Co-op City Times 12/21/19

On Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019, and again on Tuesday, Dec. 31, Riverbay Administrative Offices will close at 2 p.m. Finance Bookkeeping window will remain open until 5 p.m. on Dec. 24.

On Monday, Dec. 30, the Bookkeeping window will remain open until 7 p.m.

FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES, PLEASE CALL: MAINTENANCE: 718-320-3300, PRESS OPTION 3 • PUBLIC SAFETY: 718-671-3050

Vol. 54 No. 51

Saturday, December 21, 2019

Roundup: Board at work on contracts

BY JASON CHIREVAS

The Riverbay Board of Directors used parts of its Dec. 18 meeting to take care of some outstanding financial matters and contracts. Here’s a roundup of those actions: Resolution 19-57, submitted by Kevin Lambright, seconded

by Claudia Sampson The Board voted 12 to 0 with 3 absentees to extend the contract of RJB Distribution Corp. to continue delivering the Co-op City Times to every building in Co-op City.

The $60,500 contract extension for RJB was put in place to allow more time for distribution of the Times to be moved in-house so it can be delivered by Riverbay personnel rather than an outside vendor resulting in significant savings for the corporation. Times Editor-in-Chief Rozaan Boone is also in the process of selecting and procuring bins in which the newspapers can be placed in each lobby and townhouse cluster.

Resolution 19-59, submitted by Bernie Cylich, seconded by Claudia Sampson The Co-op City power plant maintains a long-term service agreement with Siemens Energy to care for and repair its two combustion turbine generators Siemens manufactures. The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development requires Riverbay to maintain the long-term service agreement for the two Siemens generators at all times. With the current agreement due to expire in January 2020, the Riverbay Board voted 12 to 0 with 3 absent to sign a new 10-year, $15.2 million contract with Siemens. Power plant officials Anthony Ligato and Bill May endorsed the deal, and Riverbay Management said the new contract would “ensure the economical supply of electricity and steam utility for Co-op City.” The new contract calls for Riverbay to pay Siemens $1.5 million a year for the next 10 years.

Resolution 19-60, submitted by Linda Berk, seconded by Leah Richardson and Michelle Marbury In furtherance of an upcoming internal technology project to upgrade Riverbay’s network infrastructure and security, the Board voted 12 to 0 with 3 absentees to award a total of $1.9 million to ePlus, a Virginia-based IT asset and financing company, and Illinois-based tech provider CDW to provide several products and services to improve Riverbay’s Cisco infrastructure and security.

Resolution 19-61, submitted by Claudia Sampson, seconded

by Michelle Marbury By a vote of 10 to 2 with 3 directors absent, the Board awarded a $731,093 contract to Amittyville-based Durablis Solutions, Inc. to help bring the public assembly areas of Co-op City’s three community centers — Bartow, Dreiser and Einstein — up to code. In an effort to get the best deal, Riverbay sent requests for proposal to 11 qualified vendors. Two responded and Durablis was selected. The contract also calls for a 10% contingency fund — or $73,109 — to cover any unforeseen costs associated with the project.

Resolution 19-62, submitted by Kevin Lambright, seconded

by Michelle Marbury and Claudia Sampson The New York State Insurance Fund handles Riverbay’s workers’ compensation insurance. The current policy, due to expire Jan. 20, 2020, carries an annual premium of $2.9 million. The Board voted 12 to 0 with 3 directors absent Dec. 18 to renew the policy with New York State Insurance Fund at a premium not to exceed 6% more than the expiring contract. So, Riverbay’s workers’ comp. insurance will remain with the current provider for the period of Jan. 1, 2020, to Jan. 1, 2021, at a premium cost of not more than $3.1 million.

Also on the Board’s Dec. 18 agenda was Resolution 19-54 — submitted by Francine Reva Jones and seconded by Kevin Lambright — which would have required all Board directors to serve on at least one Board committee following the 2020 Riverbay Board elections. Six directors voted to pass the resolution, 3 voted against it, 3 abstained from the vote and three directors were absent. Since the resolution did not get the required eight votes to pass, it was defeated and will not become Board policy.

$1.25

Discounted parking available in Co-op City parking garages for Christmas and New Year’s Eve

Discounted transient parking will once again be available for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve in all Co-op City parking facilities.

On these three days – Tuesday, Dec. 24; Wednesday, Dec. 25, and Tuesday, Dec. 31 – transient parking will be significantly discounted to only $8 between the hours of 12 p.m. to 6 a.m.

While holiday parking discounts will only be in effect from 12 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Dec. 24, 25 and 31, vehicles parked in the garages prior to 12 p.m. and after 6 a.m. on those days are required to pay regular parking rates – $8 for up to 3 hours, $15 for up to 6 hours; $23 for up to 12 hours and $40 for up to 24 hours.

In 2011, the Riverbay Board approved offering discounted transient parking to visitors of Co-op City shareholders on (Continued on page 2)

Riverbay’s Christmas & New Year holiday closings

Riverbay’s administrative offices will be closed on Christmas day, Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2019, and on New Year’s day, Jan. 1, 2020.

Because of the upcoming consecutive holiday-shortened work weeks, all community organizations must submit their club articles before 9 a.m. this Monday, Nov. 23, 2019. Material received after this time will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019 issue of the Co-op City Times.

Directors’ viewpoints are due promptly at 5 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 23, 2019 and on Monday, Dec. 30, 2019.

The same submission schedule applies to the following week of Dec. 30, 2019 for the New Year’s holiday.

Please note that regular business hours of the Co-op City Times is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each weekday. Material for publication may be emailed to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com; faxed to 718-320-2595 or slipped under the office door at 2049 Bartow Ave., room 21.

We wish our readers an enjoyable and safe Hanukah and Christmas, and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

Building 24 lobby decoration

Building 24 proudly displays their holiday decorations celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah. Tree designed and decorated by Andromeda George.

Photo by Brandon Ortiz

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Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Parking

Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve to make it easier for visitors to park and be able to enjoy the holidays with relatives and friends living in Co-op City.

In 2013, the Board added Thanksgiving to the list.

Visitors taking advantage of the reduced parking rate should take a parking ticket upon entering the garage. When leaving, cash, debit or credit card payments will be accepted at Pay Stations in the garages. Only credit and debit cards are accepted at the garage exit gate.

Danielle O’Connor, director of Co-op City’s Parking, Leasing and Storage Department, said: “The holidays are a time for family and friends to come together and parking concerns should not be a factor. Providing affordable parking at locations throughout the community allows for a convenient and hassle-free experience for visiting guests.”

Riverbay’s assistant general manager, Warren Mitchell, who oversees the Parking, Leasing & Storage Department, pointed out: “Most garages exploit the fact that it’s the holidays and an opportunity to make money. In this instance, the shareholders benefit because, hopefully, this is an opportunity for their relatives and friends to visit during the holidays without having to spend an exorbitant amount of money for parking.”

(Continued from page 1)

Amazon Deliveries Shareholders who shop at Amazon.com and have their packages delivered should make sure to direct the delivery company, whether it’s Amazon or another delivery service, not to leave packages in the lobby of their building as shown in the photo at right taken in Building 13 this week.

In addition, shareholders who have had their packages left in the lobby of their building by Amazon drivers should contact the company and file a complaint.

Shareholders expecting a delivery should make arrangements to have their packages delivered to their door or ask a trusted neighbor to accept the package or to be on the lookout for their delivery if they will not be home.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN NOW ACCEPTING GHI!!

NOW ACCEPTING AETNA!!

Podiatrist — Foot Specialist

• Practicing in Co-op City since 1975 • Board Certified in Foot Surgery • ALL conditions of the foot treated • We

accept most health insurance plans

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

Assemblyman visits Bldg. 25 lobby

Building 25 shareholders meet with Assemblyman Mike Benedetto during his visit to the building lobby last Wednesday, Dec. 18. The visits give Co-op City residents an opportunity to interact with the assemblyman and discuss a range of issues affecting their quality of life.

Alert: Window Guard Forms

Riverbay’s contractor will soon begin mailing the annual Window Guard forms and shareholders should begin receiving them on or around the second week in January 2020. The deadline to complete and return the form is Feb. 15, 2020.

As per city law, managing agents must reach out to all individuals who do not return a completed Window Guard form by the deadline. As a result, home visits will begin by Mar. 31, 2020. At that point, Riverbay employees will have a specific form relative to each residential unit to be filled out and signed.

Employees will wear proper ID and a Riverbay-issued vest for proper identification.

If you are not home, you will be responsible for completing and returning the form that will be placed under your door. This project is time sensitive and your cooperation is required.

Shareholders do not have to wait until the annual mailing goes out to request installation of window guards and/or repairs to existing window guards. This can be done anytime throughout the year by making a request through the Riverbay Call Center, 718-320-3300, press 2.

A Message from the Parking Department:

Please SLOW DOWN and heed traffic signs within the garages. Driving fast in these areas is dangerous and can cause damage to your vehicle, damage to other vehicles or injury to pedestrians.

Please use caution!

Please Refrain From Littering.

• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program

Keep Co-op City Clean!

• Evening and Saturday appointments

Thank You!

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

SPEED LIMIT

5 mph

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

COMBING

Co-op City Times 2 n d Riverbay’s Annual Coat Drive

Front Page

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

CCPD Toy Drive

CCPD’s 6th Annual Toy Drive will be held Nov. 18 to Dec. 23 to collect toys for children in local hospitals and shelters. Distribution will take place on Dec. 24, 2019.

Toy donations must be new.

All age groups are being collected for so please give generously. Donations should be dropped off at CCPD headquarters in the Bartow Center. This year’s CCPD Santa’s helpers include Lt. Delvalle, Sgt. Ahmed and officers Collado and Lee.

On Friday, Dec. 20, in Bartow Center, room 28, Riverbay Director of Community Relations Michelle Sajous and community volunteers set up tables filled with coats generously donated this winter season by Co-op City neighbors to help those less fortunate. Coats were available in all sizes, from child to adult, and were free for the taking for anyone who needed one.

Photos by Brandon Ortiz

MetroCard Bus

The MTA MetroCard bus will add an additional date to its schedule. On Monday, Dec. 30, the bus will stop in front of the former bingo hall on Bartow Avenue from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Current service on the first and third Thursdays of each month will continue as follows: Bartow Avenue at Bartow Mall, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; Dreiser Loop; 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; and Einstein Loop; 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Services offered include: Reduced-fare application assistance, purchasing or refilling of MetroCards, submitting damaged reduced-fare MetroCards for temporary replacements, reporting a stolen or lost reducedfare MetroCard and other MetroCard related inquiries.

Please be courteous to your neighbors.

Curb your dog.

Club articles should be emailed to cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com

American Legion Post 1871

Scott Siegel is Bronx County Oratorical Champion for 2019

The Bronx County Oratorical Contest was held in Co-op City at American Legion Post 1871 on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2019. Six students registered to participate in the contest from different schools across the borough. After the evening’s contest, in which participants spoke on prepared oration from the articles of the United States Constitution, Scott Siegel of The High School of American Studies at Lehman College emerged the winner for the second time in a row.

For the first time, the oratorical contest was organized under the leadership Commander Toba with of Commander Toba LaCrown of Post Oratorical contest 1871 who reached out to the Toastwinner Scott Siegel. masters Club of Co-op City to choose judges. The oratorical contest was happy to accept the services of Lauretta Jaysura and Marietta, who served with post Vice Commander Norman Thomas as the three judges for the contest.

At the end of the night, Scott Siegel was the Bronx County Champion. He will now engage other champions from Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island at the district level on Monday, Jan. 6, 2020. Winners of that contest will compete with other champions at the zonal level before moving on to compete at the state level in Albany in March 2020.

The chairperson for the Bronx County Contest, Commander Toba of the American Legion Post 1871, congratulated the champion and his parents for their accomplishments. He was also happy to see the commitment of the student with his family’s support as they came all the way from Queens.

Siegel, a senior at the High School of the American Studies, has a special interest in history, with an emphasis in politics.

American Legion Post 1871 members and contest judges.

He spoke extensively on the Constitution, particularly on Article Four. He talked about how the Constitution was well crafted in that there is separation of powers among the three arms of government — the judiciary, the executive and the legislative. In his submission, Scott elaborated bit about the drama that characterizes the happenings in the capitol. He posited that the people were somehow used to inflammatory rhetoric from both the Democrats and the Republicans.

The judges scored the contestants on content and speaking skill. Content has to do with originality of the material, while speaking skill focused on body language, description, pitch, etc. Students were timed, because the speech should not be less than 8 minutes and not exceed 10 minutes. With every minute less than 8 and/or more than 10, points were deducted from the original score.

It was so nice to see these young kids take on subject matter — i.e. the Constitution — about which adults often have no knowledge.

—Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown Toba

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Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Co-op City residents cautioned about Money Grams and Green Dot MoneyPak scams

The 45th Precinct’s Crime Prevention and Community Affairs Units continue to advise Co-op City residents, especially seniors, to be vigilant and not fall victim to scammers using Green Dot MoneyPak cards and Money Grams.

According to the NYPD, while Money Grams and Green Dot MoneyPak cards are legitimate products, scammers are using them to steal money from their intended victims.

The scammers utilize a variety of schemes with some of the most common being the utility company and government agencies scams in which the victim is told that they owe money and the call is to immediately collect what is owed or else service will be shut off, or worse.

Additionally, the scammers may claim that a loved one is being held against their will, or has been involved in an accident and payment is needed to gain their freedom. They may also claim that a grandchild or relative has been locked up in a foreign country and needs bail money.

Victims may be told they won the lottery or some type of sweepstakes and money is needed to claim the winnings or for taxes on the prize. If you have to pay for a prize you won, you didn’t win, the NYPD warns.

The Green Dot MoneyPak scam is a phone scam where the victim is called by someone claiming to work at a utility company, for example, Con Ed or a cable company, or a government agency, such as the Department of Finance, and they are collecting money that is past due. The caller then informs the victim that they can avoid service interruption, arrest or deportation, if they immediately bring their account up to date by paying the past due amount using a Money Gram or Green Dot MoneyPak card that can be purchased at a local store. The caller instructs the victim to purchase a Money Gram or a Green Dot MoneyPak card in a specified amount and call a phone number that the caller gives to the victim once this has been done.

The victim proceeds to purchase the Green Dot card at a local store and then calls the number they were given by the caller to satisfy the debt. The victim is instructed to scratch off and read the MoneyPak card serial number to the perpetrator. The perpetrator then drains the funds from the Green Dot MoneyPak card.

The NYPD notes that while many schemes still involve victims being asked

to wire money to the scammers, MoneyPaks have the added benefit of the scammer not having to show up at an office or bank to claim the funds loaded onto the card. The cards can only be purchased using cash and consumers never have to disclose their personal or financial information to a retail cashier or to make a payment. Anyone with the 14-digit number located on the back of the MoneyPak card can drain the funds.

In the IRS scam, the victim is contacted and told that they owe back taxes, fees or fines to the IRS and that if they do not make immediate payment using a Money Gram or Green Dot MoneyPak card, they will be arrested or deported. The scam is perpetrated in the same manner as the utility scam with the results being the same – the victim’s money is stolen.

The NYPD warns residents to be alert and not fall victim to these crimes. Crime Prevention Officers also point out that the scammers can purchase computer apps which disguise their true telephone number and can make it appear as a legitimate number, for example, the 45th Precinct, NYPD, 9-1-1, Con Ed, etc., on your phone’s caller ID. In addition to cautioning the public that the NYPD does not solicit money, and that utility companies and government agencies would not contact you demanding payment for outstanding bills using Money Grams or MoneyPak card, the NYPD is also warning residents not to call any of the phone numbers provided by the scammers since this is another layer to the scam. If you think a call is suspicious, call the number listed on your bill.

The NYPD offers the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of this scam: • Be suspicious of any caller who demands immediate payment for any reason.

• Remember that anyone who has the number on a Green Dot MoneyPak card has access to the funds on the card.

• Never give out personal or financial information to anyone who emails or calls you unsolicited, and • Never wire money, provide debit or credit card numbers or Green Dot MoneyPak card numbers to someone you do not know.

—Rozaan Boone

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

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The Section 4 Partnership holiday float traveled around the entire Co-op City community Sunday, Dec. 15, treating residents to holiday carols, spreading joy and promoting unity.

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Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

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• authors. or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. cannot – •the– authenticity • – • – of•– – • Anonymous – – • –Letters •–• – •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

Clear glass on stairwell doors provides added security

To the Editor: We, as cooperators and shareholders, can be critical and opinionated, as we should be at times. However, I would like to compliment Riverbay Corporation on the replacement of the non-see-thru glass in the stairway doors to clear glass this past weekend. This action received positive action two days later by allowing Public Safety officers to clear a stairwell of young people who were smoking and gathering after school. The removal of said loiterers was done in a timely manner and without incident.

Due to the clear glass, cooperators can now “see something and say something” with a simple phone call for a quicker response from Public Safety. I think it also can work as a deterrent to those intent on committing a criminal act. The replacement to clear glass also provides an added safety feature to cooperators before they leave or enter their apartments or elevators.

—D. E. Windley

MTA’s profits flying out the back door

To the Editor: Unfortunately, we are the victims of express bus cutbacks that don’t make sense. I worked for NTC Transit and, unfortunately, I believe there are people in power in the wrong places.

Just wait until the Metro-North station is completed and there will be no express bus. This may be a blessing if Gov. Cuomo keeps his promise the fare will be $2.75 to get to Manhattan.

For the moment, we must fight for the ridership who actually pays their way! Everyone should do as I do when riding a bus, count the number of fare beaters and, by the end of your ride, you’ll be astonished and wonder why can’t the MTA hire uniformed attendants to monitor the back door. The money saved will pay for itself and, at the same time, give someone a job.

I’d like you to count then multiply by $2.75. Send your results with start and finish points to nrl6724@gmail.com.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful getting on a bus that doesn’t fill up four times as fast though the back door and actually have a chance at getting a seat?

—Nick Liberati

Tower of power holiday initiative

To the Editor: Thank you, Building 35 in Section 5, for the winter coat drive for homeless women living in a nearby Bronx shelter.

Cooperators donated close to 100 new and gently used coats of all sizes for the women. Coats were dropped off in the lobby on Dec. 9, 11, and 14, 2019. The shelter selected serves 200 women ages 25 to 80. They are medically fragile and several have serious mental illness and substance misuse problems.

The facility provides for women that use walkers and wheelchairs. Several of the women suffer with dual-diagnoses, substance abuse and mental illness. They represent all ethnicities.

The difference a nice, warm winter coat makes is a blessing and brought many smiles! Thanks again to our building president, Bill Gordon, for being on site each day so “The Tower of Power, Building 35” could share the warmth this year.

Cooperators who read our newspaper are extremely disappointed at the lack of viewpoints being written by Board members voted in to serve us. As a former Board member, I can say what I enjoyed most was sharing information.

Happy holidays!

—Evelyn M. Turner

Board of Directors’ Meeting - December 18, 2019 First Reading - Resolution #19-63

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: December 18, 2019 WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited companies for BID 3360 REBID, Furnishing and Installation of the Fire Alarm System for CC3; and WHEREAS, three (3) bids was submitted and reviewed by the Project Manager and Engineer; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager and Engineer both recommend that the Board approve Safe Tech USA as the lowest qualified bidder (recommendations letters attached); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.”

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that Contract# 3360 REBID with Safe Tech USA in the amount of $596,400.00 for the Furnishing and Installation of the Fire Alarm System for CC3 is approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

First Reading - Resolution #19-64

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: December 18, 2019 WHEREAS, Riverbay sent out requests for proposals to fifteen qualified companies to perform Local 11 façade and balcony restoration work on Buildings 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14; and WHEREAS, Riverbay received three (3) proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Engineer and the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Engineer and Project Manager reviewed the bids and recommends EXO Industries Corporation as the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendations attached); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #3444 with EXO Industries Corporation for a contract total of $11,046,335.00 plus a 15% contingency ($1,656,950.25) be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

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

Jason Chirevas Managing Editor

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

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

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

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

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

(More Resolutions on page 17)

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 28 A, B & C Building 28 A, B & C

Building 28 A, B & C 100, 120 & 140 Einstein Loop

Current Lease Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2020

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2023

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

Public Safety Report

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CCPD offers travel safety tips for the holiday travel season Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety offers these travel safety tips if a trip is part of your seasonal vacation plans. By being aware of and preparing for travel regulations, you can make your trip safe and stress free. As we approach the 2020 New Year season, many families may be considering holiday vacation travel for Hanukah, Christmas, Kwanza or another holiday.

Travel safety begins when you pack. To help avoid becoming a target, do not dress in expensive looking clothing with expensive jewelry. These items identify you as an affluent tourist and a potential victim. It is better to dress low key and try to blend in with the general population of the area you are visiting. Also try to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of the areas you plan to visit.

It is always best to travel light. You can move more quickly and will be more likely to have a free hand. A rolling bag with four wheels is an excellent option, especially if it is not too cumbersome. If you can carry all your bags you won’t have to set a bag down and leave it unattended. When packing, pick a few favorite items especially suited for travel. Wrinkle resistant garments with zipper pockets, especially designed for travel will be your first choice to wear. Always leave behind anything you would hate to lose. On a side note, phone chargers are the most commonly left behind item in hotel rooms. Make sure you take yours with you when you check out or any other time you use it during your travels.

Check with your airline regarding the cost, weight and number of bags you can check or carry on. Some airlines charge for every bag and some allow one checked bag for free. Space for carry-on bags is extremely limited on aircrafts and strict size limits are in place. A carry-on bag that is too big for the airlines bins may need to be checked for a fee. In most cases, any bag heavier than 50 pounds or larger than a certain size may incur a costly surcharge. Traveling light is good for your safety and good for your budget.

Dress appropriately for the airport. Screening techniques require you remove your shoes as well as any metal objects. All of this is done while your carry-on baggage is being x-rayed. It is a good idea to wear shoes which can easily be slipped on and off. Limit the amount of jewelry you wear, as all of this needs to be removed, placed in a basket and then put back on. This activity makes your items vulnerable to thieves. When traveling alone, you need to be extra vigilant about the whereabouts of your property.

Wearing practical shoes or sneakers is especially important while traveling.

Proper footwear makes it easier to speed up at the first sign of danger. While traveling, it is especially important to walk with a purpose and remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Stiletto heeled shoes might be nice to wear to go out to a party or a wedding but would be rather impractical in the event of an emergency landing. You don’t want to be the one poking a hole in the emergency slide.

Speaking on a cellphone, text messaging or wearing headphones with the volume turned up high makes it difficult for you to stay in touch with your surroundings.

Be aware of all regulations for required documents needed for the trip you plan to take. Leaving or reentering the country by plane in all cases requires a valid passport. Travel by auto, train or ship to certain destinations in Canada, Mexico and some islands allows the use of the enhanced driver’s license. Problems can arise if a change to your itinerary requires a flight added due to unforeseen circumstances.

Check with the state department before making travel plans to be sure your destination is safe for travel. Various conditions may cause recommendations to avoid travel to certain countries at certain times. Safety should always be a priority.

Make two photocopies of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you plan to bring. Carry one copy with you separate from the originals and leave one set home with a trusted friend or family member. Having these copies will be extremely helpful if your original documents are lost or stolen. Also leave a complete itinerary at home with friends or family.

Keep them informed if you change your plans.

Airline regulations allow liquid health and beauty products to only be 3 ounces or smaller to be allowed as carry-on baggage. Each passenger is allowed to carry on only one quart-sized Ziploc bag containing these individual liquid containers.

Many of these travel safe products are available in drug stores or discount stores.

By being aware of these restrictions, you can save yourself inconvenience at the gate and avoid having to discard your items. Expensive lotions and perfumes are

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

not exempt and are regularly confiscated and discarded at airport screening checkpoints. Anything you are not sure about should be packed in checked baggage.

Carry empty, 3-ounce containers with you in your carry-on in case someone in your group makes a packing error.

Be sure to keep all prescription medications in their original bottles with the label containing your name intact. It is also a good idea to carry an extra copy of essential prescriptions. Avoid the temptation to purchase or use any types of drugs while traveling abroad. Drug charges are responsible for more than one third of the U.S. citizens incarcerated abroad. Some countries have very severe sentences even for possession of a small amount of marijuana or cocaine. If you have any questions regarding foreign drug laws, check with the U.S. embassy or consulate.

It is best to check with the U.S. Department of State’s Country Specific Information before you book a trip to any foreign country at travel.state.gov. The site describes entry requirements, currency regulations, unusual health conditions, crime and security situations and other information so travels can make informed decisions about their trips. Certain countries may have a travel warning issued. It is best to know this information before you plan your trip.

When traveling, be sure to familiarize yourself (Continued on page 26)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

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

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

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Public Safety Blotter Dec. 8 to Dec. 14, 2019

Dec. 9 - 120 Asch Loop; 120 Benchley Place; 140 Alcott Place The above locations reported numerous deliveries from Amazon as stolen or missing. An investigation is ongoing. It is recommended persons ordering from Amazon have their items shipped to a nearby Amazon locker.

Dec. 10 - 120 Benchley Place A male received a Criminal Court Complaint Summons for smoking a marijuana cigarette in a staircase.

Once in custody, the male was discovered to be wanted in another investigation. He was released to the 44th Precinct.

Dec. 11 99 Earhart Lane A vehicle was broken into and various items, including the air bag, were reported missing. This matter is under investigation.

120 Einstein Loop A convector water line burst, flooding the rear lobby area.

Dec. 12 - 120 Casals Place Deliveries from Amazon were reported stolen from a location within this building.

Dec. 14 - 131 Einstein Loop A male was issued a Criminal Complaint Court Summons for public consumption of alcohol.

(More Opportunities on page 26)

8

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

500 Baychester Ave. continues to be a problem

Director’s Viewpoint

Rod Saunders

Second Vice President

For the past 30 days or so, I have been earnestly engaged with two issues that I consider to be of significant importance to cooperators.

The most immediate issue that I have been involved with is the rezoning of the property known as 500 Baychester Ave. from its current C7 zoning to the proposed C8-2 zoning district, and the newly erected “wind turbine” that was erected on the property in lieu of the advertising sign that the owner had fought for, and lost the decision at the NYC Board of Standards & Appeals (BS&A).

The City Planning Commission’s explanation for the rezoning change proposal has consistently revolved around the future erection of unwanted illuminated advertising signs and with the prospect of future residential development. Thus far, the courts have been unwilling to overturn the ruling of the Dept. of Buildings (DOB) regarding the sign’s proximity to the New England Thruway, an Arterial Highway, or the NYC Board of Standards & Appeals (BS&A) that voted to uphold the DOB’s objection to the location of the sign.

So, the bottom line regarding the need to rezone the corner property to a C8-2 zoning based upon prohibiting the erection of future unwanted illuminated advertising signs seems moot.

As I have previously informed cooperators in my viewpoints, and also reported in the Co-op City Times, the rezoning proposal will potentially allow for the installation or development of commercial uses that would not be acceptable to Co-op City residents. I gave an example by pointing out that under a C8-2 zoning district, it would be permissible to install or develop a crematorium for either animals or humans.

The Riverbay Board of Directors met and voted to reject the C8 rezoning proposal. Further, the Board approved sending a letter to Councilman Andy King opposing the rezoning proposal. The letter was written and signed by Riverbay Board President Linda Berk, and I, and immediately sent out to Councilman

Building 30 A & B Association

Our building association thanks everyone who contributed to the collection for the porters.

We collected $700, giving each porter $175.

Building annual holiday party Building 30 A and B Association will have its annual holiday gala today, Saturday, Dec. 21. The door to the association room will open at 6:30 p.m.

Music will be provided by Steve Robinson Sr. The party will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This is the season for many parties, so please don’t overindulge and stay safe.

For those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and new additions, congratulations.

Those under the weather, get well soon.

Those who have suffered a loss, our condolences.

—Linda Werner

Stay tuned … be sure to check out the new

Co-op City Times presentation on the Riverbay Crawler on Holiday Fire Safety. The video will air every three hours beginning at 9 a.m.

Access the Riverbay Crawler by tuning your television to channel 12 (MATV) or Channel 591 (Cablevision).

Andy King’s office. As of this writing, Councilman King’s office has not responded to the Riverbay Board’s letter.

The New York City Planning Commission has countered with the position that the proposal to develop a crematorium on that site would generate a host of permit requirements that might deter that type of use from ever occurring.

With the City preparing to build a new animal shelter, up and across the street from that property, the City would have no problem obtaining that permit!

Now, however, the City’s Planning Commission’s position seems to have pivoted in their need to rezone the property to the unwanted C8-2 district, from focusing on the illuminated advertising sign issue, to the need to eliminate the possibility of the potential development of residential housing on that site.

Somebody is not telling the Board, or cooperators, all we need to know! Again, our elected Council representative, Andy King, proposed this rezoning change, but has yet to confer with the Riverbay Board of Directors about our request to explain, and/or withdraw that recommendation.

Then on Dec. 11, 12 & 13, the existing large tubular base structure, put there on a permit that was intended for the proposed illuminated advertising sign, was extended several more stories in height, and fitted with four blades that are now poised to operate as a “wind turbine,” as reported in last week’s Co-op City Times.

The Board President and I, the Board’s legal counsel, and Management are all working together to ensure that the DOB holds the property owner accountable to making certain that the structure is in compliance with the NYC Building Code and their Building Bulletin (2011-004) covering wind turbines, as well as the NYC Council’s local law provisions, passed this year (L.L. 98-19).

Ongoing MTA Bus Routes & Scheduling There is an ongoing process of working with the MTA. That process includes a more definitive and agreeable routing and scheduling of the buses that will serve Co-op City. The current MTA scheduling of the express bus routes is, in my opinion, a politi-

cal one. Again, I want to emphasize that the MTA AdHoc Committee has discussed the MTA’s Final Bus Route proposal with a laser focus on our express bus service. I am confident that when the new routes are put into operation, that the MTA, Assemblyman Benedetto, our MTA Ad-Hoc Committee members, will have an express bus schedule that is acceptable to the residents of Co-op City.

Reaching Out to State Senator Jamaal Bailey The specific timing will be determined by the MTA (possibly spring – 2020). Additionally, in the Legislative Committee, we have reached out to our state senator, Jamaal Bailey, in an effort to jointly work with him in reaching out to other members of the State Senate, State Assembly, and the NYC Council.

The committee sent State Sen. Bailey a detailed letter asking that he considers formulating an advocacy group of elected representatives from communities that are interconnected by our transportation needs, the purpose of which is to advocate for more the better services.

To start with, State Sen. Bailey and several of his State Senatorial colleagues recently co-signed a letter to MTA CEO and Board chair, Patrick J. Foye, for the sole purpose of erecting more elevators for the subway stations that provide transportation to our communities, bus shelters for our riders, and dispatchers along the routes to ensure that our buses run on time and are properly spaced.

Working with Assemblyman Michael Benedetto on MTA Policing The Legislative Committee is also looking forward to working with Assemblyman Benedetto in addressing the MTA’s assignment of Transit/MTA police officers who are assigned to the Co-op City bus stops, and who have been alleged to have used policing procedures that are not consistent with treating Co-op City residents with the respect we deserve.

I will have an update on this very soon.

In closing, the entire Saunders family wishes everyone have a happy and joyous holiday week, and, of course a very healthy, prosperous and happy New Year!

I can be reached at rsaunders@riverbayboard.com.

Building 6 Association

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Our building has all-new Christmas decorations and a new, turning Christmas tree with a lot of new lights on it. We also have new lighted Christmas balls. We are going to have new lights on our bushes outside our building. We are going to have new stuff for Hanukkah. Getting everyone in the holiday spirt.

We finally got our second express elevators done in our building. They are starting to put in the new elevator on the local side.

—Jeffrey Schwartz

Building 10 Association

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

The Building 10 Association would like to wish all a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.

Thank you to all the volunteers who decorated the lobbies of Building 10.

The holiday season has begun. 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.

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

The Building 10 Association has a new email address, Building10Assoc @gmail.com. Please use the email to contact the building association with your concerns and suggestions.

We would like to wish all December babies, a very happy birthday.

To the homebound and sick, we wish you a speedy recovery.

To all who have lost a loved one recently, we give our deepest condolences.

Have a great week.

—Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Building 32 Association

Happy holidays, fellow co-operators!

I hope the season is treating you right and hasn’t been too hard on your pockets.

First off, I want to thank all the people who came out and volunteered to help decorate the A and B lobbies with all the holiday displays the previous two Saturdays. It couldn’t have gotten done without you. Special thanks to veteran decorators Joanne Evans and Doreathe Brundage for leading the way. Rochell ThomasSpringer and I lent a hand for the first time this year. Other thanks go out to Bill, Ms. Juice, David, John, Gayle, Jackie, Candy and Alfred. You were all awesome and should be proud of your work. We hope everyone appreciates the effort that went into beautifying the lobbies for the holidays. Hopefully, we’ll get your support next year!

Our next general meeting is tentatively scheduled for Jan. 21, 2020. A guest speaker has been scheduled. More information will be shared in the coming weeks.

We hope to see you there.

Lastly, how about making a New Year’s Resolution to become more involved with the Building 32 Association in 2020? We’d love to have your support and participation!

—Ezekiel Springer Jr.

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Building 27 Association

9

Hello, neighbors. The colorful fall leaves are falling. Enjoying the sudden cold weather, wrap-up accordingly.

Call center – Is it working for you? Like the idea of the call-you-back feature?

Census – The census survey will be taken in 2020. This is every 10 years. Perhaps a census workshop will be given here in Co-op City and they are also hiring. It is important each member of a household is counted, which, in turn, determines how political power and federal tax dollars are shared within the United States over the next 10 years. Census takers come to your door with a survey, a letter survey may come in the mail. I believe one will be able to take the census survey online. But, in any case, it is important we do not ignore or neglect to respond to the survey, so stay tuned.

Scammers – On that note, do not answer any questions over the phone; politely hang up your phone. The census could be used as a scammer’s tool, keep alert.

Thank you – Our neighbors showed up and out on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 5 and 6, to decorate all three lobbies of our building and for the collection of donations to express our appreciation of the work our porters, lobby attendants and postal clerk does. Our neighbors also were generous in their giving.

Let’s start with Building A: Ardell, Dawn, Mary P, Robert, Wanda, Diane and Nelson, special thanks to Daphine who provided refreshments, also Tamara who provided the holiday banner. Robert went up and down the ladder. Building B: Thalia, Sharon, Fred, Freddy, Mamie, Alvin and Hattie. Freddy hung the garlands to the ceilings, up and down the ladder, put the Christmas tree together in no time.

Alvin hung the wreath. Building C: our matriarch, Ms. Bea; Lillian, Beverly, Evelyn, Violetta and Mary P., Evelyn went up and down the ladder. By the way, Mary P. is Mary Pearson, Board director, she lent a hand in each building. This is how good things happen when we join in and help one another.

We are preparing for a welcome to the New Year gathering on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020. Stay tuned, fliers will be posted.

Happy birthday to all celebrating this month.

The best of health to all. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 to share news of an illness, or the passing of a neighbor.

Pray for peace among world leaders, now more than ever. Be kind, be thoughtful, be genuine, but most of all be thankful.

Wishing everyone a merry Christmas, and a happy and prosperous New Year.

—H. Overman

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 family.

Happy Chanukah, merry Christmas, feliz Navidad, happy Kwanzaa, etc., to all our friends and neighbors.

Please see our lobby bulletin boards for photo arrays of our fourth annual Yearend Celebration. If one picture says 1,000 words, our photo array speaks volumes about our building association.

My apology to Evelyn Mavins who was not notified of the collection schedule change in a timely manner.

My thanks to executive board member Shirley Wells for taking on additional responsibility during the building staff collection period.

Thank you to all the 2019 building staff collection volunteer team: Wanda Rodriguez, Shirley Wells, Gwen Anderson, Wanda Randall, Janice Rosario, Barbara Cloud, Jackie Lattie, Gabriella Concepcion, Shirley Johnson, Shirley McCann, Linda Holley, Janet Yarrell, Rosemary Bailey, Evelyn Mavins, Dinora Tirado and Pamela Small.

At the time of this writing, our lobby decorating committee was scheduled to commence work this week. Irma Vega decorated the 9A lobby tree.

The Building 9 Association Executive Board’s bi-annual election will be held in January 2020. According to our bylaws, eligibility for nomination and/or voting privileges for nominated candidates in the Building 9 Association election is dependent upon the following criteria: * Must be a dues-paying member of the Building 9 Association in each of the most recent two membership years * Must attend at least three Building 9 Association membership meetings in each of the most recent two membership years * One vote per household The 2020 Building 9 Association Election Committee has been appointed and has convened to establish, validate and certify the 2020 nomination/voter roster.

The 2020 election roster has been reviewed and approved. The January 2020 Building 9 Association meeting will be held for the sole purpose of conducting the election. All other Building 9 Association business will be conducted beginning February 2020.

Our Rivers Run Community Garden member Mercedes Sanchez was a composting award recipient, at the New York Botanical Gardens, on Wednesday, Dec. 11. Community Garden members Linda Collins, Linda Holley, Vivian Burrus, Florence, Yvonne, Marie, Denise, Gail and others were on hand to cheer on Mercedes. After the award ceremony, we were invited to attend the NYBG annual Train Show. It is not just for kids.

Thank you to the Spanish American Club of Co-op City for the wonderful raffle prize. It will be put to very good use.

Please remember to congratulate our neighbor, Bryant Lewis, on his most recent successful artistic collaboration. Big talent, big dreams, big rewards!

“A lie doesn’t become truth, wrong doesn’t become right and evil doesn’t become good, just because it’s accepted by the majority.” –Booker T. Washington —Linda Collins

10

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Merry and Bright Holidays Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson Secretary Winter Solstice arrives today.

Every day, from the first day of summer to the last day of autumn, we lose a few minutes of daylight. No one notices at first, for the first three months or so, because it happens so slowly. That slo-mo darkening abruptly stops today, and still no one will notice for weeks. Mother Nature’s dimmer switch has reached rock bottom, finally. She enjoys all her beautiful darkness for a moment then she brings back the light, a few minutes a day, straight through the winter to the last day of spring.

It’s one of Mother Nature’s little compensations making up for throwing us into the deep freeze. At least she keeps the refrigerator light on a bit longer.

Ancient peoples worried as winter approached and the daylight hours diminished. Naturally, they thought the sun was dying, little by little, piece by piece, day by day. Turn on the light! That’s what all these early winter holidays are about. That’s the common reason for the season: lights and reveling and happy noise making aimed at chasing away the darkness. And each year, it works like a charm. Gathering with loved ones, family, friends and neighbors at this time of year fortifies us for the long, cold winter ahead.

But oy! This week holds a lot of holidays. Solstice! Hannukah! Christmas! Kwanzaa! Back to back to back to back. Whew!! Good ChriSticeKwanUka holiday, everybody! I wish you and yours boundless joyful days.

I’m Making a List and…

No, not a shopping list. I’m making an Election District list. Early Voting was instituted for the first time this year. It worked great, but for some Co-op City residents, the Early Voting poll site at Truman High was less than an ideal location. Election Day poll sites are still in a state of flux. I’m trying to help settle things.

Co-op City residents have voted in the same place year after year and decade after decade – up until last

voters who also use our poll sites. It wouldn’t hurt to year. I do believe it’s time to go back to the good old keep those poll site revenues right here in our own days of 2017, and get out of Truman and Disney (the bank account either! Here’s hoping we can simplify johnny-come-lately school poll site locations we’ve voting in Co-op City and all of AD82. been voting in recently). There’s actually a city-wide Do You Hear What I Hear? clamor to get the poll sites out of the schools. Our * Placard abuse ending soon in our cul de sacs?

Scheduling Department is on it and I’m sorting through The City Council recently passed several bills the 40 Election Districts (EDs) jammed within our cracking down on placard abuse. I’ll tell you all about boundaries – one more time. it next week.

Our complicated layout is complicated more so by * BxM7 rolling along? the numerical — not geographical — assignment of I went to an MTA outreach at Community Board ED #s to our buildings. Our 15 Towers and 10 Chevrons are assigned one ED # each. They’re okay. 11 on Dec. 10. The presenters stressed that the express It’s the Triple Cores that are the trouble makers. Two buses are still being closely re-examined. They said parts of each of our 10 Triple Cores have the same they’ve had enormous numbers of complaints and are ED # but the third part shares a different ED number still accepting comments. Go to mta.info/customerwith who knows who. feedback or call them at 511. When prompted, say, Well it just so happens that I know who because “subways and buses” and then “comments and concerns” I’ve made those lists before in my volunteer GOTV to connect with a customer service agent. Tell your neighbors to call to preserve our express bus service!! (get out the vote) capacity. * Paying for the privilege of being inconvenienced?

Election Districts have little meaning to us, the voter, Now that the Q50 schedule is being cut back to now that the new streamlined e-book voting system is in place. Each e-Poll book stores all 40 of our ED commuter peak times, off peak riders may fear havaddresses in it. Our new voter cards don’t even note ing to pay an extra fare. It’s written in the FINAL plan our specific EDs or our common AD on them. (Our that that is not so. We knew last week. This week you common Assembly District is AD82, by the way.) can hear it from the horse’s mouth on YouTube. Start With three 2020 Election Days coming up (April at MTA info’s home page. Click NEWS to find the News & Events page. Under MTA Headquarters click 28, June 23, and Nov 3) we’re hoping to move Early Board & Committee Meetings. Scroll to Archive. Click Voting into one of our community centers, someplace Videos. Find the Bronx BxBNR Digital Open House more easily gotten to than Truman High. I’m also hoping our seven current Election Day poll sites can — 12/12/2019 video. Thirty minutes in (at 32:32 to be scaled back down to three, as it was in the past— be exact) hear MTA President Andy Byford say: No one each in Dreiser, Bartow, and Einstein. The e-book rider should have to — no rider will pay – an additional transfer fare as a result of the Bronx Bus Netsystem requires less space and could eliminate the work Redesign. You can quote me on that. need to utilize those two schools and a nearby church Happy, Merry, everything, everybody. as additional poll sites next go ‘round.

You can reach me by voice or text at 718-219-2211 The main aim is to make voting as convenient as or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com. possible for our residents as well as the nearby

Co-op City Public Safety Dept.

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Happy Holidays!

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Coalition of African American Churches and Community Organizations

The Coalition of African-American Churches and Community Organizations of Co-op City’s next general membership meeting will be held Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020, at noon in the Dreiser Community Center, room 15. We are requesting all members to please attend. Please watch this column for further information. It is important that two representatives are sent from each organization to attend all Coalition meetings.

Our annual Kwanzaa celebration will be held Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, at 3 p.m. in the Bartow Community Center, room 31, 2049 Bartow Ave., featuring Brother Bob Law, radio broadcaster, filmmaker, small business owner and national political activist. Also: Kwanzaa ceremony, vendors, African dancing and the Karamu Feast. Refreshments will be served. All are welcome.

The Coalition members attending the Kwanzaa celebration are requested to bring a offering of a large main dish of food, no pork, please; juice or dessert, etc. to share with others. Please contact the president to advise her what your food offering will be. Also, traditional African attire should be worn, although it is not mandatory. Your attendance and participation are required to make this family cultural festivity a success. The Coalition wishes everyone a happy holiday and prosperous new year.

Please inform the Coalition of any suggestions you may have. Ms. Virginia Stewart is the president of the Coalition. Phone number: 718-671-4506.

The Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life of cooperators while providing educational and culturally enriching programs for the community. We also act as one voice for all Coalition members where there are issues of common concern and human rights. We also sponsor the Friends & Family Day Celebration, and the annual Kwanzaa celebration events, both events are free for the community. Members of the Coalition include the following: African-American Association; Co-op City Baptist Church; Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; NAACP, Co-op City Branch; St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church, American Legion Post 1871 and Faith at Work Christian Church.

Churches and organizations that desire to join the Coalition may apply for membership by calling 718-671-4506 or 718-671-9610 for membership application, which should be returned with a letter on your church/organization’s letterhead and signed by the minister/president. Read the Coalition’s weekly column for information about events and issues.

Remember, the Calition’s motto is, “Coming together is the beginning, keeping together is progress and working together is success.”

—Harman T. Leacock

Building 22 A&B Association

Happy holidays to all. Our last meeting for 2019 was celebrated with surprise refreshments of finger foods and a toast of eggnog. The minutes were read and seconded. Thank you for your generous contributions to the porters and lobby attendant. Member dues are $5 per apartment.

January dates for collection will be posted on the bulletin board.

Keep March 14, 2020, on your calendar. We are going to Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino. Give backs will be posted later. Holiday season is here. Please be alert. The key fobs were given out on the ‘B’ side in the association room Wednesday and Thursday. If you didn’t get yours, you must go to CSO 2, room 22, in the Bartow Center, Monday through Saturday – check the Co-op City Times.

Happy birthday to all. Prayers to all who lost loved ones. Get well greeting to all the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something.

—Betty Leak

National Council of Negro Women

Holiday social Our second holiday social at Londel’s Restaurant on Saturday, Dec. 14, was enjoyed by all! In addition to the delicious food, we had fun playing party games with great prizes, dancing and even singing to our committee chairperson, DeBorah Gadsden, who was too ill to attend. We were pleased to hear that Londel’s will be closed for a few months in 2020 for renovation. We are already looking forward to our holiday social in 2020 in an even more beautiful ambiance.

Merry Christmas This is the time of year when we are all called upon to reflect on blessings we have received not of our own making. As we give gifts and good wishes to others, we are reminded of the great gift who was given to all more than 2,000 years ago. We wish all our neighbors and friends of the Co-op City community love and hope for the future and especially good health in 2020.

Every time a hand reaches out To help another – that is Christmas Every time someone puts anger aside

11

And strives for understanding That is Christmas Every time people forget their differences

And realize their love for each other That is Christmas May this Christmas bring us Closer to the spirit of human understanding Closer to the blessing of peace!

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

—Joyce Howard

Donizetti Building 4 Association

The Donizetti Building 4 Association would like to wish everyone seasons greetings and a healthy, happy New Year.

Meeting Police Chief Joseph Riley was the guest speaker at our Dec. 12 general meeting. He gave us an update on the many responsibilities of his officers, which included how they patrol areas, follow up on reports and phone calls. He encouraged everyone to call and report unusual activities or trafficking in stairwells and around the buildings. He emphasized the No. 1 safety rule; do not open the lobby door for anyone you do not know; it is the one time to be rude. Cooperators complained about the shortage of officers and lobby attendants. As a triple-core building, we have had only two lobby attendants for more than two years. Chief Riley made us aware there is a plan to advertise for more lobby attendants.

Chief Riley also addressed complaints that cooperators encountered during a flood situation in the B building from the 10th floor down to and including the basement due to a busted pipe. This resulted in elevators being shut down and prevented anyone from accessing the staircases. Safety issues included limited information from safety officers, the number of safety and maintenance personnel on hand, poor lighting on roof during building cross-over. This incident is another example that clearly indicates a shortage of much needed safety officers.

The chief will give us a follow-up later as to our other inquiries.

Special thanks to Diane Windley for manning the meeting room which became the shelter-in-place location for more than three hours. Cooperators, including seniors and young children, were able to sit, refrigerate their groceries, house their shopping carts, carriages and other personal items. They were also able to have water, hot coffee, tea or cocoa and view TV while awaiting clearance to their apartments from safety.

Our next meeting will be Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, at 7:30 p.m. in the association room in rear of Building 4B lobby. Bring a neighbor and join the conversation.

Activities We are planning a New Year’s gathering Dec. 31, 2019, starting 9 p.m. until Jan. 1, 2020, ending 1:00 a.m. There will be food, games, music, Karaoke and lots of fun. All family members in 4A, B and C are invited but you must bring a dish or $5. Welcome the New Year in with someone; no need to be alone.

Other activities for 2020 have been discussed and will continue to be discussed at next meeting.

E-mail Need to contact the association? Be aware the following resources are available. Attend meetings, read Co-op City Times newspaper, check lobby bulletin boards and communicate with neighbors. Newly established is an email account specifically set up as per the request of some of our cooperators. It will enable all building shareholders and others to communicate and receive information. The email address is as follows: Donizettibldg4assoc@gmail.com.

Congratulations to those celebrating a birthday or other special occasion in December and January. Enjoy the holidays and share it with others!

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

—Yvonne Burrus

12

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson

Our Goal is to Get Rid of That Pole

Previously, a developer erected a tremendous pole with extremely bright lights at 500 Baychester Avenue.

Then, our community along with our politicians forced him to pull the plug on those bright lights. But, now, he’s back and ready for round two.

Round Two On February 27, 2018, a busload of cooperators went down to the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) offices at 22 Reade Street in Manhattan to provide testimony against a proposed 9,000 square foot electronic billboard at 500 Baychester Avenue, near the 7-eleven store. According to a March 3, 2019 article in the Co-op City Times, this billboard was supposed to be placed on top of a 19-foot pole.

Then, amazingly, the developer, Baychester Retail LLC, allegedly stated that only one illuminated sign was going to be placed onto this pole. But, that statement was contested. Thereafter, allegations were made that the billboard was actually going to contain 54 signs, 27 on each side. Additionally, according to this same article, an attorney for the Department of Buildings testified that this sign is “only 125 feet from the fenced off part of the New England Thruway and thus illegal.”

Cooperators then offered testimony that the original billboard at this location was blasting bright lights into their apartments. In fact, testimony was offered that those bright lights were affecting their ability to sleep, and they were causing disruptions in their apartments. “We have never experienced what is going on now in Co-op City. Every ten seconds, it changes. I see the lights from the other side of the community,” according to a cooperator from building 12. (Building 12 is near the Peartree Mall.)

Then, after a vote against the developer, the BSA chairperson announced: “Appeal denied.” The chairperson then stated that the developers have the option

of bringing that denial into the state Supreme Court.

And, that brings us to this current showdown.

According to the Co-op City Times, the developers have started stacking up tremendous poles to create a “wind turbine.” And, now, lots of people are furious over this “monstrosity.” So, will this project get stopped? Court action? New zoning regulations? New state legislation? It’s too early to say. But, we’re going to do our best to win this fight.

Tremendous Holiday Sales A lot of stores were packed out during the recent Thanksgiving weekend. However, lots of people decided to stay home and do their shopping online.

And, here are the amounts of money that they spent online on Thanksgiving Day, Black Friday, and on Cyber Monday in the U.S. Online shoppers spent $4.2 billion just on Thanksgiving Day. Then, they spent $7.4 billion on Black Friday. Thereafter, online sales skyrocketed on Cyber Monday to $9.4 billion.

Overall, retail numbers will change drastically when you look at the amount of money that is spent during the entire holiday season. For instance, several analysts have predicted that overall sales in the United States just during this holiday season will exceed $1 trillion.

Now, you might see a lot of brick and mortar stores closing down in several locations and even in our community. However, does that mean that people are not spending money? No! It might mean that a lot of shoppers are tired of driving to stores, waiting in traffic, fighting with people in the stores, and waiting on long lines.

So, smart retailers have recognized these issues.

Thereafter, they created powerful websites that can handle a lot of online sales. And, now, they can survive and generate a tremendous amount of money just from their online operations. Moreover, they know how to keep their money.

For instance, online retailer Amazon made more than $11 billion in profits in 2018. Now, take a guess how much they paid in federal taxes on this money?

Shockingly, they paid $0 in federal taxes on these profits. Plus, get this, they received a $129 million

Building 13 Association

Our wish for Christmas and Hanukkah Building 13 would like to wish a happy holiday season to all. Hanukkah or Chanukah — however you know it — is almost upon us for 2019. The traditional celebration of the Jewish wintertime festival of lights involves a nightly menorah lighting for eight nights, Hanukkah Sameach.

“Christmas comes at a time of the year when the blessings during this season are filled with wanting to wish and engage the whole world in a conspiracy of love.”

–Hamilton Wright Mabie Youth holiday party The youth holiday party is happening today, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2019, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Please check the bulletin board for additional information.

Adult holiday party The Building 13 adult holiday party is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Come and have some fun at our annual After and Before Holiday Celebration — after Christmas but before the New Year. Dance to the sounds of DJ Val. Donations of dishes are appreciated. If you will be donating a dish, please let us know. We thank you in advance.

Reminders Our next building meeting will be held

Thursday, Jan. 23, 2020, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. We have special guests attending so save the date. Check the bulletin board or additional information The 12th District servicing Co-op City is having a ball Jan. 1, 2019, at the Eastwood Manor. The event begins with 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. cocktail hour and ends at midnight.

During the renovation period, you can pick up your Co-op City Times from the lobby. Thank for your cooperation and patience.

Last Saturday’s session of Women Keeping It Real met Dec. 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the association room, inspiring our sisters to walk the walk and talk the talk, confidently. We welcomed new members. You must be 18 and over to participate.

“The New Year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written.”

–Melody Beattie We are located at: 100 Casals Place, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370 or dadd peterson@aol.com, or Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801. Our website is bldg13 assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@ yahoo.com.

Thanks for making our team work.

—Leslie Peterson

tax rebate check from the federal government. Amazing, huh?

Irresponsible Package Deliveries Without a care in the world, some drivers are simply dropping off packages in our lobbies. They don’t ring anyone’s intercom or knock on their door. Everything is just dropped in the lobby. Thereafter, anyone can unlawfully take a package that does not belong to them.

So, in my opinion, a company should never allow their workers to simply drop off packages at any place that they want. Now, on the other hand, no one has a legal right to steal a package. “Oh, I saw that package over there and I thought that anyone could take it.” No! That’s just complete nonsense. Look, let’s get this straight: If you take a package that does not belong to you, then you stole that package. Period!

Don’t make a guess about anything. This type of conduct is known as theft. And, theft is a crime in NY. But, now, it’s time that we step up and put a stop to this foolishness. Question: What are you going to do if you’re home and your package is simply dropped off on the lobby floor? No one notified you about that delivery. Going further, how would you feel if your package was delivered and it was stolen from the lobby floor? This is bad business. Therefore, please consider having your packages delivered to a retailer’s locker, your job, or to a trusted location. This way, you can retrieve your packages without any problems.

Close I hope that everyone will enjoy this holiday season in a responsible way. So, please remember to not drink and drive.

Thank you.

Questions or comments? Please send a letter to Daryl H. Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475/ Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me.

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

Thank you.

Building 2A/2B Association

Happy holidays, neighbors!

Happy Hanukkah, merry Christmas and happy Kwanza. Whatever winter holiday you celebrate, we wish you and yours a holly, jolly holiday and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Thank you to Sonia Feliciano, Riverbay Board treasurer, who was the guest speaker at our Dec. 10 general membership meeting. Ms. Feliciano also chairs the Building and Grounds Committee and serves as the secretary to the 45 Precinct Council. She presented an excellent overview of current Riverbay projects. Those in attendance were able to express our displeasure and concerns regarding the bump-like ramp that was installed in our laundry room. Hopefully, our concerns will be addressed, and this ramp will be replaced with a user-friendly ramp.

Holiday decorations Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and talents to decorating our lobbies for the holidays. You did an amazing job and our lobbies look beautiful.

Holiday collections Thank you to everyone who volunteered to sit in the lobbies to collect the holiday donations for our hardworking building staff.

Holiday party Our building’s holiday party will be held Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the association room. Additional information regarding the holiday party will be posted in the building lobbies.

Cheers to those celebrating a birthday or other celebratory event during the month of December.

We extend a hearty welcome to our new neighbors.

Speedy recovery to our homebound and sick neighbors and our heartfelt condolences to those who have suffered a loss.

Our next meeting is scheduled to be held Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020, at 7 p.m. in the association room behind Building 2B. We hope to have a guest speaker at this meeting. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend this meeting.

—Georgianna Rodriguez

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

African American Association

Help us make 2020 the best year ever for the AAA. The next gathering of the AAA will be Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2019. Note: The change of date — i.e., usually every third Monday — is due to the celebration of Martin Luther King Day. Join us in room 15 of the Dreiser Center at 7 p.m.

Pictured above, from left are AAA executive staffers Cynthia Dixon, Georgette

Section 4 Partnership

The Section 4 Partnership Christmas parade float extravaganza They came from all sections, from young to forever young! They convened in the gathering room at Building 21. They warmed their vocal chords with hot chocolate and cider; filled their tummies with seasonal delights. They rode off into the community wishing all a good night! The Section 4 Partnership Christmas parade float extravaganza went off without a hitch. Sponsored by, Congressman Eliot Engel, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Amalgamated Bank, Bartow Liquors, The Riverbay Fund, Dunkin Donuts and The Section 4 Building Associations, the float traveled around the entire Co-op City community spreading joy and promoting unity in our community.

Making an important and positive impact Help us continue this positive effort and reap the benefits of a united community. You are already an important member of this team. You are a shareholder.

You don’t have to live in Section 4. The Section 4 Partnership is making an important impact on the community of Co-op City each time we show up for events like Pioneer Day, the MTA rallies, July 3 fireworks, Hoops and Beats, The Ice Cream Social, the grand opening of the Section 4 basketball courts and other notable events, meetings and gatherings.

About the Section 4 Partnership The Section 4 Partnership is comprised of every building in Co-op City that make up the sectional geographic which is referred to as Section 4 — Building 20, Asch Loop; Building 21, Bellamy Loop; Building 22, Co-op City City Boulevard; Buildings 23, 24 and 25, Benchley Place, the Adler Place Townhouses, the Asch Loop Townhouses and the Broun Place Townhouses. Come and get involved. Let’s show up! Let’s get it done!

Email: section4partnership@gmail.com.

Phone: 347-915-4939.

—Michelle Marbury See page 5 for pictures from the float.

13

Moyé, Michelle Marbury, Kevin Lambright, Francine Reva Jones, Marita Taylor and Laverne Hugine. We look forward to seeing you with a friend and new member prospect. Membership is only $15/year for a single membership and only $25/year for your household.

Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call us at 929-430-3255, The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

The AAA sponsors the following programs for your participation: Belly dance classes Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, room 2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. Call Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening line dance classes with Cynthia Dixon Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music on Thursdays, 7 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room 2; also first and third Tuesdays in Einstein Center, Section 5, 6 p.m. Fees are minimal. Call Cynthia, 917-903-7073.

Salsa class Saturdays 10:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop, room 1. Call Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga and Zumba Classes with Meena, Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. in Dreiser Center, room 2.

—Michelle Marbury

Building 25 Association

Building 25 Association decorated its lobby to help neighbors get into the holiday spirits, but Mother Nature decorated a tree on the greenway with an icy display to help all get into the holiday spirits.

Merry Christmas!

Look out for the date when our holiday party takes place. Notices will be posted near the elevators, we usually host the party after the holidays, possibly the Saturday after New Year’s Day, but, again, the date will be posted near the elevators as soon as it’s decided.

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

—Wanda Bailey

Co-op Insurance

14

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

The Wright Agency: Serving Co-op City for 38 Years!

Riverbay Requires Current Co-op Shareholders to Obtain Coverage!

Your Co-op is an Investment Worth Protecting!

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

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

• Guest medical protection • Certain personal liabilities

• Theft Coverage • And so much more!

Other Li nes o f Insu rance: • Auto • Homeowners • Life

Lo w Ra te s Fo r T h e E n t i r e Ye a r !

Licensed Staff

Not Pictured:

Nichola Ferguson Licensed Insurance Agent

Lawrence Newkirk Life Insurance Specialist

Albert Issifu Licensed Insurance Agent

America Borda Licensed Insurance Agent

Polly Heckstall Sr. Account Representative

Sandra Goldsmith Licensed Insurance Agent

The Wright Agency

Anthony Wright Agency Owner

FREE NOTARY SERVICE FOR ALL CO-OP CITY RESIDENTS!

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

Hours: Monday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

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

1435 East Gun Hill Road (near Eastchester Road)

718-671-8000 Call Us Today!

Courteous Staff!

Convenient Hours!

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

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16

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Happy Holidays (Silent Night) Director’s Viewpoint

Jerome L. Rice I want to take this opportunity to thank all those I both agreed and disagreed with for the betterment of this community. I want to wish both you and your family a happy and safe holiday. Let us all be mindful that we are chosen to not only make a difference in someone’s daily life, but to do the right thing. I want to congratulate Leandra and Tamara filling in for Michelle and keeping Co-op City number #1. Big shout-out to Management, particularly Danielle O’Connor, Warren Mitchell and all the CSO offices on their rapid response to our various concerns, and of course CCPD who keeps us all safe, so we all can sleep good at night.

Politics and the Press #19-51 & #19-54 Many have reached out to me in regards to my views on viewpoints. I refuse to use the terminology “fake news.” It is simple – my views should be mine and nobody else. In my opinion, the shareholders should know both sides of an argument and why someone voted another way. I do agree that once any resolution

is passed that we should both respect and adhere to it.

However, I also believe that the shareholders have the right to know why I voted differently. Viewpoints are not designed to attack anyone, but to inform the shareholders what is actually going on either in our community or on the Board in real time. Look at it this way, something is wrong if you pick up the CCTimes and everything is great. In my opinion, I believe that Resolution #19-51 is more designed to either silence or prevent others from revealing what is really going on.

On another note, there is another resolution #19-51 that is designed to require directors to serve on a committee. So let’s get this straight, this resolution, if passed, could result in requiring a director in a committee with limited experience which would not be in the best interests of both the Board and the community. This resolution reminds me of the first resolution I voted against, which called for a penalty on any shareholder who doesn’t participate in the voting of Board directors. So, I am also against this resolution. Finally, if shareholders want to see if we are really getting along, request all Board meetings to be open to the public, this way you don’t need a newspaper, you can both see it and hear it for yourself. Much more has to be done on viewpoints. In my opinion, if you have nothing to hide, what

Working Families of Co-op City

December Meeting Was Canceled Instead of arriving at a fiscally responsible plan, We’re too busy protesting and partying. See you thanks to the Commission, the taxpayer might end up in 2020! subsidizing incumbents, not contenders, to the tune of Tomorrow’s Deadline $100,000,000 a year. Yes. One hundred million dollars.

NYS legislators tried to work out a way to get big Several Representatives sent a letter to the NY state money out of our elections. They failed. Governor legislature in support of small donations and the WFP Cuomo put together a Public Campaign Financing right to exist. (See the @RepEliotEngel tweet of Nov. Commission to tackle the job. Their results are unac26 for full details.) ceptable.

From what I’ve been told, the state Senate is against the changes, but the Assembly is not eager to reject The Commission came up with a decent moneythe new, anti-democratic rules. If the Commission’s matching system and somewhat lowered big donanew rules aren’t overruled legislatively by Dec. 22, tions, but did they stop there? Noooo. First they tried they automatically go into effect. The Commission’s banning fusion voting (to disallow a candidate to appear on more than one party line). Big protests — decision package is from practically everyone, including our federal Dembeing referred to as a ocratic legislators — followed. The ban failed on “poison pill.” The legisNYS constitutional grounds. The Commission then lators can’t cut out just tried killing the Working Families Party slowly. one unfair part; they Currently, a party can petition itself onto the balmust pass it whole or lot once every four years with 15,000 uncontested reject it whole. And they signatures. That party must receive 50,000 votes on must decide to act before Dec. 22. its line to remain on the ballot – exempt from petitioning – for the next three years.

Time has all but run With the new rules, a party needs 45,000 valid sigout. Tell the NY Assemnatures every two years to get on the ballot and needs bly answering machines 130,000 votes – or 2% of the total number of votes cast that stacking the deck fur(whichever is greater) – on their party’s line to stay on. ther in the incumbents’ When it’s a gubernatorial year, 130,000 is usually favor in these uber-active more than 2% of the number of total votes. But in a grassroots times just presidential year, satisfying that 2% requirement is might backfire on them. close to impossible.

Call Assembly Speaker

is all the fuss? Why are there so many resolutions designed to silence you than to be transparent? When I first ran for this Board, I fought for transparency, and I intend to live up to my promise.

Clear Glass I am proud to see the clear glass stored on every staircase door. This was something I fought for during my time serving on the Public Safety Committee.

The clear glass is designed to expose and identify anyone hanging out in the staircases. The average person engaging in some form of criminality doesn’t want to be identified. There is still more to be done for this community.

Since-Us During the month of January 2020, everyone in the community needs to complete the Census information. Why? Because we need the money to continue to pour into our community. So please answer the door when they knock, they are not from Immigration or are they there to see if you are subletting. Everyone needs to be counted for. There are several ways to be counted for, the first is in public, 2nd online or via mail. So don’t make excuses; please make a way so that our community can be fully counted for. The Census also determines who represents us in Washington.

Carl Heastie at 718-654 6539 and Assemblyman Michael Benedetto at 718-892-2235 and tell those answering machine to tell those legislators to: “Play fair! The Public Campaign Financing Commission has totally failed its mission. Scrap the whole deal and take it up again next session.”

Our Mission In essence, the mission of Working Families Co-op City is to promote tolerance and end second-class citizenship. Stand with this group.

Info? Email mpjazz@optonline.net and/or text 718-219-2211.

—Mary Pearson

Resolutions

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019 (Continued from page 6)

First Reading - Resolution #19-65

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: December 18, 2019

WHEREAS, Riverbay sent out requests for proposals to eleven qualified companies to provide the renovations of four (4) Public Bathrooms in the Bartow Community Center; and WHEREAS, Riverbay received five (5) qualified proposals that were reviewed by the Project Architect and Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Architect and Project Manager reviewed the bids and recommend XYLO Corp., as the lowest responsible bidder (recommendations attached); and WHEREAS, the cost of the project will not exceed $533,100.00. We are also requesting a 10% contingency for any unforeseen issues for this project ($53,310); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #3407 with XYLO Corp. for a not to exceed total of $533,100.00 plus 10% contingency ($53,310.00) be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

Second Reading - Resolution #19-57

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright SECONDED BY: Claudia Sampson BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: December 18, 2019

WHEREAS, On 5/10/17 the Board awarded Contract #P1014, via resolution # 17-07, to RJB Distribution Corp. for the Distribution of the Co-op City Times; and WHEREAS, On 7/24/19 the Board tabled proposed contract 3348 for the Distribution of the Co-op City Times; and WHEREAS, management requests that the Board approve change order #1 in the amount of $60,500.00 (see attached memo) in order to continue funding RJB Distribution pending the establishment of an in-house distribution network including the selection of appropriate newspaper bins; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Change Order # 1 in the amount of $60,500.00 for Contract #P1014 with RJB Distribution Corp. be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Sampson, Saunders ABSENT: Rice, Richardson, Rosario PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #19-60

SUBMITTED BY: Linda Berk SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: December 18, 2019

WHEREAS, the IT Department will be starting a project to upgrade Riverbay’s current aging Cisco network infrastructure, disaster recovery install and firewall upgrades; and WHEREAS, Cisco has recommended we use our prior vendor, ePlus, to replace and install new hardware to upgrade the network infrastructure for security purposes (see attached); and WHEREAS, IT has created a disaster recovery plan to backup data for the Dreiser mall which will include core Flexpod servers and Netapp shelves that will be located in a large closet in the call center; and WHEREAS, two firewalls are to be added to the data center and the power plant that will protect the infrastructure and allow for secure communications via a private tunnel; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager is requesting we contract with ePlus ($1,605,674.24) and CDW ($254,772.44) for the undertaking of this project (recommendation attached) at a total cost of $1,860,446.68; and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #3454 with ePlus and CDW for a contract total of $1,860,446.68 be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Sampson, Saunders ABSENT: Rice, Richardson, Rosario PASSED

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Second Reading - Resolution #19-54

SUBMITTED BY: Francine Reva Jones SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: December 18, 2019

WHEREAS, The Board appoints committees to carry out specified duties with at least one member of the Board of Directors appointed to such committee; and WHEREAS, Committees are subject to rules, regulations and resolutions adopted by the Board of Directors; and WHEREAS, The supporters of this resolution believe it would be equitable to require that each Board Member serve either on a Chair, co-Chair or member of at least one committee.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That each Board Member is required to serve either on a Chair, co-Chair or member of at least one committee; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution will take effect immediately following the 2020 Board elections.

YES: Jenkins, Jones, Lambright, Marbury, Sampson, Saunders NO: Cylich, Johnson, Leslie, ABSTAIN: Berk, Feliciano, Pearson ABSENT: Rice, Richardson, Rosario DEFEATED

Second Reading - Resolution #19-59 (Revised) SUBMITTED BY: Bernie Cylich SECONDED BY: Claudia Sampson BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: December 18, 2019

WHEREAS, The Power Plant maintains a Long Term Service Agreement (LTSA) with Siemens Energy for the repair and maintenance of two Siemens Combustion Turbine Generators; and WHEREAS, the Regulatory Agreement between HUD and Riverbay requires that Riverbay maintains a LTSA “at all times;” and WHEREAS, The existing LTSA expires in January 2020 and the parties have negotiated pricing for a new ten year repair and maintenance LTSA at an initial yearly cost of $1,518,472 with an annual escalation based on the Consumer Price Index; and WHEREAS, Management recommends that the Board approve this LTSA with Siemens to ensure the economical supply of electricity and steam utility for Co-op City. See attached November 13, 2019 memorandum from Anthony Ligato and Bill May; and WHEREAS, Prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED, That the Siemens LTSA at an initial yearly cost of $1,518,472 with annual escalations based on the Consumer Price Index for a term of ten years is approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the President is hereby authorized to execute the Agreement and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Sampson, Saunders ABSENT: Rice, Richardson, Rosario PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #19-61

SUBMITTED BY: Claudia Sampson SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: December 18, 2019

WHEREAS, Riverbay sent out requests for proposals to eleven qualified companies to provide up to code compliance for the “Public Assembly” regulations in the 3 community centers; and WHEREAS, Riverbay received two (2) qualified proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Architect and the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Architect and Project Manager reviewed the bids and recommend Durablis Solutions, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder (recommendations attached); and WHEREAS, the cost of the project will not exceed $731,093.00. We are also requesting a 10% contingency for any unforeseen issues for this project ($73,109.30); and WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution no Director has disclosed to the full Board any conflict of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract #3381 with Durablis Solutions, Inc for a not to exceed total of $731,093.00 plus 10% contingency ($73,109.30) be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Sampson NO: Lambright, Saunders ABSENT: Rice, Richardson, Rosario (More Resolutions on page 18) PASSED

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Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Happy 50th Anniversary, fellow shareholders

loved ones. No global policy or community action can effectively protect our children. We need tactics for our families that will have an impact at the time and place they are needed. Remember, you do not have to be paranoid to be prepared. Be aware of what is going on in your community. Don’t think “it won’t It’s hard to believe that Christmas is almost here happen to me.” It has happened to many families and kudos to those who have turned tragedy into valiant, already – where did this year go! triumphant attempts to help others.

Each year that passes seems to have its own char• Pay attention to who lives around you. acter – there are always challenges, and maybe a • Be involved in their daily lives. You can trust low point here and there, often, they are liberally your child and give them freedom while still being sprinkled with many highlights which bring joy and engaged and involved. gladness. As I look back over these past twelve • It is ok, you are not being a “helicopter parent.” months, I know that it has been about as full a year • Know what to look for if you come across a as I can remember. In this busy time of year, I encourage you to take a few minutes to count your blessvictim. You may come across someone who is being ings. We all have so much to be thankful for. It has trafficked. Signs include not being free to come and go, “works” without breaks and for low or no pay, is been two and half years since I was elected to be your Board director, I’m still pinching myself at how “working off” a debt, is in the sex industry with a pimp or some other manager, could exhibit poor mental lucky I am to live and be a part of this great comhealth, and could exhibit poor physical health. munity. I am particularly aware that the success of National Human Trafficking Resource Center: the Board rests upon the valuable support and hard http://www.traffickingresourcecenter.org/ work that we do. “The greatness of the community Human Trafficking Task Forces: http://www.justice is most accurately measured by the compassionate .gov/usao/human-trafficking-task-forces actions of its members.”

Search for the organizations in your area that are While there are always areas of improvement, I am proud to say we have improved in our services, helping to eliminate human trafficking and rescuing victims. These groups are on the frontline of the infrastructure and we are financially stable. In addition, there will be other networking opportunities, battle, such as this one: https://courageworldwide.org/ Let us continue to remember those who are in seminars and workshops organized throughout the need because Christmas is a time for giving. Giving year. We are always pleased to have your suggestions for events, especially if this is backed by a willingand sharing, however, does not always mean giving ness to help make it happen! Please contact me or money or material things. Sometimes taking time to help and give comfort to someone in need is worth any of the Board directors to discuss your ideas and as much or more. As individuals, let us find time in any other issues you would like to bring to our attenour busy schedules to give a word of encouragement tion. The Board looks forward to your continuing to another individual with a broken spirit, a neighsupport and encourages your active participation in bor, a relative, a friend going through a particularly our 2020 activities. difficult time. Let us give of ourselves, not as an obliHuman Trafficking gation, but as a desire. We can all agree that times Human trafficking is a problem that exists in our are harder now than they have ever been. The youth backyards. At its core, it is a threat to us and our

Director’s Viewpoint

Leah Richardson

Building 21 Association

Happy holiday season!

Please be informed of the following dates; 21 Association general session gathering Fourth Thursday each month Thursday, Dec. 26 – Closed for the holidays Thursday, Jan. 23 – Open, start time, 7 p.m.

Think tank, Fridays, 8 p.m. in The Gathering Room) – Friday, Dec. 27 – open; Friday, Jan. 3 – open.

Holiday decorations will be left up to enjoy through Monday, Jan. 6, the Epiphany/Little Christmas.

Decorations come down – Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

FYI, all funds collected are installed in the 21 Association’s bank account. Funds collected for the association are used expressly for 21 Association gatherings. Holiday gift collections — i.e., porters, lobby attendants etc. — are the responsibility of each floor individually and should be handled by the floor captains.

If you have questions regarding The 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information.

Email: 21association@gmail.com. Call: 347-5041821. Attend the monthly general meetings in the gathering room, in the rear of the B section at 7 p.m.

Everyone from all buildings, plan to come and join us at Building 21. Bring a friend.

Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals a force for good!

See you around the neighborhood.

—Michelle Marbury

Resolutions

(Continued from page 17)

Insurance Resolution #19-62 SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury, Claudia Sampson BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: December 18, 2019

in our community need us more now than ever. Our youths are our future and the future is here, it’s time for us to be our brothers’ keepers. The world is suffering from physical, mental and economic crises and our community is not immune to these issues.

Therefore, we are left to find creative solutions to provide a comfortable life for ourselves and for those who are dependent on us such as family, employees and the community.

Things get solved if you get involved As we reflect on the year that has passed and approach a new year, ponder on what we can do as a community to continue to make a difference in our community. What changes do you personally plan to make to see changes in our community? Remember it takes a village. I challenge my fellow shareholders to become more engaged with the community in the next year. There is a direct correlation to the effectiveness of both the Board and your community, and how involved you are in the activities and opportunities provided by our great community.

Closing Reminder, as we move forward into the New Year, we must stay focused. Your current Board of Directors is proud to serve this community. We have confidently developed a secure and financially stable base for the future. Despite the many challenges, we are moving forward into the 21st Century and standing strong. Thank you, all shareholders, for your continued support as we enter yet a new phase of life here in Co-op City.

Let us remind ourselves once again why Jesus came into this world and I would say it seems important to pray now more than ever “let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” I pray we will have a peaceful, enjoyable and safe Christmas.

I wish for you and your families peace, love, happiness and prosperity this Christmas and New Year!

Contact: Leah Richardson, Riverbay Board Director, 917-495-0585, or email at lrichardson@riverbayboard.com.

WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Workers’ Compensation Policy is presently with the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF) at an expiring annual premium of $2,939,927.00 for the policy period 1/1/19 to 1/1/20; and WHEREAS, the Director of Risk Management, through Christopher Durnan of The Durnan Group, Riverbay’s Workers’ Compensation insurance broker, now recommends renewing the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Policy with the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF) for an annual renewal premium not to exceed a 6.00% premium increase ($3,116,323.00) for the policy period 1/1/20 to 1/1/21.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Policy with the New York State Insurance Fund

(NYSIF) for an annual renewal premium not to exceed a 6.00% premium increase ($3,116,323.00) for the policy period 1/1/20 to 1/1/21.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

YES: Berk, Cylich, Feliciano, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Sampson, Saunders ABSENT: Rice, Richardson, Rosario PASSED

Co-op City Little League

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Velocity Track Club

By mid-September, the Chargers led the pack of 16 teams in the standings at 4-0. Again, the doubleheader series was controlled

by Co-op, with victories of 10-2 and 9-3 against Team Fury.

During the first game, Co-op City Chargers defeated Team Fury on the heels of Omar Solano’s no-hitter and charged up offense, scoring 10 runs in the first 3 innings. The team collected nine hits on the day. Camren Brown and Sair Albertos had multiple hits. The scoreboard opened up when Cameron Brown scored off a hard ground ball from Omar Solano, followed by Manny Vasquez single on a hard ground ball to centerfield, scoring Nelson Santiago and Solano. Action was followed by Alberto’s hard ground ball for a single, then a monster triple from Leo Francisco scoring Manny and Albertos.

Base running skills was shown again with 17 stolen bases.

Quick feet was exhibited by Camren Brown, Manny Vasquez, who had three stolen bases, Albertos, Santiago and Solanao, who swiped two.

Defensively, Solano was the winning pitcher, allowing zero hits over three innings, striking out five and walking one.

For the second game, the team jumped out to an early lead thanks to a strong start. Chargers scored on a single by Omar Solano, a single by Nelson Santiago, and double by Manny Vasquez in the first inning. The team tallied 10 hits in this outing.

Erick Ballenilla and Camren Brown each managed multiple hits.

Other offense came on the base paths with 16 stolen bases. Marquel Wicks and Ballenilla had three each, while Camren Brown led the way with five.

Defensively, the team remained solid and was sure-handed in the field without committing a single error.

Jaden Vitiello pitched to victory, allowing zero hits and one run over two innings. Santiago and Vasquez entered the game out of the bullpen and helped to close out the game in relief.

Thank you very much and feel free to reply with any questions or concerns.

—Mike Wicks

19

Velocity Track Club is off to a great start in in the 200 meters dash. the Colgate Women’s Games! On Friday, Dec. Dakota Hickman earned points in the 5513, to Sunday, Dec. 15, VTC competed in the meter dash.

46th annual Colgate Women’s Games at Pratt Institute.

The Colgate Women’s Games is the nation’s largest amateur track series open to all girls from elementary school through college and beyond. Competitors participate in preliminary meets and a semi-final to determine finalists who will compete for trophies and educational grants-in-aid from Colgate-Palmolive Company. Participants received a backpack, T-shirt and Colgate Palmolive items.

Their goal is to provide an athletic competition that helps the participating young girls and women develop a strong sense of personal achievement, self-esteem, instill the importance of education and provide a training Athletes at the Colgate Women’s Games ground for those who might not otherwise participate in an organized sport. Participation Hannah Gadpaille earned point in the 200 is free. There are no entry fees of any kind. meters and 55-meter dash.

Athletes who placed in 1 through 12 in each Olyvia in 400 meters and Jada in the 55-meter preliminary meet earned points. Plus, the top hurdles. six athletes received medals at the preliminary Congratulation to all that competed. meets. The following VTC athletes received Our next meet will be from Friday to Sunday, medals and points: Dec. 20 to 22, the Colgate Women’s Games Cameron Joseph took 4th place in the 55 week two in Brooklyn and Sunday, Dec. 22, meters dash.

Armory Indoor Meet in Fort Washington N.Y. Shyenne Blake took 4th in the 55-meter dash Velocity Track Club New York is a 501C3 and 55-meter hurdles.

Non-for profit. One hundred percent of your Savannah Minter took 2nd place in the 55- donation will go toward helping our children. meter hurdles, also earned points in the 200 Support your youth, so they can continue to do meters. Brianna Burrell tie for 2nd place in the great things!

High Jump and 3rd place in the 200 meters.

For additional information, you can go to our Jada Clarke and Olyvia Burrell tie for 2nd web site, Velocitytrack.org, or contact me, Coach place in the High Jump.

Winston Dinkins, at 914-441-6196 or email watThe following athletes earned points: clt@aol.com.

Hannah Deflorimonte and Kaylin Strachin —Coach Winston Dinkins

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20

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

AARP Chapter #4997

Advocacy volunteers wanted Are you upset by high prescription drug prices? Do you think family caregivers need more government support? Can you spare a few hours of your time each month? AARP New York is looking for new recruits. With the 2020 N.Y. State legislative season nearing, the organization needs volunteers who can advocate for participation in Albany, at N.Y. City Hall and beyond. No experience necessary; training will be provided. AARP will match you with work that suits your interests. To learn more, go to bit.ly/aarp volunteer-form or call 866-27-7442.

Heartfelt condolence to Helen Mitchell on the loss of her son. Please contact our Good and Welfare coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home.

2020 tour plans April 8, 2020, “Queen Esther” at the Sight & Sound Theater with lunch at Good & Plenty and shopping at Tangers Outlet. Includes motor coach transportation; $170/person; $50 non-refundable deposit due at sign-up. Contact Hannah, 718-379-7962, or Judith, 718-379-3370.

May 1 to 3, 2020: Passport,Washington, D.C. Three days, two nights; visit the various embassies that open their doors to the public; sample the different cultures; taste the foods from around the world. $495/person, double; $634/single; $480/person, triple.

Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718 379-7962.

July 16 to 19, 2020, Ocean City, Maryland. Four days, three nights; guided tour of Assateague Island; evening entertainment at the Red Rooster Restaurant; sightseeing boat ride; shopping at Tanger Outlet; gambling at Ocean Downs Casino. $789/person, double; $1,064/single; $50 non-refundable deposit due when signing up. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718-379-7962.

When signing up for the above trips, please give your name, phone number and a deposit. Checks/money orders made payable to AARP Chapter 4997 with the name of the trip in the memo section of your check/money order. Room 0, Dreiser Community Center, is open Monday or Thursday, noon to 3 p.m. for checks to be dropped off in an envelope with group/trip leader name. They may also be mailed to the group/trip leader.

—Delores Debnam

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Jumanji: The Next Level “Jumanji: The Next Level” was such a blast! It was like Welcome to the Jungle. If you liked that movie, you should like The Next Level as well. It was equally as funny.

Jack Black steals the show again. Man, he is a treasure. He is absolutely hysterical in this. I couldn’t stop laughing every time he came on the screen.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson also was great. He looked at his most happy in The Next Level, hamming it up with Danny DeVito’s accent. For the most part it was very funny! Kevin Hart was hilarious too. Spot-on Danny Glover impression! The old guys were awesome together! Karen Gillan keeps rocking it as the female action heroine. Love her!

Also, I loved what Jake Kasdan did with this film in terms of adventure.

It was amazing to look at on the big screen. The landscapes were beautiful.

Awkwafina was awesome too! She is easily one of my favorite actresses this year because of this and The Farewell as well. It was such a huge spectacle in this. Amazing and beautiful grand scale. Also the hound from Game of Thrones is the main villain! Jumanji: The Next Level was awesome. 8/10

BY ANATOLIY BUDNITSKIY

2019, Jumanji: The Next Level, rated PG-13, 123 minutes Jake Kasdan – Director Dwayne Johnson – Eddie Karen Gillian – Ruby Roundhouse Jack Black – Bethany/Fridge Kevin Hart – Mouse Finbar Danny DeVito – Eddie Danny Glover – Milo Awkwafina – Ming

To our members and friends, warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a happy New Year. May peace, love, and prosperity follow you always.

Travel events Price includes coach bus located on Dreiser Loop, front of H&R Block May 12, 2020, Tuesday, “I Left My Dignity In My Other Purse,” Hunterdon Hills Playhouse. Showtime: 11:30 a.m. Price: $85. Deposit ASAP to hold seat: $40. BalLETTERS TO THE EDITOR ance due: $45, no later than April 6, 2020. Contacts: Serita Grayson, 347-564-5722, or Barbara Williams, 718-320-0500.

We welcome your letters to the editor, however, if you would like your Theatre committee letter to be considered for publication, it must be signed, and include Price includes van transport, from Dreiser Loop, front of rehab center your address and telephone number – which will be kept confidential Feb. 13, 2020, Thursday, “Five Guys Named Moe,” Westchester Broadway The– so the authenticity of the writer can be verified. The Co-op City atre. Showtime: 11 a.m. Price: $80. Deposit to hold seat: $40. Balance due: $40, no Times does not print anonymous or unsigned letters. later than Mon., Jan. 6, 2020. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671-4949.

We accept checks/money orders payable to Retirees of Dreiser Loop, along with your name and telephone number. Committee members will be available in the Dreiser club room 19, 718-379-0377, on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Good and Welfare To our members and friends on the mend, may the Christmas spirit keep you warm and full of joy this holiday season. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320Family Owned and Operated 0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements.

• Large Chapel • Pre-need counseling Keep in mind, our next Jazz Up Your Health With on premises a Senior Spa Day will be in the New Year 2020, date • Out of town services to be determined. If interested in joining us, Call • Ample Parking on premises Claudette D., 718-379-4784; Hattie L ,718-671-8449.

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

• Cremations Believe in the magic of the season.

• Casket Showroom All areas are handicapped accessible —Claudette Davis on premises

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Serving all cultures & faiths

21

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Black Forum

Emergency food pantry has a new reopening date The pantry, located at 920 Baychester Ave., Building 1A, is not registering guests for the rest of 2019. Registration resumes in 2020 with a start date posted in future articles. Current guests are required to re-register at the pantry beginning Jan. 3, 2020. Guests must show a valid ID NYC card or a non- or driver’s license to remain in the emergency food program.

The pantry will close Thursday, Dec. 26, 2019 to Jan. 2, 2020, in observance of the holidays. It reopens Friday, Jan. 3, 2020. Guests can pick up their monthly provisions on Tuesday, Dec. 24, if their scheduled pick-up date occurs when the pantry is closed.

Starting Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Ave. will be the only distribution location for Section 5 Black Forum Food Pantry recipients. Guests who normally pick up food packages from New Vision Church will go to United Methodist Church beginning January 2020.

Defensive driving Next class: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2020, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Dreiser Community Center, room 4. Cost: $35/person. Please arrive 15 to 20 minutes early. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to four points from your driver’s license. Checks and money orders can be made payable to Black Forum of Co-op City and mailed to 920 Baychester Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least one and a half weeks before class. Please include your name and phone number. Walk-ins

are welcomed but only a $35 cash payment — exact change, please — will be accepted the day of the class, no checks.

Please bring your current driver’s license and a pen. Call any time before 1 p.m. the day before class to register for seating priority. Kindly leave a brief message with your name and telephone number at 718-320-8035. The class location is subject to change, so please check back for updates and arrive early to class. Student arriving late may be denied entry into the class.

Sight & Sound,‘Queen Esther:’ Second payment due Jan. 24, 2020 Join us for Sight & Sound Theatre’s live epic biblical stage event of “Queen Esther” on Tuesday, April 21, 2020. Dining is at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, ranked No. 1 on TripAdvisor’s Quick Bites in East Earl, Pennsylvania list.

Menu includes an all-you-can-eat full buffet including mouth-watering fried chicken, carved beef, baked fish, grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, homemade bread, salad bar, hot desserts and more! Shady Maple also has a gift shop and a 130,000-square-foot farm market with an on-site smokehouse and locally grown produce. Meal, show and transportation: $170. No refunds. Guests can pay all at once or in three installments: Nov. 15, 2019, $60; Jan. 24, 2020, $55 and Feb 21, 2020, $55. The November payment reserves your seats. Please call 917-209-5334 or 718-320-0033 if you have questions about the trip.

Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you, coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

—D. Illis

The December 2019 winter holidays are here. Happy Hanukkah as we celebrate the festival, a miracle of lights.

Kind neighbors, thank you for your cards and gifts. And thank you, kind people, for letting me know you do read our press release in the Co-op City Times.

Have you noticed that getting around Sections 1 through 4 is now even more difficult. It is a miracle that more street fights aren’t going on. There has been no permanent action to enable smooth entry to I95 North or traffic across Bartow Avenue. We suggest going around and avoiding Bartow Avenue. You can enter East Gun Hill Road by using Gunther Avenue then head down Gun Hill Road over to the Hutch, around Kings Harbor.

Go from Connor Avenue left up Boston Road and left on Eastchester and across.

For north, you can take the service road north parallel to I95 and go into Co-op City by the Hutch into Section 5. But it is a real mess and worse on weekends, stand-still traffic, too. In the future, something better must be done.

Congratulations to Michelle Marbury and her Building 21/Section 4 Committee on their execution of the event bringing caroling around Co-op City. It was a huge undertaking with lots of components needed. We look forward to working closer on that next year.

In October 2019, the passing of longtime neighbor and friend, Harriet Weinberger, was noted with great sadness. Her

smile and good cheer have been part of Broun Place for many years and she is missed. Last week, we received a beautiful acknowledgement of our gift and card from the Weinberger family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you to the Buildings and Grounds crew for the neat townhouse cluster we live in and all their hard work.

The holiday lights and magic are warming up in Broun Place.

Broun Place Association is collecting a holiday gift until Dec. 23. Please submit yours to 31B or an Executive Committee member and your gift will be included with a card. It will help to put yours with other neighbors. One problem a new cooperator had, a missing name tag, has been corrected. Thank you to the powers that be for that.

New charges for infractions are posted in Garage 6 in the foyer to the front exit, around from the elevator. We sincerely hope these will be enforced.

The dumped car on the third floor still sits deteriorating.

Go visit the Bartow Pell Mansion. It is lit for the holiday. Have a look and see this beautiful, homey environment.

Enjoy the annual botanical garden holiday train show exhibition.

We will continue to work together and make new efforts into 2020. Remember, keep dancing and we guarantee happy days ahead.

—Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Goose Island Seniors

Wind Creek (Sands) Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020. More information coming soon.

Sight & Sound “Queen Esther” Thursday, April 23, 2020, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Price: $145, includes free buffet at Golden Corral, then the play “Queen Esther.” Seats: Center stage balcony, one to four steps down. Buses leaving from our three usual bus stops: Einstein at 8 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:10 a.m. and Dreiser at 8:20 a.m. All money is due

by Wednesday, April 8. Make checks out to Goose Island Seniors, visit or mail to 135 Einstein Loop, room 39, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

Cruise to Bahamas July 21 returning on Aug. 5, 2020, on Carnival Cruise Line’s Sunrise ship. Leaves NY and stops in Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos, Nassau Bahamas and Half Moon Cay Bahamas. Price: inside cabin, $1095.

64 per person; ocean view, $1225.64 per person; balcony, $1554.64 per person. Reservation: $400. Final payment due on April 15, 2020. For more information, please call 718-379-9613.

Bingo Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Members only, in our club room 39. Admission: $5 for three cards; 12 games and jackpot. Three extra cards maximum. Sunday bingo Dec. 29, for members and non-members.

Karaoke Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. with Stephen in room 45. All are welcome. Come and listen or sing during the free concert.

To all members December birthdays include: Janie Williams, Barbara Hines, Brenda Brown, Adele Lawrence, Barbara Owens, Ada Snyder and Sheila L. Linder.

Note: The dues for the Senior Citizens’ Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. will be $20 for the year 2020. You may pay your 2020 dues any time between now and Dec. 31, 2019. Those members who have a birthday in January must pay their dues before Dec. 28, 2019, for your name to appear in the Co-op City Times Goose Island Seniors article.

Call Ann or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613. If there is no answer, please leave a message. Feel free to visit us in the Section Five Community Center, 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39, Bronx, NY, 10475. Office hours: Mon. – Fri., 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mon., Wed., and Fri., 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Tue. And Thur. evenings, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

—Stephen Roberts Sr.

22

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Bartow Mon., Dec. 23 Tues., Dec. 24

Wed., Dec. 25 Thu., Dec. 26 Fri., Dec. 27

Einstein

MENU

Dreiser

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Room 7 unless otherwise noted Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. noon Word Games 9:30-11a.m.

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

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Library 9:30 a.m.-1p.m.

Line Dancing 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., rm. 45 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Juice Health & Wellness Support Around The Lunch Table 11:30 a.m. Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., rm. 2 Roasted turkey Group 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Basic Cell Phone & iPad training 11a.m.

Word Search 11 a.m. - noon Mashed sweet Spanish style baked Mind Teasers Noon - 1 p.m., rm. 4 YOGA w/Peggy 11a.m. - noon, Bingo 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., rm. 35 potatoes chicken Diabetes Support Group 1 p.m.

– Last JASA main office Diabetes Support Group 2nd Mon. Sautéed string beans Sautéed Green beans Monday of the month Arthritis Exercises11 a.m. - noon 1 p.m., rm. 49 Whole wheat bread Roasted potatoes Bereavement Counseling 1 p.m., rm. 8 Computer Class for Beg. 9:30 a.m., Gentle Yoga 1:15 p.m. - 2 p.m., rm. 2 Card Games 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Fresh fruit Int. 10:30 a.m. & Adv. 11:30 a.m.

Alt: Veggie burger Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Intermediate Yoga 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Apple Juice Word Games 9:30-11:30 a.m.

9:30-10:30 a.m.

Rib eye roast Social Worker Royvi 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Health & Wellness Support Group Alert & Alive 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Fresh mashed Italian sausage Cultural Dance 10:30-11:30 a.m., rm. 2 Walking Club 10:30 a.m. potatoes 10-11 a.m.

Computer Class 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Penne Sweet carrots Caregiver Support Group 1:30 p.m.

Mind Teasers 12-1p.m., rm. 4 Steamed spinach Whole wheat bread Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud A 1st & 3rd Tues., JASA main office Karaoke by Steven 1p.m., rm. 45 Fresh fruit Matinee Tuesday 1 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Alt: Baked salmon Social Worker Royvi 1-4 p.m.

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

JASA Closed Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

JASA Closed Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

JASA Closed Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

Kosher

Non-Kosher

JASA Closed Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

JASA Closed Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

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

Baked salmon Blood Pressure 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Wild rice 1st & 3rd, rm. 8 Roasted zucchini Line Dancing 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Aud. A Whole wheat bread Piano Sing Along 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Fresh fruit Alt: chicken salad Drama Club 1:30 - 4 p.m Dominos 10 a.m., rm. 45 Men’s Line Dancing 9 -10 a.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-noon Juice, Sweet & sour 10 a.m., rm. 45 Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session chicken, Barley Word Games 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Art Bingo 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

9:30-10; 11 a.m. noon Normandy blend Women’s Line Dancing 10-11:30 a.m. Pokeno 2-4 p.m., rm. 35 Meditative Moments 11 a.m. - noon, rm. 8 vegetables Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Fri., 10 Chat Session 10 a.m.

Pokeno 3rd Fri., 1- 2:30 p.m.

Whole wheat bread 11:30 a.m., rm. 45 Piano Sing-along 11 a.m.-noon Bingo rm.

7, 1 -3 p.m.

Fresh fruit Free Oil Painting Classes rm. 38, Yoga w/Peggy 11 a.m. - noon, rm. 2 Alt: Gefilte fish Card Games 2-4 p.m.

10 – 11:30 a.m.

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

Word Games 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. 11a.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominos 10 a.m., rm. 45 Grandparent Connection Meeting 1st Thurs., rm. 40, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise 11 a.m., rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m.

Word Search 11 a.m. - noon Karaoke by Steven 1 p.m. rm. 45

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. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Payments for trips can be made at all three centers. Trip registration policy: there will be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation. JASA will not accept checks under $5. All trips must be paid in advance. Drivers will no longer accept money for trips on the bus!

FREE LiveOn NY- SCRIE/SNAP (food stamps) Assistance – Fri., Jan. 10 & 24, Feb. 7 & 21, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. No appointments! Walk-ins! First come! First served! Please make copies of your documents before coming to the office.

Dreiser Sr. Ctr. Annual Winter Coat Drive in Partnership w/NY Cares – Coats will be donated to the local family shelter. Dec. 3 – Thurs., Jan 3, 2020.

Drop-off at 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 7; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

JASA will be closed Wed., Dec. 25th Christmas Day – Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays.

Central Ave. – Thurs., Dec. 26, $13. Christmas Tree store, Trader Joe’s and Amazing Savings. Bartow – 8:30 a.m.; Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 9 a.m. There is a Shoprite right next door to Amazing Savings.

JASA will be closed Wed., Jan. 1st New Year’s Day – Happy New Year!

FREE Paint & Sip – Thurs., Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30; JASA main office; 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Space is limited,

BBQ pork chops Baked sweet potato Collard greens

Baked whiting fish fillet Corn Winter blend vegetables

Fee for lunch is $2.00; $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk *Menu subject to change without notice.

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

Upcoming Events/Trips

only 12 participants. Join us for this painting class, have to your community? Join us for a free presentation, fun while you paint on canvas. No experience necessary. “Introducing Your Connected Community” (Alexa projJuice will be served. To register call 718-320-2066. ect). JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Fri., Jan. St. Mary’s Pool – $3, Fri., Jan. 3 & 17, Mon., Jan. 17; 10 to 11 a.m. Only 40 seats available. Due to limited 27. Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Bartow seating, please call to register, 718-320-2066. Dreiser – 8:30 a.m.; Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 9 a.m.

Loop Senior Center, 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 4. Jan. 17, Stew Leonard’s – Fri., Jan. 3, $6. Bartow – 9:30 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. 50 seats available. a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

JASA will be closed Mon., Jan. 20th in observance Shoprite New Rochelle – Mon., Jan. 5, $4. Bartow – of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Empire Casino – Tues., Jan. 21; $5. Bartow – 9 a.m.; Empire Casino – Tues., Jan. 7; $5. Bartow – 9 Einstein – 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m. a.m.; Einstein – 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m.

IKEA/Christmas Tree Store/Bed Bath and Aldi/Home Depot – Wed., Jan. 8; $3. Bartow – Beyond – Thurs., Jan. 23; $15. Bartow – 9 a.m.; Ein9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m. stein – 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m.

Central Ave. – Wed., Jan. 8; $13. Christmas Tree Shoprite New Rochelle – Mon., Jan. 27; $4. BarStore, Trader Joe’s and Amazing Savings. Bartow – tow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

8:30 a.m.; Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 9 a.m. There Tina Turner Broadway Show, Lunt Fontanne is a Shoprite right next door to Amazing Savings.

Theatre, rear orchestra center and far side seating; Walmart – Thurs., Jan. 9; $15. Bartow – 8:30 a.m.; $145; Wed., Feb. 12, 2020. Pickups: Bartow – 11:15 Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 9 a.m. a.m.; Dreiser – 11:30 a.m.; Einstein – 11:45 a.m. Motor Costco – Thurs., Jan. 9; $5. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; coach bus. Wait list.

Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

This Trip is Cancelled! West Side Story Musical Wegman’s Supermarket, Brooklyn, New York – Wed., Feb. 19, 2020.

– Tues., Jan. 14; $10. Bartow – 8:30 a.m.; Einstein Sight and Sound Queen Esther – Thurs., Apr. 23, 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 9 a.m. Wait list.

2020; $155. Center stage seats. Family style lunch at Fairway/BJ’s – Wed., Jan. 15; $4. Bartow – 9:30 Good and Plenty restaurant, Pickups: Bartow – 8 a.m.; a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m. Want to Dreiser – 8:15 a.m.; Einstein – 8:30 a.m. Motor coach learn how voice technology can keep you connected bus. Payment deadline Fri., Jan. 10, 2020. Wait list.

23

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12 Spiritual food for thought As deep darkness covers the earth, God has called you to let your light shine wherever you are and in whatever circumstance you find yourself. Light is the evidence of spiritual life. Your light will be a genuine state of being that cannot be snuffed out because it emanates from your connection to the almighty God. Senior Pastor and Presiding Elder Boyce Landrum, Pastor Carol Landrum and the Greater Love family invite you, friends and family to worship with us on Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. Greater Love Refuge Ministries is a multi-generational, teaching, preaching faith and Bible way church with an old-school flavor and a new-school feel. We are conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd., Building 2A, on the ground level, Bronx, N.Y. 10475; main entrance, red button.

Garage parking.

Please join us tomorrow morning at 11:30 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 22, for our Christmas service as we celebrate the reason for the season; Jesus Christ. We will enjoy a skit by the Deacon Board of Greater Love,, sing traditional Christmas songs with the choir and a witness a joyful performance by our SWAG: Spiritual Wisdom & Guidance Youth Church titled: “Finding Jesus: The Greatest Super Hero of All.” There will be a delicious pot luck lunch following the service.

All are welcome.

Our annual praise and worship watchnight service will be held on New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31, beginning at 9 p.m. until we bring in the New Year, 2020. Come out and be inspired by a powerful message from the Lord and get your praise on as we bid adieu to 2019 and look ahead to a bright future and fresh start to the New Year.

All weekly classes/meetings will be in recess beginning Monday, Dec. 23 and resume on Tuesday, Jan. 7. Our morning worship services will be held at the regularly scheduled time.

The Greater Love Refuge family wish you and yours a very merry Christmas, happy Kwanzaa, happy Chanukah, and a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year. May God richly bless you and keep you in His loving care.

—Pastor Carol Landrum

Traditional Synagogue

General information The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear Lobby of 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 9 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help the synagogue’s finances.

The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan.

There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to services. Please come by 9 a.m. so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2019, at 5:23 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday Dec. 27, 2019, 4:15 pm.

Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates, in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel Tov, to 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 all members who will celebrate their birthday in December. For those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in December, please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games After services and kiddush, some men and women play Rummikub.

Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated.

Wishing all our members, and friends, peace and good health.

—Bruce Gitelson

Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could cause you to receive a community complaint and fine.

Scheduling Activities Calendar

24

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Community Protestant Church

On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, N.Y. 10469; telephone, 718-862-9172.

Regular church schedule Sunday school, 9 a.m.

Worship service, 11 a.m.

Communion service, Every first and third Sundays Noon prayer – Hour of Power – Wednesday at noon Prayer meeting and Bible study, Wednesday at 7 p.m.

The following program is at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North: Neighborhood Bible study, Thursday at 10 a.m.

Sunday school is now in session every week at 9 a.m.

In Sunday school, in a nurturing Christian education environment, an opportunity is provided for children to learn about the Bible, to grow in grace, to show love and respect for one another and to live more abundant lives.

Worship service begins at 11 a.m.

Everyone is invited to come and be a part of this special moment set aside each Sunday morning to be in the presence of God. We will be delighted to blend our spirits with yours as we bend both body and soul before our heavenly father. We encourage you to spend time with God, and if it be His will, with us at Community Protestant.

Other scheduled events Advent services at CPC -- As we draw near the most joyous season of the year, a

most cordial invitation is extended to all to worship with us at Community Protestant.

Beautiful 50th Anniversary commemorative T-shirts in celebration of Community Protestant’s half century anniversary are being sold by the missionary ministry. Sizes range from small to 2X. Donation: $20 each.

To place an order for T-shirts, please contact Sister Julia Nicholson at 917-836-9701.

With the holidays fast approaching, Sister Gladys Polite is sponsoring a natural pecan and pecan clusters sale after service.

Stop by her table and pick up a great holiday gift of pecans.

Wednesday, Dec. 25, 9 a.m., Christmas service at Community Protestant Church.

Before or after opening your Christmas gifts, come out and give God thanks for the greatest gift of all, His son Jesus, and enjoy the fellowship of a wonderful Christmas morn.

Community Protestant will have a yearend candlelight service Tuesday, Dec. 31, at 6 p.m. All are welcome to join in this special service of prayers and Thanksgiving for the past year and looking forward with prayerful anticipation to the coming New Year 2020.

Our church family wishes you a blessed Christmas. We pray that, throughout this holy season, you will feel our savior’s presence near. May His peace and love become your Christmas gifts this year.

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

—Evan G. Mitchell

Church of the New Vision

Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us.

Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s people. Serving the community for more than 45 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian love. All are welcome.

Order of services Sunday worship service, 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Adult and youth Sunday school, 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Mid-day Bible study is canceled until further notice Wednesday night prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Youth ministry, Fridays, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This holiday season, we wish our members, friends and neighbors a merry Christmas, happy Kwanzaa, happy Hanukkah and a healthy and happy New Year.

Sundays, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29, we will have one service at 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 31, our Watch Night Service will begin at 10 p.m.

Upcoming in 2020 All are invited to celebrate pre-Mother’s Day at the Sight & Sound Theater featuring “Queen Esther” on Thursday, May 7, 2020. Roundtrip deluxe motor coach transportation, Shady Maple Buffet Luncheon, Shady Maple Gift Shop and farmers market, all meal taxes and gratuities included. Adults, $170, and youth 12 and under, $125; there is a $25 non-refundable deposit.

For additional information, contact Brenda Brown at 718-671-3748, or Terry Gavin at 917-587-5057 regarding a payment plan.

All are invited to join us travelling to Niagara Falls, Canada, July 21 to 24, 2020, four days/three nights Tuesday to Friday. Accommodations per person: quad $565/triple $585/double $645/single $825. Includes: Roundtrip motor coach transportation, three full breakfasts and three full dinners, two professional guided tours, Chocolate Factory visit, Hornblower Cruise at the falls, all taxes and meal gratuities included, and much, much more. For additional information, contact Brenda Brown, 718-6713748, or Terry Gavin, 917-587-5057. There is a $50 deposit non-refundable deposit due now and a payment plan available.

Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Office: 718-671-8746 or 203-374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Visit our Facebook page, Church of the New Vision, concerning upcoming events and trips, email us at info.churchnewvisionbx@gmail.com or call the church office.

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Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Co-op City Baptist Church

Open Door Ministries

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite The True Meaning of Christmas: Do not be Afraid you to join us tomorrow at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. for worship service. Sunday school Christmas is a time of joy, giving gifts and an occasion to enjoy with family for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study and and friends. For those who celebrate Christmas, we hang up lights and garlands pray with us. and festive colors to highlight the day. We choose presents and also ask for some.

The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, But what is the true meaning of Christmas? What is all the celebrating about? room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774. Visit us on the web at coopcity Historically speaking, it is the time when God decided to join mankind in our baptistchurch.org. misery, our joy and even in our death. He decided, since we could not reach him, You are invited to join us for a midweek spiritual pick-up at our worship service he would reach us. He lowered himself to raise us up. held on Wednesdays at noon. Bible study is held on Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and Luke 2:8 There were shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over 7:30 p.m. Prayer service is held on Fridays at moon. their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of Prayer service is also held Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, join us from the comfort of their home for an hour of prayer using a conference “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. call line. On Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m., you can call 563-999-2090; when asked 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, for the PIN, enter 660065 and you will be connected. Prayer service is not held the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths, on the first Friday of the month. lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared The Sunday school’s Christmas program will be held tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, 22, at 9:15 a.m. All are invited to join them as they share the reason for the season. and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Watchnight service will be held on Tusday, Dec. 31, at 10:30 p.m. You are When God manifested His power, the shepherds were terrified. The glory of invited to join us as we bring in the New Year in the house of the Lord. the Lord is not a light show or a display of LEDs on a giant tree. It is the awesome The scholarship ministry is going to Mount Rushmore, the Badlands and Black power of God on full display and our weak bodies cannot take it. We crumble and Hills of South Dakota July 17, 2020. This trip includes motor coach transportation, fade under the majestic power of God’s blazing glory. But the angels have a word 10 nights lodging, 18 meals, visits to the spectacular Badlands National Park and of comfort and peace for the shepherds. Do not be afraid! The almighty has come to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and much more. Partial payments down as a harmless baby that you can carry, you can cuddle, you can tickle, you are now being accepted. At the present time, all seats have been sold but a wait can play with, you can kill. Do not be afraid! list is being formed. For additional information or to be placed on the wait list, In the cartoon, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Charlie Brown asks what does please call 718-379-0541, 718-671-1271, 718-671-1918 or 917-612-1245.

Christmas mean and Linus recites Luke 2:8-14 but when he says “do not be afraid” It is the holiday season and wishes are extended for a happy Hanukkah, merry he drops his security blanket. Linus is known for this blanket; he carries it everywhere Christmas, happy Kwanzaa and a blessed, healthy and happy 2020! but when confronted with the fact that God is with him through Jesus Christ, he The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living realizes that the blanket is not necessary. In the same way we carry fear, shame, community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, negative thoughts, bitterness and hatred in our hearts. But we don’t have to, we prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical can drop them and be certain that God will protect us when we drop areas of needs of the church through ministry. negative security. Let that simple statement, “Do not be afraid,” overwhelm you —Hattie L. Lucas with God’s love.

Sunday services are at 11 a.m. in Bartow Community Center, room 28.

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

We invite everyone to worship service on the following days: —Pastor Luis Ramos Sunday school for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship service begins at 11:45 a.m. Prayer and fasting service will be held every Wednesday morning from 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m. Regular prayer meeting and Bible study will also be held at 7:30 p.m., Friday evening Bible study will be held.

May the rich blessings of God be with you all throughout this season. Merry Christmas to everyone and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

Focus The power of the incorruptible word of God is able to lead souls to a new experience and the eternal life.

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

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

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

Pentecostal Tabernacle

26

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

Opportunities

(Continued from page 7)

Public Safety

(Continued from page 7)

with local numbers for emergency services. 9-1-1 is not always the number for emergencies. It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with locations of local hospitals and police precincts in case of an emergency.

To minimize the impact of all crimes involving theft of property from your person, keep your keys, money, identification and cellphone in your front pocket, separate from your non-valuables. Also consider an inside the clothing travel type wallet for your personal items and valuables. A pocket with a zipper, button or Velcro is ideal for this purpose. If carrying valuables and personal documents in your purse, place them inside of a plastic or metal container such as a mint case, which does not look like a wallet. Keep less important items with a token amount of cash in your decoy wallet, this way the criminal will think he scored big. A purse that zips also adds an additional level of security.

Remember, property can always be replaced; your safety is the most important thing. If someone does try to rob you despite your precautions; do not resist, especially if the person is armed with a weapon of any type. Try to remember as many details of the crime as well as a description of the perpetrator. Notify police immediately if you have been the victim of a crime. If you are the victim of a crime in another country contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

For more information about crime prevention contact the National Crime Prevention Council at 1000 Connecticut Ave., NW, 13th floor, Washington, D.C. 20036, 202-466-6267 or on their website ncpc.org.

School is open, drive carefully. Never pass a school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must give pedestrians the same level of respect they expect from motor vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road safely.

If consuming alcoholic beverages is part of your holiday festivities, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink. Drunk driving enforcement is heightened during the holiday party season. Do not risk being arrested or being in an accident if you plan to consume alcoholic beverages. Call a taxi, if necessary. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. This is especially important while traveling. Penalties vary by jurisdiction. The consequences of drunk driving in other countries are extremely severe. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State.

In New York State the expanded “Move Over” law makes it a violation to fail to move over a lane when approaching a service vehicle such as a tow truck or a stopped emergency vehicle with or without its warning lights on. This violation carries a fine of up to $150 and up to two points on your license. The purpose of this law is to protect emergency responders and other service vehicles.

Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 911 and the department of public safety at 718-671-3050. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

Enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. For those of you traveling have a safe trip. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained.

Co-op City is a diverse community with people of all ages, abilities and characteristics. All persons should remember to respect each other and embrace their differences. Don’t forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street. Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. It is also important to remember that not all disabilities are visible. Someone who appears to be healthy may have a physical or developmental disability.

December is known as AIDS Awareness Month. Knowledge is power, the more you learn the stronger you become.

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

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

Weekly schedule Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday school are both at 9 a.m. every fourth Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every fifth Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. We look forward to welcoming you to church tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 22, at 9 a.m., when we will celebrate The Fourth Sunday of Advent. This will be a service of lessons and carols in preparation for Christmas. Also, the Christmas Eve service will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 24. Father Simeon Johnson, our supply priest, will be the preacher and celebrant.

Please join us on Wednesdays, except Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, for an uplifting midday service starting promptly at noon.

On Thursdays, except Dec. 26 and Jan. 2, Father Johnson will be available for telephone calls and visitations, interactive discussions on various topics in the Bible 11 a.m. to noon, followed by a short noon-day service.

Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m., and we are always looking for new members.

Group activities The Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the first Sunday in each month. All women in the church are invited to attend and partici-

pate in planning the activities of the church.

The men hold their meetings after service on the second Sunday of each month.

Fundraising events and more Please stay tuned for upcoming events.

General information To those celebrating birthdays during the month of December, we wish you all a happy birthday and best wishes for many more.

To the sick and shut-in, we have you in our prayers and wish you a speedy recovery.

There is still time to finalize your pledge for 2019 and you are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

Outreach program Our church supports the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. This program is in desperate need of food. At St. Joseph’s, we collect nonperishable food items on an ongoing basis. Please remember to donate. A special thank you to all our friends and neighbors who have been responding to this request.

For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718320-0844. You may also visit our website, st.josephsepcbronx.org for more information relating to St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church, Co-op City, Bronx, New York.

“Restore us, O God of hosts; show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.” –Psalm 80:3 —Merville Chambers

God with us, part 2

Newsong Church 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you[a] a sign: The virgin[b] will conceive and give birth to a son, and[c] will call him Immanuel.[d] –Isaiah 7:14 (NIV) The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy and celebration. However, for many people, this time of year magnifies our already stressed out and messy lives. If you feel like your life is a mess right now, I have good news for you…

God shows up in the middle of a mess!

Before the birth of Jesus, Israel was in the middle of another mess. They were in bondage and forced to comply with Roman rule. They must have felt as if God had abandoned them. As they read today’s passage from the Prophet Isaiah, they probably thought, “Has God forgotten us?” Where was the promised Messiah? When was God going to rescue them?

You may be feeling the same way today. Like Israel, you’re in the middle of a mess.

Maybe your marriage is in a mess.

Maybe your finances are a mess.

Perhaps you’re in the middle of an emotional mess.

I want to let you know that God does His best work in the middle of a mess.

God’s not intimidated by your mess, He hasn’t abandoned you. In fact, God’s answer to Israel’s mess was Jesus, and His answer to your mess is Jesus. There is no mess that too big for Jesus to clean up! Jesus is our Lord and Savior. He will meet you in the middle of your messiest mess! All you have to do is invite Him in! He’s not just God with us when things are good, He’s God with

us when things are a mess! Pray and ask Jesus to be your Lord and Savior today, and watch Him meet you in the mess!

If you don’t have a home church, or if you would like to know more about this dynamic relationship, we invite you to join us this Sunday as we continue our series “Merry Christ-MESS.” How do we handle the unexpected messes of life? This Sunday we’ll gain insight from the life of Jesus mother Mary. Remember, God is able to turn your mess into a miracle!

Newsong Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop in room 45. Discounted parking is available in parking garage 7 & 8.

While you’re enjoying our worship experience, your children will be enjoying “Kidsong.” At Kidsong, children from nursery to sixth grade will learn about Jesus in fun, interactive ways!

We also have a youth ministry called Against the Flow, where teens from 12 to 18 years old enjoy Christ-centered discussion groups, cafe nights and other outings. ATF meets every Friday night at 7 p.m. at 2049 Bartow Ave., room 28.

If you have any questions you can contact us: Church office: 718-708-8385 Website: newsongchurchnyc.org Facebook: facebook.com/newsong churchbx Twitter: @newsongchurchBX IG: @newsongchurchBX; @against theflow.nyc Our Newsong family is here for you!

Join us this Sunday and experience the difference!

—Pastor Mike Tolone

27

Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019

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RECORDS WANTED

Old Records Wanted.

Will Pay Top $$ for JAZZ, JAZZ, JAZZ, Rock & Roll, Soul Music, Latin, 50s, 60s, & 70s.

LP, 78 or 45.

Call Joe 917-952-4408

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SPACE FOR RENT

1/4/20

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

JB RYAN C OMPUTER R EPAIR & U PGRADE

St. Paul’s Episcopal/Anglican Church on 489 St. Paul’s Place off Washington Ave., Bronx.

1. Church Worship Center on first level that can seat over 300 worshipers available for rent on Sundays after 2:30 p.m. and other weekdays can be arranged.

2. Worship center on lower level that seats over 100 people also available for rent.

If interested in renting any of the spaces, call or text Father Horton Scott on 914-384-2929 for an appointment.

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DECORATOR

SERVICES - SERVICES - SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT

APPLIANCE REPAIR

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

• ALL MAKES & MODELS

• Stoves • Washers • Dryers •Lamps • Dishwashers • Refrigerators • Bags • Hoses • Belts • Vacuum Cleaners Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497 Fully Insured

718.792.2655

2951 Middletown Road, Bronx, NY 10461 (Near Pelham Bay Station) 10/3/20

2/22

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1-800-479-2667 CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH

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

Breathe Easy

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

• COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

Grout & Carpet Cleaning Co-op City Resident Specials

Elim in Bugsate

UPHOLSTERY

REUPHOLSTERING 718.881.7691

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

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

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

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

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Co-op City Times / December 21, 2019