Co-op City Times 07/30/22

Vol. 57 No. 31

Saturday, July 30, 2022

Monkeypox Cases Increasing in New York City

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The New York City Department of Health (NYCDOH) reported that 1,258 people have tested positive for the monkeypox virus in NYC so far, with that number expected to continue trending up.

During this current 2022 outbreak, the first case of monkeypox in the U.S. was reported in May when a Massachusetts resident returned from travel in Canada and tested positive for the virus, according to the CDC. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported seeing a monkeypox outbreak spread in certain European countries, such as England, around the same time.

CDC data also shows that New York has the most reported cases of the monkeypox virus in the U.S. For those unfamiliar with the monkeypox virus, below is a rundown of what is known about the virus: Is monkeypox the same as smallpox or chickenpox?

On their website, the CDC defined monkeypox as a zoonotic virus that is part of the same genus, Orthopoxvirus, as smallpox and cowpox. This classification means monkeypox is similar to both smallpox and cowpox, but not to chickenpox.

Are there different types (or clades) of monkeypox?

The two known types of monkeypox are categorized by where the clade originated geographically either in central or western Africa, as explained on WHO’s website. The first type, called the Congo Basin clade, is mainly found in the rural rainforest region near the Congo Basin. The other type is called the West African clade and has been recorded in several west African countries. There are differences between the clades as the Congo Basin clade is 10% fatal, whereas the western African clade is rarely fatal. The current clade responsible for the 2022 outbreak is the western African clade. However, (Continued on page 4)

Eligible Co-op City Households Encouraged to Apply for NYS Emergency Rental Assistance Program

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Co-op City homeowners who meet eligibility requirements should apply for the New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) despite expiration of the June 30, 2022 deadline.

According to the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) website, additional funding for the program from the 2022-2023 State budget has facilitated processing eligible applications received through June 30, 2022.

Should additional funding become available, eligible applications submitted after June 30, 2022, will be processed.

The New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) is administered by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). To be eligible, applicants must meet all of the following criteria: • Household gross income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). These income limits differ by county and household size. A household may qualify based on current income or calendar year 2020 income that is at or below 80% AMI. According to data at the OTDA website, derived from HUD, income limits for low-income and middle-income families in the Bronx earning at 80% of the Area Median Income, are: for households of 1: $66,850; households of 2 people: $76,400; 3 people: $85,950; 4 people: $95,450; 5 people: $103,100.

(See chart at ERAP website, https://otda.ny.gov/programs/emergency-rental-assistance/#overview for more).

• On or after March 13, 2020, a member of the household received unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in income, incurred significant costs or experienced financial hardship, directly or indirectly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• The applicant is obligated to pay rent at their primary residence and has rental arrears (rent overdue) at their current residence for rent owed on or after March 13, 2020.

• The household must be at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, which can be demonstrated by having rental arrears owed on or after March 13, 2020.

There are no immigration status requirements to qualify for the program, according to the ERAP criteria.

For the first 30 days of the ERAP program, priority was being given to: 1. Households with income at or below 50 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) that also include a household member who:

(Continued on page 9)

$1.25

Financial Operations Management Report

Bob Klehammer I have written several times to shareholders this year about the difficult financial condition we are facing. Our expenses have increased well beyond budget projections mainly due to rising natural gas, insurance, water and sewer, and maintenance supply costs. You see this every day in your personal experiences at the supermarket or gas station.

I am also aware of the debate in the community and in the CC Times regarding how money is spent by Management. Some of this debate is spurred by people who have access to the monthly management reports that contain detailed information about our financial operations and have participated in the review of our biennial HCR-mandated operating budgets.

I want to give the community a summary of our budget and where our revenues come from and how they are spent. In the most recent fiscal year that ended March 31st, our total revenue was $250.7 million. Of that amount, $211.3M came from carrying charges and surcharges. That is 84% of our (Continued on page 2)

MTA Preliminary Budget Points to 2025 "Fiscal Cliff"

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The MTA detailed a concerning picture when the agency released both their 2023 Preliminary Budget and four-year financial plan on Wednesday, July 27.

Included in the release of the four-year financial plan was also a critical reforecast of ridership recovery efforts, which was handled by consultants McKinsey & Company.

Altogether, the documents pointed to a potential fiscal cliff the MTA will face in 2025 unless the agency can find additional streams of revenue to offset a massive annual structural deficit expected to reach $2.5 billion in two years, according to the MTA. The fiscal cliff is now expected to occur one year earlier than the original 2020 estimates, due in large part to the forecast’s prediction that the MTA will run out of its Covid-19 relief aid by 2024.

(Continued on page 4

Game Over Basketball Returns

BY P.M CAMPBELL

On Saturday, June 23, Co-op City youth hit the Bellamy Loop court as part of GameOver Sports and Entertainment’s basketball camp. Sponsored by the Riverbay Fund, this has been a weekly event for kids ages 11 through 16 to learn from coaches with rich backgrounds in education and sports. With a philosophy of not “selling hoop dreams” but rather “building well-rounded young people,” (Continued on page 13)

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Management Report –––––

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022 (Continued from page 1)

overall revenue. If you add to that another $24.4 million from shareholder-provided payments for things like storage rooms, garage fees and other miscellaneous fees, then 94% of our revenue comes from the pockets of shareholders. The remaining 6% comes from commercial tenant rents and fees, electric sales to ConEd and transient parking fees.

On the operating side, almost 90% of our budget goes to paying fixed expenses that we have very little control over. These include payroll and employee benefits, which is our largest expense and approximately 44% of our budget, followed by mortgage debt service, fuel costs, real estate taxes, water and sewer costs and insurance. The remainder is available to pay for discretionary expenses such as the supplies used to clean and maintain the buildings and grounds.

On the capital side, we have spent over $150 million in the last five years on repairing and replacing critical parts of Co-op City’s infrastructure, among which include residential elevator modernizations; mandated façade work; power plant improvements, especially installation of a new boiler; renovation of the Dreiser Auditorium; removal of deteriorating metal structures from the garage roofs (a requirement from the 2012 mortgage refinancing); replacement of leaking porticos in four buildings; installation of new water mains in eight buildings; installation of fire alarm systems in Bartow and Einstein centers; the Bellamy Loop basketball courts renovation and several smaller projects. We paid for these projects by using both reserve funds from the prior mortgage refinancing and surplus operating funds.

These projects were accomplished with only a compound increase of carrying charges from 2016 to today of 9.75%. In comparison, the compounded

core Consumer Price Index (CPI) of inflation over the same period was 23%. So we achieved many goals and paid the corporation’s bills, while responsibly limiting any necessary increases of carrying charges to reduce financial strain on shareholders as we addressed these capital repairs.

While managing the operating expenses and capital projects, we were also laser focused on reducing expenses and therefore having additional funds available. Among some of these cost-effective initiatives were saving $18 million in natural gas expenses since 2017 by hedging prices during the winter months when costs are the highest; and saving half a million dollars in fees each year since 2017 by hiring a different energy management consultant who advises us on natural gas purchases and hedges.

The installation of the new boiler at the power plant meant that we didn’t have to rent a temporary unit during the winter, which has saved $400,000 a year since 2020 (approximately $800,000 to date). We also commissioned the water treatment equipment at the plant, something that should have been done in 2010 when the cogen equipment was installed. That saved $700,000 a year since 2018, or about $2.8M to date. We have reduced our employee headcount by over 200 through a combination of outsourcing some services and implementing operational efficiencies and technology upgrades such as purchasing new equipment for the Janitorial Department that allowed tasks to be completed in much less time and the installation of a new access control system in the garages. There are other cost-saving measures we have implemented that I will detail in a future report to the community.

The point of me telling you this is that while we will need a significant carrying charge increase

due to circumstances not in our control, I am sure there will be some who will create smoke screens to try to give the impression that Management is mishandling the corporation’s funds. With the facts in hand, you will be able to weigh the integrity of those claims. Co-op City has a large and complex physical plant that was ignored for years. As a result, we are obligated not only to pay the expenses for maintaining current services, but also to continue to reinvest in the infrastructure to ensure that we remain a safe and viable community. The successful achievement of these goals requires an analysis of empirical data while being cognizant of national business and economic trends. In coordination with the Board of Directors, Management is committed to continue doing just that.

IMPORTANT!

For up-to-date communication from Riverbay Corporation, read the Co-op City Times, tune in to the Riverbay Crawler on channel 12 (MATV) & channel 591 (Optimum), and register for Phone Tree notifications.

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Co-op City Times 2nd COMBING

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

Community Calendar

For information on upcoming Tunes on Tuesdays and Wicked Wednesdays summer concerts held in Co-op City, visit the official website at coopcity.com.

CCPD Bonus Alert

Shareholders, guests and shoppers are reminded that there is a two-hour parking limit in the Bartow Mall. In addition, all unauthorized autos are subject to be towed.

Farmer’s Market The Harvest Home Farmer’s Market is open every Wednesday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Asch Loop and Aldrich St. next to the Fire Station, until November 23. Enjoy healthy, naturally-grown fruits, vegetables and more!

Co-op City Fridge Needs Volunteers

The Co-op City Community Fridge is looking for volunteers to assist with Saturday distribution of fresh fruits, vegetables and dry goods. If you are interested, please come to the location next to the Mosholu Community Center in Section 5 on Saturday morning between 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Masks Mandatory in Co-op City Common Areas Shareholders and their guests must wear a face mask and observe social distancing while in common areas: elevators, laundry rooms, stairways, hallways, lobbies, community centers and garages.

No more than four people per elevator ride or in a laundry room simultaneously.

Masks must be worn properly, covering both your mouth and nose.

Failure or refusal to wear a mask when approached by a CCPD Officer will result in issuance of a $50 Community Fine.

Co-op City shareholders are homeowners, not tenants.

Front Page

Rapid Testing Van Comes to Co-op City

With COVID positivity rates increasing in the Bronx, the NYC Health & Hospitals Test & Trace Corps’ is dispatching a “Test to Treat” Rapid Testing van to Co-op City starting Monday, August 1. The van will be available daily from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

In addition to Rapid testing, a clinician will be onboard to evaluate patients who test positive and to determine if they are eligible of no-cost anti-viral medications.

The clinician will be able to write a prescription for eligible patients to be filled at a pharmacy of their preference or delivered to their home. Test and Trace is currently working on having the medications available on the rapid testing vans.

Anti-viral medication is free for all patients regardless of where they receive it and their insurance or immigration status.

Rapid testing vans do not offer PCR testing because of the nature of the specific service they provide to the public in delivering test results quickly and getting medication to patients who need it right away.

The Rapid Testing van’s schedule for next week is as follows: Mon. & Tue. – 177 Dreiser Loop, 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Wed. & Thu. – 135 Einstein Loop, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Fri., Sat., Sun. – 2049 Bartow Ave., 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Please note that all locations are approximate, depending on availability of parking. The van may be up or down the block or around the corner.

Appointments are not required. Walkups are welcome. Scan the QR code on the side of the van to conveniently fill out your paperwork, or a health care professional can assist you on board.

Gas Shut Down in Bldg. 33, “J” Line On Thursday, July 28, as a safety precaution, Con Ed shut off service to the piping that supplies gas to “J” line apartments in Building 33. Riverbay has engaged Express Plumbing Company to apply for work permits from the City’s Department of Buildings (DOB).

Once the permits are received from DOB, Express will perform the required repair protocols.

To facilitate the restoration of gas service, shareholders along the “J” line in Bldg. 33 will be asked to provide access to their apartment on multiple occasions until the repair process is completed and the line deemed safe by both DOB and Con Ed. Please note that gas restoration protocols require interaction and coordination between the Riverbay Maintenance staff, Express Plumbing, DOB and ConEd, along with the cooperation of all affected shareholders. Be advised it may take several weeks to complete the repair process. In order to make this process as seamless as possible, we will need shareholders’ full cooperation to gain access as quickly as possible. It may be weeks before the repair process is complete and gas service fully restored.

We are doing our best to communicate with DOB and ConEd to expedite the process and restore gas service as quickly as possible.

Going forward, the gas restoration process is generally as follows: • Workers from Riverbay’s Maintenance staff and Express Plumbing will install new gas valves and hoses to the stove in every apartment and leave the valve in the "closed” position.

• Once complete, Express Plumbing will perform an air pressure test to ensure the integrity of the main gas line.

• If the air pressure test passes, we will notify DOB to schedule their inspection.

• When we pass the DOB inspection, we will then contact ConEd to schedule a follow up pressure test inspection.

• If Con Ed’s inspection team is satisfied with their test results, they will advise their “Gas Restoration” Division who will visit the site and reopen the affected main gas line.

• Once the main line is reopened, Riverbay’s teams will visit the apartments again and switch the stove’s gas valve to the “open” position, thereby restoring the apartment’s gas service.

Be advised that both DOB and ConEd will require access to shareholders’ apartment any time they come to inspect.

If the air pressure test fails, the Riverbay plumbing contractor will methodically test various locations on the main gas line to determine where air is escaping and replace the defective piping, as necessary. This process will continue until the integrity of the gas line is confirmed.

Throughout the process, Management will advise Bldg. 33 “J” line shareholders of our progress and update them as conditions evolve.

We apologize for the inconvenience and thank our shareholders in advance for their cooperation.

—Riverbay Management

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Monkeypox –––––

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022 (Continued from page 1)

the mystery of the 2022 outbreak is how the virus is appearing in countries where monkeypox is not endemic.

How does monkeypox spread?

The CDC website described that monkeypox spreads primarily “through direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids.” The agency also warned the virus “can be spread by respiratory secretions during prolonged, faceto-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling, or sex. In addition, pregnant people can spread the virus to their fetus through the placenta.” Monkeypox is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, despite its ability to spread through sex.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

The incubation period of monkeypox is “usually from 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days,” as explained by WHO’s website. In other words, the monkeypox virus usually takes close to a week before an individual may experience symptoms. Possible symptoms of monkeypox include the following: fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, sore throat, nasal congestion, cough and a rash that appears similar to pimples or blisters. The rash can appear all over the body, specifically on the face, inside of the mouth, hands, feet, chest area, genital area or the anus. The CDC website noted that the rash “goes through different stages before healing completely.”

Overall, the monkeypox rash can take two to four weeks to go away completely.

Individuals may experience the rash first followed by more symptoms, while others may experience only a rash.

Who is most at risk for the monkeypox virus?

Anyone can get infected with the monkeypox virus, but the 2022 outbreak has been mainly “concentrated among men who have sex with men, especially those with multiple sexual partners,” WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement last week on the decision to designate the monkeypox virus a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

In the statement, WHO Director-General Dr. Ghebreyesus discussed the decision to designate the virus a PHEIC. “WHO’s assessment is that the risk of monkeypox is moderate globally and in all regions, except in the European region where we assess the risk as high.

There is also a clear risk of further international spread, although the risk of interference with international traffic remains low for the moment,” the DirectorGeneral said. “So in short, we have an outbreak that has spread around the world rapidly, through new modes of transmission, about which we understand too little, and which meets the criteria in the International Health Regulations. For all of these reasons, I have decided that the global monkeypox outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern.”

Are there vaccines available to treat monkeypox?

Due to monkeypox’s similarity to smallpox, smallpox vaccines can be used to protect individuals against monkeypox. The FDA licensed vaccines Jynneos and ACAM2000 are used to treat smallpox and monkeypox.

In New York City, monkeypox vaccination appointments are full, according to the NYCDOH website, but individuals can still go online to vax4nyc.nyc. gov/patient/s/monkeypox or call 877-829-4692 to schedule their appointment for a future spot when New York City receives more vaccines from the federal supply. The vaccine is given in two doses at least four weeks apart. Due to the short supply, NYCDOH is currently giving first dose appointments priority.

More information on the monkeypox virus can be found online at cdc.gov/ poxvirus/monkeypox/faq.html.

MTA –––––

(Continued from page 1)

Notably, the MTA is hoping to find those new streams of revenue without relying solely on significant fare increases, layoffs or service reductions.

However, riders should be aware that the financial plan presented this week included biennial 4% toll and fare increases in 2023 and 2025.

In a statement released on Wednesday along with a press release, MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber emphasized the importance of finding new revenue sources that do not ultimately put the burden on the shoulders of commuters.

“Identifying new, dedicated revenues to fund mass transit is imperative as we seek to address our fiscal cliff,” Mr. Lieber said in the MTA press release.

“Transit is essential to the economic future of New York as we continue to recover from the pandemic, and it should be treated as an essential service, with strategies that don’t just put the problem on the backs of our riders through painful service cuts and fare increases.”

Ridership levels have not hit the expected marks and are not increasing at the rate previously established by the 2020 estimates. The MTA cites “a slower-than-expected return to the office for many employers, fewer non-work trips and customer sentiment on issues including safety,” as possible reasons for the delayed recovery.

The updated fiscal forecast pointed to 2026 as the year where ridership could potentially reach 80% of the pre-pandemic levels. This shift in the projection means the MTA expects to have $500 million less in revenue than originally estimated by 2026.

In an effort to offset the looming deficit, MTA CFO Kevin Willens proposed that the MTA spread their current federal Covid-19 relief funds “to decrease the medium-term cost structure and avoid costly borrowing,” rather than using the entirety of the federal funds to offset the 2023 and 2024 deficits, as stated in the MTA press release.

MTA data showed that subway ridership levels reached an estimated total of 3,231,157 this week, which is about 60.3% of the pre-pandemic levels. As for buses, the MTA recorded a total estimated ridership of 1,254,497 this week, which is roughly 61.4% of the pre-pandemic levels.

Respect the Rules of the Community.

Be a Responsible Cooperator.

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Mark Morganelli & The Jazz Forum All-Stars Celebrate Brazil at Tunes on Tuesdays!

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

BY P.M CAMPBELL Mark Morganelli & The Jazz Forum All-Stars gave tribute to Brazil last Tuesday, July 26, on the Section 2 greenway stage. Morganelli led on flugelhorn, Roni Ben-Hur on guitar, Nilson Matta on Bass, and Nanny Assis on drums and vocals.

Sponsored by Councilmember Kevin C. Riley, in partnership with Riverbay, the concert was part of the Jazzmobile Summerfest. The band played pieces from their previous works, such as “No More FIghting,” “The Dreamer,” and “The One Note Samba.” Saying “obrigado,” the Portuguese word for “thank you,” Morganelli and the band brought Brazil to the greenway for the evening and made sure to bring some of the culture with them.

Photos by P.M Campbell

Larry Love & Friends bring the Power of Music to Wicked Wednesdays!

BY P.M CAMPBELL On July 27, Wicked Wednesdays hit the Section 5 greenway with R&B throwbacks by Larry Love & Friends. Sponsored by Councilmember Kevin C. Riley, they performed an hour and a half of hits the audience knew by heart. “I hear you like to keep it old school, is that right?” lead singer Letrice Arlene asked the crowd before joining drummer Larry Love, bass player James Calloway, guitarist Lawrence Lane, and pianist Daryl Johnson. Putting their own spin on popular songs, they started with Mary J. Blige and Aretha Franklin, and ended with Bruno Mars and Whitney Houston. When Arlene said that “you can hear a song and it’ll bring back a thousand memories. That’s the power of music,” it resonated with the crowd of residents who had been dancing and singing their hearts out throughout the show.

Photos by P.M Campbell

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the authors. Anonymous – • or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters • cannot – exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Letters to the Editor

Elected To Serve

Your ADA Door and More

To the Editor: On July 13th, I attended the meeting to witness the swearing in of Co-op City’s newly elected Board of Directors. Congratulations to all the winners!

During the nominations for officers, I was appalled at the display of partisan politics. I was not aware that candidates had a particular position they wanted when they chose to run for office. It is my belief that all positions on the Board are important. That is not what I witnessed during the nominations. If we continue this display, the shareholders are the losers. Could this be why so many shareholders have stopped voting?

Candidates should not run to serve in the role of a particular office on the Board or to vote with a particular slate.

When elected, candidates should have the best interest of the shareholders/Riverbay Corporation first and foremost!

Personal interest should be left at the door.

––Nelson Sweeting

To the Editor: Many cooperators are waiting for the ADA door fobs.

In Section 5, the Towers are next up but it could be spring or beyond for the total completion of the project.

The fobs are programmed in one of two ways. The fobs distributed to people with disabilities automatically open the security door with one swipe. The regularly programmed fobs just unlock and release the door. You then choose to push the door open yourself or tap the mechanism that opens the door automatically.

Of the four auto-open mechanisms on our ADA doors, three activate when tapped. The fourth mechanism, the security door mechanism, can be activated by a fob or by tapping the mechanism once the door is unlocked – either by being buzzed into the building or by turning the key and pushing the handle down.

Keep hollerin’, Section 5 – Section 5 buses: Increase BX23-12345 frequency to make up for Section 5’s loss of the Bx29; have the Bx-54321 cover the lost Bay Plaza Shopping Center bus stop; early morning runs must follow the usual Bx23-12345/Bx23-54321 split route. Split the Q-50, too! Enough Queens-bound inconvenience for Section 5. Google MTA Complaints or dial 511 and any and all other parties responsible for these public service inequities.

Section 5 drivers – Taking the turnaround to I-95N via Ramp C due to the Pelham Parkway ramp closure? Eliminating Ramp C itself is next. That’s our road from City Island/Orchard Beach. Save Ramp C. Preserve other-sideof-the-tracks platform access. Avoid a ton of traffic headaches down the road. Unite and fight!

Wicked Wednesdays are wicked good. And we want more. We’re a third of the complex. Twelve Tunes on Tuesdays? Six Wicked Wednesdays.

—Mary Pearson

MTA Threw Section 5 Under the Bus To the Editor: With the recent redesigning of bus routes around Co-op City, Section 5 once again got its services cut by deleting the #29 bus, which provided a second way to get to and from Pelham Bay station, and Bay Plaza.

We need our local politicians to support the following change to the SBS-12 bus route between Pelham Bay Station and Bay Plaza: • Divide the SBS-12 route into two routes, “A” and “B” • “A” route would be the current SBS-12 route between Pelham Bay Station and Bay Plaza • “B” route would follow the old 29 bus route between Pelham Bay Station to and from Bay Plaza, with the following changes.

From Pelham Bay Station to Bay Plaza: • Exit I-95 at Palmer Ave. • Go along Hutchinson River Parkway East making one stop between Einstein Loop North and Einstein Loop South.

• Turn into Bay Plaza making the second stop between 2100 Bartow and the AMC Theater.

• Go around the backside of Bay Plaza Mall and terminate where the “A” does.

From Bay Plaza Mall to Pelham Bay Station: • Exit Mall and turn right on Bartow Ave., making the first stop where the old 29 bus did.

• Go along Hutchinson River Parkway East making the second stop between Einstein Loop South and Einstein Loop North.

• Using the old 29 bus route back to Pelham Bay Station.

These changes would have the following effect: • The “B” would add one stop going from Pelham Bay Station to Bay Plaza. It would be the same number of stops in the opposite direction as the “A” bus route.

• It would add a second bus to and from Pelham Bay Station to Bay Plaza. This bus would run every 10 to 15 minutes based on the current average run for the SBS-12 divided by two.

• The I-95 improvement project goal is to reduce the number of vehicles going past Bay Plaza on I-95 north, removing the current bottleneck. The changes above would reduce the number of buses by half, since it would take half the SBS-12 buses and have them exit I-95 at Palmer Ave. —Bruce Gitelson

Political Grandstanding To the Editor: I remember when President Barack Obama became President of the United States and before the first 30 days he was in office, people started complaining that he was not doing anything and not moving fast enough. A new Riverbay Board President was just elected less than three weeks ago and I’m already reading negative Directors’ viewpoints on how things are being done, without giving the new president a chance to bring her own vision to the forefront.

We also have directors who give us some good information on situations, but they write predominantly as if nothing is right or good about Co-op City. Every community has its issues and Co-op City has its share too, but there are many good things about the community that we live in; things have improved and will continue to improve, if Board directors work together. However, we must be realistic and honest in our arguments. Cost has skyrocketed during the pandemic and just like everywhere else, we’re not exempt from inflation.

I truly hope that we all see the day when we will have a solid, united Board with Directors who have the heart of our community as their priority and not their own personal political agendas. In my opinion, factions have no place in our community but my hope is that prayer, unity, honesty and cooperation do.

Shut down the foolishness and the personal agendas and get on with the business you Directors were elected to do and stop fussing and trying to upstage each other with negativity! I believe you all can. We cooperators matter, and we deserve honesty—not political grandstanding.

—Michael Miller

Stay cool and hydrated during these hot summer days!

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

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

John Crow

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m. Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475.

Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

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

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

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community.

Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The Co-op City Times does not publish anonymous material.

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which will be kept confidential – so authenticity and residency of the writer can be verified.

Thank you for your cooperation.

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Public Safety Report

Cooperators Reminded to Keep NOISE Levels Down to Maintain High Quality of Life

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Co-op City is the world’s largest housing cooperative which strives to provide a high quality of life for all residents. In order to effectively do so, we need all cooperators to respect their neighbors. Maintaining a reasonable noise level within each apartment, especially between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., creates a comfortable environment for all residents. When cooperators and their guests do not abide by regulations, penalties may result. Respect and understanding go a long way in being a good neighbor and a good cooperator.

Noise levels can vary from apartment to apartment due to varying configurations of apartments and the types of noise. It is often difficult to determine the

Public Safety Blotter July 17 – July 23, 2022

July 17 – 2063 Bartow Avenue CCPD responded to Rite Aid for a person shoplifting and removing items from the store without paying and then fleeing the area. NYPD was notified.

July 17 – 120 Erskine Place CCPD responded to an early morning call of yelling and screaming. Upon arrival, the parties were identified and issued a Community Complaint for unreasonable noise.

July 18 – 4220 Hutchinson River Parkway A cooperator reported a neighboring cooperator causing damage and removing paint from her apartment door then leaving the area. A Community Complaint was issued to the violator for Defacing Riverbay Property.

July 18 – 140 Alcott Place CCPD was alerted of a shareholder hoarding items in their apartment resulting in a Community Complaint being issued.

July 18 – 100 Dreiser Loop CCPD responded to a call for an emotionally disturbed person who possessed two firearms. Upon arrival with NYPD, a cooperator reported that a family member threatened to use the firearm on himself and others. Upon investigation, a firearm and ammunition were recovered and the violator was placed under arrest

by NYPD. A Community Complaint was also issued for Anti-Social Behavior.

July 19 – 100 Donizetti Place A cooperator reported a package delivered via FedEx being removed in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual. The merchant was notified and confirmed delivery.

July 20 – Opposite of 120 Co-op City Blvd.

A cooperator reported returning to her parked vehicle and observing her front passenger window smashed.

No property was reported missing from inside the vehicle.

July 20 – 99 Carver Loop A cooperator reported returning to his vehicle parked in Garage 3 and observing damage to the front fender and cover plate to the vehicle’s catalytic converter. The cooperator will also notify NYPD. July 21 – 750 Baychester Ave. A non-resident reported returning to his work vehicle, discovered the door lock broken and various work items removed from the vehicle by

an unknown individual. A canvass of the area was conducted by CCPD with negative results. The nonresident will also notify NYPD for a report.

July 21 – 120 Erskine Place Greenway CCPD officers observed a dog off the leash that was running in the vicinity of pedestrians. A Community Complaint was issued and the dog owner was instructed to reattach the leash.

July 22 – 140 Carver Loop An 81-year old man was walking with his wife when he began to feel weak and ill. CCPD-ESU and EMS arrived at the scene to evaluate the aided. After a short while, the aided regained his strength and was able to return home.

July 22 – 99 Dreiser Loop A cooperator reported returning to her parked vehicle and discovered her front license plate removed by an unknown individual. The cooperator will notify NYPD for a report.

July 22 – 2035 Bartow Avenue A non-resident reported two males riding a scooter who displayed a weapon and demanded his personal property. Both unknown males then fled the area on the scooter. CCPD and NYPD are investigating.

July 23 – 2012 Bartow Avenue While driving to the Bartow Mall, a cooperator reported that he and his passenger were hit with water gel pellets discharged by two males driving in an adjoining vehicle. Both males fled the area and the victims refused medical assistance.

July 23 – 120 Erdman Place An 81-year old male began suffering from heat exhaustion while walking. CCPD was on the scene with EMS and the aided was transported to Jacobi Hospital for further treatment.

July 23 – 2047 Bartow Avenue A Dollar Tree employee reported an unknown individual removing several items from the store without paying and fleeing the area.

BLOTTER BONUS: Shareholders, guests and visitors are reminded to please clean up after your dogs.

Each dog owner should be respectful to their neighbors and realize that dog waste can spread disease. The minimum fine for a first offense is $250.00. So, our friendly advice is, if your dog poops it, then the owner scoops it.

exact source of noise due to the way sound travels through different materials.

Pinpointing the exact source of noise in a multi-family dwelling might take several steps. Different people also have different tolerance levels for noise.

When playing music or watching television, pay attention to the volume level to be sure you are not disturbing a neighbor. Certain sounds or vibrations are created by machinery necessary to the operation of the building, such as elevators, compactors or water pipes.

“IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING” is a series of public service announcements put in place by the New York City Police Department.

Here in Co-op City, calls from cooperators have been instrumental in our success in fighting crime and maintaining a high quality of life. Noise complaints are no exception. If you hear noise which you feel is unreasonable, Public Safety (718-671-3050) can be called. In extreme cases, 911 can also be called. As cooperators, your observations are instrumental in helping Public Safety fight crime as well as quality of life violations in the community.

When calling Public Safety for a noise complaint, the dispatcher will ask you for your location and whether you would like to be seen by the officer. They are required to ask but you, the cooperator, are not required to give that information.

You may remain anonymous and refuse to have the officer respond to your apartment if this is your request. Please have patience with the dispatcher as the questions they ask may not seem relevant but can be essential to the issue at hand.

In Co-op City, noise travels in an unpredictable manner. Noise may seem loud from within the rear rooms of the apartment but cannot be heard at the front door. The noise can also be originating from an adjacent apartment or an apartment more than one floor away. In some cases, noise in a Chevron or Triple Core building may be originating in the adjacent section of the building.

The Covid-19 pandemic has made some people apprehensive about having officers enter their homes for any reason. In the event that it is necessary for the officer to enter you home, all officers are equipped with masks. By giving the dispatcher your apartment and allowing the officers into your home, you enable the officers the opportunity to locate the exact source of the noise and take action as quickly as possible.

Noise is a complaint that is taken very seriously by the Public Safety Department as well as the Cooperator Service Offices (CSO). Both departments work together to identify and correct chronic noise complaints. In some cases, Community Complaints are issued and follow up is conducted. Mediation may take place which allows the two parties to discuss the problem at hand whether it be noise or a combination issues. Currently, mediation may be conducted remotely.

Sometimes a letter can be sent out by the area manager and a noise problem can be corrected without any further intervention. In extreme cases after numerous Community Complaints, eviction may be the final option. A noise packet should be picked up at your Cooperator Service Office when chronic noise problems exist. This allows the Cooperator Service Office to work hand-in-hand with the Public Safety Department to correct the noise problem.

Noise and objects out the window are violations where calls from the public (Continued on page 27)

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

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for specific directions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please search “Riverbay Corporation” at the following sites: www.Indeed.com www.Glassdoor.com Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply directly at either site.

Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department.

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Claudia Sampson, First Vice President

Director’s Viewpoint –

Building an Effective, Better Informed Board to Serve Our Community There’s much talk about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, aka DEI, these days. I served as Chief Diversity Officer at the NYC Department of Finance from 2016 through 2019. Prior to that role, I worked in this space long before DEI became a buzz word with companies simply using it to check off the boxes.

Using DE&I – an organizational change management framework to level the playing field for underrepresented people of color, women and LGBTQ+ individuals in companies employing more than 100 employees – to suggest that the nomination in an openly democratic process where majority rules govern, is disingenuous, in my opinion. Agree: math has no opinion, but election results do skew in favor of the majority. If it truly matters that the Board, after each election, elects a new Executive Team, then why, for the last three consecutive years, more than one Board Director not having served on the Executive Team, declined to serve as Secretary or Assistant Secretary of the Corporation?

Aside from the Corporation’s ByLaws, “A Director may not serve in any of the above offices for a period longer than three (3) consecutive years,” there are no qualities or talents specified other than willingness to help conduct the business of the Corporation. In my opinion, we “create fair access and opportunity for” all elected Board members “to showcase their abilities” when they’re nominated to serve on the Executive Team. By declining, they devalued its importance in the eyes the community.

By declining to serve no matter the title on the Executive Team, there was a clear and unambiguous message that “cooperation and collaboration” isn’t an offering. To me, this was not only a lost opportunity to become the catalyst for change, but a rejection to willingly work as a united Board to solve challenges we’re facing as a community.

With respect to the new selection tool to assess and recommend committee chair positions ensuring that each Director heads at least one, this new

methodology – which I supported – wasn’t accepted or seen as a solution by all Committee on Committee members, but the majority rule won, and committees chairs recommended. Yet, we still had some Directors chairing the same committees for consecutive years, to which no one objected.

I’m all for creating a space for everyone to be heard, and utilizing the talents of our entire Board members to serve the community. Why not roll up our sleeves and do the work, no matter the title?

There are some misleading comments about declining service while increasing carrying charges.

Shareholders are not being “nickeled and dimed at every turn.” Here are the facts: From 1991 through 2022, we had 11 years without any carrying charge increases, and over the past 6 years, our increases ranged from 0% to 2%. We’re now being hit with skyrocketing fuel and water bills along with ongoing elevator modernization and Local Law 11 facade repairs that we must cover because our mortgage requires these and other outstanding stipulations. Since we don’t make anything to sell except for shedding excess power to ConEd from which we anticipate receiving about $4M this year, the only significant income we receive are our monthly carrying charges. That is why over the last twelve months, our net cash balance after we pay all our bills on time averages $1.5M. On April 27, 2022, the Corporation signed a refinancing agreement with Well Fargo Bank for a $621,500,000 (loan#78-0121876) at a rate of 3.08%. The Corporation paid off the old mortgage at closing. Our new loan payments began in June 2022. The new monthly payment amount for debt servicing is $4.7M inclusive of principal and interest of $2.4M and $2.3M for reserves and escrow.

Another opinion I must address is that the Board and Management are somehow only talking about Maintenance increases and not looking for savings.

That couldn’t be further from the truth. This year, all departments are being mandated to submit their draft budgets in August to justify what they plan to spend

on goods and services while creating value.

During the pandemic, we deferred a number of carrying charges given the moratorium and provided relief to many shareholders by suspending late and legal fees. In fact, for many delinquent shareholders, the Corporation received as of April 2022, $1,637,526.68 from NY State’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) allowing those shareholders to avoid homelessness. Our garages fee increases between 2017 and 2021 went up by $9 for unreserved spaces and $11 for reserved spaces.

How is this nickeling and diming?

We have no way of forecasting what will happened if inflationary prices for goods and services decline. Will there will be a surplus to mitigate against future increase in cost of goods and services. That seems unlikely given the economic landscape where everything is rising in prices. But hope springs eternal.

Maybe, we might consider setting aside a “rainy day” fund to help defray some unexpected expenses that occur during the year. But, we need creative solutions from everyone willing to put their shoulders to the wheel to keep us moving forward.

Here’s an easy one: By revamping our Election Committee marketing strategy to focus on shareholder education and building greater civic engagement activities throughout the year, we may be able to inject energy and interest among shareholders to reach the quorum, and thus reduce the need for extensions. By the way, the additional expenses incurred to extend the Board election this year was $1,500! Compare that to the $140,000 spent before we migrated away from using NYC Board of Elections voting machines in our lobbies.

Let’s continue using our voices to speak truthfully and work towards building an effective, better informed and more productive Board to serve our community.

Thanks for allowing me to share my thoughts and suggestions. I can be reached at csampson@ riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

ERAP –––––

(Continued from page 1)

• Is currently unemployed for at least 90 days; or • Is a veteran; or • Is currently experiencing domestic violence or is a survivor of human trafficking; or • Has an eviction case related to their current residence pending in court; or • Resides in a mobile home; or • Lives in a community that was disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 (You may check your zip code at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-data-neighborhoods.page, or at the link provided at the ERAP website); or • Lives in a dwelling of 20 or fewer units.

2. Households with income at or below 50 percent AMI. 3. Households with income at or below 80 percent AMI that also include a household member who: • Is currently unemployed for at least 90 days; or • Is a veteran; or • Is currently experiencing domestic violence or is a survivor of human trafficking; or • Has an eviction case related to their current residence pending in court; or • Resides in a mobile home; or • Lives in a community that was disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 (Check your ZIP Code); or • Lives in a dwelling of 20 or fewer units.

4. Households with income at or below 80 percent AMI. Those who qualify for the ERAP program may receive up to 12 months of rental arrears payments for rents accrued on or after March 13, 2020, and up to three months of additional rental assistance if the household is expected to spend 30% or more of their gross monthly income to pay for rent.

Payments are made directly to the landlord/property owner on behalf of the applicant, and the applicant will be notified of the amount paid to their landlord/property manager. There is also a portal on the site for landlords/property owners to complete their portion of the application on behalf of applicants from their respective properties.

To complete the application, applicants need to provide personal identification for all members of their households; Social Security numbers (although a lawful immigration status is not required for qualification); proof of rental amount (in Co-op City homeowners’ case, this will be their monthly maintenance charges), a signed lease or landlord/property owner attestation that the applicant does indeed live at the address; proof of residency and occupancy; proof of income to document income eligibility, such as documents showing monthly income OR documents showing yearly income for the year 2020, such as a W-2 or filed income tax return. Applicants are also asked to attest whether on or after March 13, 2020, a household member received unemployment benefits or a loss in household income occurred, if the household experienced significant costs or direct or indirect financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When prompted for the landlord’s email address, Co-op City homeowners should use NDolma@riverbaycorp.com.

On the other land, landlords/property owners have to provide a completed W-9 tax form, executed lease for the applicant, documentation of rent due and banking information to receive direct payments once the application is processed.

The NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance has set up a call center for those with questions about the Emergency Rental Assistance Program. It is available 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 1-844-NY1-RENT or 1-844-691-7368.

For TTY relay communications, call 1-833-843-8829.

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BBB Scam Alert: Airfare Scams are Cashing in on Cancelled Flights Airline travel is back in full swing, but scammers are taking advantage of increased flight cancellations with a new scam. The BBB Scam Tracker has received multiple reports of scammers creating fake airline ticket booking sites or customer service numbers to charge travelers for rescheduling fake flights. If you are buying airfare, use caution and double-check the URL or phone number before providing your credit card information.

How this Scam Works While doing an online search for cheap flights, you come across what seems like a great deal with a major airline. You book the flight—either through the website or by calling a customer support number.

But shortly after making the payment, you receive a call from the company saying there’s been a sudden price increase or an extra charge to finalize your booking. This is something a legitimate company would never do! It turns out that you accidentally purchased tickets through a scam website or a phony customer service number. The price increase is a way to get more money out of you.

In another similar con, your original flight was real, but the cancellation notice is fake. You get an email or text message claiming that your upcoming flight has been canceled, and you need to rebook. When you call the number provided, the “airline” offers to book you a new ticket – for a price. However, if you follow up with real airline support, you’ll discover that nothing was wrong with your original flight. The message was a scam, and you just gave your credit card details to a con artist.

One victim told BBB Scam Tracker: “I thought that I bought airline tickets with United Airlines through a company that sells at discounted prices. They called me shortly after I bought my tickets and said that the flight had been canceled. They wanted permission to put me on another flight with Southwest and said it would be 80 dollars extra… It turned out that United Airlines never canceled a flight. I tried to call this company and leave a message and I tried to email them to no avail. It turns out that the airlines were unaware of this ticket purchase.”

How to Avoid Airfare Scams • Double check flight details before calling support. Scammers are blasting out fake airline cancellation emails and text messages that can easily be mistaken for the real deal. Confirm the information in the message – such as the flight and reservation numbers – is correct before calling customer support.

• Confirm the URL before you enter personal and payment information.

It can be easy to click on a sponsored ad or impostor website without noticing. Before entering any sensitive information, double check that you are on the right website and that the link is secure. (Secure links start with “HTTPS//” and include a lock icon on the purchase page. Learn more at BBB.org/BBBSecure.)

For More Information For ways to protect yourself from travel scams, go to BBB.org/Travel. If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to BBB Scam Tracker. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams.

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Michelle Marbury, Assistant Treasurer

Board Development: Managing A City Within A City You may ask, Why “board development training” and its cost is necessary? The answer is, no Board Director comes equipped to handle the heavily regulated enterprise that is the Riverbay Corporation. We present our varied and unique set of skills as an offering to the work of the Directors but in concert, we are asked to familiarize ourselves with countless rules, laws, codes and agreements, which results in volunteering an enormous amount of lifetime to service and community.

What does this mean to you as a Shareholder?

“You” want to be sure that who you choose to represent you is up to the challenge and willing to do all that is necessary to manage and carry out the duties put before them on your behalf. The only way to keep a “control” on that is to be sure that each Board member is held to certain fiduciary responsibilities. The “development training weekend” is designed to do just that.

Board Development Training Most important to note is that a Board member’s job is to govern and make policy. We do that by identifying problems and then taking said issues back to the Board (i.e. through a committee or from complaints that have not been adhered to through the system of protocols put in place to run our corporation).

Board members are in a constant state of analysis (if we are doing our job correctly). We must protect the integrity of Management’s role (i.e., through addressing the problem by gathering information at the root cause).

Policy Making Processes: Important for you to understand…

When the community comes to us with problems, we must come together in the board room to make policy which governs our corporation and addresses those problems. Example: Repair issues that are not being solved. We must figure out why this is happening, (i.e. direct an investigation to identify the problem through a committee or gathering information, as to the root cause). Then come back to the Board having pinpointed the problems, and offer a

report of the committee’s findings. Then set policy and work with Management so that they will carry out “directives from the Board” to take particular action to address the issue. In short, if a Board Director says to you, they will take care of a certain issue or problem for “you” individually, they are speaking out of turn. Such language can be detrimental to the corporation as a whole. Each Board member is a shareholder first, just like you. The power, held by a Board member, is only in effect when utilized along with the Board as a unit.

Directors’ Fiduciary Duties (These duties are the creed that a Board Director must adhere to… They are framed on the wall in the board room as a reminder to us of our responsibilities)…

• Duty of Care • Duty of Confidentiality • Duty of Loyalty • Duty of Obedience Let’s Analyze This and Make It Plain…

Footnotes: The Riverbay Corporation 2021 Board Development Training Presented by: Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP “The cost of the 2 and a half-day intensive before the pandemic forced us into a modified video conference is less than $1.00 per shareholder.”

Duty of Care • Business Corporation Law § 717 –A director shall perform his duties as a director, including his duties as a member of any committee of the board upon which he may serve, in good faith and with that degree of care which an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use under similar circumstances.

• This also refers to the level of attention required of each director to attend meeting, carefully review documents, participate in committee work, pay attention, question, listen, understand, seek assistance from subject matter experts and do what is necessary to inform the decisions you are called upon to make.

Duty of Confidentiality • DHCR Regulations § 1725-2.4 Disclosure of information. Members of the board of directors have access to a considerable amount

of personal information concerning tenants or cooperators. Such information should be held in the strictest confidence and should not be disclosed to any person except insofar as it has a direct bearing on: (a) the business of the company, or (b) the division’s efforts to deter fraud in developments under its supervision, and except to persons duly authorized to receive such information.

• Directors must protect all confidential corporate records, including personal employment and shareholders’ records.

Duty of Loyalty Directors are not permitted to profit personally at the expense of the corporation, and their private interests may not conflict with corporate interests.

• Bylaws Art. III, § 3(d)-(g); 3(i) –A board member must act for “the well-being of the cooperative as a whole,” setting aside personal or political interests.

Duty of Obedience • Oath of Office –I … do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the duties of the Riverbay Board of Directors and will, to the best of my ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America and the State of New York. I furthermore affirm that by accepting the election of the shareholders of Riverbay Corporation to the Riverbay Board of Directors, I understand that I, individually, have no more right or privileges than any other resident shareholder within this community. I pledge to obey all of the rules and regulations of the cooperative, and to work with the other members of the Board of Directors, as a whole, to develop and to oversee policy for the good of the entire Co-op City Community.

• If a Director goes beyond his or her legal authority, that may subject the Board, the Corporation, and all Directors to liability for breach of fiduciary duty.

Thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be reached at mmarbury@riverbayboard.com.

All of us, multiplied by each one of us, equals a force for good.

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

New York City Districting Commission Releases Online Software to Allow Residents to Draw Their Own City Council District Maps The New York City Districting Commission this week released a customized New York City-version of DistrictR, an online mapping tool, which allows New Yorkers to draw their own City Council Districts, and to submit their drawings to the Commission as their public testimony.

“This is a big step forward in digital democracy,” said NYC Districting Commission Chair Dennis Walcott. “Never before have New Yorkers had this kind of opportunity for full participation in the mapmaking process.”

The City is in the middle of the mapmaking process. A new City Council plan is drawn every ten years following the U.S. Census to bring the city into compliance with the Constitutional doctrine of one-person, one vote, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the charter of the City of New York.

DistrictR, accessible through the Commission’s website at nyc.gov/districting, allows individuals to draw maps like the city’s mapmakers do. The software gives every New Yorker access to data and mapping capabilities like those used by the Commission. This includes population data, census blocks, citizen voting age population data by race, existing Council district lines, Community Board boundaries, and the new five percent population deviation legal requirement. This was created by the city’s mapmakers: Redistricting Partners.

The city’s population grew 8.2 million in 2010 to 8.8 million in 2020, according to the Census, an increase the size of the city of Detroit. To reflect this growth and bring the city in line with federal, state, and local laws the new preliminary plan raises the average number of residents per City Council district from 160,710 to 172,882. These parameters are built into DistrictR. The independent District Commission voted on the Preliminary Plan on Friday, July 15th, after receiving public testimony from nearly 500 city residents at public hearings held from May through June in each of the five boroughs.

Testimony was heard in person and received via Zoom and by email. The Commission also meets with advocates and stakeholders.

The Council maps are available for public review and comment online at nyc. gov/districting.

Next, the Commission will hold another five hearings in each of the boroughs to get more public testimony on the Preliminary Plan. The hearings are scheduled for Aug. 16, 17, 18, 21 and 22. Testimony may be provided via Zoom, in person during the public hearings, and by email at PublicTestimony@redistricting.nyc. gov, and by mail at NYC Districting Commission, 253Broadway, 3rd Floor, NY, NY 10007.

The public can submit their DistrictR maps to the Commission by simply hitting “save” on DistrictR and emailing their maps to the Commission at PublicTestimony@redistricting.nyc.gov. The final maps are anticipated to be completed

by December 2022.

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NOPE

BY ANATOLIY BUDNITSKIY

Had a couple of days to think about NOPE and dissect. This film still feels as insane to me as it did this past week. It shook me to the core. In my opinion, I think this is Jordan Peele’s masterpiece. He is a supreme master with NOPE. His first two films, GET OUT and US, are amazing! This was the trifecta. The way he built tension in NOPE is just insanity. There were at least three scenes that I can remember I had literal chills and goosebumps for about 10 minutes.

I still think about one to this day.

This is Peele’s most straight forward film I think, but it’s still so much more than the obvious. Peele’s genius is in everything, not only his direction and screenplay, but he brings out the best in his actors. Daniel Kaluuya again is extraordinary. He is becoming one of my favorites, amazing actor. Keke Palmer is awesome, too.

So hilarious. Speaking of hilarious, I thought Brandon Perea was so funny. Great character.

Also, Steven Yeun’s character was amazingly written. His character’s depth was insane and actually captivating. The best thing to go into NOPE is to know as little as possible because I think that’s the intention. Peele’s films aren’t normal and require so much dissection. His films are “event type” films for sure. Loved his homages to old school Spielberg so much. His cinephile mind showed so much here. Masterful stuff, 10/10 NOPE, 131 Minutes, Rated R Jordan Peele – Writer, Director Daniel Kaluuya – OJ Keke Palmer – Emerald Brandon Perea – Angel Torres Steven Yeun – Ricky

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

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

A Wild July 4th Weekend You probably didn’t read or hear about a lot of things that occurred on the recent July 4th holiday weekend. However, the events that occurred across NYC and in Co-op City were extremely bad. Typical stuff? No! Read on.

Acting Out – Gun Violence During the period from Friday, July 1 – Sunday, July 3, can you believe that 26 people throughout NYC were shot? Thereafter, another three people throughout NYC were shot during the morning hours on July 4.

In the Bronx, someone walked up to a guy and shot him in the head and chest on Sunday, July 3rd.

Then, that guy died at a hospital. In Brooklyn, a vehicle rolled up on some guys and started shooting.

Thereafter, just one guy within that group was hit by those bullets. And, amazingly, he was only hit in his left wrist.

In Harlem, a 43-year-old lady was grazed by a bullet shortly before 2 a.m. She then refused medical services and told the cops that she didn’t know where the bullets came from. Thereafter, two guys shot an 18-year-old lady.

In Queens, a driver hit a pothole. Then, his friend exited the vehicle to check on a tire. Suddenly, he was hit by several bullets. Now, I can go on with the other shootings. However, as you can see, some people acted out with their guns during the July 4th weekend. But, again, 26 people were shot this year.

Last year? There were 30 people that were shot over the same 3-day period.

Horrible Injuries - Fireworks What happened over the July 4th holiday? What caused some grown folks to revert back to their childhood days? Did some grown folks forget their numerous lessons about not playing with fireworks?

What was it about this July 4th that caused some people to act out so horribly bad?

Let’s go over a few cases and see what happened when grown folks in Staten Island made some incredibly bad choices to play with some fireworks on July 4th. A 31-year-old man was playing with fireworks. Then, while holding the fireworks in his hand, he made a decision to light them. Next, the fireworks exploded in his hand. Then, boom!!! The fireworks were so powerful that they blew off two

of his fingers.

In another case, fireworks caused severe injuries to a 52-year-old lady’s hand. In fact, the fireworks were so powerful that they blew off a portion of her thumb.

Now, again, you would think that some people would have moved on with their life. But, as you can see, the expression “age is just a number” is true.

Anyway, let’s go on to our last case involving grown folks and fireworks. This case involves a 55-year-old man that had a firework explode near his left arm.

And, the injury was so horrible that they had to amputate the guy’s arm below his elbow.

Now, the NYPD could not be in all of the locations where people were going crazy with fireworks. So, they decided to offer a $1,000 reward for information that lead to the arrest and conviction of someone having or selling illegal fireworks.

Then, they produced one of the powerful flyers ever about illegal fireworks: Fireworks are illegal.

The New York City Police Department urges you to celebrate safely on July 4. If you use fireworks, you or someone else can get seriously hurt. If you have fireworks, we can ARREST YOU, your car can be confiscated, or your business can be closed. Concerned citizens can anonymously report the delivery, sale, or storage of fireworks.

Now, I purposely printed this information so that this community could see the no-nonsense approach that the NYPD took in reference to illegal fireworks.

Thereafter, some folks may have thought twice before they went near an illegal firework. So, I hope that the NYPD will consider posting some of these flyers throughout Co-op City next year. This way, what happened in the next section in Co-op City will not happen again.

Co-op City – Outrageous Illegal Fireworks Unfortunately, we didn’t have our tremendous $25,000 fireworks show this year. But, did that cancellation cause so many people to go out and shoot up fireworks throughout our community? Look, in my opinion, this year, 2022, has to go down as

Be sure to subscribe to the new & official Co-op City YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/3h6CrF7. Stay informed!

one of the worst years ever for illegal fireworks going off in our community and for some folks acting out.

In fact, I received a call just before 9 p.m. on July 4th. Then, the caller said, “Daryl, there’s a fire on the greenway.” Shocked, I went to my window and saw that someone had deliberately created a huge circle of fire on the grass near building 10, Debs Place. So, after calling our Public Safety and 911, I ran downstairs to see what was going on. And, to my surprise, it seemed like fireworks were being blasted off everywhere.

Now, some people may have thought that they were having a good time. However, they didn’t realize that some of their fireworks could have flown into someone’s window. Thereafter, those fireworks could have started a deadly fire in someone’s apartment. Then, the person that blasted off those fireworks could have been arrested, prosecuted, and sent to prison for a very long time.

Close I want to encourage everyone in this community to please do not get involved with illegal fireworks.

As you know, illegal fireworks can severely injure or kill someone. So, do not hang out with anyone that is involved with illegal fireworks or other dangerous activities. Lastly, please care about your community.

Thank you.

Contact Information Please do not send a letter to me at this time. However, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@ riverbayboard.com.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me.

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

Thank you.

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Game Over ––

(Cont’d from page 1)

GameOver has been involved in Co-op City for about seven years. Both boys and girls are encouraged to come out and play, and with such a great turn out this summer, there have been more girls than ever including twins London and Lavonn. Parents like Orwell, who’s son, Dylan Boatswain, participates in the camp, originally found out about the camp on Instagram. Splitting the court into various sections, each group practiced different skills like shooting, dribbling and passing. The music, and the upbeat DJ, could be heard from around the corner saying things like, “It’s gonna be a hot day. Remember to drink water.” Measures are provided to ensure the variable of heat is taken seriously; the sessions are limited to an hour and a half per age group, and water and sports drinks are readily available. By coming to Co-op, GameOver Sports has introduced and encouraged more than a hundred kids this summer alone to challenge themselves on the court.

Photos by P.M Campbell

Community Fridge Main Site Packing & Distribution

With sweltering temperatures hovering over the city, shareholders lined up on Saturday, July 23, to receive fresh produce from the Co-op City Community Fridge and its community volunteers.

Photos by Yolanda Ramirez

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

African American Association Come back and join us in September!

The AAACC is on break for the summer months and will return in September to bring you rousing topics and events to stimulate your mind and move you at the deepest levels of your soul. For this reason, we hope you will be moved to join the African-American Association of Co-op City. Become a member to be allowed entry into our gatherings. Platforms, until the pandemic is completely over are presented via Zoom meetings and webinars. There may be some outdoor meetings until the cold weather sets in. Remember, membership is only $15/year for a single membership and only $25/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@ gmail.com or call 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

Noteworthy dates!

Sunday, September 18 – General Membership Meeting Sunday, October 16 – General Membership Meeting Sunday, November 20 – General Membership Meeting Saturday, December 10 – Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration with Coalition of African-American Churches and Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. The African American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: (Contact respective instructor indicated below for updates) Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438.

Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917-903-7073.

Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact: Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917-863-1507.

Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” with Joyce Smith – Contact: Joyce, 718-320-0714.

“Each one of us, divided by all of us, equals a force for good!”

––Michelle Marbury

Please be considerate and respectful of all members of our diverse community.

FREE EVENT

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Women's Day SATURDAY AUGUST 13TH 2:00-4:00PM

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

For Sale 1. DIE HARD THE ULTIMATE VISUAL HISTORY 2. THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BOND 007 IS BACK 3. ALIENS 7 DVD PREDATOR 2 VHS TWO MUSIC 4. IRON MAN 3 DVD ONE BOOK NICK FURY AGENT OF SHIELD

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Leslie Peterson

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Encourage Cooperative Living I hope everyone is staying safe and cool during this heat wave.

It has been years since New York City has experienced these many consecutive days of scorching temperatures. Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down.

This can happen within 10 to 15 minutes. Wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing. Drink plenty of fluids. Take it easy during the hottest parts of the day. Be cautious if you’re at increased risk.

We Want You: One of the best ways to provide cohesiveness is to practice transparency. Transparency implies openness, communication, and accountability. In my opinion, if you want to promote cooperation, one should create an open environment.

Words espousing this process is nice but actions speak louder.

I read in last week’s Co-op City Times viewpoints about diversity, inclusion and equity. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) is a term used to describe policies and programs that promote the representation and participation of different groups of individuals, including people of different ages, genders ethnicities and abilities. DEI, particularly in a group situation, helps to give value and respect to its members. In a community setting, it encourages cooperative living. First and foremost, we should lead by example and exhibit these tenets.

The By-Laws of this corporation do list officers we should have. We know what is required when assuming various positions. To allay your concerns, I am a former Secretary of the Riverbay Board of Directors and at every meeting, we do have a secretary who records our meetings, writes the minutes, serves the notices of the meetings and other relevant duties the Board requests.

Finance and Budget: Unfunded mandates established by the City will require us to focus more closely and think outside of the box on how we can

generate revenue. Going forward, this will be one of the ways to fulfill our fiduciary responsibility without diminishing services. We should all endeavor to be involved in the governance of Co-op City. In the interest of inclusion, shareholders with various experience in this area should be a welcomed addition. Their expertise could prove valuable especially during these trying times and allows cooperators the ability to be involved in the process.

CCPD and the 45th Precinct: I am thankful for the eyes and ears of cooperators who let us know about infractions of our rules and regulations taking place in our community. The NYPD is the police department for the city of New York. CCPD are our community officers here to not only deter crime (of which we have never been a high crime area), but to also ensure our rules are being followed. More often than not, we discuss the low crime statistics while our infractions that affect our quality of life continue to grow. The lack of visibility of officers in many areas of our community has resulted in shareholders complaining to Board members what is taking place.

It is problematic for an officer to pursue a complaint they did not witness. Most recently, the fire on the greenway during the 4th of July holiday was a red flag. Driving on the outside does not tell you what’s going on in the inside.

In a couple of weeks, I will be meeting with the NYPD Commissioner and I will advocate for more officers in the 45th Precinct, the precinct covering the largest area in NYC. They, however, are guided by statistics so while I encourage you to contact CCPD, I also encourage you to contact 311. Don’t let our private CCPD deter us from having more 45th Precinct officers. Reminder: Officer Hector Basora and Officer Neil Anderson are our 45th Precinct NCO’s (Neighborhood Coordination Officers).

You can contact them at Hector.Basora@nypd.org or Neil.Anderson@nypd.org.

The New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program: (ERAP) assists eligible households behind on their rent who have experienced financial

hardship due to COVID19 and are at risk of homelessness. If you are experiencing difficulty and need assistance paying your carrying charge, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) application portal reopened and has been accepting applications to be fulfilled as funding allows. Applying for State ERAP will provide certain protections while the State makes a decision on their application. For more information on ERAP, call: 1-844-NY1-RENT (1-844-691-7368) or visit ERAP FAQs. NYC Retirees and Medicare Advantage Plus (MAP): New York City’s years-long effort to shift retired city workers to a cost-cutting health care plan was dealt a major blow Monday when the insurer in charge of running the plan announced that it is withdrawing from the deal. The Alliance had requested that the city provide them with an exact start date for the plan by July 15. Likely because of the ongoing lawsuit, the city was not able to do so. When the city and unions declined to make this guarantee, the Alliance withdrew from the plan.

The NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees has informed Medicare subscribed and/or eligible City Retirees, Anthem, the parent company of Blue Cross Blue Shield, which now identifies as “ELEVANCE,” has pulled out of the Alliance with Emblem Health. This does not mean the MAP is dead. The City, MLC (Municipal Labor Committee) and Unions are right now trying to find someone to take their place.

August Primary: Election Day for the August primary is August 23, 2022 with early voting from August 13th to August 21st. In this election, you will be voting for (in some areas) U.S. House of Representatives (Congressperson) and our State Senator.

Make sure to Vote!

“When you have decided what you believe, what you feel must be done, have the courage to standalone and be counted.” –Eleanor Roosevelt I am pleased to be of service to the community.

I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com.

Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m., for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pick up or after. It is a 30/31day rotation on average. Black Forum will text registered guests if items outside of regular distribution become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring at least four clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart. Masks required and physical dis-

tancing observed. New registrants can receive food the same day they register. Please show a valid ID NYC card, a non-Driver’s, or Driver’s license with a 10475 address to register.

Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, on Thursdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., to pick up groceries.

Guests do not have to be affiliated with a church to receive food. Registration open at this location for Section 5 residents.

Recertification Reminder to all clients, recertification started in January. You must recertify to pick up groceries in 2022. No exceptions. Required documentation

is as follows: NY State Driver’s license, NY State Non-Driver’s or NYC I.D. (zip code 10475). Passports, Medicaid Cards, Medicare Cards, Job I.D.s and Access-A-Ride I.D.s are not acceptable.

Defensive Driving Class An online version of the course is available at the Empire Safety Council website: https://www. empiresafetycouncil.com/. Use the promo code “WRIGHT” to receive a discount. We will inform the public when we resume in-person classes.

Contact Us Reach out to us at coopcityblackforum@gmail. com.

––D. Illis

Black Forum

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718.239.7110

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Broun Place Townhouse Association This week, we start off by wishing our General Manager, Mr. Noel Ellison, a very happy and healthy birthday and many more to come. Mr. Ellison continues to be a very active and articulate G.M. who we respect very much.

We are awaiting receipt of the prize for having the highest number of voter turnout in the Riverbay Board Election. But in the meantime, congratulations to all our voters. Kudos to all the candidates and to the newly elected directors and President of the Riverbay Board of Directors. Attendees at the Board meeting, including me, were very surprised how difficult it was to get Board members to run for Board office.

Last week’s Co-op City Times contained some truly important information including explanations and protocol regarding definitions of mold and mildew. The Co-op City Times is available online at: http://issuu.com/cctimes.

We are interested to know subjects of concern to you. We will seek answers to your questions. The flyer entitled, “Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities policy,” concerns us. Also, understanding shared value ownership in your apartment is important; this is another issue to discuss.

Let me know your concerns. Our outdoor meeting is postponed until September due to heat.

Let us take care of our recycling properly. Please do not allow your dog to run unleashed or unguided when toileting. Neighbors, pick up behind your dogs.

You will be reported when identified. Recycle your goods by using the bins at our garages or just realize that no one wants your used goods. Recycling

instructions are on the fences and bins. The white bin is dedicated to paper goods. Mattresses need covering and furniture and electronics put neatly. Do not randomly litter bottles and masks. Green and red pails saying, “Keep Co-op City Clean,” are placed to hold pedestrian waste, meaning no house garbage.

Please do not throw your masks on the street! We have bins and pails.

We have to find better solutions to our problems rather than gun violence or physical violence. There is too much suffering due to violence, for example, the nineteen children and two long-time teachers killed in Uvalde.

Neighbors, it is settled. Private cars are not allowed on our internal walkways. Should you see a private car or truck, please report to CCPD or CSO. It is a safety hazard.

Covid-19 numbers are rising again, so please wear a K95 mask or other approved masks when you are in crowds. Testing and vaccine centers are printed in the Combing section of the Co-op City Times. Check vaccine distribution sites at: nyc.gov/vaccinefinder and nyc.gov/covidvaccine, or call 877-VAX-4NYC. Seniors, register with the Riverbay “RUOK” Emergency Contact program. This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic ailment. Read the Co-op City Times for important local information.

Our association extends sincere condolences to families and friends who are suffering loss and illness. Remember, keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever!

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

NAACP

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Building 18 Association

Hi, neighbors. We are in the midst of a heat wave right now, so it is very important that you protect yourself from heat-related illness and drink plenty of water; water is the liquid of choice. I urge you to follow Co-op City Times and read the “Heat Warning Information.” Check on your elder neighbor and assist, if needed. Covid-19 is still around and going strong, so please continue to wear your mask and follow Riverbay guidelines.

Announcement: On Saturday, August 6, we will have a free ice cream giveaway starting at noon in our Association Room right across from our back entrance to the building.

Happy birthday to all born in July and August; we hope that it is all you want it to be. Be careful, be safe and enjoy.

To the bereaved families, we give our sincere sympathies. To the sick and homebound, we wish you a speedy recovery. Please stay alert. If you see something, say something and report it ASAP. Together, we can make a difference!

––Gertie Brown

Building 21 Association Be a Floor Captain: Your protection starts on your floor! So much more important than you realize, shareholders and residents. Every floor of every building should have assigned Floor Captains. If you have not volunteered for your own floor, it is time.

All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows: 1. Contact Numbers (For your floor only): List all “emergency” contact numbers and distribute to each neighbor 2. Co-op City Times: Place them at each apartment door (delivered on Saturdays) 3. Elevator Notices: Read them and talk to your neighbors about them 4. Promote: Meetings, clubs and gatherings 5. Encourage your neighbors to: • Vote – Vote – Vote! in the Riverbay Election • Make calls to the Riverbay Offices Security: 718-671-3050 CSO: 718-320-3300 If you have questions regarding the 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information. Email: 21association@gmail.com. Call: 347.504.1821. Attend the monthly general meetings via Zoom video conference. Everyone from all buildings plan to come and join us at Building 21.

Bring a friend.

Each one of us divided by all of us equals a force for good.

––Michelle Marbury

Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.

Known as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), it profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and the course of 20th Century American History.

Reminder: The August Primary is scheduled for August 23 with early voting from August 13 to August 21 and will include elections for these offices: • U. S. House of Representatives • State Senate Based on the new absentee ballot law, if you requested an absentee ballot, you cannot use a voting machine to vote. If you requested an absentee ballot, you can still vote in-person but will be asked to use an affidavit ballot. Election officials will verify whether the voter’s absentee ballot has been received. If the voter’s absentee ballot has been received the affidavit ballot will not be counted.

The NAACP Co-op City Branch extends a thank you to Rivers Run Community Garden for allowing the NAACP to provide voter registration information and materials to participants.

Lancôme Ambassadress and Actress Lupita Nyong’o Surprises 40 NAACP Students with $10,000 Scholarships at 113th Convention: The students received the scholarships during the ACT-SO award ceremony in Atlantic City, NJ as part of the NAACP’s convention.

ACT-SO is a year-long program targeted at high school students across the country that promotes their growth in disciplines ranging from visual arts and business to performing and culinary arts and provides scholarship opportunities.

Through the NAACP’s partnership with Lancôme, the Write Her Future Scholarship Fund focuses on empowering women through literacy and education, as well as mentoring and entrepreneurship opportunities.

“We’re excited to once again provide talented young women across the counVISION CARE SPECIALIST try the opportunity to further develop creativity and achieve their academic dreams with purpose and unrestricted passion,” said President & CEO Derrick Johnson. “Young people are the future. We’re excited to see how participants • FELLOW, AMERICAN • COMPLETE VISION CARE in the program will positively impact their communities and create change for OF ACADEMY EYE EXAMINATION themselves and the next generation.” Go to NAACP.org.

OPTOMETRY We Need You in the Fight: Each and every NAACP member makes a dif• EYEGLASSES • OCULAR DISEASE TREATMENT ference to the complex, ongoing work of advancing racial equality. Join this • GLAUCOMA TREATMENT • CONTACT LENSES multi-generational network of activists dismantling structural racism by using High Fashion Frames on Premises.

“Your Vision Health Is My Concern.” your power to take action on the most pressing issues of our time. Follow us on Much of Learning Is Done Through The Eyes.

Insist on a Professional Eye Examination.

Facebook: Co-op City NAACP. Become a member or gift a membership: Adults: $30, youths: $10. Make 120 ALCOTT PLACE checks/money orders. payable to: NAACP Co-op City #2210, and mail to: (Bldg. 17 • Sect. 3) • Co-op City N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City, Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

718-379-8029 ––Brenda Brown

DR. DAVID HORN, O.D. FAAO

Medicare and many insurances accepted.

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

DOCTOR’S HOURS: MONDAY: 1:30 - 7:00 PM • WEDNESDAY: 2:00 - 7:00 PM FRIDAY: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM • SATURDAY: 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT!

20

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Leah Richardson, Secretary

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Boardroom We are going through some difficult times. I hope that everyone can enjoy this summer with friends

and family.

I want to congratulate and welcome our new Riverbay Board Directors and incumbents. Some cooperators say they would never take this responsibility for various reasons. It clearly shows why people do not vote. Each year, we try to figure out why the community is not voting. The community must understand the Executive Board, Board members’ and Management's responsibility. It is also imperative that the President, Manager, or Executive team of any organization or board practice Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. There should not be any bias or favoritism. All Board members need to be equal, and their voices need to be heard. They should be leaders and not bosses of their Board. Serving on the Board is a great opportunity to develop your leadership skills and learn from others who are experienced Board members. Members can bring fresh ideas while learning the ins and outs of the cooperative while working with diverse people. This is impossible to achieve if a Board appears to be divided. You do not need recognition. The Board consists of individuals from a community. We are on the Board to oversee that Management is fulfilling their fiduciary responsibility, not for any political or personal gain.

I was elected to the Board in 2017 and re-elected in 2021. I was excited that I could have an opportunity to bring new ideas and skills to the community. One of the ideas I introduced to the Board and the community was a program called Cooperative Leadership Action Among Youth (C.L.A.A.Y.). The program gave youths the opportunity to understand who their elected officials are and determine problems in the community they are passionate about while having a chance to bring these issues to the forefront. Our youths need to be able to make informed decisions

about our government when it comes time for them to vote. Our goal of the program was to have youths gain political experience while being able to target and address issues within their community. Along with having an educational in-class learning experience, participants also got a real-world view of civics and government.

I’ve also had the opportunity to chair various committees. I have not had the chance to have a seat on the Executive Board, while newly incoming Board Directors have. Our community needs to understand that the majority is who gets to establish the Executive team.

I attended numerous Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion seminars. I am a member of the Equal Justice Committee for the New York State Court system of which I am Chair of the Employee Support Subcommittee. My resume and experiences are extensive.

How does this Board benefit from DEI? Board diversity improves the quality and objectivity of the decision-making process by bringing new voices to the table, to the debate, and the decisions. It fosters innovation, creativity, and a better understanding of customer insights through a variety of problem-solving approaches, perspectives, and ideas. It is essential to have the optimal mix of skills, expertise. Experience is paramount to ensure that the Board as a collective will manage the business and the strategy of the corporation.

To practice diversity, equity, and inclusion in the boardroom, we must be fair and unbiased. The Bylaws state that we elect an Executive team and appoint a Chair of the Audit Committee and Cooperators Appeal. These positions are vital to the corporation. For the past 6 years, I’ve seen the same leadership. (President, Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Treasurer, Audit, Secretary, Asst. Secretary. In my opinion, there is no inclusion. Each person on the Board has skills and should be able to possess that

not by just voting on a resolution or being chair of committees. I feel that everyone on the Board who has managerial skills and who would like to assume these positions should have a chance so they can highlight their skills.

It is imperative that we as a community and the Board support and encourage a bias-free environment that reflects, recognizes, and respects the rich diversity of our community. We must improve the existing services to meet the needs of the community we serve, foster partnerships, and create opportunities for dialogue between our community organizations and our shareholders to increase the community’s trust and confidence. Board Directors must provide our shareholders with meaningful opportunities to be heard and implement procedures that support fair and unbiased outcomes. We must raise awareness and educate Management and the community on the significance of a diverse and inclusive environment.

The primary obligation of a Director is to ensure that the community is abiding by the Bylaws and other corporate documents of the community along with complying with all relevant federal, state, and local laws. The Board of Directors is the governing body of the association, responsible for the ultimate direction of the management of the affairs of the organization.

Fiduciary Responsibility – The duty of loyalty requires Board members to act in good faith to promote the best interests of the entire association. Board fiduciary responsibility prevents Board members from making decisions to further their interests. Board Directors must also avoid any conflict of interest.

The Board of Directors is always pleased to hear your suggestions or bring new ideas and programs to our community. You may contact me or any of the Board Directors to discuss your concerns.

I can be reached at lrichardson@riverbayboard. com. I would love to hear from you!

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Building 22A& 22B Association

We met our quorum for the Board, elected a new President, Sonia Feliciano, and swore-in the new Board members into office. We want to thank the outgoing Board members for a good job.

This month, we had a heat wave and severe thunderstorms. We hope everyone stayed dry. Next month, we are looking forward to cooler weather and drier events.

I was asked to let our dog owners know what “curb your dog” means. It means keep the sidewalk clean and our trees green. Pick up the poop, period. Kids at play, keep the poop away. Please do not let your dog pee on our buildings, especially with the current heat. It smells disgusting. Be responsible! Leash, curb and clean up after your dog. Be a good neighbor.

Please pick up your weekly Co-op City Times for more community news.

Covid-19 is on the rise. Many cooperators are not wearing their masks inside the building or the laundry room. We must stop Covid-19 from spreading. We must also be on guard as Monkeypox is on the rise.

Compactor Room: Continue to recycle. Put all paper garbage on top of the wooden ledge and put all washed out bottles in the plastic bag. Large boxes go to the basement and small boxes can be folded and put under the wooden ledge.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Please return to remove your clothes from the washers and dryers as others are waiting to use them. Also, clean the dryer filters; doing so will help your clothes dry faster.

Happy birthday to all this month. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones.

Check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. Thank you.

––Betty Leak

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – If you have been looking for a place to explore opportunities, a place where you can realize your potential with the help of a positive supportive network of sisters, then NCNW is the organization for you. Through national programs and through the work of over 300 community sections and 39 national affiliate organizations, NCNW helps women of African descent enhance their health, knowledge, and personal satisfaction and work to improve their communities.

Becoming a member of NCNW helps to: promote and recognize leadership among women of color; champion women’s rights and civil rights; reduce health disparities among African Americans; increase the educational attainment of African Americans; work toward the economic empowerment of all minority women; celebrate and strengthen the African American family; reach out to women in need in our community and around the world.

Our first membership meeting of the new fiscal year will be on Sunday, September 11, at 3 p.m. Circle that date on your calendar now! Remember, men are welcome to join NCNW as well. Our male members are called Associates.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month – This annual observance highlights the importance of getting recommended vaccines throughout your life. We know the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted all aspects of life, including your ability to attend important appointments and receive routine vaccinations. During August, we encourage you to talk to your doctor, nurse, or healthcare provider to ensure you and your family are protected against serious diseases by getting caught up on routine vaccinations. As a parent, you want to keep your children safe. Routine childhood vaccinations are an important way to ensure that your child and community remain healthy and protected against serious diseases like measles and whooping cough. Now that in-person activities and play have resumed, NCNW Co-op City Section encourages parents to make sure children are up-to-date on routinely recommended vaccines. Wellchild visits and check-ups are essential for routine vaccination, even during the pandemic. If you are pregnant, now is a great time to find a doctor and schedule a visit to discuss any questions you have about vaccines. Vaccines that you get while still pregnant may give protection to your baby during the first months of life. Adult vaccination rates in the United States are low, and most adults are not aware that they need vaccines. Adults with certain health conditions like diabetes or heart disease are at greater risk for severe complications from certain vaccine-preventable diseases. Some vaccine-preventable diseases, like flu, can make glucose control more difficult for people with diabetes or increase the risk of another heart attack for those with heart disease.

Social Media – Remember, you can find us on our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com; on Facebook: NCNWCoopcityBethune; Twitter:@NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

––Joyce Howard

MetroCard Bus The MetroCard Bus visits Co-op City every first and third Thursday of the month. The bus only makes one stop in Co-op City: between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. by the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Boulevard.

Some services offered by the bus are: • Help with reduced-fare applications • Transfer MetroCard balances (both full fare and reduced-fare) • Exchange a damaged reduced-fare MetroCard for a temporary replacement • Report a lost/stolen reduced-fare MetroCard • Help with any MetroCard-related issues For more MetroCard information, please visit new.mta.info/fares.

21

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475.

Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic, St. Joseph’s Church has suspended services until further notice. However, we continue to worship via teleconference on Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Father Johnson also conducts daily weekday services at noon.

You are invited to participate in these services by calling 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

Fundraising Event: The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) are having a Fundraising Brunch Sale at the church on Saturday, August 6, starting at 11:00 a.m. until sold out. For $20, please come and take home some delicious American and Caribbean food in support of the event!

If you have any questions, please call Valrie at 347-200-5850.

Grace and peace!

––M. Chambers

Building 25 Association

Life balances are very important to sustain your mental, physical and spiritual health. The everyday hustles and bustles can throw your whole life cycle off, so you need to take time to stop, smell the flowers and take stock. If you complain about what you do not have, you will never be appreciative of what you do have.

I said all of this to let you know that I will be taking a two-week break from writing our articles. You may resume reading our articles on Saturday, August 13. Until then, stay well.

We wish all neighbors born in July and August a happy birthday. For those of you who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon. We continue to extend our deepest sympathies to families who have lost loved ones to the pandemic and other illnesses.

Our next building association meeting will be held Tuesday, September 20, at 7:30 p.m. Look out for detailed information notices posted near elevators as we get closer to the meeting date. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by logging onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know.

I will leave you with the following thought: “Letting go helps us to live in a more peaceful state of mind and helps restore our balance. It allows others to be responsible for themselves and for us to take our hands off situations that do not belong to us. This frees us from unnecessary stress.” –Melody Beattie ––Wanda Bailey

22

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Notary with Yvonne Menefee every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 39, Bronx, NY 10475 (Section 5 Center).

Nordic Lodge – Sat., August 6. Also, Foxwoods Casino. Call or text (646) 579-1701 for information.

Resorts Casino – August 23, 2022 in Atlantic City, NJ. Price: $40, bonus: $15 slot play. Adults only. Waiting list. Payment due by Wednesday, August 10. Make checks to: Goose Island Seniors. We now accept Zelle at 347-847-1941. Buses leaving our three usual bus stops. Bus pick-ups: Einstein Loop, 7:15 a.m.; Asch Loop, 7:45 a.m.; and Dreiser Loop at 8 a.m. Must show proof of vaccination and masks required on bus and in casino.

Resort World – Thursday, September 22, in Montecello, NY. Price: $45, Bonus: $25 slot play and $15 for meal. Payment due by Wednesday, September 7. Waiting list only. Buses leaving our three

AARP Chapter #4997

Summer activities are well in progress, and everyone is enjoying the outdoor life. Many families are traveling for the first time in two or three years and many one-day excursions are available to all ages. We are seeing more of our neighbors than we have seen in over two years, and it is a pleasure. We seemed to be going in a new direction!

Somehow, we are moving backwards in our quest to control Covid-19! As we expected, there are new subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 and they are different than the first strains of Covid-19 we experienced.

Our summer got off to a great and free start. Less restrictions, more travelling, movies, family outings, sports arena activities, reduction in masks usage, summer activities for the children and beach time for all. In the Co-op City community, we now find ourselves with more mask restrictions in place. As previously stated, we must wear a mask in all common areas in and around Co-op City, we should limit the number of people in the elevator and the laundry room. NYC also suffers from a high rate of monkey pox, which has its own vaccine and transmission possibilities. We must remain vigilant and focused to remain healthy and safe.

Our office is enjoying the interaction of our seniors and SYEP workers teaching technology skills.

We are available for appointments between Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. One-on-one sessions are one hour each. You can schedule more than one appointment if you desire. Drop by our office in Dreiser Loop, Room “0,” or call 718-320-1946 to make your appointment. This program will be available until August 11.

August 23 is our trip to the Tomasello Winery and Resorts Casino, and we now have a waiting list. Bus pick-up time will be scheduled and posted two weeks before the departure and will be from the library on Asch Loop. There will be three drop-off locations upon our return.

Monthly General Membership meetings will resume on September 13 and hopefully be in-person.

Our membership is increasing with new people and renewals are also up since we are anticipating more activity with our agenda. You can reach Ms. Baker, membership contact, at 718-379-2088 or in our office. Annual dues are $20 and can be paid in cash or check.

We are sending continued prayers and blessings to former AARP President Mickens for a speedy recovery. From Mrs. Wilson, Good and Welfare contact, our other family and friends are continuing to improve on their personal road to recovery and we send them our thoughts and prayers. If you wish to share any information for this article, please contact Mrs. Wilson 718-671-5493.

Reminder Wear your masks to protect yourself and others.

––Ann Purnell

Goose Island Seniors

usual bus stops. Bus pick-ups: Einstein Loop, 8:15 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:45 a.m.; and Dreiser Loop at 9 a.m. Must show proof of vaccination and masks required on bus and in casino.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse – Tuesday, October 25. Dr. K's Motown Revue. Come enjoy a delicious lunch and listen to your favorite Motown Hits. Price: $120. Bus pick-ups: Einstein Loop, 8:15 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:45 a.m.; and Dreiser Loop at 9 a.m. Must show proof of vaccination and masks required on the bus.

Bingo – Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1:15 p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for three cards, 12 games and jackpot. Extra cards are $0.25 each for up to three cards. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination. Temperature taken at entrance. Sunday Bingo on August 28 at 1:30 p.m.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of August:

Amy Rindner, Alva Parnell, Elayne Gubitose, Marvine Hollman, Susan Mondesire, Archangel Ortiz, Paulette Hill, Patricia Watts-Mayo, Ella L. Thorne, Angel Rondon and Cheryl Weeks. The August birthday cake party is on Wednesday, August 17, at 2 p.m.-2:45 p.m. at the Bingo halftime break.

Sick and Shut-in – Ella Thorne misses everyone.

She is in a nursing home. Mary Pilla, former Goose Island president, sends her love to all. Call her at (718) 753-1816.

Our club is located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475 at Section 5 Center. Our phone number is (718) 379-9613. You may call (mornings) Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; (evenings) Mon., Wed. and Fri., 6 p.m.-8 p.m.; Tue. and Thu., 1 p.m.-8 p.m., or call, text or Zelle Stephen at (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net.

––Stephen Roberts Sr.

Retirees of Dreiser Loop Greetings, retirees! We hope this article finds everyone doing well. It is hard to believe that this is the last weekend in July and we will be ushering in the month of August on Monday. Summer is truly flying by!

Trip Committee – Our Trip Committee is sponsoring two one-day trips. The first trip will be to the Wind Creek Casino and Shopping at the Wind Creek Outlets in Bethlehem, PA, on Tuesday, September 13. The cost for this trip is $45 and you will receive a free $25 slot play from the casino. The second trip will be to the Villa Roma Resort in Callicoon, NY on Tuesday, October 11. The cost for this trip is $100, which includes lunch and a Tribute to Tina Turner and Whitney Houston show.

Proof of your Covid vaccination will be required when you pay for your ticket. Everyone will be required to wear a face mask while traveling on the bus. The bus for both trips will pick up at 8:00 a.m. in front the H&R Block located at 169 Dreiser Loop.

On the return to Co-op City, the bus will drop off at Einstein Loop, Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop.

Please contact Serita at (347) 564-5722 if you would like to attend these trips or have any questions. Serita will be available in Room 19 on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. to collect payments for this these trips.

Please make your checks payable to the Retirees of Dreiser Loop.

Entertainment Committee – Our Entertainment Committee has issued a “Hold the Date” for Dec. 8, 2022 for the annual holiday luncheon at the Marina del Rey. Please hold this date on your calendars.

Membership Dues – To become a new member of the Retirees of Dreiser Loop, or to renew your membership, please make your check in the amount of $25 payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and mail to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to JoAnn at (718) 710-9082 or Mary at (718) 655-9170.

Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our July birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year.

Condolences – Please continue to keep all those who have recently lost loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.

Sick and Shut In – We pray that you will soon see brighter days ahead.

General Meeting – Our general membership meetings will resume in September following our summer hiatus.

Members, if you would like to use Room 19 for your card or game player groups, please contact Ted Byrd at (917) 797-9230.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Family Owned and Operated • Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

• Cremations • Casket Showroom All areas are handicapped accessible on premises Amid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home is closely monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment.

Personalized & Professional Care • 56 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665 LIVE STREAMING WORLDWIDE.

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

Serving all cultures & faiths

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Bartow

Einstein

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Kosher

Non-Kosher

Tofu Lasagna Roll Orzo salad Toss salad w/ Dressing, Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice, Alt.: Vegetable Cutlet

Roast Pork Spanish Style Penne Braised Collard Greens

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED ON MONDAYS ONLY

Walk with Odessa 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Blood Pressure w/Willa 10 a.m.11 a.m. (1st and 3rd Tues.)

Health and Wellness w/Ann 11 a.m.-12 p.m., (1st & 3rd Tues.)

Card Games w/Frankie, 1-2 p.m.

Smartphone and Tablet Class w/ Julesa, 2-3 p.m.

Dinner Hour, 3-4:30 p.m.

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., in-person, Bagel w/Tuna Room 2.

Never Too Old To Learn Computer Learning Zoom meet- Tomato/Onion Spanish, 10 a.m. ing w/Ralph, 6:30-7:30 p.m. DiCondiment al-in: 929-205-6609, Meeting ID: Bridge To Care Arthritis Beet salad 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554, Potato salad Exercise, 11 a.m.

Virtual only.

Fresh Fruit and Creative Arts & Painting, 1 p.m. Blood Pressure, 1st & 3rd Tues.

Juice 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Party With POKENO, 2 p.m.

Digital Photography Class Alt.: Bagel w/Egg Brain Teaser Puzzles, 3 p.m. In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Salad Tai-Chi, In-person, 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa, 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Bereavement w/ Dorine, 1st & 3rd Wed., 12-1 p.m.

Line Dancing w/Cynthia 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.

Weight Mgt. Support Group w/ Gigi, 2nd Wed., in rear of JASA main office, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Domino w/Jose, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Dinner Hour, 3-4:30 p.m.

Hair Care 4 U, 9:00 a.m.

Fri., Aug. 5

Thurs., Aug. 4

Mon., Aug. 1

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler, 10-11 a.m. Zoom (virtual only for now) 1-646-876-9923, Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173, Passcode: 855423

MENU

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

Tues., Aug. 2

Mindful Mornings 9 a.m.

Tai-Chi, 10 a.m.

Always Grand Line Dancing 10 a.m.

BuddyNess Board & Card Games, 11:00 a.m.

Hot Topics, 1:00 p.m.

Coloring for Calmness, 2 p.m.

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Wed., Aug. 3

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Stay Well Exercise w/Denise 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Room 2

Spring in Your Step Stretch & Tone, 10:00 a.m.

Bingo, 1 p.m., in-person

Action Bodies In Motion 11:00 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise, in-person, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Rm. 2

BuddyNess Board & Card Games, 1:00 p.m.

Kings Chess, Checkers & Dominoes, 2:00 p.m.

Arthritis exercise w/Damion 10:00 a.m.-11:15 a.m.

Sultry Salsa Dancing, 10 a.m.

Arts w/Laura via Zoom 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Creative Writing Connections 11:00 a.m.

Beginners Crochet and Intro to Hearing Loss, 1 p.m.

Knitting w/Lynne, 11:30 a.m.Go Easy On Us Computers 12:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Massage Therapy 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Piano Sing Along Class (In-person) 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Blood Pressure Screening 10:00 a.m.

Manicure, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Act Nicely Drama Club 11:00 a.m.

Line Dance with Cynthia 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Let’s Get It On Zumba Dinner Hour, 3-4:30 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

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

(Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Self Defense Class, in-person 2 p.m., Rm. 2

Line Dancing w/Ellie 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Spanish Class, in-person, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Manicure 2:00-3:30 p.m.

23

BBQ Chicken Roasted Butternut Squash Sauteed Spinach

Moroccan Salmon Brown Rice Steamed Green Curried Veggie, Beans Chicken Whole Wheat and Quinoa Bread Stir Fry Fresh Fruit and Steamed Broccoli Juice Alt.: Egg Salad Greek Salad Pasta Salad Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice Alt.: Tuna Salad

Alert and Alive, in-person, Lemon Fresh 10-11 a.m., Rm. 2 Chicken, Potato Knitting & Crochet, Rm. 2, Kugel, Zucchini in 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Tomato Sauce Whole Wheat Art Class w/Dmitry Virtual 1-3 p.m.

Bread, Fresh Fruit Chair Massage, Room 2, and Juice 1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m., in-person Alt.: Gefilte Fish Bingo, in person 1:15 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Fish w/Salsa Relish Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Curried Chicken Legs Brown Rice w/ Pigeon Peas Okra

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk Menu subject to change without notice.

Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities Bereavement Hour w/Dorine – 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., in-person, Room 28, Bartow Center, every 1st and 3rd Wed. Please call 718-320-2066 to register.

Bereavement Support Group w/Dr. Smith – Mon., 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. https://us06web.zoom. us/; Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 839 6918 9974, Passcode: 520396.

Painting Class w/Dmitriy – Mondays, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. https://zoom.us; Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 846 0511 1606, Passcode: 585936.

Chronic Pain – “Giveaways” to participants; Mon., 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Starting Aug. 1. Rear of JASA main office, Giveaways. Call Laura Brea, 646982-8254; or Julissa, 646-946-1252.

Crochet Club – Tues., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Rear of JASA main office. Call Laura Brea, 646-982-8254; or Julissa, 646-946-1252.

Crochet Class w/Sandra Ramirez – In rear of JASA main office; In-person: Sat., 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Please call 718-320-2066 to register. Virtual: Sat., 7 p.m.-8 p.m. https://us02web.zoom.us/; Dial-in number: 646-558-8656, 81636224412#, Meeting ID: 816 3622 4412.

JASA Bartow Older Adult program is seeking retired professionals to teach Conversational Spanish, Conversational French and Sign-Language to seniors. If interested, please contact amoncrieffe@ jasa.org as soon as possible.

Notary – Appointment ONLY; call 718-3202066. Available at JASA Bartow main office: Weds., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; and Thurs., 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Einstein Center, Room 34: Thurs., 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Deliver Health Workshops to help others in the community, and get gift cards. For

further information, please call or email: Julissa Reynoso, 646-946-1252/jreynoso@jasa.org; Laura Brea, 646-982-8254/lbrea@jasa.org.

Every Wed., Painting Classes – 9-11 a.m. Zoom meeting. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057.

Meditation Class – GPC (Grandparents), 11 a.m.12 p.m., 3rd Thurs. of every month. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 991 1390 5105, Passcode: 170462.

Technology class – (Smart devices and computer), Thurs., 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Join Zoom meeting: Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

Line Dancing with Bartow Swingers – Mon., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Bartow Center, Room 31; Wed. and Fri., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 1.

24

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service in-person at 9:00 a.m. The summer schedule will continue through Sunday, September 11. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Masks are required. The service is also available on Zoom using the following information: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102, or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: (646) 568-7788, or Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#.

Rev. Williams is encouraging everyone who calls in to the Sunday Worship service or Wednesday Bible class to use Zoom, which can be accessed through your computer or dialing in using the Zoom information shown above.

The Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number is 857-357-0254, the Access Code is 660065#.

All Bible Study classes, children’s Sunday school and the Friday evening prayer service will be on hiatus during July and August.

Friday Prayer is held at 10:00 a.m. and will continue during the summer via the Free Conference Call.com Line shown above.

Co-op City Baptist Church will be celebrating Rev. Williams’ 30th Pastoral Anniversary on Saturday, October 1, at Eastwood Manor located at 3371 Eastchester Road. Donation is $100 for adults and $75 for children 5-17 years old. Children under 5 are free. Please contact Joyce Hamilton Williams at 718-671-1918 or Brenda Robinson at 718-6711271 for additional information.

Please keep each other in prayer and be wise in your decisions. Please continue to mask-up, practice social distancing and stay safe!

“God will strengthen us as we continue to travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) 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 Affiliated Benefits_Ad_Final_Layout 1 1/10/22 2:52 PM Page 1 church through ministry.

––Hattie L. Lucas

Ab

Affiliated Benefits A Full Service Insurance Brokerage

• Co-op Insurance • Auto Insurance • Life Insurance • Business Insurance • Surety and Fidelity Bonds • Local Notary Public Services

914-668-0800 212 Hutchinson Blvd.

Mount Vernon, NY 10552

“We’re here when you need us.”

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Saturday morning services will start at 10 a.m.

General Information The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the ground floor of Building 27B, it is handicap accessible, no steps. Our phone number is 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m.

Please call the office before you attempt to come over.

If no one is in the office, please leave a message.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After services, we always have a Kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

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

The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan.

There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m. so we can take out the Torah. The Traditional

Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City.

Sabbath ends on Saturday, July 30, at 9:05 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, August 5, 7:46 p.m.

Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree (If you want to buy a tree, call 347-449-5005). Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you are ill, we wish you all good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To All Members Happy birthday to Barbara Rose, Howard and Stevan Schwartz, Fern Brand and all other of our members who will be celebrating their birthday in August. Please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games After services and Kiddush, members play games.

Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

––Bruce Gitelson

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle We are located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Bronx, NY 10475 in Building 22A. You are invited to join online for services until further notice. Call-in #: 720-740-9746, Access Code: 8876631. Contact telephone number: 718-324 0334 or 646-345-6707.

Sunday Worship Service is from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service held from 11a.m.-1p.m.

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

Friday evening worship service held at 7:30 p.m.

Focus Thought: The Power of Unity (Genesis 11: 1-6) “And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech. 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. 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. 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. And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. 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.” (Read 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 those who are like 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.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Church of the New Vision and Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge welcome you to worship with us at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. Church phone: (718) 671-8746, and Pastor’s phone: (914)-522-5039.

There is one service at 11:00 a.m. and Sunday School will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Masks are required and temperature will be taken.

Services can also be viewed on YouTube after 1 p.m.

Our verse for 2022 is: (Isaiah 54:17) “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgement you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from, Me, say the Lord.”

Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study starts at 7:00 p.m. The Conference Line Number: (646) 769-9900, Access Code: 3099388. Once prayer has begun, please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity.

Sunday, July 24, Worship Service: “What Shall I Render” Scripture: (Psalm 116:12) “What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits towards me.”

(Psalm 116:1-19) 50th Anniversary Banquet – Saturday, October 8, 1-6 p.m. at Eastwood Manor. Anniversary Guest Speaker: Reverend Dr. Shelton Williams. Adults: $100, youths: $50. For tickets and information, con-

tact: Sadie James, 718-652-8943; or Hermena Smith, 718-708-5035.

Journal Committee: In celebration of the church anniversary, a commemorative journal is being compiled. If you would like to purchase an ad, contact Brenda Brown at 718-671-3748 or Hermena Smith at 718-708-5035. The ad prices are as follows: inside front/back cover, $200; full-page, $100; half-page, $60; quarter-page, $40; eighth-page, $30; business card, $25; booster, $5; add a photo for $20. Ads must be purchased by September 15.

The Lord has blessed Church of New Vision for the past 50 years and through it all we are still here in unity by God’s grace – abiding in faith, hope and love. Because a small group of believers saw a need and had a mission to move forward in unity with a purpose, Church of the New Vision was established on November 12, 1972 in the Co-op City community located in Section 5. Today, as members, visitors and friends of the Church of the New Vision, you can be a participant in this 50th Golden Anniversary Fundraiser with your contribution of $50, signifying fifty years of service unto the Lord. Remember, the church is a 501c3 non-profit religious organization.

Make payment payable to Church of the New Vision and note: 50th Golden Anniversary.

Thank you for your contributions. Mailing address: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

––Brenda Brown

Church of the New Vision

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022 25

Newsong Church Newsong Church: The place for you (maybe) I have met quite a few people over the last few years who tell me they are currently “church shopping.” In other words, they are looking for a church that will meet their specific needs. You can think of it like buying a car—you do not want to buy it until you take it for a test drive. So, if you are “shopping,” there are a few things about Newsong Church you should know up front.

We are not a perfect church. If you are looking for a perfect church, we are not your church. We make mistakes all the time just like you do, but we follow a perfect God who is teaching us how to learn and grow from them.

We are not a cookie cutter church. If you are looking for a church where everyone looks the same, sounds the same or thinks the same, we are not your church. Our church is a multicultural community from all walks of life. We have young people, old people, married people, single people, tattooed people, pierced people, people who dress up and people who dress down. As you can see, we are all about people, because all people matter to God! We are not an unbalanced church. We are a church that loves the Word of God. We believe the Bible is divinely inspired and teaches us, corrects us, challenges us and transforms us as we apply it to our lives. Culture changes, but God and His Word

never change. So, you need to know up front that God’s word does not always tell us what we want to hear, but it does always tell us what we need to hear.

At Newsong, we do not view the Bible through the lens of our culture, we view our culture through the lens of the Bible. As a result, we are a community of believers on a journey with Jesus. We are learning how to extend the same mercy and grace to each other that God freely gives to us.

We are not a self-centered church. At Newsong, our mission is to love God, love others and serve our community. We do not want something from you. We want something for you. We want you to meet Jesus. We want you to come and see Him for yourself. Every person who calls Newsong their home is learning how to live out their Godgiven purpose. We are learning how God wants us to be participators in His mission and contributors to His plans.

So, if you are shopping for a church that is not perfect, but loves God and is learning how to love others, we are your church. If you are looking for a church that will help you discover God’s plan and encourage you to use your gifts, we are your church!

Newsong Church meets Sundays at 11 a.m. at 135 Einstein Loop. Our website is www.newsongchurchnyc.org.

––Pastor Mike Tolone

Circle of Christ Church - Iglesia Circulo De Cristo 147 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 (lower level).

Come As You Are… (Psalm 122:1) “I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the Lord.”

If you are looking for a place of worship in the local area aimed at teaching the transforming word of God, Circle of Christ Church invites you to fellowship with us. We are a non-denominational, multicultural and loving church that accepts you just the way you are. Our Senior Pastor Elisamuel Colón and the body of Christ are committed to loving people into a life-changing liberating relationship with God. The English service has a Bible-centered children’s church for ages 5 to 12. We have a food pantry that serves the community, and we offer family counseling based on need. If you are interested, please contact us at (347) 945-1992, or on Facebook: “@Circle of Christ Church.” See schedule below and follow us on Facebook, YouTube and on our website: circleofchristchurch.com Monday-Friday: Devotionals on Facebook Live at 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday: Bible Study on Facebook Live, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Thursday: Women Prayer Group (in-person) at 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Spanish Bible Study on Facebook Live from 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Friday: Youth Service (Operation Grace), 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Saturday: Women’s Fellowship, every first Saturday of the month from 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.

F.A.I.T.H. outreach for the homeless, every second Saturday of the month.

Young adults every third Saturday of the month from 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Men’s Fellowship every other month at 11 a.m.

Couples Fellowship every other month at 11 a.m.

Sunday Services: Spanish: 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.; and English: 11:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Servicios en Español “Salmos 122:1” Yo me alegré con los que me decían, “a la casa de Jehova iremos.”.

Nuestros servicios dominicales son en español e inglés. Tenemos un equipo de adoración ungido y un ministerio de danza que ministran regularmente. El servicio de inglés tiene una iglesia de niños centrada en la biblia y un programa de guardería donde se atiende a los niños de 5 a 12 años de edad. Consulte nuestro programa a continuación y síganos en Facebook y en nuestro sitio web circleofchristchurch.com. Distribuimos alimentos y ofrecemos asesoramiento familiar según las necesidades. Si está interesado, contáctenos al (347) 945-1992.

Servicios: en persona, en YouTube y Facebook Live Servicios Dominicales: Español: 9:00-10:30 a.m.; y servicio en Inglés: 11:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Devocionales de Lunes a Viernes: en Inglés en Facebook Live a las 11 a.m.

Martes: Estudio Bíblico en Facebook Live 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Jueves: Grupo de oración de mujeres (en persona) de 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Jueves: Estudio Bíblico en Español en Facebook Live a la 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Viernes: Operation Grace Youth Service, 7:00-9:00 p.m. (en persona).

Cada primer sábado del mes: Ministerio de mujeres, 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Cada segundo sábado del mes: F.A.I.T.H. alcance para las personas sin hogar.

Cada tercer sábado del mes: Adultos jóvenes, 12-2 p.m. (en persona).

—Pastor Sam Colon

Iglesia Evangélica MU de Co-op City - Co-op City UMC Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds Come and Visit Us – You are always welcome in God’s house – your house! We are a Bible-centered 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. All are welcome! Services are held at 2350 Palmer Avenue across from Building 30. Parking is available. Our Pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta.

Our telephone number: (718) 320-3795. Our email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com.

Summer Schedule for Sundays - Come and Receive a Blessing.

Bilingual Service: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Tuesday: Spanish Bible Study (via Zoom), 12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m.

Tuesday Evening Bible Study (via Zoom), 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.

Thursday: Bilingual Prayer Service (in-person and via Zoom), 9:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m.

“Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence this day.” (1 Kings 8:28, NIV). Come let us pray together!

Food Pantry: Thursdays 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Community Health Fair and Flea Market Join us! August 27 from 10-5 p.m. All are welcomed!

For more information, interested vendors may contact Pauline Taylor: 718-320-1552.

Email: CoopCityEvangelicalUMC@gmail.com.

Blessings, ––Marilyn Méndez-González

26

Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

Public Safety ––––––––––––

Alert: Graffiti vandalism

(Continued from page 7)

are very useful in helping with enforcement. All of these are lease infractions and can be a very sensitive and technical situation. Cooperators should just call Public Safety instead of confronting the potential offender. Approaching a violator, writing notes to stop the noise or banging on the wall, floor or ceiling is never a good tactic.

Noise complaints are one of the most common complaints the Department of Public Safety handles on a regular basis. Remember, as in “Dog” or “Objects out the Window” complaints, it is never a good idea for cooperators to ring someone’s doorbell and confront the offender. Call Public Safety and provide the information. Calls received from cooperators have been responsible for numerous Community Complaints and arrests throughout the years.

The Department of Public Safety would like to remind all residents who have permits which allow dogs that they must clean up after their dog. It is essential that residents clean up after their dogs for the health and safety of all residents of the community. The Co-op City Public Safety Department is conducting zero tolerance enforcement of dog violations for any dogs which are observed to be off the leash or owners failing to pick up after their dog. These are lease violations and also administrative code violations and are subject to New York City summonses being issued. Community Complaints or summonses may be issued without previous warning.

“IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING” is important for fighting crime as well. Many of the serious arrests made in Co-op City begin with a telephone call from an observant cooperator. Many of the auto crime arrests are made because a cooperator calls in a suspicious person in the garage or near a car on the street. Active involvement by residents allows auto crime rates within Co-op City to remain among the lowest in the city. Arrests for trespassing in the stairwells are often the result of a cooperator calling in that they saw, heard or smelled something in the hallway. Co-op City’s 65,000 residents have some 130,000 eyes. All of these eyes can be an effective tool in fighting crime and maintaining a high quality of life in the community. Call 911 and the Co-op City Department of Public Safety, (718) 671-3050, immediately.

The Public Safety Department would like to thank members of the community who took the time to notify this department and 911 when they saw something suspicious. These calls continue to be essential in our battle against crime and quality of life violations. Call 911 and the Co-op City Department of Public Safety (718) 671-3050. You do not have to give your name; all information is kept confidential.

Residents are reminded that barbequing is not permitted on any of the public

If you witness anyone tagging or spraying graffiti on Co-op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at 718-671-3050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety. areas of Co-op City. Strict guidelines set forth by the New York City Fire Department do not permit barbecuing within 10 feet of any residential building.

Propane tanks are strictly prohibited by the New York City Fire Department in any multiple family dwellings. Residents are also reminded that bike riding is not permitted near buildings, in shopping malls or anywhere else signs prohibiting bicycle riding are posted. This includes electric bicycles and scooters, including the rental type available in the community. Remember to stay safe this summer, especially near pools, beaches and other bodies of water, and more importantly, if no lifeguards are on duty.

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. Do not forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street. Maintain social distancing and follow the current recommendations from New York City Board of Health and the CDC. Coop City strives to accommodate all persons. Avoid getting into confrontations with neighbors regarding the wearing of masks or vaccination status. Be responsible for yourself, your family and your guests.

Since Tuesday, February 16, 2021, Riverbay Corporation put into effect a new policy regarding the wearing of masks. Non-compliant shareholders who fail or refuse to properly wear masks or face coverings are subject to a $50.00 Community Complaint violation. These fines double for repeat violations. This new Community Complaint received approval from the New York State DHCR (Division of Homes and Community Renewal) due to mandates in effect within New York State. Riverbay Corporation has elected to maintain the mask mandate for the health and safety of cooperators and visitors.

Wearing a mask or face covering is required in the public areas of the buildings including the lobbies, hallways, elevators and laundry rooms. The high volume of persons passing through these locations make it a very important requirement to wear a mask. Wearing a mask is for your safety and the safety of your neighbors and family members. Be sure to instruct all family members and guests of the mask-wearing requirement in Co-op City common areas. This includes work persons and delivery persons. Be Co-op City Strong and wear your mask.

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Find your pollsite and hours:

VOTE.NYC or call 866-VOTE-NYC

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Co-op City Times / July 30, 2022

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