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Co-op City Times / December 30, 2023
CCPD Report ––––– (Continued from page 7) Substance Abuse: Substance abuse issues within families or caregiving relationships can contribute to elder abuse, as the caregiver’s judgment and ability to provide adequate care may be impaired. Identifying elder abuse is challenging, given that victims may be reluctant to report mistreatment due to fear, shame, or dependency on the abuser. However, recognizing the signs and understanding the reporting process are crucial steps in addressing elder abuse. Physical signs include unexplained injuries, bruises, fractures, or changes in the elder’s physical appearance may indicate physical abuse. Emotional signs can include sudden changes in mood, behavior, or withdrawal from social activities may suggest emotional abuse. Financial signs, such as unexplained withdrawals, missing funds, or sudden changes in the elder’s financial situation, may indicate financial exploitation. Poor hygiene, malnutrition, untreated medical conditions, or living in unsanitary conditions, may signal neglect. Noticeable changes in the behavior of the elder, such as fear, anxiety, or avoidance of specific individuals, may indicate abuse. Reporting elder abuse is a civic responsibility that requires immediate action. Local adult protective services, law enforcement, or helplines can provide assistance and guidance on how to report suspicions of elder abuse. Addressing elder abuse necessitates a multifaceted approach that combines prevention, intervention, and support for victims. Key strategies include: 1. Education and Awareness: Raising awareness about the different forms of elder abuse, its signs, and the importance of reporting is crucial in preventing mistreatment. 2. Training Caregivers: Providing caregivers, both family members and professionals, with training on proper care techniques, stress management, and conflict resolution can reduce the risk of abuse. 3. Legal Measures: Strengthening legal frameworks to protect the rights of older individuals and prosecuting perpetrators is essential in deterring elder abuse. 4. Community Support Programs: Establishing community support programs that provide resources, respite care, and social engagement for older individuals can reduce social isolation and the risk of abuse. 5. Financial Safeguards: Implementing measures such as regular financial audits, power of attorney oversight, and legal protections can prevent financial exploitation. 6. Counseling Services: Offering counseling services for both victims and perpetrators of elder abuse can address underlying issues and contribute to breaking the cycle of mistreatment. Elder abuse is a complex and pervasive issue that demands urgent attention from individuals, communities, and policymakers alike. By understanding the various forms of elder abuse, recognizing the associated risk factors, and actively working towards prevention and intervention, society can create an environment where older individuals can age with dignity, respect, and security. It is the collective responsibility of communities, caregivers, and governments to ensure that elder abuse is eradicated, allowing every individual to enjoy their later years free from fear and harm.
Crossword Puzzle ––––– (Continued from page 4)
Newsong Church New Year’s Eve @ Newsong 1 Sing a new song to the Lord, for he has done wonderful deeds. His right hand has won a mighty victory; his holy arm has shown his saving power! – Psalm 98:1 (NLT) It’s the time of year where everyone can experience a fresh start! You’ve probably already declared, this year I’m going to (fill in the blank). Hey, there’s nothing wrong with making positive changes, but before we talk about the next 12 months, let’s pause and thank God for the last 12 months! The psalmist reminds us that God has done wonderful things for us this year. He’s protected us, provided for us, and walked with us through every battle and storm! Join us this New Year’s Eve as we stop and thank God for all He has done this year! New Year’s Eve Schedule Sunday Morning Worship, 11 a.m. New Year’s Eve Celebration, 9 p.m.-midnight Join us for some fun! We’ll have games, skits, and prizes as we fellowship and worship into the new year! Call our church office for more details! About Us: Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We believe that every person can know God, find freedom, discover their purpose, and make a difference in this world! No matter what you’ve been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family…Check us out; we’re located at 135 Einstein Loop! Sunday Worship Experience: Our Sunday worship experience starts with celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. Colossians 3:16 says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” For us, that’s what making music is all about. We sing to bring glory and honor to God, and celebrate who He is and what He’s doing in our church! Our Adult Worship Experience starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. in Room 45 Newsong Deaf Church, Room 35: Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language! Kidsong, Room 49: We’ve created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level! Newsong Church Youth: NSCY is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world. At NSCY, our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus. NSCY meets every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m., Room 42 So, what are you waiting for? There’s a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5? Remember, a church alive is worth the drive! Come and find hope. Come and find healing. Come and find freedom. Contact Us Mailing Address: P.O. Box 100 BX NY 10475; Phone: 917-342-2559. Social Media: Instagram: @newsongchurchbx, Facebook: @newsongchurchbx, Twitter: @newsongchurchbx, YouTube: Newsong Church NYC; Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org, Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org. ––Pastor Mike Tolone
Association of Building 14 Cooperators A message of gratitude and well wishes for the coming year. While 2023 has not been the most active year for the Building Association, a big thank you is warranted. A shout-out to officers Sandy McMichael, Peter Garcia, and Darlene Dove. Sandy is our most familiar face as she takes responsibility for and pleasure in the Halloween candy giveaway and the holiday collection for the building staff (thanks to her team who accompany her). Peter, despite finding his ladder-climbing days fading away, still lights up the lobby during holidays. Our appreciation to Reese, a next generation volunteer that assists Peter. Darlene provides free affidavit notary services for our seniors. Finally, kudos to all cooperators who attend meetings and those who “see something and say something.” Let’s continue to work together! A call to action for 2024 – Be mindful and vigilant as our quality of life and freedoms are at stake. No by standing allowed. First Action: Attend the Public Hearing on the Cannabis Dispensary – January 4th, 7 p.m., 2049 Bartow Avenue, Room 31. This hearing involves an application to open a marijuana dispensary across from Buildings 13 and 14 (former Chase Bank). A marijuana establishment will do nothing to enhance our community. There are restrictions about proximity to schools and houses of worship. Still, a Co-op City marijuana dispensary will attract non-New Yorkers. And, since the pandemic, cooperators have had to deal with loud music, noise, trash, and screeching tire antics by large numbers of vehicles congregating in the Peartree lot as late as 2 a.m. There’s finally been a reduction, but not an elimination of these pop-up parties – no thanks to the owner of the Peartree lot. A marijuana dispensary will only re-ignite this disruptive activity and invite more undesirable traffic. Lastly, marijuana is illegal at the federal level, thus banking restrictions apparently increase the robbery factor for marijuana dispensaries. Second Action: Get ready for the presidential election. To be continued. Send questions or comments to: assocbldg14@gmail.com and/or text 917612-1951. —Josie Ferguson
