between 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and tell her to sign Bill S1163A today! The NAACP Office hours are Monday, December 18, and Wednesday, December 20, from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Commemorative pins and journals are available to purchase. Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP – Become a member, gift a membership or upgrade your membership. Join the NAACP to help us do the work. We march to defend democracy. Take your advocacy further by joining in the fight for our sacred right to vote. Annual Adult: $30. Youth: $10. Silver Life: $750. Make checks/money orders payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mail to: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 36, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. To leave a message, call the office phone at: 718-320-3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com, or naacpcoopbb@yahoo.com. ––Brenda Brown

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle (Liberal Catholic)

177 Dreiser Loop, second floor, Room 2 Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The clergy and members of St. Thomas invite you to worship with us. Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20) The Service of Nine Carols and Lessons was a blessing for all in attendance. Thank you to all who participated by reading God’s word and singing solos to his glory. It was a pleasure to see invited guests and visitors present. We hope you will keep in touch with us and visit again. All the roses, chocolates and applause in the world cannot convey our gratitude to the writer, director, producer, publisher, manager, and MC for this event: Reverend Brewer. Thank you! Sunday, December 17, is the Third Sunday of Advent. As we await the coming of the Lord, we are reminded: “Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” (Mark 1:3) Congregational Meeting: The annual meeting of the membership of the Church of St. Thomas The Apostle, Inc. will be held on January 21, 2024, following a brief service for Covenant Sunday, beginning at 11:00 a.m. Third Sunday of Advent: Sunday December 17: ● 11:00 a.m. – Communion Service ● Fellowship with light refreshments following the service Bible Lessons: ● (Malachi 1:11, 3:1-4) ● (Mark 1: 1-8) Prayer: O Christ our Lord, we pray for strength to increase and multiply within our hearts thy heavenly grace; that we loving thee above all things may faithfully serve thee in all good works; thou who livest and reignest in the unity of the Father and of the Holy Spirit, one God, throughout all ages of ages. Amen. ––Rev. Dorian Miceli

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

Building 10 Association Greetings, fellow cooperators. New Cooperators – Welcome, all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next General Membership meeting. 7th Annual Holiday Gift Drive – We have begun accepting holiday gift donations for a shelter in the Bronx. Donate a new, wrapped gift and label it with the age (newborn to 18 years old) and if it is for a boy, girl or unisex. Donations will be accepted from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. in the Association room, located in the rear of Building 10B (120 Debs Place). The last day to drop off donations will be Wednesday, December 20. Please see the flier posted in your building lobby. Holiday Gift Collection for Building 10 Staff: The holiday gift collection for the Building 10 staff has begun. The last day to donate will be Wednesday, December 20, from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. in the Building 10 Association Room, located in the rear of Building 10B. Please see the flier posted in your building lobby. Holiday Safety – The holiday season has begun so here are a few reminders to ensure a joyous holiday. Please be aware of your surroundings. Do not leave anything visible in your car. Have your packages delivered to a locker or a neighbor who is home. Be safe and enjoy the holiday season. Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help is 988. You can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day. Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Facebook, “Building 10 ABC Association.” Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10. We would like to wish all who are born this month an incredibly happy birthday. Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy anniversary! To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery. To all who have lost a loved one recently, we offer our deepest condolences. “Be the reason someone smiles today.” Have a wonderful week. ––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Get Involved! Co-op City is your home!

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo Calling Out to Jesus Our prayers must change when we come in contact with Jesus. From unclean to clean me, from I am lost to save me, from unqualified to qualify me. The presence and awareness of Christ allow us to amend our prayers because we know that he can do something for us. (Luke 17:11) Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. Jesus purposely walked where others avoided walking. He made himself available to the poor, the sick, and the rich and comfortable. He acknowledged everyone’s needs without regard to their station, ethnicity, and beliefs. He actively brought the kingdom everywhere. “As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” (Luke 17:12) Instead of yelling that they were lepers, they called out for mercy. They did not approach him physically but emotionally and verbally they yelled for him to come close and heal them. They were a pitiful and disregarded group like we once were until Jesus walked close to us and listened. “When he saw them, he said, Go, show yourselves to the priests. And as they went, they were cleansed.” Jesus did not pray, he did not pontificate, and he refused to make a show of his healing power. His response meant two things: obey me, obey the word. Healing does not come apart from God’s written and verbal word. They needed to follow his instructions. “One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” All ten were healed and they must have all been grateful but only one went a step further and verbalized his gratitude. He recognized Jesus’ divinity and worshipped at his feet. How often do we take for granted God’s healing, restoration, and love and simply keep walking? “Then he said to him, Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” This man received fellowship, further blessings and intimacy with Jesus. He stood a little longer in Jesus’ presence and received words of commendation and encouragement. Schedule 147 Dreiser Loop (lower level). Every first Sunday of the month –– Bilingual Communion Service Sunday –– Spanish at 9 a.m. and English Service at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday –– Prayer 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Wed. & Thurs. –– Nonperishable food distribution: from noon-2 p.m. Thursday –– Prayer/Bible Study, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Friday ––Youth Service (Operation Grace),6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Saturday –– Women’s Fellowship, second Saturday of the month, noon-3 p.m. Young Adults, third Saturday of the month, 12 p.m.-3 p.m. Men’s Fellowship, fourth Saturday of the month Blessings in Christ. ––Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

Co-op City Safety News Alert

Avoiding Dryer Fire Clothes Dryer Safety Tips • Don’t overload the dryer. • Don’t dry anything containing foam, rubber or plastic. An example of an item not to place in a dryer is a bathroom rug with rubber backing.

• Don’t dry any item for which manufacturer’s instructions state, “dry away from heat.” • Don’t dry glass ﬁber materials (unless manufacturer’s instructions allow). • Don’t dry items that have come in contact with anything ﬂammable like alcohol, cooking oils or gasoline. Dry them outdoors or in a wellventilated room, away from heat.

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023

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RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by one of the following methods: • Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services.com/riverbaycorp, to complete online disclosure form; • Call independent third party whistleblower hotline: 1-833-290-0009 (English); 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); • Email reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); • Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Co-op City Times / December 16, 2023