Co-op City Times 12/31/16

Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. © Copyright 2016 Co-op City Times

Vol. 51 No. 53

Saturday, December 31, 2016

Power plant fuel switchover capabilities saves shareholders more than $5 million in fuel costs

BY BILL STUTTIG

While the Power Plant realized more than $2.5 million in payments and savings for Co-op City shareholders this past year because of its proven ability to shed load and export electrical power to Con Edison upon request, the heating portion of the plant – specifically its ability to switchover from natural gas to oil upon request by Con Edison during periods of high natural gas usage, saves the community an additional $5 million per year, according to the community’s energy consultant Great Eastern Energy.

The discounted interruptible fuel rate, is contin-

gent on the plant having and successfully performing its ability to switch over from natural gas to oil on very short notice from the utility. Failure to do so results in steep penalties from Con Edison and repeat failures will result in Riverbay being forced off the interruptible pay rate for an extended period of time.

During the early morning hours of December 16th, as outside temperatures dipped into the midteens for the first time all season, Riverbay was asked by Con Edison earlier the previous day – Dec. 15th, to make the switch from natural gas use to oil burning capabilities.

(Continued on page 2)

Riverbay Offices Will be Closed Monday, January 2.

See page 2 for Co-op City Times’ Early Deadline Notice.

Public Safety Arrests Resident For Drunk Driving on Dreiser Loop

BY BILL STUTTIG

Public Safety officers on routine patrol, along with alert and concerned community residents, stopped an obviously intoxicated woman from getting back in her car and driving after she stopped her car on Dreiser Loop to allegedly buy more alcohol at a local retailer.

According to the Public Safety report on the arrest which occurred at approximately 2 p.m. on Monday, December 19th, the arresting officers observed the suspect driving on the wrong side of the street on Dreiser Loop, and then make a u-turn, stop and leave the car to go into a local liquor store. (Continued on page 9)

2016 Year in Review: January to June

BY BILL STUTTIG

The following is an account of the major events occurring in or affecting Co-op City during the first six months of 2016 as reported by the Co-op City Times.

Next week’s issue will feature an account of the last half of 2016.

January: The drive to generate increased revenues for the shareholders of Co-op City began in earnest in January as the Rite Aid Pharmacy in Bartow Shopping Center renewed its lease for another 15 years at a significant increase in its monthly rent. The new lease was negotiated by KZA Reality Group, one of the borough’s leading commercial real estate bro2015 Year in Review: July - December kers, who recently contracted with Riverbay to not only fill the community’s vacant commercial spaces, but bring the leases of existing commercial tenants more in line with market value standards for the borough.

The final three months of 2015 produced unusually warm weather and the result was energy savings of $1.6 million for the community as compared to the same three months of 2014.

In early January, Riverbay President Cleve Taylor floated the idea to shareholders CELEBRATE THREE KIN ¡FELIZ GS DAY! DIA DE LOS REYES!

Co-op City’s

Vol. 51 No. 1

official newspaper

serving the world’s

2016 Co-op City largest cooperative communit Times

Saturday, y.

January 2, Co-op City’s 2016 19th Kwanzaa Cele Annual 25¢ Outside brok bration er hike with majo negotiates big rent More than 100 junction with Co-op City the © Copyright

BY LAURETT A J. JAYSURA

residents and their guests, young children ranging in age from to senior citizens, dressed in traditional many African attire, came out to the 19th annual Kwanzaa Celebration held this past Sunday,

African-American Association, the community’s Kwanzaa celebratio annual joyous affair that n is a traditional, keeps getting and better with bigger each “I enjoy Kwanzaapassing year. because it is time to celebrate a our own culture with

Francine Reva Jones leads annual celebratio other communit n of Kwanzaa y leaders in commemorating

December 27th in the Bartow Center.

Presented by the Coalition of African-American Churches & Communi Organizations ty of Co-op City in con-

See page 6 for

the

family and friends,” said one of the many celebrants in attendance.

Another

First Business

Day notice

(Continued on page 2)

Window Gua mailed to all sharrd Notices to be 4; return proc eholders January ess is changing This time every year all NYC

building ed to mail out window guard notices to owners, including Co-op City, vent children from are mandatall residents as households to returnfalling from windows. This annualpart of NYC’s program to prea process requires The return process fully-completed and signed Window Co-op City is changing slightly Guard Form. back to Riverbay this year. In years for processing past the form was completed form and a printed envelope back was provided to mailed on a large postcard to Riverbay. This year, each mail the household (no envelope) with include a copy a perforated section. will be mailed the form of the 2016 NYC (The mailing will fully complete also the window guard Fire Safety Guide.) Sharehold ers ration and mail form it back to the printed and then separate the form are required to and Associates along address which , a widely-used will be the address the perfoNew York City (See page six for of Jack Jaffa based Safety Notice a sample copy of the form).

Mailing Service.

The Jaffa firm will puterized accounting then track the process, scan the response and cost while improving of the required return of each provide a comform the efficiency of for each home, If you prefer, reducing the the process. the returned to Riverbay completed and signed Window in person by dropping Guard Forms who need help can still be them off at your in filling out the CSO office. forms, forms will begin being mailed out CSO staff will again be provided For persons should receive

by Monday, January to assist. The their form by the 4th and each household February 15th. end of next week.

Household second notice delivered s who do not return the The deadline for their return is form by the deadline to them in person. will have a Window guards can save a child’s life.

r tenant in Bart ow

BY JIM ROBERT S The Rite Aid Bartow Shopping Pharmacy in the Center will continue to serve Co-op City residents for many years to come renewal negotiatedfollowing its lease for Riverbay by side commerci al real estate broker outRealty Group.

KZA Rite Aid extended its lease for the 8,045-square-foot space for another years and will 15 pay a significan t increase on its current rent that will shareholders with provide several million tional dollars addiCo-op City’s over three Rite Aid has been the life of the lease. market rent prices shopping plazas at in the Bartow for over 20 years.

Center the rental income in order to increase The Riverbay holders. The Rite for Co-op City shareBoard of Directors approved the deal that KZA Aid lease is the first Rite Aid lease extension has negotiated by a vote of Riverbay.

11-0 for absent at its Dec. with four members “Because Bay 17 meeting.

KZA Realty was street from Co-opPlaza is across the retained to attract and retain commerci City, I think it’s al tenants into (Continue d on page 2)

BY BILL STUTTIG The following Blvd. and is an account major events occurring of the dalized. Baychester Avenue were vanIn the weeks in, or affecting Co-op City during that followed, Department of Public Safety undercove of 2015 as reportedthe last six months officers r were used to concentrat Times. Last week’s by the Co-op City recurring e on this problem issue featured account of the an made, stopping and an arrest was first half of 2015. the troubling crime JULY spree.

During the first week of July, the Departmen As part of its t of Public Safety began training ongoing reor17 new recruits ganization who would then , join the Public Riverba Safety force in y September. It is Corporatio the first new class n of recruits in hired a Director more than three years as the of Procurement new officers were to oversee the replace those who needed to left due to community retirement or ’s moving on to purchasing, proanother agency.

The new class, curement and the first to be led by new inventory contraining director trol. The new Williams, helpedLt. Shelda the departme Pro restore its rolls to approximately nt Director, Jose Mendez, c u r e m e n t full-time officers.

100 years of relevant corporate brought 20 The need for supervisory experience to a the community.

Safety force was fully-staffed Public One of Co-op made clear on City’s most morning of July the resident 1, as 19 vehicles services, the annual popular parked near the intersectio summer n of Co-op City (Continue d on page 3)

(Continued on page 3)

25¢

Riverbay Disabilities Committee Hosts Seminar For Combatting Winter Depression

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The Riverbay Board’s Disabilities & Accommodations Committee (DAAC) kicked off their bi-monthly speaker series with their first seminar last Wednesday at the Bartow Community Center. The first seminar titled: “Combating the Holiday Blues” focused on methods for seniors and others to effectively prevent depression and ways to manage it better for those currently battling depression.

Riverbay Board Director and DAAC Chairperson Andrea Leslie began the seminar by explaining the purpose of the seminar and the series and introducing the speakers along with fellow DAAC member and Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Nathan Lovemore addresses the audimental health advocate ence.

Photo by Bill Stuttig Cheryl Silvera.

Michael Sanchez, Assistant Bureau Director of JASA’s Bronx Services, got the seminar started by presenting the “Program to Encourage Active and Rewarding Lives” (PEARLS). This program is designed to offer in-home mental health care treatment for seniors who are depressed or exhibiting signs of (Continued on page 2)

Councilman Andy King Brings “Sharing is Caring” Holiday Event to Co-op City

BY LAURETTA J. JAYSURA Santa, his elves, volunteers, staffers and a host of holiday well-wishers came to Co-op City’s Dreiser Loop Center early in the day on Christmas Eve, December 24 to participate in the “Sharing is Caring” holiday party sponsored and hosted by Councilman Andy King’s

Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) and co-sponsored by Riverbay Corp.

Over 700 exuberant children and adults of all ages filled this large community center to enjoy a celebration of the holidays Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa: Peace, Love and Joy to the world. Christmas songs and music permeated the air.

King enthusiastically welcomed everyone to participate and have fun joining in the activities scheduled. “We have surprises, entertainment, Santa, games, dance contests and a gift for every child here,” he said. Also, after giving a brief overview of the meanings City Councilman Andy King and his wife Neva Shilling- and importance of Hanukkah ford-King stand aside hundreds of gifts that were given and Christmas, former school out to the children of the northeast Bronx who came to their Sharing is Caring Holiday Party in Dreiser Center on Christmas Eve. Photo by Lauretta Jaysura

(Continued on page 5)

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Seminar

(Continued from page 1)

depression. The program is for seniors 60 years or older who have been diagnosed with depression or are exhibiting signs of depression.

“Mental healthcare is an underfunded service,” Sanchez said. PEARLS is unique because it does not cost the senior anything. According to Sanchez, many in-house mental healthcare services are not covered or paid for by insurance companies so the options for seniors battling depression, especially those home-bound, are extremely limited.

“What we hope to accomplish through Michael Sanchez Photo by Bill Stuttig the program is to help seniors who are suffering from depression and dealing with issues that could contribute to the onset of depression by helping them develop methods to help manage their depression,” Sanchez said. Equally important to note, PEARLS tries to get seniors to focus on increasing

activities they once found enjoyable. The program ranges from 5 to 6 months and during that time period the senior is personally visited at their home by a PEARLS member for a total of 8 sessions. During each session the individual, along with the PEARLS member, explore ways the individual can more effectively approach the problems that are causing their depression.

Since depression is never a problem that is easily brought up or talked about, Sanchez urged those in the audience to be vigilant for the sake of their friends and loved ones and nominate anyone they felt might benefit from PEARLS. The featured speaker of the day, Dr. Nathan Lovemore, clinical psychologist, encouraged seniors in attendance to make the most of their life whether that be by patching up a relationship that has been rocky for a number of years or even simply revisiting the hobbies they once found enjoyable. Dr. Lovemore also touched on the common causes and reasons why people choose to commit suicide and urged seniors in attendance to “find a reason to go out.”

According to Dr. Lovemore, social isolation is a big factor that can contribute to an individual choosing to commit suicide. The desire to go outside and interact with the world diminishes even more starting from late fall and through the winter months in what is referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD for short.

Power Plant

(Continued from page 1)

According to Power Plant Director Brian Reardon, the plant was required to have the switchover completed by 1 a.m. on Friday December 16th and continue to use oil for its heating and hot water needs until 8 p.m. that evening, a total of 19 hours approximately.

Under the terms of the interruptible fuel rate, Riverbay is required to make the switchover complete and have no use or dependence on natural gas for the entire period of the requested switchover. Any natural gas used during the interruption period gets charged to Riverbay at ten times the current market rate, according to Great Eastern Energy.

More importantly, failure to make the requested complete switchover three times during any heating season forces Riverbay off the discount interruptible rate and back onto natural gas at market rate for a period of at least 15 months, and increase in fuel costs for the period of more than $6 million, or approximately $5 million annually.

Arthur Debowski of Great Eastern

Energy reported to Riverbay management last week that Con Edison determined that the switchover on December 16 was 100% successful, with no natural gas burned during the entire 19-hour period.

The Power Plant staff last completed a successful switchover during the overnight hours of February 13 into February 14th this past year as temperatures plunged to below zero for a short period that weekend for the first time in more than a decade. Very much like this most recent switchover, that one also was 100% successful despite the frigid conditions and the tight deadline of switching over to boilers fueled by oil.

Under the Con Edison Interruptible Rate Program, Riverbay, and other big natural gas customers signed up for the program, must switch from natural gas to oil whenever Con Ed’s system is under duress due to high demand caused by extreme cold like the recent “polar vortex” event which caused the early winter season cold snap in mid-December.

Holiday closing for New Year and early Co-op City Times deadline notice The Riverbay administrative offices will be closed on Monday, January 2, 2017 in honor of New Year’s Day. Because of the holiday-shortened work week, all material, including Directors’ viewpoints, for publication in the upcoming Saturday, January 7, 2017 issue of the Co-op City Times must be submitted before 9 a.m. this Tuesday, January 3.

The deadline will be strictly enforced to ensure we meet our production deadline, therefore, material received after this time will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, January 7, 2017 issue of the Co-op City Times.

Material may be emailed to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com; faxed to (718) 3202595 or slipped under the office door at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Rm. 21.

The Co-op City Times will be delivered as usual on Saturday, January 7.

Although the administrative offices will be closed on Monday, January 2 for the New Year’s Day holiday, shareholders may contact the maintenance desk for emergency maintenance, and the Co-op City Public Safety Department at (718) 671-3050, and 9-1-1 with emergencies.

We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable New Year holiday weekend.

SAD affects millions of people a year and can be identified through a variety of symptoms ranging from inexplicable irritability to feeling tired even after sleeping and dramatic changes in weight or eating habits.

“More people attempt suicide every year around this time (winter) than any other time,” said Dr. Lovemore.

Similar to the message Michael Sanchez talked about during his presentation, Lovemore urged the audience to be more willing to reach out and ask for help when needed and to be more aware for any early signs of depression in friends and loved ones. Mental health is something that requires upkeep from both oneself and those closest around, Dr. Lovermore stressed repeatedly throughout his presentation.

The next DAAC speaker series will focus on Alzheimer’s awareness and will take place on January 26, 2017. Following that, in March the seminar will focus on developmental disability. In May, which is also the National Mental Health Month, the topic will be Mental Health. July features a discussion on general disabilities awareness and September’s speaker will talk about disaster preparedness for people with disabilities and care animals. Lastly, the series concludes in November with a discussion on chronic disabilities and illnesses.

Each of the sessions will be featured in the Co-op City Times in the weeks leading up to each presentation.

If You See Something, SAY SOMETHING!!!

Co-op City Public Safety - 718-671-3050

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Co-op City Times 2 n d Year in Review

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

Co-op City Support Group for family and friends of the mentally ill to begin January 12 A support group, which will offer an outlet for those caring for loved ones with mental illness while providing practical information and resources for education, support and advocacy, begins in Co-op City on Thursday January 12th with the first meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. in Einstein Community Center, room 35. The group will meet on the second Thursday evening of each month thereafter. The group will be led by experienced support group facilitators, Winnie Walsh and Riverbay Board Director Marie Smith. The program is offered through the National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI-NYC), a grassroots organization that provides support, education and advocacy for families and individuals of all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds who live with mental illness. Co-op City residents interested in participating can contact Ms. Smith at msmith@riverbayboard.com or by leaving a message for her through the Riverbay Board office by calling 718-3203300, extension 3400.

Bereavement group resumes 1/9/17 The Monday JASA bereavement support group, facilitated by Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr., which meets in room 13 of the Dreiser Center, will not be meeting on Monday, Dec. 26 and again on Monday, January 2, 2017.

Meetings will resume on Monday, January 9, 2017.

If there is a need, you may contact Dr. Smith at (917) 734-4058.

Next CB #10 meeting to be held Jan. 19 The next monthly meeting of Community Board #10 will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2017 at 7 p.m. at Villa Barone Manor, 737 Throgs Neck Expressway, Bronx, NY 10465. For more information, please contact CB #10 at (718) 8921161.

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of offering a 6% carrying charge discount to all shareholders who prepaid their carrying charges. The upfront money would then be used to pre-pay the city’s water charges under the city’s Multi-Family Conservation Program (MCP), saving the community $1.4 million in annual water charges. At an open Board meeting the next week, the Board voted unanimously to approve the prepay program. Soon after, hundreds of shareholders agreed to the pre-payment thus allowing Co-op City to enroll in the city’s MCP and thereby save more than a million dollars in water charges each year going forward.

In mid-January, Public Safety began using an interactive firearms training program to train and test officers on their response to handling real-life scenarios where split second decisions have to be made as to if and when to use a firearm to protect the lives and safety of the public and themselves.

During the week on January 18th, a reoccurring problem of thieves breaking into residents’ mailboxes began. The first occurrence in Building 17 resulted in a quick arrest. As 2016 continued, other suspects would be arrested for similar crimes throughout the community.

On January 21st, predictions of a snowstorm of historic proportions put the community’s operational departments in preparation mode. Snow removal equipment was placed on the ready and plans were made to have workers on-site as soon as the snow began to fall by early morning on Saturday, January 23rd.

The snow and wind storm turned out to be worse than predicted as up to 28 inches of snow fell on the community and the rest of the Bronx on January 23rd, arguably the largest snowstorm ever to hit the borough. Dozens of Riverbay workers stayed overnight Saturday into Sunday and worked through the storm and after to have the majority of the community’s walkways cleared by early Sunday afternoon.

The community’s popular Chinese buffet moved to expanded space inside the Bartow Shopping Center and opened for business of January 29th, offering an expanded menu and a new cocktail bar.

February: On February 4th, a Co-op City man was arrested for allegedly threatening another man with a knife outside $$ $ Building 20A after the suspect was denied entry into the building by his victim. The victim immediately reported the threat to Public Safety and although the initial search came up empty, a review of surveillance revealed the identity and the Vol. 51 No. 6

Co-op City’s

official newspaper

serving the world’s

© Copyright

largest cooperativ

Co-op City’s

Co-op City resid allegedly thre ent arrested for atening another shareholder with a knife

BY BILL STUTTIG A Co-op

Warner, Command Detectives Unit, er of Public Safety’s a search for the abouts of the whereCo-op City resident question was launched immediate in after the threatened ly shareholder reported the potentially deadly confrontat Monday morning. ion on (Continued on page 4)

Two inches of wet slushy snow early Friday fell on Co-op morning. While City and the the ground for the slushy mixture rest the provided a messyTri-State area turesque winterresidents trying to get to throughout the landscapes as the wet work and school, it also nuisance on made for picsnow coated community that tree limbs and morning. shrubbery Photo by Bill Stuttig

. cooperative community

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Co-op City as the subject of a lengthy feature article citing the community’s long-standing affordability, open space and quality of life.

March: The 21st Century came to Co-op City – albeit a little late – as Riverbay began offering shareholders the chance to pay their carrying charges online for the first time.

The community’s seniors received the chance to speak directly to a representative of the Mayor’s Office during a daytime town hall meeting presented in association with JASA and the New York Academy of Medicine. The mayor’s representatives heard about municipal services that are not quite what they should be in Co-op City, such as poor traffic control and bus service, little NYPD presence, and the lack of FIOS wiring.

Leaders of a different kind – religious leaders of all faiths – converged on Co-op City in early March to deliver a message of unity as they sought to provide aid and comfort to the borough’s residents. The interfaith breakfast was produced though the leadership of Bishops Angel and Nancy Rosario of Co-op City’s Church of God’s Children.

On March 10th, Rev. Calvin Owens announced his resignation from the Riverbay Board of Directors after 11 years of service. Rev. Owens cited the increasing demands on his time while serving as the pastor of the Community Protestant Church. Shareholder Sonia Feliciano was sworn in to replace him on the board until the next Board election in May. In May, Ms. Feliciano won election to a full three-year term.

At that same meeting, the Board voted to increase the fine for getting caught smoking in interior public places to $300. The resolution’s sponsor, President Cleve Taylor, cited costly and unsightly damage caused by the careless discarding of cigarette butts in interior public areas as one of the reasons for the increase, but also the potential for loss of life due to such careless behavior – tragedies which he personally witnessed during his long career as a firefighter in New York City.

On March 14th, Public Safety officers and NYPD Emergency Service Unit officers talked a man out of jumping to his death from the rooftop of Building 35.

The community watched as the man clung to the rooftop railing threatening to jump. Public Safety Officers Steve Grosvenor and Marcelo Ahmed were the first to engage the troubled man in conversation, trying to convince him that his life was worth living – which they eventually did. He was then taken to a local hospital for observation. A few days later, begin online Riverbay to carr ying payment of t month charges nex in the most cost effective and

thank business I would like to for BOONE efficient manner.

BY ROZAAN Board of Directors the n has contracted into Riverbay Corporatio begin accepting the Riverbay bring Co-op City oods, is and will helping me to dly Neighborh our innovation with PayLease payment of monthly seniors called Age-Frien century and I hope meeting offered Co-op among our cooperelectronic, paperless month, April 1, in 21st the town hall next with good favor Co-op

BY BILL STUTTIG discuss all things carrying charges to make it easier and met senior life in the chance to will to in the Bartow All aspects of a continued effortfor Co-op City share- ators.” electronic payment option to transportation with City. It was presented The to the in association City, from shopping y and everything more convenient with the coming weeks Community Center an conduct business be added in the the Riverbay website, to security to affordabilit during holders Riverbay. covered for page of .

JASA and in between, were meeting Wednesday of the Center housing corporation President Cleve “Home” baycorp.com, and by clicking hall Caitlin Smith rs of the New of the hour-long town Riverbay Board working with the www.river Online” button, shareholde Policy and Programs held by the Office and Health a “Pay been jointly for the has on morning to register Taylor, who York City Council, to bring the corporation of record will be able will require their page 4) Mayor, the New Riverbay Board business (Continued on Academy of Medicine. ve how it conducts share- “new” account which the New York up-to-date in a new city-initiati savings for account number. and Presented under in order to maximize “I’m sure many Riverbay shareholders have set up week: Once account, they holders, said this would agree with me their PayLease a s of our cooperator of electronic payment registered be in a position to process then use Automated here in will when I say the credit card or long been overdue systems have major step one-time another is 2) This page Co-op City. efforts to (Continued on continue our conduct forward as we corporation and modernize our

York Academy of the New and Programs on a variety of important for Health Policy City seniors Photo by Bill Stuttig of the Center tely 100 Co-op Caitlin Smith here. spoke to approxima of Medicine the senior population topics affecting

Riverbay Board

on of Directors Electi

petition period Board election March 21.

The Riverbay begin on Monday,is to be held is scheduled to ers’ meeting The annual sharehold18, 2016.

May on Wednesday,

wipes k driver sides Suspected drun y inside with a famil parked car

for the 2016/2017 STAR deadline March 15 tax year is

resias their primary more uses the property couples owning BOONE dence. Married can only have

BY ROZAAN shareholders are elithan one property unless they are All Co-op City School property can New York State STAR on one Exseparated and gible for the Property Tax divorced or legallytion to support their Tax Relief (STAR) automatic it is not an provide documenta emption, but be filed for.

Basic claim. exemption; it must types of STAR limit to receive There is no age houseThere are two the combined however, STAR, must be to any exemptions. of the owner(s) is available hold income Basic STAR cooperative apartpage 3) owner of a house, or other property (Continued on um ment, condomini one owner lives in or as long as at least

they in the report that also cers who stated The officers could smell alcohol.

Section 5 and

BY BILL STUTTIG the driver, a officers detained reported that Public Safety driving to drinking alcohol on suspicion of resident, admitted arrested a man and leaving the scene operating his vehicle. that before he began obwhile intoxicated officer also stated after the officers rearThe reporting of an accident he was driving sideis suspected of mothe same driver served the vehicle that was parked on vehicle on I-95 of another car ending scene in front swipe another and leaving the Parkway East ments before exit into Hutchinson River by taking the Sunday evening. g the that accident of Building 30A the Public Safety then sideswipin Section 5 and seconds car According to car just a few incident, the parked occupied parked report on the by a famand was occupied later. struck arrested of was that officers the time 45th Public Safety and a child, at ily, two adults members suspect to the of the family transported the was officially adminimpact. Each taken to he was and where injuries Precinct r test by an NYPD complained of Center for treatment quesistered a breathalyze Jacobi Medical Officer, further Highway Patrol and further evaluation.report, the driver processed. the tioned and then offiAccording to

by Public Safety was questioned

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urged to fill surveys on prop out osed carrying charge discoun t program

BY JIM ROBERTS

Shareholders interest in taking are indicating their Water & Sewer part in the proposed Savings program would give them that charge discount a significant carrying and could reduce community’s the annual water bill from New York City by $1.425 million, 12% reduction. a Under the proposed voluntary plan being spearhead ed Cleve Taylor, any by Board President pays their carryingshareholder who precharges for one would receive year a one-time 6% discount on their carrying charges for a one-year period. The plan was unanimou approved by the Board of Directorssly their Open Board at meeting on Jan. 13.

All shareholde rs are urged to read

largest serving the world’s Times official newspaper 2016 Co-op City © Copyright March 5, 2016 Saturday,

their say at town Seniors have hip d in partners hall presente or’s office with the May

activities of the man and an arrest was made two days later.

A complete overhaul of the third of the community’s four original Power Plant transformers was completed in early February, increasing the community’s ability to produce and export power for additional revenue to help offset the costs of running Co-op City, thereby keeping carrying charges low.

The overhaul of the fourth and final transformer is now taking place and should be completed next month.

Riverbay General Manager Noel Ellison was named one of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce’s African-American Heritage honorees. The award pointed specifically to Mr. Ellison’s achievements in business, as well as his steadfast commitment to improving the lives of others.

Mid-February brought with it some of the coldest temperatures that the region had experienced in more than two decades as the temperature went down to -1 degree on the morning of February 14th offering the perfect excuse to stay cuddling with your honey a little longer on Valentine’s Day morning.

The unusually cold weather put extra stress on the Power Plant that weekend as Con Edison requested that operations be shifted from natural gas to oil in order to take the load off the utility’s natural gas provisions. By being able to accomplish this on short notice, the utility discounts Co-op City’s rate by approximately $6 million a year. If the Power Plant crew had failed to make the switchover on time, the community would have lost the sizable discount, so the Power Plant was under pressure to get it done and they did, under some trying conditions.

Eight CCPD detectives and officers were honored by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. for their work in making key arrests in 2015 which provided information that led to the capture of 17 additional street gang members operating throughout the borough.

On February 15th, Public Safety began training 12 new officers. The officers were deployed at the end of April.

On February 23rd, the Osbourne Association Justice Community Program came to Co-op City to help young people between 18 and 24 who have been involved with the criminal justice system to effectively re-assimilate back into mainstream society. $$ $ On February 20th, the Riverbay Board of Directors’ Legislative Committee, under the charge of committee chairman Rod Saunders, hosted its first legislative brunch.

All of Co-op City’s elected representatives took part in the activities which included honoring the community’s outstanding youth.

The venerable New York Times chose 10 Vol. 51 No.

2016 Co-op City e community.

Times Saturday, Overhaul of February 6, 2016 community’s now 75% comp transformers Shareholders lete

The ambitious overhaul each project to main electrical of the four importing andtransformers power to Co-op exporting City took a major step Tuesday as theforward on transformers third of four scheduled to be overhauled was returned to the Power Plant in refurbished condition. This third unit to be was removed overhauled in late autumn and then brought back to the community by M&L Power, the contractor that won the bid the transforme to remove reinstall it. “An r and then this type takesoverhaul of twelve to sixteen between weeks to be performed by the factory,” said Brian Reardon, Director of the Power Plant.

“The unit was delivered back to Co-op day and it will City on Tuesweek and a take another half to finish installing and testing it is energized.” it before haul of the fourthThe overand last remaining transforme r to be done is currently an item before able off-site openings the Riverbay Board of Directors. to get can likely be returned to thethe overhaul done, the fourth Depending on feeders operationa availplant before transformer to be overhauled Two of the recentlyl for the summer months,summer to ensure that Riverbay has which is the peak restored and struction of the all four overhauled transforme load period for Power Plant the facility. in 1968. rs date back to the original con-

City the Department man was arrested by of Public Safety day afternoon Thursafter launched stemmingan investigation was threatening another from him allegedly shareholder with knife on the morning a of February outside the lobby of Building 20A. 1st, According to Lieutenant Anthony

Front Pa ge

3

through the proposal with their February that was provided carrying charge statement and then the survey at the complete and return bottom of the plan.

The offer to shareholders aims raise approxima to tely $10.1 million would allow all which of Co-op City to prepay its New York City water and charges under sewer the city’s Multi-Fam Conservation ily Program saving the communit (MCP) thereby y and its holders $1.4 million on annual sharecharges. water Completing the mitment, but just survey is not a coma to gauge interest way for management in the communit know who to y and contact when it becomes (Continued on page 2)

Demo crati c Prim ary Save the Date: The Democratic Presidential Prima ry will be held on Tuesday, April 19th, 2016.

Make sure you are registered to vote!

Active shooter training – In related shootings response to the increase throughout the later San Bernardin world, including of deadly terroristment has stepped o, California last autumn, the the one in Paris and up its preparati ing situations Public Safety in public places, on for handling random DepartSteve Grosveno active shootr and Kendrickas well as private residence rehearsing officers on how to bestWells led a class Thursdays. Officers a public place. diffuse an active morning diffuse the sameLater that day, similar shooter situation in after the Paris situation in a private training was offered on how to ingly becoming attacks that terrorist residence. Chief Frank Apollo attacks on soft more prevalent said along with targets are seemthroughout the other law world, enforcement selves according agencies, have so Public Safety, ly. to prepare themPhoto by Bill Stuttig

Task Force hosts Bronx Clergy kfast in Co-op City Interfaith Brea

faith leaders nearly 400 addresses the morning as the event’s Darcel Clark Thursday District Attorney Interfaith Breakfast Force looks on. the The new Bronx Photo by Bill Stuttig Clergy Task Co-op City for who came to Angel Rosario of the Bronx host, Bishop for article.

See page 11

(Continued on page 4)

4

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Year in Review

(Continued from page 3) Co-op City’s

after his release, the man called Public Safety and personally thanked the two officers for saving his life.

At his State of the District address in mid- March, City Councilman Andy King pledged $1 million in city funding towards the renovation of the Dreiser Auditorium and the establishment of free trolley service for seniors travelling between Co-op City and the Mall at Bay Plaza.

In late March, the Riverbay Board of Directors began seeking ideas from shareholders for the creation of cost savings, improved operations, increased revenues, eliminated safety hazards and/or improved procedures at Riverbay. “I believe the shareholders’ incentive program is a fabulous opportunity for Riverbay to tap into the incredible resources we have right here in Co-op City,” said Linda Berk, Riverbay Board then-first vice president. “Money saving ideas from fellow shareholders is inclusive, creative and hopefully will engage cooperators to benefit the entire community.” To qualify for one of the three prizes available, each suggestion was required to describe a specific problem, offer a workable solution and offer a measurable benefit to the Riverbay Corporation. Suggestions ranged from topics in engineering, security, information technology, accounting, clerical support and many more. Prizes for accepted ideas ranged between $500 and $150.

April: Just as the first warmth of early spring began to arrive, Open Board Me eting came word that the relatively mild winter, combined with the reduced cost of natural gas, resulted in Co-op City spending $4 million less on energyrelated costs during January and February in 2016 as compared to the same two months in 2015.

On April 2nd and 3rd, hundreds of shareholders attended Riverbay’s annual home improvement fair in the Dreiser Center and sampled the latest in approved kitchen and bathroom enhancements, new flooring alternatives and new closet doors.

The petition period for Riverbay’s annual Board election ended on April 4th. Eleven shareholders ended up running for the Board as six seats were open.

Public Safety detectives used surveillance images to quickly identify a suspect who mugged and robbed a 103year-old resident after she exited an elevator in her building. The robbery attracted city-wide media attention and the suspect was located and arrested the next day. She was successfully convicted of the crime later in the year.

The hard-fought New York State primary for the Democratic nomination of the party’s Presidential candidate came directly to Co-op City as former First Lady, U.S. Senator and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton chose the community as the site for a major political rally on April 13th. Hundreds of shareholders lined up for hours outside the Dreiser Center for the chance to attend the rally. Those who could not get in were able to watch live via a closed circuit broadcast on screens set up outside the community center. The rally was also rebroadcast several times on Riverbay’s in-house channel available in each home.

The rally must have worked because when the primary was held on April 19th, Mrs. Clinton received 75.5% of the vote in Co-op City compared to 24.5% for her opponent, Vermont U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders.

Mrs. Clinton won the overall state primary capturing 58% of the vote state wide.

Mark Warren, the former Commissioner of Buildings for the city of Mount Vernon, was hired in April as Riverbay’s new assistant general manager for construction with direct oversight over all ongoing and future construction and major repair projects in the community.

On April 22nd, the Riverbay Disabled and Accommodations Committee unveiled three newly purchased evacuation chairs to help evacuate disabled persons from Vol. 51 No. 14

Co-op City’s

official newspaper

serving the world’s 2016 Co-op City largest cooperative community Times Saturday, .

April 2, 2016

© Copyright

Shareholders paying carr ying charges onlin e through new PayLease serv

BY JIM ROBERTS ice As of earlier days

25¢

Wednesday, Einstein CommApril 6 at 7 p.m. in unity Center, Rm. 45

this week, nearly using PayLease shareholders have and we’re expect200 ing the activity already started to pick up rapidly PayLease, Riverbay’s using shareholders try as new, convenient out and cost-saving themselves. There the new system for way to pay monthly The Riverbay may be some unforecarrying charges seen glitches Board of Directors online in the first has scheduled that will need it is up and running. week tured topics will an addressed and to be include an update ing commenci Open Board meet- various should anyone Shareholders on ng capital projects experican Wednesday, April at 7 p.m. this on the and an update now pay their ence any diffiongoing search 6th in Room 45 carrythe Einstein for executive of manageme ing charges culties, I ask for Community online nt. The evening Center.

Prior to the meeting, to avoid having will their patience beginning at 6 include a gallery session and also to p.m. Riverbay send a paper as we continue holders are asked shareDepartment Directors check to come and preswill be available or take time to roll out this ent questions in Room off and address from their jobs new program.” individual concerns45 to these two featured concerns about to topics shareholders ministrative Office come into the AdThe may have. When that community-wide concernor any other tronic payment to pay their Board meeting option has been eleceach month. they may bills begins at 7 p.m., the have. See page four to the “Home” added for the evening’s fea- full agenda. page “We see this website, www.river of the Riverbay as an extremely venient way to baycorp.com, by clicking on pay the monthly conand the ing charge bill,” carrythe third paragraph“PayLease” link in said Riverbay Director of Finance Peter message, shareholde of the welcome Merola. “We’ve More than $4 million very positive rs of record had a response in the can saved over the first few costs from last

BY BILL STUTTIG (Continued on winter page 2) During these Department at recently past the request of months of the coldest the Co-op City Times, the total February, Riverbayyear, January and ditures on energy amount of expenspent slightly during this January than $4 million more and on February – which specifically the energy-related costs, of electric purchasedincludes the cost purchase of fuels Some shareholde electricity, which and stand-by issue at the bank rs might receive duplicate charges, electricity is $4 million less and bills that processes what Riverbay than charge bills. boilers, gas burned sold, gas burned in the mailing of this month due to a software spent Riverbay’s monthly January and February on energy during in turbines (producA large quantity ing electricity) carrying of 2015. of the original and oil burned to incomplete According to mailing was returned $4,044,250. addresses. The – was figures from the Post released this corrected addresses bank has reprinted month by the Office Riverbay Finance Please pay your and will pay any additional and mailed out invoices with due the (Continued on you receive one. bill as you normally would costs caused by the mistake. page 2) Some bills may and disregard normal. the arrive at your address a day duplicate bill if or two later than —Riverbay Finance Department

Winter energy costs

cut in half

Duplicate l carrying charge bills Apri mailed in erro r

Deadline for submitting qualify ing petitions as Board candid ates is 5 p.m.

Mond 14 have picked up petition packa ay; ges

BY ROZAAN BOONE This Monday, board director, April 4 at 5 some are running will be the deadline p.m. the first time and for for shareholde wishing to run rs run for the board several others have for the Riverbay in the past.

Board of Directors (See page 6 for to submit their signed petitions. year’s poll worker the details of this training) Fourteen shareholde According to rs picked up the qualifying petition Department, those Riverbay Legal who have picked annual election packages for the up petitions are: Board of Directorsof the Riverbay Kevin Lambright Stanley Frere, place on Wednesday which will take Frank Belcher, , Leslie Peterson, Marie the paper’s deadline, May 18. As of Smith, Yolanda C. yesterday, Schumann, candidate had Holly Malone, Sonia already submitted one Feliciano, Andrea petition with her Leslie, Bernard the Cylich, Tony holder signatures. required 75 shareClaudia Sampson, Illis, Out of the fourteen Werner and Josephine Linda Draxresident shareholders who picked Ferguson. As of press time, Marie Smith for a seat on the up petitions to run is the only one who 2016-2017 Riverbay Board of Directors signed petition. has returned her The rest have incumbent directors,this week, four are until one is a former (Continued on page 12)

DHCR approves smoking in inter $300 fine for increase goes ior public places; into effect April 16

BY BILL STUTTIG Cooperators who “Innocent people choose to smoke can and do lose any of the community in lives due to the their ’s interior public irresponsib spaces – which smokers in apartment le behavior of include building wells, hallways, stairbuildings,” Mr. Taylor, a retired lobbies, elevators firefighter, said. all of the community and seen it. Many, “I have centers -many more will be fined $300 as of ple have suffered innocent peoApril 16. serious injury to themselves Earlier this week and their loved the ones due to this New York irresponsible behavior and Division of HomesState billions and of dollars in Community property Renewal damage has been (DHCR) sent caused official by illegal smoking notice to Riverbay in of its this city.” approval of the Mr. Taylor added, Resolution calling Board “It for the is a behavior that sharp increase in the community ous and unhealthy is dangercomplaint fee for everyfor people caught one, not just the ing in interior smoksmoker. It this corporation public places throughout many thousands costs Co-op City. lars each month of doljust to clean On March 3, by stairwells and a vote of 10 to hallways that are up our Riverbay Board regularly used by smokers. of Directors passed3 the resolution increasing If you smoke the office building the fee for people anywhere in New in an caught smoking City, you could in interior public likely lose your York to $300. (See resolution places smoking in any job for on page 30.) of Riverbay Board for good reason. those buildings and President Cleve Taylor was one gation to enforce We have an obliof the leading nents of the propoNew York City’s smoking fine increase.

(Continued on page 4)

largest cooperative serving the world’s Times 6Co-op City 1 official newspaper 0 2 © Copyright June 4, 2016 Saturday,

act, Elliman contr Board approves managing firm begins as agent July 1General Manager 23 Vol. 51 No.

buildings in case of emergency. The use of the chairs now comes under the responsibility of Public Safety’s Emergency Services Unit.

On April 27th, the Riverbay Board of Directors authorized Riverbay General Counsel Jeffrey Buss to begin negotiating a contract with Douglas Elliman Property Management to be the community’s new managing agent. By late May, a contract was signed and approved and Bob Klehammer of the Elliman firm became Riverbay’s executive general manager effective July 1.

On April 29th, 12 new officers graduated from Public Safety’s extensive ten week training program and began patrolling the community as of May 2nd. The 12 were chosen out of more than 400 men and women who applied for the position earlier.

May: To help ensure that Co-op City makes the required legal quorum of voters for the upcoming 2016 Board election, the Riverbay Election Committee expended the incentive program, offering five $200 bonuses to randomly selected shareholder/voters, one from each section of the development.

The Election Committee also had a hearing to discuss the possibility of assessing a fine against a candidate accused of making a public personal attack against a Board director during one of the candidates’ forums in early May. At a hearing on May 9th, the committee voted to fine that candidate $300 for his alleged misdeeds.

At an open Board meeting on May 11th, several Board directors took on the rumor that a 3% carrying charge increase was in the works. Many directors vehemently denied that any such discussion had ever taken place amongst the Board. Their denials proved to be founded as no new carrying charge increase ever came up again in the many months that followed.

On May 12th, Co-op City’s Detective Unit was honored as a whole for its work in helping to quickly find and capture a suspect who mugged a 103-year-old woman as she was exiting an elevator earlier that year.

The suspect was eventually convicted of the crime.

The honor took place at the annual 45th Precinct Community Council breakfast and also honored at the event was Co-op City’s Bishop Angel Rosario for his work in uniting the borough’s various houses of worship of different faiths through his leadership of the Bronx Clergy Task Force.

By mid-May, Co-op City’s hugely successful Rivers Run Community Garden was fully operating for another planting and growing season. Aside from giving Co-op City residents the chance to share the joys of planting and growing their own plants and vegetables, the garden, on the banks of the Hutchinson River, helped give learning opportunities to local teachers and students who regularly visited the garden to learn about the joys and wonders of nature in a pastoral outdoor setting.

Incumbent Board director Leslie Peterson was the top vote getter for the 2016 Riverbay Board election, winning another three-year term along with fellow incumbent directors Sonia Feliciano, Andrea Leslie, and Bernie Cylich. Claudia Sampson and Marie Smith were newcomers to the Board, finishing fifth and sixth, respectively.

Anthony Ligato joined Riverbay in late May as Co-op City’s Director of Utility Assets with direct oversight over all infrastructure – including the power plant – which delivers electricity, heat, hot water and air cooling to the community’s more than 15,000 homes. He was just one of several new hires in the first months of 2016, providing increased senior management oversight in several areas of Riverbay’s key operations.

Another new hire, John Lowe, started the following week and was placed in charge of improving the func-

community.

25¢

ted as Cleve Taylor elec a third President for year consecutive

tioning of Riverbay’s Risk Management Department, overseeing all insurance concerns and contracts.

June: On June 2, Cleve Taylor was elected President of the Riverbay Board of Directors by his colleagues on the Board for a third consecutive year. In a brief statement after his reelection, Mr. Taylor thanked his fellow directors in helping to return the community to financial stability, accountability and transparency over the last two years.

The night before, on June 1, the Board, including many outgoing members, voted to approve a one year contract between Douglas Elliman Property Management and Riverbay. Bob Klehammer was named as Riverbay’s new executive general manager beginning July 1.

Earlier that week, a five-year-old child was observed wandering around a building lobby by a lobby attendant and Public Safety officers immediately secured the child and brought him to a local hospital for care while they searched and eventually located the parents. Later that evening, the case was handed over to the city’s Administration of Children’s Services.

Shortly after the new Board was seated, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. pointed to the financial turnaround of Co-op City over the previous two years as a symbol of the economic renaissance that has been occurring in the borough over the past five years.

As further proof of Riverbay’s new-found financial stability, Riverbay released figures in late June, showing a current cash balance exceeding $27 million, a far cry from the cash balance of just under $1 million just two years prior.

Financial stability aside, in mid-June, the Riverbay Board held a meeting demanding an update on a series of capital improvement projects that had fallen behind schedule over the past year. Riverbay Power Plant and Construction Department heads updated the Board on a number of key projects and their expected completion date.

A new project that was brought up for discussion by the Board at the same meeting was the possibility of a new permanent structure to house the community’s Construction Department and the removal of the Construction Department trailers from Riverbay grounds to create more parkland for the community’s use.

On June 15th, Energy Spectrum, which serves as an agent for Riverbay in negotiating energy sales with utilities and suppliers, presented the community a $820,000 check for outside revenue produced by the Power Plant in the past year.

In late June, an 83-year old man was found stabbed to death in his Co-op City apartment. A suspect, said to be a family member, was found a day later in New Jersey, was questioned and subsequently charged with the horrific murder.

In another unfortunate sign of the times, Riverbay employees began training with the NYPD’s Counter Terrorism Division as to how to react to and survive potential active shooter situations in the work place, a situation that is becoming all too common place throughout the nation.

On June 29th, senior officials from both HUD and the New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) toured Co-op City and met with Board directors and senior management officials. The government officials only saw a fraction of what Riverbay had prepared to offer on the extensively planned tour and that fact did not escape President Cleve Taylor who said, “They rushed in and rushed out. We would have preferred if they allotted more time to fully appreciate the work that our staff does on a daily basis and to see how much Co-op City has to offer.” and elect Board Directors for the Board officers

7term.

1 new Executive 0

BY BILL STUTTIG -2 6 1 0 2 first Klehammer named Berk. Board members Riverbay President Mr. Taylor was President Linda Jones, Berk, Helen was elecPresident Cleve Taylor elected as Board voting yes were of the new

BY JIM ROBERTS managing agent, Cylich,Sonia Feliciano, ted as President Dir4heading up a 1 0 new in 2 Atkins,Bernard Deborah of swept nt, Co-op City’s Leah Graham, Riverbay Board conProperty Manageme Board leadership Bill Gordon, Johnson,Lesyear that Douglas Elliman the daily Jenkins,Daryl ectors for a third an into office that leadership of Saunders by acwill take over lie Peterson, Rod secutive year Riverbay promised increased staCleve majoroperations of and Board PresidentAndrea overwhelming direcon July 1 countability, financial cy, Corp. beginning and transparen Taylor. Director Evelyn ity of his fellow Rivthat bility, contract year and oneno prior to on a Leslie voted tors at the annual and Mr. Taylor, to the by the RiverWilliams meeting was approved Turner and Junius for the erbay Board being re-elected Directors at bay Board of specifically to recorded absent were called .

1 June of page 4) their meeting on vote. confirm the results (Continued on appointed elechas been Elliman has The contract Cleve Taylor the recent Board new r as Exestate HCR, the the to seat Robert Klehamme to submitted tions, Manager to and Wells cutive General the federal HUD as the fullCity’s overserve on-site Fargo, Co-op representaand lender, time Elliman sight agencies that approval. tive. It is expected respectively, for Robert Klehammer be added at also calls more staff may The resolution necessary.

Marion but a later date,if the for several hours, to officially terminate 9 for HCR -2 child in her home when no one came 6 The Board approvedResolution 1 under page 10) became concerned she then contacted Elliman contract

BY BILL STUTTIG City resident, a (Continued on by director Francine and op for the child, Vice that was submitted An alert CoPublic seconded by First attendant and under Public Safety.

Reva Jones and

after her Mother arrested was found child five-year-old nd a building wandering arou

lobby child remained came to the While the small care, Safety officers old supervision and aid of a five-yearthe neighbor’s attempted to locate boy who was observed Public Safety officersseveral attempts and g after wanderin the mother and reached the mother around the lobby searches eventually to the report, the A 5 of Building by phone. According had fallen that the child late last Thursfor a mother stated had come downstairs day evening, May asleep and she his responding officer, In addition, , looking for 6 2 minutes. The few Safety’s are of Public mother. applicants who Maribel Marsonet Unit, said that the a Public pg. 2) Services not yet currently According to (See flyer on but it was suspected the inci- Emergency enrolled in school,be conSafety report on child was talkative, to by a was observed but would like page 11) to program, dent, the child (Continued on sidered for the knew him.Accordingthe page essay on why for neighbor who must write a one- to participate in the neighbor cared like the report, the he/she would

s for application Deadline for bay Summer the 2016 River 8 am is June Intern progr Apply today

6

BY BILL STUTTIGstudents between 1 All Co-op City apply encouraged to 2years old are and 2 the Riverbay Institute for a position within provides Program which Summer Intern time summer 2per hour)full1 st.

1 3 well-paid ($ th through August to a 7 2 jobs from June school,transitioning or All youth in high school program, technical or trade are eligible. attending a college,

No

send Remember to for in your entries the Best & s Brightest Award

on Provided False Informati s

By Candidate Board Of Directors

Increase Carrying Charge

page 3) (Continued on

Discussed By

Message ers: Dear Sharehold ev- President’s Last Thursday Open ening’s Special President Board of Directors one of Meeting was the most important year meetings of the and its resifor Co-op Cityat that meetdents because members got ing,the Board the voluntogether to honor the Board tary service of former direcdirectors and given voluntors who have enhance the tary service to expericooperative living to enjoy ence we have come

Cleve Taylor

Riverbay Elec

Voting Incentive

in Co-op City. we At this meeting, newly also swore in the elected and reelected to our Board directors Corporate Board.

These individuals body will join a collective each that will with one vote conrepresent the collective community sciousness of this$ 0million 2 2 and guide this into corporation cooperative policies and the future. Theconsider will direction we page 2) (Continued on

(center), presents at Reva Jones Incentive Drawing 2, , Director Francine Chairperson of the Voting Section Election Committee the five winners are: Section 1, Tamar Green; Downsto four of five winners Section 4, Helen Bill Stuttig $200 checks meeting. The Photo by 3, Martha Way; Thursday’s Board ay; Section Green.

Jervonne Burkhalter-M Section 5, Shirley Johnson; and

tion Supplem

Vol. 51 No. 19

Co-op City’s

official newspaper

ent on pages

serving the world’s

© Copyright

2016 Co-op City largest cooperative community Times .

2016 Election Committee anno unces Voting Incentive Program

Saturday,

$17 Million Free

May 7, 2016

25-33

Operating Cash 25¢

BY ROZAAN BOONE To ensure a high “THAT’S BUSINE During the drawing, turnout of shareholders for the SS, NOT POLITI five choices from each of the Dear shareholde CS” Directors election Riverbay Board of randomly chosen five sections will be rs: scheduled to take That’s not an on Wednesday place President’s database in which by computer from a , May 18, the Message That’s the result accident!

9. Design all of the buildings Riverbay Board of Directors the developme in planning that got of good and build a new nt are sequentiall the 2016 Voting has approved offering us out of: y Each of these Incentive Program state of the art numbers correlateslisted.

1. A judgment again this year. once building and in an $8 President to a million federal Dreiser Expoan apartment On Wednesday and as the class action numbers are drawn lawsuit. sition Auditoridentifying a possitake place between, May 18, voting will ble winning the hours of 6 a.m. ium apartment, they 2. Legionella and 9 p.m. in the will be matched against lion). The architect($3.2 millobbies of the and the necessary clean up residential buildings. has been extra Con and also compared the voting registers selected; the Edison use ($2 3-dimensional against Shareholders who absentee million). challenge ballots rendition has been and vote in the Board 3. No Carrying presented. election will be shareholder votedto ensure that the Charge 10. The proper automatically increase (0%), into the Voting entered June 2016 which is scheduled in the election, design and build funding to through which this year Incentive Program all glass to take place June 2017.

Wednesday, May and steel storefronts on offers $200 to 4. Enough reserves 18. If the first ners, one from 5 and number drawn comes facades for each section of winto pay for any natural up invalid, meaning the City, who will Co-op the shareholde Dreiser and EinsteinBartow, that be heating oil increase gas or r did not vote, in a computeriz randomly selected Loop the second number will be Shopping next ed drawing after considered, and 5. Enough reserves winter.

Board election lion) is out to bid. Centers ($4.1 miluntil a winner so on, with the process the to start our $43 million Capital is selected. seen by the over11.

The This year’s quorum Riverbay Finance Repair Projects proper funding this year without Legal Departmen is 5,054 votes for to redesign, build and a rent the 2016 Riverbay and 6. A secure future increase.

Election Committeets, and the 2016 Board of Directors doors, entrances install of all lobby under current . leadership. Let's mock-up sample and lobbies. The not (Continued on is being installed PLEASE NOTE: go backwards! page 2) Building 15A. in Co-op City is current with all There are several bills and every reserve account is funded. projects, including more funded new Wednesday, the legacy projects START BUILDING left over from Agenda includes: May 11, 7 p.m., Dreiser Auditorium – NOW our Elimination of 7. The purchase requirements agent, Marion Scott former managing Co-op Apartment is complete and

by Riverbay, Discussion Realty, that must Insurance proper installation in Ballots for 2017 cleaned up be and presentatio of a brand new ton boiler is underway.

150Renovation, and Election, Presentation on Dreiser n on MailEXPERIE Gallery Session; 8. We have started department heads.

6-7 p.m. – Meet Auditorium Prior to becoming NCE the design, build with Riverbay Attend and be and installation President of Co-op City, I an informed cooperator! of a attended Iona lion elevator system.brand new $40 milCollege attaining my (179 elevators B.B.A. in Finance Co-op City). in and

Open Board Meetin g

2016 Election on candidate’sCommittee to hold hearing alleged perso at election forum nal attacks

BY ROZAAN BOONE The 2016 Election President Linda Committee will Berk should resign convene a hearing position for “illegally” her next week to mine whether taking money from Riverbay Mr. Frank Belcher, deterCorporation when didate running a canrequested to in the she be Directors election, Riverbay Board of taken away from reimbursed for time and/or disqualified should be fined ad hoc managemeher job to attend the for making personal attacks against meetings which nt search committee an officer of the resulted bay Corporatio Belcher also produced in lost pay. Mr. n during Monday RiverCandidates’ Forum night’s a letter of resignation for the first vice president Community Center. held in the Bartow at the meeting. to sign According to the During the debate, Mr. Belcher was Election Committee, another candidate explained that the during the debate asked several times (Article III, Section Riverbay By-Laws attacks at anyone, not to level personal 11) state that Board directors may however, he persistbe reimbursed ed in stating for lost that Riverbay First Vice (Continued on page 4)

We wish our readers a Happy Moth er’s Day!

Winners

The

Cleve Taylor

(Continued on page 2)

DER Shareholders are reminded money by paying that they can now save time their carrying corp.com or at www.paylease.comcharges online at www.rive and rbayREMIN

Employee Welln ess Seminar

Wellness Manager Jacqueline throughout Rodriguez leads the one of several and exercise day Wednesday to help habits seminars held Resources Departmenas part of a HealthRiverbay employees maintain and Wellness good eating t. (See more Fair hosted on page 3.) by the Photo by Bill Stuttig Human

5

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

It’s

Sharing is Caring

(Continued from page 1)

HAPPENING in Co-op City! teacher Ms. Johnnie Geoff spoke briefly on the principles of Kwanzaa.

Announcing previously, Councilman King had put out a call for “helpers” - those who would aid him in “saving the world in whatever way you can” when what to the wondering eye did everyone see coming forth, none other than super hero, ‘The Hulk!’ This big, green monster with menacing eyes simply wowed the crowd as he entered, surprising everyone. Help was indeed on the way as the green giant lumped along to center stage towering over everyone there amid screams and cheers. A real hit with the preteens for sure.

One other obvious and major helper would be the Councilman’s wife Neva Shillingford-King. “Eleven years ago and in our own living room, long before Andy King was Councilman King, we had our first holiday party. We had the Bronx YEP, it was winter, and we wanted to do something for the kids so we opened the doors to our home and with 23 people from the Boston Secor had the first holiday party, showing how sharing is caring. The media came and one mother (there) burst into tears when she saw her shy unresponsive child now engaging and socializing with others. That was eleven years ago. We just do it for the love of children and we love children,” she said.

Several members of the Riverbay Board of Directors, Linda Berk, Junius Williams and Andrea Leslie, were in attendance and enjoying themselves with family and friends. Williams, noting King’s obvious passion for children said, “When you enjoy what you are doing, it is not hard.”

Now drawing in over 700 kids from around the Northeast Bronx, some from Bronx YEP, or living in shelters and schools participating in YEP Programs, the party has obviously grown exponentially and looks to continue. One school, M.S. 180 in Co-op City was awarded YEP’s first ever “People Pay Attention to People Who Participate Award” for being the only school to answer the call for support 100 percent of the time. Each M.S. 180 student received a certificate.

In addition to the usual happy holiday banter, lunch and Christmas gifts, there were other entertaining performances such as liturgical dancing by Movers of Change Dance Academy; a young lady rap artist, a magician and a very impressive and skilled martial arts

demonstration (with swords)

by Martial Arts Champion Matthew Miller, which even included an appropriate message of peace from his father Michael Miller, who said, “The martial arts teaches self-control, to say no to being a bully and to be respectful of one another.”

Bob’s Furniture store located in a nearby mall participated and raffled off four turkeys to lucky winners for

the holiday.

The store manager said that he was pleased to have been asked to be a part of this special holiday affair.

In closing, Councilman and Mrs. King thanked everyone including their staff, Riverbay staff, NewSong Church, Mugs by Moms, Amalgamated Bank, and the NYPD for the overwhelming support, donations and contributions that contributed to making this “Sharing is Caring” a very large success.

Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

6

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Letters to the Editor

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

Letters cannot words. they • – must •of–the • Co-op – Anonymous • –City Times – 3•p.m.

–• –• –exceed • to– 350 •– • – Ideally, •for – publishould be • typed. All–letters be•– in the office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by every Monday be considered cation 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.

A Co-op Should Come Together To the Editor: I was disappointed but not surprised that the City News articles and opinion piece all had a negative view of Co-op City’s financial involvement with the upcoming Women's March on Washington. Each piece includes the grossly exaggerated cost of Co-op City’s commitment to the event – $20,000. This price tag is not even close! Repeating this inflated sum is one thing; totally ignoring the reality of ticket sales and donation revenues is another.

The $20,000 scare tactic also obscures two important facts. 1.) Co-op City is not a housing project. 2.) The march is not a political protest.

Co-op City is not a housing project; it

is a co-operative – a shared endeavor. Not every community undertaking could possibly please every cooperator. Do seniors use the family fun day slip and slides? Do the teens care about the health fairs? Not all cooperators care about a women’s march but many Co-op organizations are on board for what many consider an historic event. A co-op comes together to support each other’s interests. Need I remind cooperators that our community was built by the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America? A union.

The Women’s March on Washington is not a political protest. It is a demonstration for human rights, for the rights of every child, woman, and man. Demanding equal rights is not political. Fighting

for equal rights is a non-partisan issue.

Every American does what they can to continue to form that “more perfect union.”

There is no time to wait and see what happens after the inauguration. Now is the time to stand up for ourselves and for equality. Many of our benefits are in danger of being rolled back. We must work to keep our social safety nets and maintain our affordable housing. These are issues that deeply affect us all.

Let’s unite in Washington, D.C., with thousands and thousands of women and their allies. It will not cost Co-op City thousands and thousands of dollars if we do, but it might cost us thousands and thousands if we do not.

—Mary Pearson

Women Deserve Equal Treatment To the Editor: I heard some men ask why a Women’s March? We need a women’s march because women are still not treated equally in our society.

The poorest group of Americans is single women with children. Women are paid less than men. More women are victims of predatory payday lenders.

Adequate childcare is often unaffordable and paid family leave is often nonexistent. Before the Affordable Care Act, women paid more for health insurance than men. Women’s medical privacy rights are continually under attack.

“Caring about the equal treatment of women in society doesn’t make people feminists — it makes them good humans.”

[Samantha Paige Rosen/March 2014/ The Huffington Post] Since 2008 more American women have been killed by their significant others

than soldiers have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan combined. Speaking of war deaths, women are included in that number – 180 dead, approximately 800 wounded. And since 2015, women can now officially be utilized in combat roles.

Women can be wounded protecting our country and still come back to secondclass citizenship without equality or autonomy.

Roman poet Ovid, in his anti-abortion argument, writes that women are protected from war and yet they have the power to kill their would-be protectors.

Women have been risking their lives having abortions since before the birth of Christ. Passing laws restricting abortion will never stop abortion. It just puts women’s lives in greater danger.

This year alone, 90 abortion-restrictive bills (even in the case of rape) have been submitted in the U.S. Congress,

Be Grateful To Live Here To the Editor: As a lifelong Bronx resident and a cooperator in Co-op City for 16 years, I still say, Co-op City, with all its flaws, is the best place to live and raise children in NYC. The spacious apartments, gorgeous views, and well-kept grounds, are only part of the beauty of Co-op. One other very important asset is the people. Good neighbors make good neighborhoods.

As neighbors, it is important for each of us to be mindful of our neighbors.

Although the floors and some walls in the apartments are cement, sounds still travel from apartment to apartment. So, although the long hallways in some of the larger apartments are inviting indoor play spaces for children, roller skating,

wrestling and banging on floors and walls, is disturbing to downstairs neighbors. And, while vacuuming inside your apartment at midnight might be the only chance you have to vacuum due to a busy work schedule, your neighbors, most likely asleep at that hour, are awakened by the sound. We hear it all. Knocking on doors as a stranger requesting the noise be stopped, is not the safest way of doing business in these times, especially for seniors.

The most efficient way to keep the noise down, is for each of us to remember to do our part and hope our neighbors follow suit. I would be heartbroken if Co-op became just another “project” because my neighbors do not feel as grateful to live in this oasis in the city as I do.

—Hillary Jackson

some depriving women of other necessary health care.

Seeking justice for rape, women are sometimes required to pay to have their rape kits processed. Think about that.

You’re burglarized, you call the police, and the officer says, “We are going to have to process the crime scene – credit card please.” In the case of rape, a woman’s body is the crime scene.

We demand equal justice, but January’s Women’s March on Washington doesn’t solely focus on women. As the mission statement reads, we are striving for, “justice and equality for all. HEAR OUR VOICE.” —Kelly Canzoneri

March On Washington But Not With The Corporation’s Money To the Editor: I am all in favor of Co-op City residents and community groups filling up several buses to travel to Washington D.C. to participate in the Women’s March of Washington on January 21st. As a disabled advocate for the majority of my life I know firsthand the value of making your voice heard in order to affect change.

What I am not in favor of is using Riverbay funds to partially finance the trip. I think this sets a bad precedent especially when considering that the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has oversight over our expenditures as guarantors of the 2013 low interest refinancing package.

Yes, Co-op City residents should participate in the March but we must find a way to fund the trip privately through donations – not through corporation revenues directly earmarked to maintain and improve the community. —John Rose

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 30 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.

Building 30

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Building 30 4120 & 4100 Hutchinson River Parkway E

March 31, 2017

March 31, 2020

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

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Bill Stuttig Associate Editor

Jim Roberts Business Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

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

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

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

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

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

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

7

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Public Safety Report

CCPD welcomes a safe New Year 2017

As we welcome the N ew Ye a r 2 0 1 7 , t h e Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and healthy New Year. It is also a good opportunity to make readers aware of the goals that this “Public Safety Report” in the Co-op City Times strives to achieve. The Public Safety Report has been written by Lieutenant Pam (Ruiz) Apollo since April of 2007.

Many of my avid fans have taken time to send a letter, an email or to let us know in person or by phone that they like the articles. Continued feedback on what you would like to see in future articles is always welcomed. As the Co-op City Department of Public Safety encourages residents to call if they see something suspicious, an open dialog for relevant topics is also welcomed. Many of the topics have been suggested by readers who feel their neighbors can benefit by being made aware of a potential problem. The articles address potential hazards and give information about how to recognize a threat and how to take steps to protect themselves against that threat.

The “Public Safety Report” tries to focus on safety and well-being for the residents of Co-op City. Articles attempt to focus on events that have occurred, information relative to the time of year or incidents in the media. Certain topics are repeated with an updated focus. Criminals may think they are getting smarter, but the public has become even smarter and more observant. Any criminal who repeatedly commits similar crimes in the community will get caught. The many windows of Co-op City serve as the eyes and ears of the community.

The readership of the Public Safety Report article in the Co-op City Times is as diverse as the population of Co-op City itself. The ages of many of my avid readers range from elementary school students, friends I attended school with in Co-op City, to parents and grandparents of my friends. A special shout-out to my mom and her friends who attend the Senior Nutrition Program, dancing and other activities. I would also like to wish all retired members of our Riverbay family good health for the coming year. A special hello to my youngest reader, a young man who is very knowledgeable in all areas of law enforcement; he plans to pursue a career in law enforcement.

The articles are written to appeal to persons of all ages. They try to take into account the diverse population of the community. By recognizing, respecting and celebrating our differences, we become even better than the sum of our parts. Co-op City strives to be a community where neighbors care about one another.

Looking out for your neighbor or just smiling and saying “hello” creates a neighborhood with strong sense of community. A strong sense of community deters crime and creates a positive environment.

Have a safe, healthy and HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016. Also, be sure to buckle your seatbelt and avoid distractions when driving. If you plan to consume alcoholic beverages, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink or call a taxi. “Drunk Driving” and “Buzzed Driving” enforcement is heightened in December and January every year. Penalties for Drunk Driving are very high and can affect your insurance premiums and ability to obtain insurance for years. Leave your car at home and utilize public transportation, cab service or a designated driver for parties or celebrations where you plan to drink even one alcoholic drink. There is no amount of alcohol which is safe or legal when you are operating a motor vehicle.

This year, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration is using the phrases “DRIVE

BY LT. PAM APOLLO

SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER,” “THEY”LL SEE YOU BEFORE YOU SEE THEM” and “YOU CAN’T HIDE IT, IF YOU DRIVE DRUNK, THEY WILL CATCH YOU” and “BUZZED DRIVING IS DRUNK DRIVING.” To learn more, go to www.nhtsa.gov/drivesober. On this website, you can learn how you can help to eliminate drunk driving and prevent unnecessary deaths.

Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity.

It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained.

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. As Stevie Wonder said at the Grammys, “We need to make every single thing accessible to every person with a disability.” It is also important to remember that not all disabilities are visible. Someone who appears to be healthy may have a physical or developmental disability.

December is known as AIDS Awareness Month.

This is a good opportunity to learn about disabilities or conditions that may affect your friends, family members or neighbors. It is also a good opportunity to schedule a full physical examination with screening tests recommended by your physician. Knowledge is power; the more you learn, the stronger you become.

Co-op City Public Safety Dept.

Emergency: 718-651-3050 Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us

@CCPDnyc

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

Please note that emails should be sent to both parties.

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

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

CONTRACT SUMMARY

There are no contract opportunities this week. Please check back again next week.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

(More Opportunities on page 26)

8

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Bernard Cylich First Vice President As the Riverbay Board met the day after Donald Trump’s election to the US presidency, it was clear that with Republican control of both the White House and Congress the American people can anticipate an unprecedented attack on all the gains they have achieved through bitter struggles over the last 80 years.

Echoing the last words of early twentieth century labor organizer Joe Hill, Riverbay Board President Linda Berk challenged the Board not to mourn but to organize.

And President Berk is meeting that challenge by enlisting Riverbay resources so that the voice of our community will be part of a powerful demonstration in Washington, DC on Saturday, January 21, 2017, the day following the inauguration of the new president.

Americans will pay a painfully high price if we remain passive and silent while achievements such as the ending of Jim Crow are undermined. And that’s just for starters. Also up on the chopping block will go protections of women’s reproductive rights, protection of civil liberties, of labor rights, of minimum wages, of environment controls, public education, Medicare, affordable health care, Social Security and veterans services – all will go up on the Republican chopping block.

Furthermore, the threat to eviscerate HUD will undermine any hope for Co-op City in obtaining financial relief with the $40M bill coming up to replace 130 faulty Co-op City elevator motors.

“WHAT IS THE PRICE OF JUSTICE?” That’s the question that Jerome L. Rice, a cooperator, rightfully asked in a Co-op City Times letter, (12/24/16). Not one Co-op City family will be spared the coming onslaught promised by the Republican leadership. Only Wall Street billionaires and plutocrats stand to gain from promised corporate tax cuts and lucrative federal contract giveaways.

We Can’t Afford Not To The congressional attack will start with cutting Social Security benefits followed with attacks on Medicare and Medicaid. Further Republican objectives are the gutting and/or repeal of civil right and minimum wage laws, of public education and the Veterans Administration, the destruction of labor and environmental protections.

When the GOP-controlled Congress is finished, how many of us will be able to afford our carrying charges, or afford health care, medicine or our children’s education?

Only by following in the footsteps and example of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to organize, march, picket, and demonstrate can we hope to put brakes on their regressive plans.

“THE MIRACLE WHEN IT COMES WILL CROWN OUR BEST EFFORTS.” As many of us Jews celebrate the last days of Chanukah, I draw attention to the Co-op City Times (12/24/16) commentary of Rabbi Solomon I. Berl. He wrote “although Chanukah commemorates the miracle of the lamp, it is notable that our ancestors, the Maccabean Jews relied also on their own courage and determination to free themselves of Syrian-Greek oppression. And he warns us “passive reliance on miracles will not achieve peace. The miracle when it comes, will crown our best efforts.”

In the previously noted Jerome L. Rice letter to the Co-op City Times we are also admonished not to be spectators remaining on the sidelines. All of us, the 99% – Democrats, Republicans, or Independents, regardless of whether we voted for Hillary, Trump or for an independent, or just stayed home, must unite and speak out in defense of all of our rights.

NO “CRYSTAL STAIR” This path will not be “A Crystal Stair,” Langston Hughes ended his poem, Mother to Son. But long and hard as the road may be, as Martin Luther King, Jr. reminds us “the arc of justice bends toward freedom”.

Following is a list, still being formed, of individuals and of Co-op City organizations responding to Presi-

dent Linda Berk’s call to support the DC march to lobby our President and Congress for protection of our gains. It testifies to the fighting spirit of our community.

They agreed to march under the banner of “Forward Ever, Backward Never”.

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto Council Member Andy King Congressman Eliot Engel State Senator Jamaal Bailey Rabbi Solomon Berl NAACP - Co-op City Branch Spanish American Club Co-op City Democratic Club Working Families Party Harriet Independent Democratic Club’ Life On Gods Term Christian Center AARP Chapter 4997 Retirees of Dreiser Loop NCNW, Co-op City Section National Women’s Political Caucus Political Assoc.

Coalition to Save Affordable Housing Veterans DC 37 African American Association Iglesias Christian Marcos 16-15 Drammeh Center Faith At Work Christian Church Building 16 Association Carver Loop Association Co-op City Section 5 Association Williamsbridge Club For bus tickets - $25 each - contact: Leah Richardson - leflaming@gmail.com, Sharan White 347-9134224, or Bernie Cylich 646-522-5498. Buses will leave at 5 a.m. from three locations .

We invite all individuals and organizations to help to defray the cost of our buses by making a contribution. Checks should be made out to Riverbay Corporation for buses to DC 1/21/17.

Happy Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Feliz Navidad, and Healthy, Peaceful New Year. Keep The Spirit.

9

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

DUI Arrest

(Continued from page 1)

According to the report, residents in the area along with the responding officers intervened and took the car keys from the intoxicated woman as the liquor store refused to sell her any alcohol.

Responding officers said in their report that the woman smelled of alcohol, had watery eyes, slurred speech, and was unsteady on her feet as they intervened.

Body camera footage taken by the responding officers also revealed some existing damage to the car she was driving and an open alcohol beverage container in the vehicle along with a cup.

The officers immediately placed the woman under arrest and took her to Public Safety headquarters and then to the 45th Precinct stationhouse for processing.

According to the report, while at the stationhouse, an NYPD Highway Patrol Officer administered a

Santa’s Rough Night … In lieu of a traditional Christmas tree, Ruth Edwards of Building 18 opted for a more whimsical approach to holiday decorations in her home. This holiday season she is displaying a five-foot chimney with Santa at the top – or shall we say Santa’s bottom at the top – as the jolly Saint Nick appears to be stuck head first during one of his many trips down the chimney. The artistic Ms. Edwards – the same woman who guided the young people of the Building 18 Scholarship Incentive Awards Program to create an art book honoring the first inauguration of President Barack Obama which ended up in the Smithsonian Institute – said she was inspired when she saw the cardboard chimney being tossed out by a local business who had used it as a product display.

With permission she took it home and added her own fun decorations including Santa’s boxer shorts hanging by the fire and some milk and cookies for the “jolly old elf.” But if he ever makes it down the chimney head first he might need something stronger. Ms. Edwards was assisted in her creation by Crystal James.

Photo by Bill Stuttig

Noise Complaints Shareholders experiencing undue and/or incessant noise coming from a neighboring apartment or home, are advised to call Public Safety, (718) 671-3050.

After the call is received and the location is noted, officers will be dispatched to the home of the shareholder calling in the complaint. When they arrive at the home of that shareholder, they must be allowed to enter the home of the shareholder to confirm that there is noise from a neighboring home that is loud enough to be considered a violation of Co-op City regulations designed to ensure each home’s quality of life.

After the investigating officers confirm the noise and determine it to be loud enough to be considered a violation, then a community complaint will be issued against the shareholder of record of the offending home. The fine for the first offense is $25 and doubles for each fine thereafter.

If the investigating officers determine that the noise is non-existent or not loud enough to be considered a substantial disturbance of the peace in that home, the shareholder will still have the option of signing an affidavit which will officially file a noise complaint in his or her name against the shareholder of record in the alleged offending home and that alleged offending shareholder will then have the right to appeal.

blood alcohol test to the suspect which registered .304, nearly four times the legal blood alcohol limit of .08.

Because the level of alcohol in the driver’s system was so high, officers deemed the level of intoxication as alcohol poisoning and the woman was then transported to Jacobi Medical Center for treatment.

Chief Frank Apollo, commanding officer of the Public Safety Department said, “I commend the officer on patrol that initially observed this situation as their actions may have not only saved the life of the arrested individual as well as our cooperators and visitors, but also the lives of children as this incident occurred near school dismissal time.”

“We urge our residents and visitors this holiday season as well as the rest of the year to not drink and drive.

Make sure there is a designated driver or utilize public transportation where possible….arrive alive.”

10

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Francine Reva Jones Secretary Happy New Year to all my friends and neighbors of the Co-op City community. I hope that your holiday thus far was enjoyable and that the year ahead is prosperous.

My focus for the New Year is to work with my Board colleagues in making our community a better place for us all to live and enjoy.

As chairperson of the Commercial Leasing and Sales Committee, I will review and keep you abreast of the leasing and renovations of our commercial community centers and in ground level high rise buildings.

Curb appeal is important and we strive to maintain an attractive appearance.

Happy New Year When dealing with a government agency, nothing happens quickly. Approximately two years ago, the Board requested of the New York State Homes and Community Renewal to change its system of transferring shareholders to smaller apartments. The present policy is unfair and a financial burden. Shareholders should be able to transfer their equity. It would be an awesome accomplishment if changes were made, as it would affect all Mitchell-Lama developments. Our executive manager is looking into accomplishing this task and we are hopeful that he will be successful regarding this issue.

As chairperson of the community relations committee, we look forward to presenting open forums/gallery sessions for you to share your concerns with the Board on a regular basis. The Board members have discussed this matter and intend to begin these sessions as soon as possible. We encourage you to come out and share your concerns so that your voice may be heard and

your issues addressed. Also, I will be reminding you of your responsibilities as a shareholder, which you agreed to when you moved into this wonderful community.

As co-chair of the 2017 Election Committee, I will assist the chairperson, Claudia Sampson, in establishing new technology into our annual voting system which will save the Riverbay Corporation thousands of dollars. I headed the 2016 Election Committee that initiated this new policy last year. The new technology will allow for new and more up-to-date methods of casting your vote, including voting by mail, online and by telephone. This will encourage the more progressive, and the younger segment of our community that uses social media, to vote. Hopefully, the new election process will help the community reach its goals in the 2017 Riverbay Board elections.

As a responsible shareholder, I anxiously look forward to your participation.

Co-op City Support Group for family and friends of the mentally ill to begin in January

BY BILL STUTTIG

Riverbay Board Director Marie Smith—aside from being a tireless Co-op City community volunteer—is also an experienced facilitator of support groups for people who have family members or friends suffering from mental illness, and she will be bringing her skills and her compassion to Co-op City by leading a similar support group here beginning in January.

The support group, which will offer an outlet for those caring for loved ones with mental illness while providing practical information and resources for education, support and advocacy, will begin on Thursday, January 12th with the first meeting from 7 to 9 p.m. in Einstein Community Center, room 35. The

group will meet on the second Thursday evening of each month thereafter.

Mrs. Smith, who has been leading a similar support group for the past 13 years in Yonkers, NY said this week, “I know there is a great need for these types of programs here in Co-op City just as there is a great need in all communities. One in five families have a loved one who suffers from mental illness. Mental illness makes no distinctions; it affects all groups of people regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation or economic status. Those providing care for the mentally ill need and greatly benefit from being able to share their experiences as well as their practical strategies for coping while helping their loved one through their difficul-

ties.”

Mrs. Smith added that aside from the benefits of being part of the support group, members of the group will have access to the various education and advocacy programs offered through the National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI-NYC), sponsor of the Co-op City support group.

The group will be led by Mrs. Smith and co-facilitator Winnie Walsh. Co-op

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist — Foot Specialist • Practicing in Co-op City since 1975

Obituary: Brenda Annette Hines Brenda Annette Hines, 66, an accomplished social worker, religious leader, Co-op City youth program activist, and the beloved wife of Co-op City Little League coach and organizer Ron Hines passed way after suffering cardiac arrest on December 11.

According to her husband Ron, Brenda suffered a heart attack as she was returning home after a hospital stay for treatment of the chronic lung disease Sarcoidosis.

Brenda graduated from New York University with a degree in Social Work and then worked for 35 years as a social worker for the State of New York, her husband said.

Aside from being a loving wife to Ron and a loving mother and grandmother to her three children – Marques, Ronald Jr., and Monique – and her granddaughter Maia, Brenda served for many years as a Deacon for the Parkchester Baptist Church.

She also took part in the weekly Bible study session at Co-op City’s Circle of Christ Church and was a parent leader for Co-op City’s P.S. 178 when her children were attending. She also assisted her husband and children as they participated in the Co-op City Little League as players and coaches over several years.

“She was my loving companion for 44 years,” said her heartbroken husband Ron. “She was the love of my life and she was a friend to all. Everyone loved her smile. She was truly an angel down here on Earth.”

Her husband asked that anyone wishing to memorialize Brenda give to one of the organizations fighting to find better treatment and a cure for the dreaded disease Sarcoidosis. More information can be obtained by contacting either the American Lung Association or the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research.

City residents interested in participating can contact Mrs. Smith at msmith@ riverbayboard.com or by leaving a message for her through the Riverbay Board office by calling 718-320-3300, extension 3400.

NAMI-NYC is a grassroots organization that provides support, education and advocacy for families and individuals of all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds who live with mental illness.

• Board Certified in Foot Surgery • ALL conditions of the foot treated • We

accept most health insurance plans

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

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

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718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

11

12

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Director’s Viewpoint

Continuing The Progress Into 2017

Claudia Sampson Second Vice President As the year 2016 takes it final bow, there’s much good to reflect on as we prepare to usher in 2017. First, let me take this opportunity to thank each of you for your understanding and continued support for the efforts of the Board of Directors under the astute leadership of the most recent president Cleve Taylor who stepped down in October and the taking on of the mantle by Linda Berk.

Because of a seamless transfer of leadership, the Board of Directors, in collaboration with senior management and their staff, not to mention numerous Committees comprised of concerned shareholders volunteering their time, has managed to steer the Riverbay Corporation into a much more stable financial position than any other time in the past decade.

For many months, the current Board and Management met well into the wee hours of the night to ensure that our community could remain not only affordable and safe, but also profitable and once again a place where all can live in harmony and cooperation.

Granted, our discourse has not always been free of public disparagement and personal attacks, but I and many of my colleagues have always worked to put our shareholders’ interests front and center.

For this reason, I would like to focus on the positive results of several targeted business strategies which have culminated in the Riverbay Corporation netting over $2,764 million in savings. As President Berk said in her 12/24 Viewpoint, these savings, which are a far cry from the $900,000 in reserves we had left on our

balance sheet when former President Taylor assumed leadership in 2014, came about because of astute planning and hard work by everyone. In this regard, I’m happy to affirm my faith in President’s Berk decision to reach out to 25 community based organizations (CBO) to co-sponsor the March on Washington in January.

This is indeed a call to action that a vibrant and diverse community that has benefited from the unsung sacrifices which countless civic-minded citizens of a divided nation are called to do to demonstrate their unwavering support for issues that threaten us all, no matter where you may fall on the spectrum of ideas and values.

Like many of my fellow Directors who are in solidarity with President Berk’s courageous decision, I am deeply concerned about and committed to life-affirming issues such as the intersectionality of critical matters such as Police and Criminal Justice Reform, Healthcare for everyone, Economic Sustainability and Access to Quality Education for all. In my show of support, I have pledged to financially support this awesome effort to the best of my ability, and appeal to others who may not be able to attend the March to step up and make whatever contributions you can afford to this worthwhile cause. This is the least we can do. This will also silence the “nattering, nabobs of negativism” who for some inexplicable reason, always find time to opine when good people come together to exercise their democratic rights and moral obligation to speak on the behalf of those who can’t or are afraid.

In the past, we sponsored buses to Washington, and even recently supported events locally to celebrate our First Responders and the achievements of our Best and Brightest. I don’t recall any voices being raised against these laudable efforts. We are a community comprised of different perspectives and all opinions are welcomed. We’re not always in agreement, but that’s the

beauty of democracy: it works best when everyone’s voice is heard and protected.

On another note, I too want to see the work completed expeditiously and correctly on the Dreiser and Bartow malls. When we “take the time to measure ten times, and cut once, we get far better results than when we measure once and cut ten times”, as the expression goes. We all want the same thing: to see the work on these two projects finished by the March deadline.

For this reason, President Berk with the full backing of the Board has made it clear to Management to get the work done! The weather conditions have been less than optimal for work to always proceed; but, we do have an agreement with the contractor with some clear stipulations in place. We’ve not taken our eyes off this and other important projects.

Here’s an update on the missing mailboxes. At our last Board meeting with the General Manager and the Executive Manager present, I inquired about when we might expect to get our retrofitted mailboxes back where they belong. The response was that Management would reach out to our U.S. Postal Service to get a satisfactory answer. At that time, we were informed that the mailboxes were coming back as soon as the anti-theft devices are installed. Shortly thereafter, the General Manager reached out to me to inquire about the exact location of the missing mailboxes. Since I could only recall three locations, I would appreciate your letting me know the exact buildings adjacent to the spots that are missing a mailbox so we can start getting them back in place. Send your email to me at sampsonc@riverbayboard.com or call the office and leave a clear message with the Riverbay Board Liaisons at 718-320-3300.

Wishing you all a healthy, peaceful and prosperous 2017 and Three Kings Celebration! See you in the New Year. Be safe and be well.

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

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

Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted.

HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted.

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

Se Habla Español MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.

13

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Building 31 Association What a joyous time of the year. Celebrating Christmas is special when you think of the reason for the season. Our lobbies are dressed for the occasion and to all of the volunteers who helped to decorate them we are truly thankful for all who gave their time and energy.

To those who were able to donate towards a Christmas gift for the lobby attendants and Maintenance staff, we collectively showed our appreciation and we are proud of what we were able to accomplish by everyone giving.

We celebrated Christmas while gathering together and tasting the delicious pot luck dishes brought by all attending the family party on Saturday, Dec. 17th. Thanks to our hostess and coordinator for this event, Sharon Julian from the B-side, well done. Although we have lost several association members this year and we miss them, it was nice to see those who could be in attendance to celebrate with us while mingling with their neighbors enjoying Christmas music.

We were fortunate to have a raffle to help support our scholarship fund for 2017.

Once again, thanks to everyone who purchased a ticket or two or three.

Winners: 3rd prize – B-side, 18D; 2nd prize –A-side, 14C; 1st prize – A-side, 24 (prize picked up at party). Then we had a last minute donation made so another ticket was pulled and won by A-side, 23F. To pick up your prize, call Sylvia Polite, 718320-2837.

Our first meeting in 2017 will be held on Jan. 16th when crucial information for the well-being of your association will be shared. It will be a necessary meeting that every member should attend.

The executive board of your association wishes all a blessed new year adding in a healthy, wealthy and a happy life. We volunteer because we want to help our building maintain its security and cleanliness and we want you to be a part of that which makes your quality of life better and takes involvement with some time. This is our home so it’s up to all. If you see something, say something.

—Marilyn McDaniel

MetroCard Bus to visit Co-op City next month The MetroCard Bus will be visiting all three Co-op City locations next month, enabling customers to sign up for or refill their Reduced-Fare MetroCard, purchase or add money to an existing MetroCard, and purchase E-Z Pass On the Go tags.

On Thursday, January 5 and again on Thursday, January 19, the MetroCard bus will be at the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Blvd. (in front of the Bingo Hall and the eyecare center), from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; at Dreiser Loop (Park on Debs Place) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and at Einstein Loop (Elgar Place) from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

MTA New York City Transit advises its customers that there are two kinds of traveling MetroCard Service Centers: the MetroCard Bus and the MetroCard Van. Both vehicles make regularly scheduled stops in all five boroughs each month.

The MetroCard Bus, which stops in Co-op City, travels around the city, stopping at senior citizen centers, shopping centers and along major bus routes. Customers can handle all of their MetroCard needs, whether it is applying for or refilling a Reduced-Fare MetroCard, buying or refilling a regular MetroCard or asking MetroCard-related questions. Senior citizens and people with disabilities may apply for the Reduced-Fare MetroCard on the Bus. They will need photo ID and seniors must show proof of age (at least 65 years old).

The MetroCard Van, like the Bus, travels around the city with helpful on-board staff ready to sell Unlimited and Pay-Per-Ride MetroCards, add money to regular and Reduced-Fare MetroCards and answer questions. Reduced-Fare MetroCard applications are available. EZ Pass On The Go tags are also available for purchase on both the Bus and the Van. The MetroCard Bus and Van do not operate on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Customers may also want to explore the EasyPay Reduced-Fare payment option. EasyPay lets customers link to their credit or debit card to their ReducedFare MetroCard so it refills automatically.

For more MetroCard information, please visit the MTA’s website at www.mta.info and click on Fares and Tolls.

MTA Real-Time Service Updates The most up-to-date information on MTA service status is always available at www.mta.info. For immediate notice of service changes, sign up for email or text alerts at www.mymtaalerts.com. For weekend subway service changes, visit web.mta.info/weekender.

Building 27 Association Greetings neighbors, wishing to all peace, joy and happiness in the New Year 2017.

The association congratulates Ms. Bea Chaderton of 27C, she was presented a certificate of Recognition from the Retirees of Dreiser Loop organization upon her induction into the exclusive circle of Retirees 90 years plus. Also a certificate of recognition was presented by the Comptroller of the City of New York, Scott M. Stringer.

WE ARE HAVING A PARTY- our annual party will be (WELCOME TO THE NEW YEAR) meet and greet with our neighbors on Saturday, January 7, 2017 at 7 p.m. Fliers will be posted inviting you to come and celebrate and meet your neighbors.

Bldg 27 association is open for nomination of officers - President, Vice President, Secretary, Assist. Secretary, Correspondence Secretary, Treasurer, Asst. Treasurer, Sargent-in-Arms. Election of officers will take place January 2017.

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

Please keep our board of directors in prayer, to make the right decisions in protecting our interest and keeping our homes affordable. Please pray for all leaders for PEACE, for there is unrest everywhere.

—H. Overman

Building 32 Association Trip The second installment for our trip to the African-American Museum is due by January 5; we also have to make the second installment to the tour company.

Checks and money orders, made payable to Building 32 Association can be sent to: Ms. Dolores Rankin, 4160 Hutchinson River Pkwy., Apt. 10E, Bronx NY 10475; Tel. # 718-379-0910.

Meeting The first meeting for the new year is scheduled for Wednesday, January 18 at 7:30 p.m. The meeting place is our Association Room, located in 32B, first floor rear. Our special guest will be Mr. Rupinder Rana, the Director of Operations for Statcare, the urgent and walk in medical care facility for both adults and kids. Statcare is located in the Bartow Mall, 2063 Bartow Ave., adjacent to Amalgamated Bank. Mr. Rana will be presenting handouts, possibly checking blood pressures for those who request it and telling us about this convenient new facility right in our community.

We look forward to seeing our new cooperators. Our meetings are generally 90 minutes long, and occur once every two months. There will be light refreshments, a door prize and a fifty-fifty.

A Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year to all.

—Lorna Smith

Proper disposal of household grease

Shareholders, please DO NOT pour or allow grease to go down the drains.

First, make sure that a strainer is placed over your kitchen sink drain so that materials that should not go down the drain are caught.

Secondly, used oil and grease should be poured into old cans and/or bottles with a lid so as to prevent spillage. Place these cans and/or bottles inside a plastic bag, tie it up and then leave it inside the compactor room on your floor for the porters to collect.

Please do not place the cans or bottles down the compactor chutes as these heavy items will damage the compactor equipment.

If there are any questions regarding the proper disposal of grease or used cooking oil, please contact your respective Cooperators Services Office (CSO).

Thank you for your cooperation.

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

15

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Extension Of Bookkeeping Window Hours Continue Into The New Year

BY ROZAAN BOONE In consideration of Co-op City shareholders whose daily activities take them outside of the development and must leave their homes early to travel to those locations, Riverbay Corporation will continue extended hours of the Finance Department’s bookkeeping window into the new year.

The bookkeeping window, which is in the Riverbay administrative reception area in the Bartow Community Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue, will continue to open at 8 a.m., instead of 9 a.m., on the two busiest days of the month for the Finance Department—the 10th of the month which is the last day for shareholders to pay their maintenance charges without the $50 late fee, and the last business day of the month when maintenance charges must be paid before legal action commences and a $200 legal fee is assessed.

Riverbay’s Director of Finance Peter Merola explained that this service, which was implemented several years ago, comes at no additional cost to Riverbay Corporation’s shareholders because the bookkeeping employees agreed to change their work schedule to accommodate the extended hours on the two busiest days of the months.

Primarily, shareholders pay their monthly carrying charges by placing their payments in one of the three drop boxes located in each community center, but some also pay at the bookkeeping window. In addition, since earlier this year, shareholders can also pay their carrying charges online at www.riverbaycorp.com or by going directly to the PayLease website, www.paylease.com. As of last month, 2,649 shareholders had signed up for online payment of their carrying charges.

Prior to the extended hours being implemented, share-

holders waited in the reception area for the window to open at 9 a.m., usually resulting in a crowded waiting room, sometimes with the line stretching out of the waiting area and down the corridor.

With the implementation of extended bookkeeping hours, however, many more shareholders, including seniors and those who are disabled, have been taking advantage of the extended hours.

The next Bookkeeping window extended hours will be available next Friday, Dec. 30, when the window will open at 8 a.m. so those who prefer to make their payment at the Bookkeeping office can stop in and do so.

In January 2017, the extension of the Bookkeeping hours will continue on Tuesday, January 10 and on Tuesday, January 31.

On Friday, February 10, and again on Tuesday, February 28, extended Bookkeeping hours will also be available starting at 8 a.m. In March, the extended hours will continue on Friday, March 10 and again on Friday, March 31.

And, in April, extended bookkeeping hours will be offered on Monday, April 10 and also on Friday, April 28.

In addition to shareholders paying their carrying charges at the bookkeeping window, or dropping them in the boxes in each of the three community centers, carrying charges can also be dropped off at New York Community Bank branch located inside of the Stop & Shop supermarket in the Bay Plaza shopping mall.

Riverbay does not accept cash; all payments must be made by personal check, bank check or money order.

Shareholders should also write their account number and/or building and apartment numbers on any payment to Riverbay and return it along with the stub portion of their bill to ensure proper processing.

Shareholders are urged to update contact info.

Riverbay Cooperator Services Office (CSO) reminds shareholders that if there have been any changes in their contact information, they should update their files with Riverbay Corporation as soon as possible so that if there is a need to contact them in an emergency, the information on record with Riverbay will be the most current and accurate.

To update your contact information, two important steps are involved.

First, the shareholder of the unit is required to go in person to the Emergency Maintenance Office (located in the lower level of the Dreiser Mall) with photo identification and update the “Key Card.”

Secondly, shareholders should request an Emergency Contact form from their respective Cooperator Service Office (CSO). This form must be completed by the shareholder and returned in person to their respective CSO, along with photo identification. Their new contact information will then be updated in the Maintenance system and forwarded to the shareholder’s file.

Once the information is updated at the Emergency Maintenance Office and Cooperator Service Office, the new information will then be relayed by CSO to Public Safety to be added to that department’s database.

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

It's Time to Crack Down on These Crimes

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson You'll rarely see articles about crimes that occur in our community. But, you might want to be a little more cautious before you walk out of your door.

Fright Nights Some time ago, I was walking to an elevator and I noticed that a hallway closet door was ajar. So, I looked in the hallway closet and saw two people sleeping on the floor. Then, I called Public Safety and they handled that situation. But, recent complaints indicate that similar incidents are occurring here.

For example, I have received numerous calls about a man that is living, at times, in a small room on the top floor of a building. According to some cooperators, this man goes to this room on some nights and proceeds to live his life just like a cooperator that pays their monthly charges. And, yes, this man has used a key or some type of instrument to open the door to that room.

Our Public Safety force has also received numerous complaints about this matter. And, they have made numerous visits to that location. But, strangely, this man has happened to elude them on all of those visits. Nevertheless, there was considerable evidence that he was living in that location. For instance, he was using the stairwell as a restroom. Plus, he left some personal items behind on some occasions.

There are other reports that people are sleeping in our stairwells. In fact, one person left clothing, food, and some personal items in a stairwell. Then, some people are smoking drug substances in our stairwells. And, the strong odors from those drugs have wafted into nearby apartments.

Now, you might think that everyone that sleeps in our stairwells are people that don't live here. But, that's not

true. In some cases, perhaps due to family dysfunction, some of our young residents have been found sleeping in our stairwells.

And, some of them have preferred to not bring their amorous partners home to deal with their parents. So, guess what some of them have done? Some of them have spent the night sleeping together in their stairwell. This is horrible because it says a lot about how far some youths will go to be with their boyfriend or girlfriend.

Additionally, there have been reports that some people have decided to set up their living space in our garages. At one time, a man put up a large piece of plywood against an opening in garage 6. Thereafter, he brought his clothes into that space and created a home for himself.

On a more disturbing note, there was a report that someone was seen sleeping in one of our compactor rooms.

This is very bad because panic can break out if one of our cooperators walks from their apartment to a compactor room and sees someone trespassing inside of that room.

Youths Causing Mayhem There have been reports that some youths have beaten up other youths just to rob them. Other reports indicate that some youths are walking around with drugs and weapons. And, unfortunately, some youths have gone into our stores to cause mayhem.

Just recently, I received an anonymous letter about some youths that were inside one of our large stores in Bartow. The letter started off by stating that: "I saw a group of teenagers throwing deodorizers at each other.

Seniors and other customers were being hit by errant throws."

Then, the writer returned a week later around 3 p.m. and "saw a group of teenagers out of control." The teenagers were, "throwing eggs around, opening candy and cookies, stuffing their backpacks, and running out of the store. It appeared that they forgot to pay for the items."

So, a copy of this letter was sent to management, our Public Safety department, and the store for action.

Bottom line: We have a wonderful community here.

But, we need to make a lot of strategic changes to the way that we run this place. Nevertheless, we are not going to let this community go down. So, all of our employees that work in our buildings must be vigilant and report activity that suggest that people are living in our stairwells and compactor rooms.

Also, we must work with our young residents to make sure that they stay on the right track. And, we must show everyone that they will face severe legal consequences if they violate the law or if they cause trouble here.

Happy New Year The celebrations will start within the next few hours.

So, are you going to stay home and watch the ball drop or are you going to go out and celebrate? If you choose the latter, then please don't drink and drive. Yes, everyone can have a wonderful time. But, we need to remember that a lot of people will be drinking and driving crazy tonight.

And, unfortunately, that's when we lose people in senseless accidents.

So, I want to encourage everyone to please use public transportation, a taxi service, or a designated driver to get home. And, I hope that everyone will have a wonderful, safe, and a joyous New Year's Eve celebration. Thank you.

Close God is good! So, I hope that God will bless you and your family in 2017. Thank you.

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

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

Broun Place Townhouse Association From Broun Place Townhouse Association: Monday morning, December 26th, I sent the following email to CSO, Grounds and our General Manager. Broun Place and others have felt the insult of not being responded to. This is the 3rd week I am writing regarding repair of the recycling signage at the dumpster pad.

I have yet to be responded to. Mr. Plummer has been kind enough to respond and direct me in the past when I am in error. I hope someone will be as courteous. We cannot believe that their has been nothing.

Neighbors need that signage and direction - many folks look before they toss. That brings us to the condition of the bins too. We seem to be getting bins that are in terrible condition and that the team just indiscriminately puts bins so that there are 3 - no care to white, blue or green. So if Riverbay has enough money to support other community enterprise, let’s get some new recycling bins. We could really use them. #2 - Our flyer posting "glass" enclosed board is in

terrible condition; the bottom covering is torn half way up and needs replacing. Are we supposed to do that and then if we are, do we take responsibility for its maintenance? I have complained about the sloppy flyer posting recently too, but no acknowledgement.

Our cooperators really know how to express themselves for Hanukah, Christmas and Kwanzaa. We wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday. Co-op City exemplifies the diversity of the U.S.A. For us it is amazing and beautiful. However please be alert for scammers and shopping deals that are false! Never give your social security number or personal information over the phone or on the computer.

Please keep in touch with your Executive Committee and discuss and/or refer your problems about Broun Place and Co-op City. Be on the lookout for people who are breaking our community rules but please don’t “YOU” intervene. Report your observations to Public Safety, 718-379-3050. Give specifics in your report and

get the name of the person you are speaking with.

Your patios and terraces should be winterized by now to protect against winds and snow. Pick up litter and please follow garbage recycling rules. We know the signage in Broun Place is missing and broken. We have written to CSO to no avail and will try again to get this signage repaired.

Read the Co-op City Times to be informed about our community activities and to see the great community photos from local events. There are wonderful events and classes held here.

Our sincere condolences to the Abdul family on the passing of former neighbor Gloria Abdul. The board joins me in sending condolences.

We want to again thank our Executive Board for their hard work and excellent support this year. We also extend New Year’s greetings and hopes for a better future working together.

—Eva Lazaar

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Co-op City Sports

Velocity Track Club NY

Happy New Year!

Velocity Track Club NY (VTC) wishes everyone a prosperous and healthy New Year!

VTC had a great 2016 and hope the blessings continue through 2017! We are truly proud of our children; they put in hours of training 3- 4 days per week and still maintain a high grade point average. Plus, we are proud of our parents that spend hours involved with their children development; ensuring they come to practice, complete school work, feed them properly and ensure they get enough rest to do it over again. Great Job team VTC! On Saturday, December 24th, we had a blast at the Bronx Youth Empowerment Program Sharing is Caring Holiday Party with Council Member Andy King. There was entertainment, music, food and every child received a gift or two. This was a great event for our children in the community. Thank you Bronx Youth Empowerment and Council Member Andy King!

On Tuesday, December 27, 2016, we competed in in the 55 meters and long jump. Darius Gordon was our the 2016 Ocean Breeze Holiday Festival in the lovely top medal winner with 3. He won silver in the 300 meter Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex in Staten Island NY. race & long jump and bronze in the 600 meters race.

The contested events were: 55 meter hurdles, 55 meter Great job athletes and all who competed. dash, 300 meter dash, 600 meter run, Mile Run, 4 x 200 Velocity Track Club New York is a 501C3 not-formeter relay, High Jump, Long Jump, Shot Put and profit. 100% of your donation will go to help our chilTriple Jump. The top athletes in their event/gender & dren. For additional information, you can go to our division received medals. Most of the top teams from website: Velocitytrack.org or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins at 914-441-6196 or via email at throughout the tri-state area were participating.

VTC athletes were able to bring home 16 medals (3 watclt@aol.com.

Gold, 5 Silver and 8 Bronze). The following athletes medalled: In the girls 8 & under division, Brianna Burrell took 2nd in the long jump. In the boy’s division, Pierce Parker won gold in the 1-mile run. In the 9 & 10 girls division: Adonijah Washington won gold in the race walk and Tiarra Jackson won silver.

Olyvia Burrell won gold in the long jump. In the girls 11 & 12 division, Hannah Gadpaille won bronze in the 55 meters and 300 meters race. In the boys division, Dontae Lindo won a bronze in the 1-mile run. Kabir Gaydarik won a bronze medal in the high jump and Kaseam Shand won bronze in the shot put. In the boy’s VTC Athletes with Council member Andy King at the Bronx Youth 13 & 14 division, Raseam Phillip won bronze Empowerment Program Sharing is Caring Holiday Party

Building 6 Association

Building 13 Association Inc.

I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year 2017. I hope everyone had a great Christmas too. I want to thank everyone to donated toys for the kids Christmas party. I also want to thank Popeye’s for donating two big trays of chicken for the kids’ Christmas party.

Thank you Dunkin Donuts for donating two dozen donuts and one dozen munchkins for the kids Christmas party. Thank you Capri Pizza for donating three pizza pies for the kids Christmas party. It was a great time.

We want to wish get well to our lobby attendant Andy Soto who been out of work for a week. We all miss you and can’t wait to have you back in our lobby again soon. We all wish Joan Murrell our vice president’s mother best wishes and pray you will be ok.

We are still looking for people to join our building association board in 2017. We can’t do it without you.

Help protect your investment and make where you live safer and enjoyable place to live.

—Jeffrey Schwartz

Association of Building 14 Cooperators Happy New Year to All! Another year has come and gone; here’s hoping memories will keep you strong.

As we look forward to our tomorrows, most would agree that the greatest gift is the present. So, with this New Year, make the most of each day. Be mindful of how you treat people, of your behavior/actions (the young ones are always watching), and of the wellbeing of your family, friends and community.

Regarding our Holiday party, the weather forecast is predicting a daytime temp of 37 degrees and night time temp of 24 degrees for January 7th – still a bit cool for a lobby party. We’ll keep watch on any shift towards warmer weather and decide whether to have the party by Tuesday. Should the party be held, anyone wanting to contribute a dish or other party needs, please contact Sandy McMichael or myself, at 718379-4260 or 917-612-1951, respectively.

Thanks to all that contributed to the Holiday Gratuity for the building staff and to those that helped with lobby decorations; the decorations will be removed after All Kings Day, which is January 6th. Celebrate safely!

Questions/suggestions? Communicate via email at theab14c@hotmail.com or by phone, 917.612.1951.

—Josie Ferguson

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! Our Building meetings will resume in February.

Building 13 Association Inc. proudly presents an activity for youth by youth called Do It Yourself (DIY).

The workshop will show you how to create marbled paper and bottles. Time to learn to do fun activities with recycled goods. The workshop will be hosted by Bria Lemon-Johnson who will be assisted by Jasmine and Taurean. The workshop is scheduled for Sunday, January 7, 2017 from noon to 3 p.m. in the association meeting room at 100 Casals Place. All are invited!

We recently lost three neighbors in our building. Our heartfelt condolences go out to these families. We hope that fond memories will bring a smile and comfort to your heart.

NOTE: We want to thank the maintenance staff of Riverbay Corporation for working diligently on our hot

water problem. There were several issues at hand and as Murphy’s Law will do when one situation was corrected another arose. They frequently informed us of the situation and resolved the issue prior to the holiday.

Whenever you experience a problem please make sure to contact the CSO office at 718-320-3300 and follow the directions for maintenance or to speak to a representative.

Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. For information contact Gail Sharbaan, Treasurer at 718-6713801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370. Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com. As always, Thanks for making our Team work.

—Leslie Peterson

Building 21 Association Guess the theme, win a prize The B-Section of Building 21 does a different Holiday Theme every year. In past years we’ve done Christmas Cards, Christmas Stockings, etc. If you can guess the theme we did this year, and you show up for our Egg Nog Toast to the New Year (every year after the decorations come down), we’ll have a special prize for you. “Everyone” will be allowed to guess one time.

Write down your guess, on a piece of paper and we will read them all and award the winner at that time. You must be present to win. Good luck!

Think Tank - Fridays - 8:30 p.m. Gathering Room • Friday, December 30th – CLOSED • Friday, January 6th – CLOSED Holiday Decorations will be left up to enjoy through Friday, January 6th (The Epiphany/Little Christmas) Decorations come down Saturday, January 7th 3 p.m. Toast to the New Year! – 7 p.m.

21 Association General Session Meeting (Note: 4th Wednesday – EACH Month) • Wednesday, January 25th – 7 p.m.

FYI, all monies collected are turned in to our treasurer and installed in the association’s bank account.

Monies collected for the Association are used expressly for the 21 Association gatherings. Holiday Gift collec-

tions (i.e., Porters, Lobby Attendants, etc.) are the responsibility of each floor individually and should be handled by the Floor Captains.

The Race for the $300 Prize still going “21 Strong…”

Those 21 Association members who wish to earn valuable points and a chance to win $300.00 have many ways to do so. Note: A member is ANY shareholder who has paid their annual $5.00 dues to the Building 21 Association. Prize monies are made and saved for that purpose, from activities (i.e., The Ice-cream Social, 50/50 Raffles etc.) Refer back to the following issue of the Co-op City Times for complete rules of The 21 Association Rewards Points Program; (Saturday,, November 26th).

If you have questions regarding The 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information. Email your Building Association at 21association@gmail.com. Call your association at 347.504.1821. Attend the monthly meetings in The Gathering Room, in the rear of the Bsection at 7 p.m. Everyone from all buildings plan to come and join us at Building 21 sometime. Bring a friend.

Happy, Safe, Healthy, Joyous Holiday Season to all! …and to all a great New Year to come!!! Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals A FORCE FOR GOOD. We’ll see you around the neighborhood…

—Michelle Marbury

Please Refrain From Littering in the Garages. There are Several Trash Cans on Every Level For Your Convenience. Keep Co-op City Clean! Thank you!

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

SANKOFA

jobs! It was suggested by my closest and best friend to remember that I am older; (a senior citizen) cannot run Director’s Viewpoint as fast as I could 50 years ago and the atmosphere now is too similar to what it was 50 years ago towards people of color especially. Most likely supporters of President Donald Trump will be in town as the march is the Sankofa means retrieving the best from your past for day after his inauguration. Therefore, it’s important that parents with children are clear about security measures the present and meeting the future undeterred.

CORRECTION: It was brought to my attention in case of counter marches. I have stood up all my life, that a sentence printed, while correct in the CC Times, been knocked down and got back up.

A call was received from a cooperator and her son was not corrected in City News dated Thursday, December 8, 2016. The sentence read, “The board president and information about tickets was provided. In the used her authority, without the full board consent, to recent CC Times contact numbers were listed by: Buildallocate assets etc.’ “without the full board consent” ing 11 Civic Association – Building 33 Association should have been edited out as the board president does (347-277-5254) Drammeh Center – (718-737-1976).

NOT need ‘full board consent’ to sign or approve No churches listed contact numbers.

ADVOCACY FOR AN checks up to a certain amount. Our Council provided AFRICAN-AMERICAN WOMAN: the parameters at a recent “Emergency Board Meeting” Just a reminder that it was my vote that allowed to have a consensus vote to approve expenses for the trip to Washington. This makes good business sense. Director Leah Graham not to be removed from the Please note that the statement was made in the print Board. The reason was excessive absentees without sufficient written proof. She was not removed but her entire press only and not verbalized with anyone! attendance record was made public (embarrassed) and a THE CITY NEWS: Prior to becoming a Riverbay Board Member, I sent letter was submitted by President Cleve Taylor to be put letters and was featured in the City News. I continue to in the permanent official Board minutes.

RESOLUTION # 91-36: share occasional articles with this newspaper as it is not Previous board members approved a resolution to reimillegal. The only difference is that articles in the CC Times can be corrected and edited prior to final print. This burse Volunteer Board Members for income loss while is not the case with the City News. Therefore, moving for- conducting board business. So far this resolution has been ward, this Director will take measures to ensure accuracy. used by Directors Linda Berk and most recently in NovemWhere is the local Black Newspaper? Why not ber 2016 by Cleve Taylor. Both had documented acceptreplace the City News since it appears to be misled by able proof that they lost income due to the demands of specific board assignments. Former President Cleve Taylors’ some Board Members? reimbursement (properly documented) was more than THE BUS TRIP TO ADVOCATE $10,000 & less than $15,000. To avoid “correction” in case FOR WOMEN ISSUES: I am a genuine advocate/activist and have been so for I am off a number, the exact amount will be forthcoming.

Those wishing to become a Volunteer Board Member many years. I know from firsthand experience what it means to march peacefully and have pro-establishment should be encouraged in knowing that you can be reimindividuals throw “glass apples” at you and spit in your bursed for income loss while conducting board business. face. I know what it means to have your legs tremble However, documentation is required before approval.

RESOLUTION # 98-72 and feeling of helplessness when the police arrive and Previous board members approved a resolution in use force to arrest you because you cannot clear the area fast enough. Also, it was imperative that I did not share 1998 to allow a Cooperator my true identity as family members would lose their to run a Youth Program in

Evelyn Turner

Black Forum Next Defensive Driving Class The Black Forum defensive driving course will be on Sat., January 14, 2017, 8:50 a.m.–3 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 1.

Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to 4 points from your driver’s license. Please make your check in the amount of $35, payable to “the Black Forum of Co-op City,” and mail to P.O. Box 563, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least 1½ weeks before the class, or you can walk in on the day of the class, but you must have $35 in cash to pay for the course. Please also bring your current driver’s license and a pen. Call (718) 320-8035.

Thank you I’d like to thank our members, supporters, pantry clients and donors for their support during 2016. At times it was a struggle but with the help of volunteers and the community, we were able to get through. We look forward to 2017 even though it will be a tougher hurdle to get over but we trust and have the faith in our cooperators to help us through once again.

To our pantry volunteers, I can’t say thank you enough for making yourself available four days a week to help those who need it the most. If you have not supported us in the past, please consider us.

Have a wonderful holiday season.

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

Classes are in the Dreiser Aud., 7:30

p.m. To register, please call (718) 3208035. Nominal fee for each class.

Food distribution sites On Thursdays, residents of Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Likewise, residents of Building 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursdays to pick up food. For information, please call (718) 320-8035.

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

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

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

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

—Tony Illis

Building 16 rent free for 18 years. The Resolution to rescind was tabled until the next Board Meeting to give the Cooperators time to “rent or vacate” the space.

Board Member Kevin Lambright has prepared a resolution to rescind #98-72, seconded by Francine Reva Jones, pending an analysis of other spaces.

SLATE LOYALTY/POWER/POLITICS Having served with 4 Presidents, (Helen Atkins, William (Bill) Gordon, Cleve Taylor & Linda Berk) I have a clear understanding of the importance of “Slates” and organization like the “Coalition of Affordable Housing.” It was the COAH that assisted me in getting elected. The beauty of a “Slate” is bonding and being able to caucus and make decisions before the full Board Meeting. In Albany we have the Black & Puerto Rican Caucus. When in the majority, you caucus and ensure your Slate is rewarded with all the top positions. The President appoints Committee Chairmen, eliminates and merges committees. To observe what Slate loyalty looks like past and present go to: www.issuu.com/cctimes.

An example - Leslie Peterson was the HIGHEST vote getter in Co-op City at the last Board election.

However, she could NOT receive enough votes to obtain any office on either the Board or Riverbay Fund or get appointed Chairman of any Committees. Do we still work and vote together as a Board? YES! When one has been on both sides you know the deal and how it’s done. We will continue to have “Slates” and the majority will position themselves accordingly. It’s legal.

SHARPEN YOUR PENS: This Director looks forward to a letter writing campaign to President Donald Trump and all his key Cabinet members. Names and addresses will be provided for you to join me.

If President Obama fails to pardon “Marcus M. Garvey” he will receive a letter.

Happy Holidays – Stand in Your Own Truth! “Put on your oxygen mask so you can be strong for the long road ahead.”

Evelyn M. Turner – 917-324-1033 – evelyntinez @aol.com

19

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

NAACP Co-op City Branch #2210 National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 75-3111, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475. President: Jerome Rice. Office telephone: (718) 320-3210, Address: 135 Einstein Community Center, rm. 36, Office hours: Monday – Wednesday – Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Theme: Our Lives Matter – Our Votes Count.

Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities.

NAACP Statement on President-elect Trump’s selections for top advisors by Cornell William Brooks, president and CEO of the NAACP, can be accessed online: http://www.naacp.org/latest/naacp-statementpresident-elect-trump-selections-top-advisors/.

Membership Campaign: Lifeblood of the association. Your membership dollars help lead the fight for freedom, justice and equality. The community at large is invited to join the Co-op City Branch #2210.

Become a new member, renew, recruit, gift or sponsor an annual membership for self or another. Adult regular membership is $30 and youth membership is $10.

We have some exciting and challenging projects planned and we need your help. We look forward to working with you to go forward and meet the mandates of the NAACP. Voter registration is an ongoing activity. Registration forms available in office. Be prepared to VOTE! If you don’t vote, don’t complain.

Special thanks to all those who donated a toy to benefit Harlem Hospital Youth Sickle Cell Unit. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Note: On Saturday, January 21, 2017 our branch will participate in Co-op City’s Women’s March on Washington. We will be travelling by charter bus and the cost is $25 per person. Seats are limited. If you are interested in going, call the office for more details.

Tickets are going fast.

Save the Date January 14, 2017 – 1st Quarterly NYSC Meeting; UFT Headquarters 52 Broadway at 9 a.m. All branch members are welcome.

January 21, 2017 – Women’s March on Washington (Co-op City participation) January 2017 – Jubilee (work in progress) February 2017 – Black History Month Essay Contest (PS 160 work in progress) Season’s Greetings; be safe and have a happy, healthy New Year.

—Jerome L. Rice

National Council of Negro Women, Inc. As we come to the end of 2016 and welcome in a New Year, 2017, our Section President, Lori Melton, thanks all the members whose volunteer efforts brought so much to our Co-op City community in the past year.

We also thank our friends who donated to our Holiday Drive and other times throughout the year when we focus on sharing with our neighbors in the Phipps Residence. Tomorrow, a new year begins and we have a continued opportunity to bring to our community the legacy of our founder, Mary McLeod Bethune.

Membership – Our first membership meeting of the new year will be on Sunday, January 8, 2017 in room 11 Dreiser Community Center at 3 p.m. Please come with ideas of services we can bring to the Co-op City community and ready to roll up your sleeves and get to work! If you can’t come to our meeting, remember you can contact us at Facebook.com/ncnwcoop or ncnwcoopcity@gmail.com or at P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475.

March on Washington – On Saturday January 21, 2017, NCNW Co-op City Section and North Bronx Section will be partnering together to support the Women’s March on Washington. This is not a political endorsement but rather a civil rights activity in the model of Dr. Dorothy I. Height in which we as Black women will be expressing our concerns about women’s rights, social injustice, affordable housing, Social Security, immigration, etc. Buses will be departing at 5 a.m. from Dreiser, Bartow and Einstein Shopping Centers. Tickets are $25. Members, please contact Lori Melton if you or family or friends are interested in attending this event.

Black History Month – Save the date, Saturday, February 25, 2017, when we will have our 16th Annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. This free event will take place in Dreiser Aud. B. from 1 to 4 p.m. Youth groups and young adults interested in volunteering to showcase

their talent in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc. please call the NCNW Youth Committee at 917-399-2643. This year the theme is “The African American Journey from Slavery to Black Lives Matter” NCNW at the UN – Fannie Munlin, the NCNW Representative to the United Nations, and Johnnie Walker, the NYS Chair of Conveners have alerted all members of their opportunity to attend the 61st Session of the United Nations Commissions on the Status of Women which will take part at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on March 13-24 2017. Registration ends on January 27th so if you are interested in attending please contact Lori Melton as soon as possible because there are limited spaces available.

Members of the Co-op City Section of National Council of Negro Women, Inc. wish all our families, friends and neighbors a New Year filled with love, peace, joy and prosperity.

—Joyce Howard

Retirees of Dreiser Loop “In the coming year, may you find fulfillment and joy in all the challenges you face. More power to you and a Healthy and Happy New Year!”

TRAVEL EVENTS: (price includes transportation/Lorant Coach Bus (Dreiser Loop opposite H&R Block).

• Jan. 11 & 12, 2017 (Wed. & Thurs.) to FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO, CT. SOLD OUT. Contacts: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500.

• Tues., March 14, 2017 to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, NJ. Enjoy luncheon cuisine, full service cocktail bar, onsite lobby bake shop and gift boutique.

Price: $75. (deposit $35/ full payment/balance, $40, due Mon., Feb. 6, 2017). Contacts: Serita G., 347-5645722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500.

• Sept. 9-16, 2017 (8 day/7 night), Canada & New England cruise on the beautiful Carnival “Sunshine.” $250 deposit per person due immediately to hold reservation. NYC departure/return. NOTE: Preferred cabin/ category selection goes to earliest bookings. Cabin/category prices from $929 to $1399 which include your cabin, meals, port charges and taxes. Final payment due

by May 19, 2017. Travel insurance (additional cost) encouraged. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722.

THEATRE COMMITTEE: (price includes van transportation (Dreiser Loop opposite rehab center).

• February 4, 2017 (Sat.). Showtime: 8:00 p.m. “TAJ EXPRESS.” The Bollywood musical revue. Lehman Center, Bronx. Price: $55. First paid, first seated. Payment ASAP. Contact: Eleanor Barlow, 917-952-0861.

Members and friends, we do require your deposit and/or full payment along with your name and telephone number when signing up for trips and/or shows.

First fully paid, confirmed seating. Committee members in Dreiser clubroom #19 (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30-5:00 p.m.

Good And Welfare: To members and friends, as you rest and heal, know that you are thought of warmly and wished a quick recovery. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539 regarding illnesses and bereavements.

Consider joining us at the next March 2017 SPA Day – Date to be determined. Call 718-379-4784 – leave your name and phone number to be placed on wait list.

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

DON’T FORGET! Our 1st 2017 General Membership meetings will be held on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 at 1:30 pm in the Dreiser Loop Auditorium. And please bring a Friend.

“The NEW YEAR has brought another chance for us to set things right and to open up a new chapter in our lives.”

—Claudette Davis

Follow Riverbay Fund on Facebook at www.facebook.com/riverbayfund and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/riverbayfund.

Be respectful of your neighbors Please be aware that not all disabilities are visible, so be considerate and respectful of all members of the community.

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Newsong Church

Community Protestant Church On Behalf of our Pastor, the Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our Church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone (718) 862-9172.

REGULAR CHURCH SCHEDULE: Sunday School – 9:00 a.m.

Worship Service – 11:00 a.m.

Communion Service – Every First and Third Sundays Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.

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

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

Extension of Prayer & Worship Service – Every First, Second & Third Fridays at 7 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE A SPECIAL SERVICE AT COMMUITY PROTESTANT: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31, 7 p.m. – New Year’s Eve Candle Light Service.

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 NewYear 2017.

OTHER SCHEDULED EVENTS: • Sunday, January 8, 2017 at the 11:00 a.m. Service – Observance of Official Boards Day. Theme: “Faithful Stewards.” All are welcome.

• September 12–15, 2017 – The Missionary Ministry sponsors a trip to THE HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA, the only Entertainment Park that celebrates the Biblical Word of the Christian Faith. Package includes: Round trip airfare; round trip airport transportation from Bartow Ave. (Co-op City, Bronx); 4 days/3 nights hotel accommodation; 3 buffet breakfasts; 1 group dinner, 2 day admissions to the Holy Land Experience; Lunch-To-Go at the Holy Land Experience; transportation from the hotel to the Holy Land and Travel Insurance. $1,013 per person double occupancy; $961 per person triple; $1,253 single. $113 Deposit due December 3, 2016 (non refundable after 5/17/17). For reservation and/or additional information call (718) 671-0425 or (718) 379-8514.

NEW YEAR BLESSINGS In this brand new year, as we go about our Father’s Business, remember we are “Walking by faith, not by sight, our eyes on the prize we scale the height Of Christian commitment in a troubled world, holding our ground as some among us fall.

Earnestly helping wherever we can, saying to the Master, yes, here I am.

Helping each other along the way, about our Father’s business every day.”

We wish you a Happy and Blessed New 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

Put God First in Your Life Part-1 Hey Co-op City! Today is New Year's Eve, the last day of 2016! Tomorrow is a new year full of new possibilities and new beginnings! Speaking of new beginnings, did you know that the God of the Bible is the God of New Beginnings? Jesus makes all things new, and that my friends is good news! Why would you want to start off a new year doing the same old things; carrying the same old hurts and pains around with you like a backpack? It's time to make a change that will matter in this world and the next! Here's the first step to make a change in 2017...

Think about all the things you want to do in the New Year. You know what they all have in common? You! Every resolution, every new idea, every relationship, it all has to do with you doing things your way, in your power. Isn’t that always the problem? Isn’t that how we end up never changing? (Do I need to remind you of all the empty promises you’ve told yourself at the beginning of every NewYear?) We’re just to “me centered.” What if I told you there was a better way? Jesus said “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need (Matthew 6:33 NLT) Over the next few weeks I’m going to unpack this scripture a little more, but for right now let’s focus on seeking God first. Can I ask you a question? When was the last time you asked God what He wants for you this year? What if putting what God wants over your wants was the difference maker in 2017? Whether you believe in Him or not, what do you have to lose? You’ve tried everything else, and yet here you are, the same old you entering a brand-new year! God promises to give us all we need if we put Him first. I challenge you to try putting God first in the month of January!

See if His promise is true for you…What do you have to lose? I promise you, I’ve never met someone who was sorry they put God first in their life! Give Him a try!

We invite you to experience the awe and the wonder of Jesus Christ! Our New Year’s Day celebration is Sunday at 11:00 a.m.

Our Worship Experience is located at 177 Dreiser Loop Auditorium B. Our service starts at 11 a.m. Deaf interpretation is available during our adult worship experience. We have a well-staffed nursery and a children's church called "Kidsong". If you have any questions you can contact us: Church Office: 140 Alcott Place Bldg.19.

Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Phone: 718-708-8385.

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

—Mike Tolone

Church of God’s Children

A Message from C.S.O. Dept.

Bishops Nancy & Angelo Rosario and the congregation invite you to worship and Hammering after 6 p.m., vacuuming after 9 p.m., music or TVs played very loudly at to learn God’s Word for a new you in your life. Make today the decision for Christ any hour, doors slamming constantly at all hours...these are just a few examples of and let it be the first day of your new life. You may visit us and we hope you’ll stay, what can disturb the peace of fellow cooperators. Please, let’s work together to make however, please visit and become a member at any of the many houses of worship in Co-op City a peaceful community. know their Pasthe Co-op City community that are teaching God’s Word. The sheep tor’s voice. We are located at 127 Dreiser Loop (to the right of the Montefiore Health Clinic); 718-790-9120.

You can call the office and leave your prayer request for our prayer group that meets every Monday & Wednesday.

Schedule of Services Sunday: Worship in Spanish, 9:30 a.m.

Worship in English, 1:15 p.m.

Sunday: Bible Studies for Women (Spanish & English Family Owned and Operated classes), 11:30 a.m.

• Large Chapel • Pre-need counseling Bible studies for Men/Youth/Children – English, on premises 11:30 a.m.

• Out of town services Monday: Prayer & Bible study, 9:30 a.m. (Min. Steve) • Ample Parking on premises Wednesday: Prayer, 7:00 p.m. (Rev. Melinda) A dignified funeral every family can afford.

• Cremations Wednesday: 12-step program at 159 Dreiser Loop • Casket Showroom All areas are handicapped accessible Saturday, Dec. 24 – There will be a Christmas Eve on premises service at 7 p.m.

Personalized & Professional Care • 50 Years Serving Our Community Sunday, Christmas Day – A 1-hr. service at 10 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve candlelight servWorldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America ice, 10 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017 – One bi-lingual service at 1 p.m.

As we close the month of December, we remind you to pray for our nation. Maintain an upright heart, let us remember that the Christmas heart is a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first. The birth of the baby Jesus stands as the most significant event in all hisServing all Call tory, because it has meant the pouring into a sick world cultures 24 the healing medicine of love which has transformed all NOW WEBCASTING TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABROAD & faiths Hours manner of hearts for almost two thousand years. "Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a cus4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. tomer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect." —Bishop Nancy Rosario

718-231-7647 Fax: 718-231-7665

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

21

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church invites you to join us tomorrow, Sunday, January 1, 2017 at 10 a.m. for New Year’s Day Worship Service in room 45 (Einstein Center). Please note there will be one service. Join us as we begin the New Year in Christ. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us. The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop Room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774.

Tonight, Saturday, December 31, Watch Night service will be held at 10:30 p.m. All are invited to join us as we bring the New Year in with the house of the Lord.

We are going on hiatus for Christmas, Wednesday

noon day worship service and all Bible study classes will not be held again until Wednesday, January 4.

Thursday Prayer Warriors will not meet again until Thursday, January 5. Noon day prayer service will not meet again until Friday, January 6. Friday evening prayer service will not meet again until January 6 with an adult movie night showing of “The Red Tent.” Regular Friday evening prayer service will resume on Friday, January 13. Christian Education Movie Night will not be held again until Friday, February 3.

Save the Date!!! On March 12 to 20, 2018, the church will be going to the Holy Land Pilgrimage (Israel). Join us and worship sailing on the Sea of

Galilee, be baptized in the Jordan River; share in communion in the Garden Tomb. All where Jesus walked!!

For additional information, call the church at 718-3203774.

The Co-op City Baptist Church family extends wishes for Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa and a Happy, Healthy and Blessed New Year to all.

The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

—Hattie L. Lucas

Circle of Christ Church The Circle of Christ Church family extends a warm welcome to you and your family and invites you to come and worship with us at 147 Dreiser Loop Patio level (located in the Dreiser Community Center).

We are a multicultural church that embraces God’s love for all. Family unity is very important to us. We have a wonderful children ministry focus on learning God’s word. Our youth ministry is very active and dynamic. The youth are involved in music, retreats, concerts, debates, conferences, drama, counseling among many other activities. We also have a food pantry for those in need in our community. Our phone number is 347-945-1992.

Thought for the week: The Son of Man comes to find lost people and save them. Luke 19: 10 Have you sensed God knocking at the door of your heart? He came to seek and save the lost. Jesus loves you, He gave his life so who ever believes in him will be saved. Open the doors of your heart today because within Him are the answers that you have been longing and seeking for.

La familia de la Iglesia Circulo de Cristo les

extiende una cálida invitación a usted y su familia para que vengan a alabar a Dios junto con nosotros.

Nos encontramos en el 147 de Dreiser Loop, al nivel del patio.

(Localizado en el centro Comunal de Dreiser) Somos una Iglesia multicultural que recibe y da del amor the Dios para todos. La unidad de la familia es muy importante para nosotros.Tenemos un ministerio para los jóvenes que es muy dinámico. Los jóvenes disfruta de música, retiros, conciertos, debates, conferencias, dramas , consejería, y mucho mas. Suplimos comida a aquellos en nuestra comunidad que lo necesitan. Nuestro teléfono es 347-9451992.

Reflexion para la semana: Porque el Hijo del Hombre vino a buscar y salvar lo que se había perdido. Lucas 19:10 No as sentido a Dios tocando a la puerta de tu corazón? El vino a buscar y salvar al que esta perdido.

Jesus te ama. El dio su vida para que en el crea no se pierda si no que tenga vida eterna. Abre hoy la puerta de tu corazón porque en el esta la respuesta que tanto

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

Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9:00 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service.

Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.

The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the 2nd Sunday of each month.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 1, (New Year’s Day), when we will celebrate The Holy Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Our Supply Priest, Father Simeon Johnson will be the Preacher and Celebrant.

Please remember to submit your Pledge Cards that are now due for 2017 as soon as possible.

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

A happy, healthy and blessed New Year to all.

For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718-3200844.

Or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org “Our Lord our Governor, * how exalted is your name in all the world!” (Psalm 8:1) —P. Lawrence

Be careful and ask to see Employee ID If you are having work done in your apartment, shareholders – especially those who are elderly and/or who live alone – are reminded that all personal items should be secured in a safe location. This is for your own peace of mind, as well as the protection of the Riverbay workers/ contractors coming into your home.

Riverbay employees wear identification badges and so do the various Riverbay-approved contractors seeking access to your home. Ask to see identification before allowing anyone to enter your apartment. If you are unsure, you should contact your local CSO at (718) 320-3300 (follow prompts), or Public Safety at (718) 671-3050.

anhelas y buscas.

English services Wednesday—7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Prayer & Bible Study.

Friday—7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Youth Night Sunday—11:00 a.m. Worship and the Word Children Church 5 years old to 12 years old Little lamb nursery.

Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 a.m. Prayer and the Word Thursday—5:00 p.m. Boys and Girls Club Horario de Servicios en Español Domingo—9:00 a 10:30 a.m. Alabanzas y Predicación Jueves—12:00 p.m. Oración y Estudio Bíblico Special Events / Eventos Especiales New Year’s Eve Candlelight Service Saturday, December 31, 2016 at 6 p.m.

New Year’s Day Service Sunday, January 1, 2017 at 11 a.m.

All are welcome!

—Rev Sam Colon

Mon., Jan. 2

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

Activities in Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Activities in Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Activities in Room 7 unless otherwise noted

JASA CLOSED HAPPY HOLIDAYS

JASA CLOSED HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Date:

Kosher

Mon., Jan. 2

JASA CLOSED HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session

9:30-11:30 a.m.

9:30-10:30 a.m.

Walking Club

Dominoes 10 a.m.

Alert & Alive

10:30-11:30 a.m.

Tai Chi 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Bingo 12:30-2:00 p.m.

Caregiver Support Group 1:00 p.m., 1st &

Matinee Movie

Wed., Jan. 4

(On Vac. until Jan. 3, 2017)

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

Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m.,

3rd Tues.

Karaoke by Steven

Rm. 4

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

1:00-2:00 p.m., Rm. 45

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

Wed., Jan. 4

9:30-11:30 a.m.

Walk Group 9:30 a.m.,

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session

Stay Well Exercise

Rm. 40

9:30-10:30 a.m.

10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

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

Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45

Sewing (On Vac. until Jan. 25, 2017)

Spelling Bee 10 a.m.

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

Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m.,

Spanish Practice Class

Rm. 4

10:30 a.m., Computer Lab

African Brazilian Dance

Bingo 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Smartphone Class Beginner – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Intermediate – 1:30–2:30 p.m.

Bartow Main office

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

1:00 p.m., Rm. 2

Zumba 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Art Class 1-3 p.m.

Yoga 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Dominoes 10 a.m.,

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session

Thurs., Jan. 5

Rm. 45

9:30-10:30 a.m.

Word Games

Grandparent Connection

Blood Pressure

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

1st Thursday, Rm. 35, 10:30 a.m.

Chat Session 9:30 a.m. -

Arthritis Exercise

1 p.m.

11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m.

Word search 11 a.m. 12 p.m.

10-11:30 a.m., 1st & 3rd Rm. 8 Line Dancing 10-11 a.m., Aud. A Piano Sing Along 11 a.m. 12 p.m.

Mind Teasers 12 - 1 p.m., Rm. 4 Drama Club 1:30 - 4:00 p.m.

Bingo 1 - 2 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Karaoke by Steven Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m., Rm. 45

Crochet & Knitting

Men’s Line Dancing

Fri., Jan. 6

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

9 - 10 a.m.

Dominoes 10 a.m.,

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Word Games

Rm. 45

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

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

Art 10 a.m., Rm. 45

Women’s Line Dancing

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

10 - 11:30 a.m.

Bingo 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Chat Session 10 a.m.

Bingo 1 - 2 p.m.

Piano Sing-along

Card Games 2 - 4 p.m.

(On Vac. until Dec. 30)

Pokeno 2-4 p.m., Rm. 35

Mind Teasers 12 - 1

11 a.m. -12 p.m.

Card Games 2 - 4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Meditative Moments

p.m., Rm. 4

Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Friday 10 a.m. -11:30 a.m., Rm. 45

Bingo – Rm. 7, 1-3 p.m.

Card Games, Dominoes 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

(Schedule subject to change without notice)

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

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

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

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

The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Orange juice Shake & bake chicken Mashed sweet potatoes Whole wheat bread Coleslaw, Canned pears Alt: tuna Nicoise salad Orange pineapple juice Tilapia Francaise Cuban style yellow rice Kale w/garlic sauce Whole wheat bread Healthy wildberry & applesauce Alt: Vegetarian chopped liver

Pork chops w/oyster sauce Baked macaroni & cheese Red Cabbage salad

Chicken stir fry Brown rice Steamed broccoli

Thurs., Jan. 5

Beef pot roast Baby carrots w/parsley Red bliss potatoes

Fri., Jan. 6

Apple juice Baked chicken legs Cous Cous, Green beans Apple sauce, Challah bread Alt: Gefilte fish

Lemon pepper fish Rice w/vegetables Steamed Kale

1:00 p.m. w/popcorn

Games

JASA CLOSED HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Orange juice Salisbury steak w/mushroom gravy, Fusilli pasta w/parsley Steamed peas & carrots Fresh fruit, Whole wheat bread Alt: Grilled chicken breast

10 a.m., Rm. 45

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Non-Kosher

JASA CLOSED HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Tues, Jan. 3

Word Games

Tues., Jan. 3

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

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

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

(FREE) LiveOn NY - SCRIE Application Assistance SNAP (Food Stamps) – Friday, Jan. 13th & 27th, Feb. 10th & 24th, March 10th & 24th, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. First come, first served!

JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. (CANCELLED) St. Mary’s Recreation Center Pool – Wed., Jan. 4.

Empire Casino – Fri., Jan. 6th, $5.

Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Target – Throggs Neck – Fri., Jan. 6th, $2. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Wal-Mart – Tues., Jan. 10th, $15.

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

JASA Closed – Mon., Jan. 16th in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Madame Tussaud’s Museum – Tues., Jan. 17th, $25. Bartow, 10 a.m.; Einstein, 10:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 10:30 a.m.

Fairway/BJ’s – $3. Wed., Jan. 18th; Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. and Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Stew Leonard’s – Fri., Jan. 20th, $5.

Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Ridgehill – Fri., Jan. 20th, $7. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

American Museum of Natural History – $23. Mon., Jan. 23rd; Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:30 a.m.

Empire Casino – Mon., Jan. 23rd, $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45

a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. (wait list).

Transit Museum –Tues., Jan. 24th.

Tour: 1:30- 2:45 p.m., $10. (lunch included). Bartow, 11 a.m.; Einstein, 11:15 a.m.; Dreiser, 11:30 a.m.

St. Mary’s Recreation Center Pool – Wed., Jan. 25th & Fri., Jan. 27th, $3.

Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.; Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m. (14 seats available). We were just informed that there is a $25 yearly fee to use the facility. If you wish to become a member, please come into the JASA Bartow office and fill out an application. Membership is non-refundable.

Shoprite – Mon., Jan. 30th, $3. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

ACE in the Hole – Stand By Me Tribute to Ben E. King, Fri., Feb. 17th, $50. Pick-ups to be announced.

Computer Class – Mon., Feb. 6, 2017, beginner, intermediate & advance classes will begin at 135 Einstein Loop (six seats are available). Call the Bartow main office to register, 718-320-2066.

Smartphone Classes –Wed., Feb. 8, 2017 in the 2049 Bartow office at 12:30 p.m. for beginners and 1:30 p.m. for advanced users. Please call 718-3202066 to register.

National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC – Wed., April 19, 2017, $85.

Deluxe motorcoach transportation.

Enjoy all-you-can-eat lunch buffet at the Golden Corral. Pick-up times: Dreiser, 7:15 a.m.; Bartow, 7:30 a.m. & – Einstein, 7:45 a.m. Depart destination: 5:30 p.m. No refunds.

Tenement Museum Shop Tour – Mon., Jan. 30th, $20. Tour starts at 10:30 a.m. in the gift shop; Bartow, 8:15 a.m.; Dreiser, 8:30 a.m. & Einstein, 8:45 a.m. Tour ends 12 p.m. Driver will pick you up at 12:30 p.m. at the gift shop (18 seats available). The museum shop carries a selection of books & gifts about NY immigration & tenements.

23

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

AARP Chapter #4997

Scheduling Calendar C p City Activities Times Schedule

1/2/2017 – 1/8/2017 Organizations

Function Type

Date & Time

Room

African-American Association

Yoga & Pilates Belly Dancing Line Dancing Zumba & Yoga

Tuesday, 1/3 – 7:15 pm Wednesday, 1/4 – 6:30 pm Thursday, 1/5 – 7:00 pm Saturday, 1/7 – 9:00 am

Exercise & Dance

Saturday, 1/7 – 10:00 am

Dreiser Rm # 9

Black Forum of Co-op City

Zumba Body Conditioning

Wednesday, 1/4 – 7:30 pm Thursday, 1/5 – 8:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. C

Circle of Christ Church

Bible Study

Sunday, 1/8– 10:00 am

Dreiser Loop Room # 2

Dreiser Room # 2

Deeper Life Church

Bible Study

Tuesday, 1/3 – 5:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 1

Duplicate Bridge Club

Card Playing

Wednesday, 1/4 – 12:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Rm. 9

Earhart Lane Townhouse Association

Meeting

Wednesday, 1/4 – 7:00 pm

Einstein Loop Rm. # 35

Girl Scouts

Meeting

Friday, 1/6 – 5:00 pm

Dreiser Rms. 1, 2, 4, 9, 10 Aud. A

Harvest Restoration Ministries

Bible Study

Sunday, 1/8- 12:00 pm

Einstein Loop Room # 38

Islamic Culture Center

Worship

Friday, 1/6 – 11:00

Dreiser Loop Rm. # 9

Iglesia Marcos

Children’s Bible Study

Sunday – 1/8– 9:00 am

Einstein Loop Room # 35

Bible Study

Tuesday, 1/3 – 5:30 pm

New Song Church

Teen Worship Worship

Friday, 1/6 – 6:00 pm Sunday, 1/8– 11:00 am

Bartow Room # 28 Dreiser Aud. B, 1, 9, 10

Open Door Ministries

Counseling/Worship

Sunday, 1/8 – 10:00 am

Bartow Rm. # 28

Pelham Brotherhood Lodge # 414

Meeting

Friday, 1/6 – 7:30 pm

Dreiser Loop Rm. # 8

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Meeting

Wednesday, 1/4 – 1:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. A

Toastmasters of Co-op City

Meeting

Thursday, 1/5 – 7:00 pm

Bartow Rm. # 28

Weight Watchers

Meeting

Tuesday, 1/3 – 5:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room #4

Zodiac Track Team

Practice

Tuesday, 1/3 – 6:00 pm Thursday, 1/5 – 6:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. A,B,C

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

THANKS for a successful Christmas Party. Special thanks and appreciation for all the willing hands that made it a success — decorators, food and drink servers, and greeters at the door. You all made it GREAT! See you after a Happy New Year… Jean Mickens, president.

Please contact our Good & Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, about any of our members we have not heard from or seen in a few months.

We want them to know that they are in our thoughts and prayers. Also, if you have a family member who has passed, please contact Frances.

2017 Tour Activities March 17 – 24, 2017: 7-night Cruise to Cuba…

SOLD OUT (wait-list available). Fly to Montego Bay, Jamaica; board Celestyal Cruise Ship to Santiago de Cuba; Havana, Mariola Gorde, Cienfuigo; roundtrip airfare, tours, food, drinks, taxes and port fees all included. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370.

—Delores Debnam

Goose Island Senior Citizens Happy birthday or happy anniversary to all that celebrate in month of January: Joan Brown; Edyth Rosenberg; Estelle Lebowitz, and Toby Landau.

There will be a Bingo game Wednesday, January 4.

We still have a few items from our garage sale at very good prices.

Trips 2017: Wednesday, June 7, 2017 going to Westchester Dinner Theatre. They’re performing “Mamma Mia.” Price is $79 for show, luncheon, and transportation. A deposit will hold a seat at the theatre.

All payments must be in by May 15.

Thursday, October 12, 2017 at the Hunterdon Hill Playhouse, N.J. A very funny show by Neil Simon.

You will also enjoy a very scrumptious lunch and all the desserts you can eat. Price $79. A deposit will hold your seat.

For more information, call Goose Island Seniors at 135 Einstein Loop, Tel: 718-379-9613 or call Mary at 718-379-4899 and she will return your call. From Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Room 39.

Don't forget your yearly dues $15.

Good health to all.

—Mary Pilla

Einstein Cancer Fund Dreiser Loop Rm # 8

We will be going to Mohegan Sun on Tuesday, January 10th, 2017. Cost per person is $35 and receive the casino bonus of the day – $15 slot play and a $15 food voucher. Time of pick-up is 8 a.m., starting at Einstein Loop, followed by Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop. Don’t forget your casino card and a valid photo I.D. We hope that everyone will have a joyous happy Christmas and a happy Chanukah holiday and a happy and healthy New Year.

Arrangements have been made at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, April 26, 2017 for the luncheon show of the hilarious comedy of “Born Yesterday” which was a huge hit of a film starring Judy Holiday. The cost per person is $79 which can be paid off by April 1st, 2017. A small deposit of $5 or more will hold your reservation. You will be issued receipts for your deposits.

For all of the above trips, please call Lydia at 718671-3005 or Annie Eutsey at 718-320-1874 for dues and a memorial card.

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

Good health and healings are wished to all.

—Lydia Ruas Read and follow the Co-op City Times online at http://issuu.com/cctimes

24

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Chanukah Message

by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue We are now celebrating Chanukah, the Festival of Lights. We light candles to cut through the winter darkness. In doing so, they symbolize for us a hope for spiritual illumination.

The lighting of the Menorah occurs during the shortest days of the year.

At this moment of seasonal darkness, we turn toward the light, yearning for the conquest of bleakness, despair and apathy. The light of the Menorah reminds us that the darkness can be transcended with the new commitments to the freedom for which the Maccabees fought.

Since the Maccabees overthrew the Greeks, Jews have seen many dark days.

They have witnessed persecutions and the cruelest brutalities. They have faced virtual extermination. But they have always survived.

The light from Menorah is the light of survival, the light of hope, the light of our certainty that we will rise above the darkness of the season or the darkness of the moment.

It is the light of our salvation.

Young Israel of Co-op City Young Israel of Co-op City (lower level of the Dreiser Loop shopping center) is a house of worship that opens its doors every morning from 6 until 7 a.m.

Anyone who wishes to start the daily routine with prayers, during which our spiritual leader, Rabbi Solomon I. Berl, offers a brief Bible teaching is welcome.

On Friday evening, Sabbath services begin at 10 minutes after the candle-lighting time. Saturday morning services start at 9 a.m. Rabbi Berl delivers his sermon at 10:30 a.m.

The Rabbi’s class on the Torah reading of the week begins one hour before sunset every Saturday afternoon.

For office hours or any information you may seek, feel free to call (718) 671-2300 and leave your name, phone number and a brief message on the synagogue’s answering machine and your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Evangelical Church of Co-op City – UMC Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds Come & Visit Us – we welcome you to God’s House – Your House – One Family in Christ. We are a congregation with spirit-filled worship, offering a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and bilingual congregation and all are welcome. Services are at the church at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across the street from Building 30. Parking is available. Our phone number is (718) 320-3795, and leave a message if there is no answer.

Sunday Services - Come & and Receive a Blessing Sunday Services – The first Sunday of the month is a bilingual service with communion at 11:30 a.m. Each Sunday the English Service is at 11:30 a.m. and the Spanish Service is at 1:30 p.m. Children: Sunday School time will be at 10 a.m.; bring your children, they will have a great time while learning God’s word.

Prayer Night (English) & Prayer Morning (Spanish): The Lord said “whenever two or more are gathered in my name I am in the midst of them.� Matthew 18:20. Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 8:30. Friday mornings from 10:30 to 11:30. Come and bring your prayer needs so we can pray together. Remember that prayer brings many blessings, which God has promised to all his children that have a personal relationship with Him. Friday Family Night: starts at 7:30; come and enjoy the different groups for parents, young adults, teens and children. Learn the Bible and also other activities.

It’s a fun time for all.

Crescendo Christian Music School: Are you interested in learning how to play an instrument or sing, come join the music school. Piano, guitar, drums, violin, voice and other instruments. Registration for the fall season is here and cost is very reasonable. Registration is free. Call Maestro Frank Colon (917) 753-3644 to set up a time to come and register. Students range in age from 5 to 100 years old.

New Year’s Celebration: If you have nowhere , Inc. to go and want a spiritual George Farr - Funeral Director blessing come to our New Year’s Eve celebration.

(718) 828-1700 / 914-654-1700 The celebration is starting

at 10 p.m. and we will bring in the new year at 1528 Castle Hill Avenue midnight. January 1st we Bronx, NY 10462 will have our first Sunday of the month service at 12 www.shalomjewish.com p.m. so everyone can get extra sleep from the night Services from Our Chapel, Graveside or Synagogue before. We look forward Parking Facilities • Pre-Arrangements to seeing you.

We honor pre-plan arrangements from other funeral homes. —Barbara Penn

Shalom Jewish Funeral Home

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

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

SHABBAT ends today December 31th, at 5:29 p.m.

CANDLE LIGHTING, for Friday January 1st, at 4:26 p.m.

The Synagogue has Services Saturday morning at 9 a.m. After Services we always have a kiddush. We need a few Jewish Men, if you can give two hours Saturday between 10 a.m. and noon, we need your help to make a minyan. Sometimes we are short one or two men; everybody please try your best to come to services during the winter months. Saturday, December 31, Rabbi Kronengold will conduct the Services.

GOOD WELFARE: We sell TREE CERTIFICATES, in Honor or Memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazol Tov, to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing all a speedy recovery. Sorry to report former member and president Mr. Chaim Marks passed away. Wishing no more sorrow to his family.

BINGO: The Synagogue will have a Bingo Sunday, January 8, 2017 at 1 p.m.

The cost is only $3 admission, which includes refreshments and 10 games of Bingo.

Also there is a Jackpot game which costs $2. This is a 3-part game which you have a chance to win $30, if you win all 3 games. Come on down and spend an afternoon with your friends and neighbors.

MEN’S CLUB: The next Men’s Club trip will be either Sunday, March 19, 2017 or during the weekdays of that week. Look for updates in the newspaper.

CHANUKAH HOLIDAYS: This Saturday, Dec. 31, is the 7th day of Chanukah and the 8th night and candle to be lighted. After Morning Services we are having a Chanukah Luncheon. We will serve Potato Pancakes, and Donuts and additional food.

The Jewish Community Council of Pelham Parkway is having a Chanukah Party and Concert on Sunday January 1st, at 2 p.m. This will be at the Young Israel of Pelham Parkway Jewish Center, 900 Pelham Parkway South. This is a free event; go enjoy. For further information, please call 718-792-4744.

Your support of the Traditional Synagogue, and Men’s Club is greatly appreciated.

Wishing all our members and friends peace, good health, Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and Happy New Year.

Thanks, —Gary Schwartz

Drammeh Center The Drammeh Center is a proud supporter of Co-op City’s delegation to the Women’s March on Washington scheduled for January 21, 2017 (one day after the presidential inauguration). In these critical times ahead, we ask that you join us in lending your voices to the pressing issues affecting the human and civil rights of women, alongside women and men residents of Co-op City. Support this march and help us to have a memorable impact and affect systemic change. The Drammeh Center is among several organizations selling bus tickets to this event for $25 each. To arrange a pick-up time, call 718-737-1976 – you MUST leave a message. We predict that tickets will go fast; so if you are interested in attending, please don’t wait too long. Buses will leave from Dreiser, Einstein and Bartow at 5:00 a.m. Visit the website for more details about this march. We encourage you to peruse other organizations’ articles in the Co-op City Times for more information as we move forward.

We are still accepting applications for the innovative STEAM program for girls at the Drammeh Center; African Math theory through traditional doll making. The program will take place during the week that schools will be out on break, April 6th, April 8th thru 16th, 2017. If you would like to volunteer or intern for our opening and closing receptions, or donate to this very important program, we would love your support!

For applications, email DrammehCenter@gmail.com; LIKE US on our Facebook page, facebook.com/DrammehInstitute. You may also send your tax-deductible contributions by check/money order payable to: The Drammeh Institute, Inc. Send to: The Drammeh Institute, P.O. Box 558, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. —Elise Edwards

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

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

25

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

Pentecostal Tabernacle The Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to attend services at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Bldg 22A Sunday school for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship Service starts at 11:45 a.m.

Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held at 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

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

Friday evening Youth Service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Watch night service will be held Saturday night starting at 9 p.m.

Focus Thought: The Power of Unity Genesis 11:1-6 1. And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.

2. And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there.

3. And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them thoroughly. And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and they had brick for stone, and slime had they for mortar.

4. And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower whose top may reach unto the heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.

5 And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded.

6 And the Lord said, Behold, the people is one, and they all have one language and this they began to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagine to do. (study Genesis 11:9) “When we all pull together” There is something spiritually nourishing about unity. Working together with godly unity produces a keen sense of satisfaction, and effective productivity skyrockets. We can accomplish so much more through the synergy of cooperative unity that we could ever hope to achieve alone.

The power of unity is incredible, but the lesson to be learned from our study today is that unity can achieve great evil or great good. It is insufficient only to possess unity; we must have godly unity – joined together with who are liked minded to do the holy will of God. Like Babel, ungodly unity always produces disharmony and confusion. Godly Unity, on the other hand, produces harmony. Like the unison of the joined, harmonic voices of a choir or the blending of the harmonized instruments of a symphony.

“United In Purpose” Although pride is the wrong motivator, it does motivate. Over the centuries, evil people have been able to accomplish much only because their common pride united them in evil purpose. It seems that God would thwart all the evil purposes of mankind, but there are some fundamental principles involved that cause God to restrain Himself from prematurely intercepting evil. Just as the law of gravity works for both the godly and the godless, principles of industry work for anyone regardless of their purpose.

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

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

The good news of Jesus's birth is a source of joy for all people. Let's look at Luke 2:8-14. It says: 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

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

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

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

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

Jesus loves you, and so do we! Happy New Year!

—Apostle Gladys R. Little

PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!

Open Door Ministries 12 Questions for a Spiritual Checkup in the New Year Dr. Chuck Lawless 2 Corinthians 13:5 Check up on yourselves. Are you really Christians? Do you pass the test? Do you feel Christ’s presence and power more and more within you? Or are you just pretending to be Christians when you aren’t at all?

Some questions to consider as we end 2016 and enter 2017.

1. Do you need to forgive someone?

Jesus is clear that if we don’t forgive, the Father does not forgive us. While we think our anger is justified, it only hurts us to stay bitter.

2. Does your daily talk reflect godliness? Ephesians 5:4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.

3. Does your budget reflect commitment to God’s work? What we give toward God’s work does have eternal dividends.

Does your checkbook show you prioritize God’s kingdom?

4. Do you know your neighbors and coworkers? It’s easy to be so “on the go” that we know them on only a superficial basis which makes it difficult to share Christ with them.

5. Do you pray regularly for leaders?

Regardless of our political positions, we are mandated to pray for those in authority 1 Timothy 2:1-2.

6. Do you read more blog posts than you do the Bible? What bloggers say is nothing compared to the Word of God. 7. Do you pray only when you have to?

Many of us pray more reactively than proactively, that kind of praying misses the

point of being in a relationship with God. 8. Does your marriage reflect the love of Jesus for His church? Do you love your spouse sacrificially to the point of being willing to die? Would your spouse agree?

9. Are you hiding anything? Hiddenness is usually a sign the enemy is winning in one’s life.

10. Do you love God’s church? Paul thanked God for the Corinthians at the beginning of his letter to them and expressed his love for them in his closing.

In between, though, he described them as a mess. Only God can give us this kind of love for His bride.

11. Are you ready to quit? Maybe your church role has drained you to the point you wonder if it’s worth the effort. If your faith is being stretched gather prayer partners and talk with friends before giving up.

12. Where do you need to strengthen your walk with God for the rest of this year? Hearing this will make no difference unless you make an intentional plan to change.

Open Door Ministries’ Therapeutic Mentoring/Counseling Program meets Mondays at 6:30 p.m. in Dreiser Loop Room 9. Sunday services are at 11a.m in the Bartow Community Center Room 28.

Please join us Sunday January 1st at 11 a.m. for our NewYear’s Anointing Service where we will enjoy Holy Communion and anoint everyone for a blessed year 2017.

You can contact Pastor Luis through opendoorministries.net or text 917-3344407. —Blessings in Christ, Pastor Luis

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

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

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

Feeding wildlife, such as geese, also tends to change the migration pattern of these animals as they end up not flying south for the winter. This was the case last winter in the New York area where many geese were found starved to death when they did not fly south for the winter and their normal food source was covered by deep snow. Food placed out for animals is often lacking in the nutrition needed by the animals and serves to upset their ecological balance. Please resist the urge to place food out for animals in Co-op City or elsewhere.

Thank you for your cooperation.

27

Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016

CLASSIFIEDS

718-320-3300 x3384 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Cash Paid

Home Improvement

Old Records Wanted.

1-800-479-2667

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

LP, 78 or 45.

Call Joe 917-952-4408

12/31

— SERVICES — SERVICES — SERVICES — Appliance Repair

12/31

L&L APPLIANCE REPAIR OFF

Present This Coupon (except vacuums/lamps)

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

Fully Insured • NYC License #1233497

718.792.2655

10/7/17

EMERGENCY SERVICE

Co-op City Resident Specials

Elim in Bugsate

Vertical, Mini, Wood, Pleats

www.co-opsales.info 12/31

Locksmith

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS Licensed and Bonded

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS 20% Off Any Lock Job!

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

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

NEW STYLE BLINDS

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

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

(except vacuums)

Fully Insured

Grout & Carpet Cleaning

DON’T PAY MORE AT YOUR LOCAL HARDWARE STORE!

EMERGENCY SERVICE

$20

Breathe Easy

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

• COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

CO-OP SALES BLINDS!

ACE APPLIANCE REPAIR (718) 379-8782 Refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, washers, dryers, dishwashers. Free service call with repairs.

CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH

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

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION

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Re-installation of any types of Blinds.

2951 Middletown Road, Bronx, NY 10461 10/7/17 (Near Pelham Bay Station)

Repair Closet Doors and Sell New Bi-Fold Doors!

Serving Co-op City for over 25 years.

Cleaning Service

“When you see me, You’ll know me.”

Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290

SPOONER

Co-op City Department of Public Safety

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

12/31

Advertise!

DOMESTIC SERVICE

• Basic Cleaning $90 • Deep Cleaning $130 • Non-Medical Senior Care $80 • 4 Hour Min. + 8.78% tax • Bonded • 7 Days • Cash, Pay-Pal www.spoonercleaning.com (718) 320-5112 2/18/17

Painting

Call for rates!

Online payment of monthly carrying charges

7/15/17

Shareholders can now pay their carrying charges online by logging onto the Riverbay website at www.riverbaycorp.com, and clicking on the “PayLease” icon on the home page, or by signing in directly at the PayLease website at www.paylease.com.

Go green, go paperless! Register today.

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

2/25/17

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

Upholstery/Blinds

Handyman DARREN HANDYMAN No Job Too Big - or Too Small!

Cabinetry, Painting, Tiles, Electrical, Plumbing, All General Appliance Repair, Carpentry.

My Motto - Honest, Reliable, Fair.

917-541-6528.

1/7/17

EXTRAORDINAIRE

12/31

Advertise!

YOUR AD HERE! Call for rates!

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

REUPHOLSTERING 718.881.7691

STYLISH DECORATORS

3314 White Plains Rd., Bronx, NY 10467

12/31

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Co-op City Times / December 31, 2016