Co-op City Times 02/17/18 by Co-op City Times

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STAR Deadline For The 2018/2019 Tax Year Is March 15 Vol. 53 No. 7

All Co-op City shareholders are eligible for the New York State School Tax Relief (STAR) Program, but it is not an automatic credit; it must be filed for. You do not have to reapply for STAR if you are already receiving the credit. You only need to reapply if you were receiving Basic STAR and you are now eligible for Enhanced STAR. Since the 2016/2017 tax year, first time applicants must register with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance for the STAR credit. New applicants are those who purchased their apartments in Co-op City after March 15, 2015 or those who did not apply for the STAR exemption by the March 15, 2015 deadline. BY ROZAAN BOONE

Saturday, February 17, 2018

There are two types of STAR credit. Basic STAR is available to any owner of a house, cooperative apartment, condominium or other property as long as at least one owner lives in or uses the property as their primary residence. Married couples owning more than one property can only have STAR on one property unless they are divorced or legally separated and can provide documentation to support their claim. There is no age limit to receive Basic STAR, however, the combined household income of the owner(s) must be $500,000 or less. Enhanced STAR applicants must also use the residence they are filing

To provide a stricter deterrent against the unhealthy and unsavory act of urinating in public places in the community, such as stairwells, elevators, building walls and bushes, the Riverbay Board of Directors approved a resolution calling for a $350 community complaint fine against any shareholder if he/she or their family member or guest is caught urinating in public within Co-op City. This past week, the state Division of Homes and Community Renewal

Community Encouraged To Attend BSA Hearing On Electronic Billboards, Feb. 27th A February 27th public hearing before the city’s Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) could likely decide the fate of a proposed massive electronic billboard which, if approved, could loom over the southwest corner of the community for decades to come, shining into the home of hundreds of current and future Co-op City residents. The agenda for the BSA public hearing begins at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February 27th and there are as many as 23 items on the agenda that day so it is hard to determine exactly when the Co-op City issue will be heard. But City Councilman Andy King, BY BILL STUTTIG

who is leading the fight to stop the massive signs’ completion and limit or stop the use of the existing threesided electronic billboard at the corner of Baychester and Bartow Avenues, said that it is very important that Co-op City residents get into the room at the beginning of the day because space is limited and seating might be filled by others whose issues also might come before the BSA that day. Because of this, a Riverbay-sponsored bus to the hearing is now scheduled to leave from in front of the former Bingo Hall on Bartow Avenue at 8:30 (Continued on page 4)

(Continued on page 30)

DHCR Approves Riverbay’s Public Urination Fine BY BILL STUTTIG

25¢

(DHCR) sent notice to Riverbay of their approval of the fine – technically called an administrative fee – paving the way for the new regulation to go into effect 30 days after the publication of this article. Going forward from March 20th, 2018, any resident caught urinating in public will have a $350 community complaint assessed against their home. After the complaint is issued by a Co-op City Public Safety Officer, notice of the (Continued on page 4)

Young at Heart

Councilman Andy King and his senior constituents proved that age is no restriction to having a good time on the dance floor as he and State Senator Jamaal Bailey and Congressman Eliot Engel hosted a Senior Valentine’s Day Dance and Luncheon Wednesday afternoon in the Dreiser Auditorium. See more photos on page 23. Photo by Bill Stuttig

Window Guard Deadline Was February 15 Home Visits Have Begun

The annual Window Guard forms were due back by Thursday, February 15, 2018. City law mandates that Managing Agents reach out to all individuals who did not submit/return a Window Guard form. As a result, beginning Friday, February 16, Riverbay employees will be visiting all shareholders who did not submitted a Window Guard form. The employees will have a form specific for your unit which must be filled out and signed. If you are not home, you will be responsible for completing and returning the form that will be placed under your door prior to March 1, 2018. Failure to submit the form by March 1, 2018 will result in Riverbay reporting the units that did not comply to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, as is required. The employees will be visiting Monday-Friday, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All employee will have their Riverbay ID’s properly displayed. Thank you for your cooperation. —Cooperator Services Office

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Three Building 12 Homes Reported Burglarized In The Span Of Less Than 10 Hours

BY BILL STUTTIG The disturbing crime of breaking into a home and stealing valuables – a rarity in Co-op City – was reported three times in less than a 12 hour period Wednesday night into Thursday morning – all in Building 12. The Public Safety Detective Unit (CCPD) reported receiving two calls, 15 minutes apart, beginning at approximately 11 p.m. Wednesday, each reporting their home was broken into and burglarized. After CCPD responded, it was reported that in each of these two incidents, the burglar or burglars removed cash and jewelry. One of the victimized shareholders reported damage to a file cabinet that had been forced open. The other victim from Wednesday night reported a jewelry box being tampered with. In each instance, the homes were left in a state of disarray by the criminals. As these two cases were being investigated, another shareholder called reporting a similar break-in and robbery Thursday morning. In this case, the shareholders reported returning to their home after a few days away and observing that

their safe was on their bed and opened and the jewelry inside removed, according to Public Safety. In all three of the burglaries, there were no signs of forced entry or any damage to the door locks and each of the victims reported that their apartment doors were secure upon opening them and entering to realize immediately that they had been burglarized. All three incidents are currently being investigated by CCPD Detectives, along with NYPD. Anyone with information related to this incident can report it anonymously to the CCPD Tips Hotline at (718) 879-6311, CCPD website at www.ccpd.us and or NYPD Crime Stoppers Tips Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS. If you observe any suspicious individual(s) in your building, please contact Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 and or 9-1-1 immediately. (See page 7 and 16 for steps that can be taken by residents to reduce the chances of being burglarized.)

Statement From Borough President Diaz Re: Proposed New Jail In The Bronx

On Wednesday, February 14, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. released the following statement: “I was surprised to learn that the administration has already selected a site for a new jail in the Bronx. I hope that, going forward, this lack of outreach is not a harbinger of the amount of community input the people of my borough will have in this process. I expect that the administration will present my office with a detailed outline of their plans for a new jail, and I will examine those plans carefully as the process moves forward. “Criminal justice reform, and the need for a fairer court system, is a defining issue of our time. I was proud to work to end ‘stop and frisk’ and to ‘raise the age’ of criminal liability, and that work informs my office’s current efforts to end cash bail and reform parole. Our jail system is a human rights violation, and efforts to limit the unconstitutional levels of our jail population are certainly welcome. “However, any new site for a jail in this borough must be thoroughly vetted, and the people of the Bronx must have a meaningful say in the selection of any future site, be it the one that has been proposed in Mott Haven or other appropriate sites that could host a new jail. Presenting the selection of this site as a fait accompli undermines the entire process, and has the potential to derail necessary criminal justice reform.”

50th Anniversary/ History Committee Meeting

The Riverbay Board’s 50th Anniversary/History Committee Meeting will take place on Wednesday, February 21, at 7:00 p.m. in room 26A of the Bartow Center (Board Room). All members, please mark your calendar and plan to attend. Board Director Bernard Cylich is chair of the 50th Anniversary/History Committee.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Co-op City Times 2 n d

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Bronx Borough President Salutes 2018 Honorees At Black History Celebration Combing Co-op City Find out what’s going on in Co-op City here...

NCNW’s Annual Black History Month Celebration

On Saturday, February 10, Bronx Borough President Rubin Diaz, Jr. sponsored a very festive and inclusive celebration of African-American culture and history in the Einstein Loop Communitiy Center. The 2018 Honorees for this occasion were the Hon. Helen D. Foster, commissioner, NYS Division of Human Rights; Mr. Shaun King, journalist, humanitarian and activist and Ms. Tamika Mallory, president, Mallory Consulting and co-chair of the Women’s March. Due to illness, Mr. King was not able to attend. Borough President Diaz also posthumously awarded the Jonathan Hicks Memorial Award to PFC Emmanuel MenBY LAURETTA JAYSURA

The Co-op City section of the NCNW will hold their 17th Annual Black History Month Celebration next Saturday, February 24, 1-4 p.m. in Aud. B of the Dreiser Center. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. This will be an afternoon of singing, dancing, stepping, poetry, spoken word, story-telling and much more. Come participate in “Telling Our Story in Our Voice, Our Image, our Way.”

Applications For Tony Mondesire Scholarships The Spanish American Community Club has reported that applications for the Tony Mondesire Scholarship are now available in room 16 of the Dreiser Center or at any of the club’s monthly meetings, either the second Thursday of every month or at the club’s board of directors meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. Applicants must be from households of members of the Spanish American Community Club; at least 18 years of age and residents of the Bronx. Students must carry a minimum of 12 credits per semester at an accredited institution for at least one year. The application deadline is May 10, and they can be returned either by mail or to a member of the club’s Scholarship Board of Trustees.

CCLL’s Free Baseball Clinics The Co-op City Little League will be hosting two more free baseball clinics at Truman HS, 750 Baychester Ave. (rear entrance): tomorrow, Sunday, Feb. 18 and on March 11. Times for boys and girls, ages 914 years old, are from 9-11 a.m.; children, ages 5-8, are from 11:15-12:45 p.m. You may register your child for Little League at the clinics. For more information, coopcityll @yahoo.com or call (914) 262-9697.

Bronx BP Diaz (right) congratulates Honoree Tamika Mallory (second right). He is joined by MC Cheryl Wills (second, left) and Bronx DA Darcel Clark (left).

The family of Bronx solider Emmanuel Mensah who lost his life while trying to save his neighbors in a fire late last year accept an award honoring Mr. Mensah’s bravery and service to others. Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

L-R: Bronx DA Darcel Clark, MC Cheryl Wills, Honoree Helen D. Foster, NYC Human Rights Commissioner; Retired Deputy Bronx BP Aurelia Greene and Bronx BP Ruben Diaz.

sah for his bravery on the battlefield while serving in our nation’s military. The 26-year old soldier, who immigrated from Ghana, lost his life saving his neighbors in an apartment fire in the Bronx in December 2017. This award was humbly accepted by members of the serviceman’s family. Shareholders, other Bronxites, neighbors and friends packed the auditorium for this gala affair, which was cosponsored by Health First and the Riverbay Corporation. They came out even in the rain to celebrate the day and enjoy the delicious food, music and dancing. Additionally, Congressman Eliot Engel, State Sen. Jamaal Bailey, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Bronx DA Darcel Clark and representatives of other local politicos attended and participated in this important national commemoration. Ms. Cheryl Wills, herself an accomplished African American author, TV anchor and educator, was Mistress of Ceremonies. The Invocation was by Elder Nitisha Moore and leading in the singing of the “National Anthem” and the “African American National Anthem” was Ms. Delise Jones, principal, IS 117. Co-op City’s own popular dance group, the Bartow Swingers, provided entertainment under the direction of Ms. Voncile Mallory, and DJ Baker. Ms. Mallory and her husband, Mr. Stan Mallory of the Dancing Gents, are the proud parents of honoree Tamika Mallory. In awarding the 2018 honorees, Boro President Diaz commended and thanked them for their service, personal struggles and what they have been able to achieve in the fight for equality among all Americans. He went on to give thanks and recognition to those who fight every day as unsung heroes across the nation. Shareholders had high praise for Bronx Borough President Diaz and what he is doing.

Assemblyman Benedetto Provides Seniors With Free Income Tax Preparation

Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto, in conjunction with the Iona College Accounting Department, is once again offering free income tax preparation for seniors 62 years of age or older who reside within the boundaries of his district (Co-op City, Throggs Neck, Morris Park, Pelham Bay, and City Island). Tax documents can be dropped off at the Assemblyman’s office beginning on Thursday, February 15. This service is limited to seniors who meet the following criteria: • Simple filings only!! • Complete copies of 2017 federal and state returns must be included • Name, social security number, and date of birth of all people claimed on the return as taxpayers and dependents

• Adjusted gross income (AGI) for 2017 must be under $50,000 • All necessary paper work must be included as a complete file and brought to the office, otherwise it will be returned • You must provide us with a telephone or cellphone number at which you can be reached during normal business hours and on Saturdays • Let us know if there have been any changes in taxpayers or dependents from your 2017 return, such as birth or death of a taxpayer or dependent. Seniors are encouraged to bring all their tax documents to Assemblyman Benedetto’s office at 3602 East Tremont Ave, Suite 201 or 177 Dreiser Loop, room 12, anytime from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m., Monday (Continued on page 9)

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

BSA Hearing

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a.m. sharp on Tuesday, Feb. 27 in order to reach downtown Manhattan by 10 a.m. As of press time Friday, the bus was filling up with only a limited number of seats left. To reserve a seat, call 347-9134224. Only reserve a seat on the bus if you are absolutely certain you will attend. Carlo Costanza, executive director of the BSA, said that he and his staff are accustomed to working with and accommodating community residents with issues before the board and they will work to make sure residents who wish to listen and/or speak before the board can do so. He said that no prior registration for speaking time is required, adding that residents who do speak are limited to roughly three minutes, but are often allowed to speak just a few moments longer than three minutes in order to complete making their point clear to the board. Staff from the BSA said that residents can also submit written testimony to the BSA before the hearing by mail. The address is New York City Board of Standards and Appeals, 250 Broadway, 29th floor, New York, NY 10007; Attention BSA Chairperson Margery Perlmutter. Matthew Cruz, district manager of Community Board 10, called the public hearing on February 27th an interpretive hearing involving the City Planning Commission and the owners of the development erecting the billboards, Baychester Retail III, LLC. Mr. Cruz said that while the community board has no official capacity to offer a recommendation on the issue due to the signs being erected “as of right” due to the very unusual C-7 zoning status for that particular property, the community board will be submit-

ting written testimony against the billboards to the BSA on behalf of the interests of the Co-op City community. Councilman King reported this week that he has recently met with the owners of the small controversial developing strip mall and they have agreed to turn down the illumination for the existing threesided billboard and take down the whiskey advertisement which many in the community found offensive, particularly in light of the sign being situated just two blocks from five Co-op City schools. Councilman King called the agreement by the strip mall owners to turn down the illumination and remove the whiskey ad “an act of good faith on their part, but we are still a neighborhood and we need to be respected as a neighborhood and not as a commercial strip where you can place any type of signage that you want. We are still asking people to attend the hearing because if they see 50, 60 or 100 people at the hearing (the BSA) will take that into consideration when making their decision.” He advised Co-op City residents: “Don’t come up with an excuse as to why you can’t make it. Find every reason to be there on the 27th.” State Senator Jamaal Bailey added that he and Assemblyman Benedetto on doing whatever they can to put pressure on the strip mall owners from the state level, including contacting state transportation agencies to find out if the signs’ close proximity to the highway is in violation of any laws. He added that he found the whiskey ad tied in with professional basketball particularly offensive in part because it plays upon a stereotype wrongly and unfairly associated with minority communities. He

called the signs “offensive to the community and a nuisance. Residents work very hard to own their homes and they should not be subjected to such nonsense…We have to put the Co-op City community first.” Electronic billboards are usually not permitted on properties zoned commercial except in the case of C-7 zoning, a special zoning status granted for the development of amusement parks. The C-7 zoning for this small piece of property dates back to the early’60s when the theme amusement park Freedomland was developed on the land where much of Co-op City and Bay Plaza now sits. After Freedomland was closed and abandoned after only a few seasons of operation in the early 60’s, much of the land was rezoned residential for the development of Co-op City beginning in the late ‘60s, and Commercial 3 and 4 for the development of Bay Plaza a few decades later. However, possibly as an oversight by city planners a half century ago, the small piece of property where the mini mall is being developed was never rezoned appropriate to its practical use, thus creating the current controversy regarding the legality of placing huge electronic billboards so close to a large residential community. The only other property zoned C-7 in the City of the New York is in Coney Island, home to The Cyclone and many other amusement attractions enjoyed by millions each year over more than a century. The C-7 zoning is obviously appropriate for its use in the Coney Island location, but not at all appropriate for a small piece of land so close to one of the world’s largest residential developments.

Urination

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complaint fine, but, in this case, if a family member or visitor to a home is caught urinating in public, the fine is assessed against the shareholder. The resolution calling for the new community complaint fine was passed by a vote of 7 to 4 by the Riverbay Board of Directors on January 17th. The resolution specifically cites the costs of cleaning up and disinfecting after such incidents, declaring that it is unfair for the cooperative’s shareholders to

absorb the costs of such clean-ups when, in fact, such incidents are only caused by a few offending residents. Some of the four directors who voted against the fine have publicly stated that they thought the fine was too steep and failed to recognize the fact that some offenders may have no choice but to relieve themselves discreetly when they don’t have enough time to reach their homes or a public restroom.

community complaint then goes to the resident’s Cooperator Services Office whose staff then researches whether this complaint is a repeat offense, in which case, the fine will be doubled. The shareholder of record will then be given written notice of the complaint and be asked to either pay the fee or appeal it before the Riverbay Cooperators Appeals Committee. Residents who fail to pay or appeal the fee or fail to pay after losing their appeal will then be assessed the fee in their next monthly carrying charge statement. Only shareholders can be assessed a community

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

Bronx BP Celebrates Black History Month In Co-op City

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. invited the community to his Black History Month celebration held in Co-op City last Saturday, Feb. 10. Among the honorees were Co-op City’s own Tamika Mallory; Helen D. Foster, NYC Human Rights Commissioner; and journalist/activist Shaun King (he was unable to attend due to illness). The borough president also honored Emmanuel Mensah, the soldier who died in the apartment fire in the Bronx last December as he courageously made repeated trips into the burning building to save his neighbors. Photos by Lauretta Jaysura

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Letters to the Editor

Fighting the Billboards

To the Editor: Have you done your part fighting, with your neighbors, against the gigantic billboards at the 7-Eleven? Are you thinking: What can one person do? Turns out one person can do a LOT. One of the residents dealing with these assaultive signs went straight to the advertiser buying space on the billboards. He gently confronted the company and voiced his concerns for the liquor ad being so close to our children’s environment. As a result, Jack Daniels immediately pulled its ads from the site. But more ads are coming. As cooperators, we all have a stake in our community. Hundreds of cooperators live in buildings directly suffering from this light pollution. The current signs are already unbearable, but what will happen if the proposed, even more gargantuan, monopole begins glaring out across our neighborhood with an additional 27 atrocious, blindingly bright signs attached. What happens to the value of those apartments? What if they become uninhabited? Who incurs the price of those uninhabitable units? We all do. Petitions have been circulating, but it’s not enough. Calling all building association leaders to join the petition campaign to collect as many signatures as possible in the next ten days. Cooperators, volunteer to stand in your own lobby to help your neighbors, even if they aren’t your immediate neighbors. A hearing on the rising billboard is taking place at the end of this month, Tuesday, February 27th. Dozens of residents will be attending that meeting to fight for their right to enjoy their home in peace. Let’s send them off with thousands of signatures. Let’s all pitch in. —Kelly Canzoneri

I’m On America’s Side

To the Editor: There is always an attempt by the left to smear people for merely pointing out obvious facts. The immense power of the Trilateral Commission and the Council on Foreign Relations (the C.F.R.) is obvious to anyone who studies the issue. Comments from David Rockefeller, Hillary Clinton and Carroll Quigley prove the existence of a master conspiracy – the goal is to enslave mankind. The power of these two powerful organizations is not being disputed by last week’s letter writer. The Skull and Bones Society, and the Bilderbergers, are also examples of secretive, one-world groups. Calling the Trilateral Commission and the C.F.R. "conservative think tanks," doesn't change the facts or dismiss their roles in attempting to destroy America and our way of life. The philosophy of Nazism was not being "sanitized' by me. The Nazis killed millions of innocent people. They are self-proclaimed National Socialists (Nazism being a contraction of National Socialism). Nazis, like Communists, want to impose a total dictatorship over the populace. The Nazis and the Russians made a military alliance together because their philosophies are so similar. While Nazism is now (basically) defunct, the Communists over the last century have murdered about 100 million people. Both philosophies want total control over the lives of the people. Communism uses people as pawns in their attempt at world conquest. Socialism is merely a means of moving toward total dictatorship. Prof. Antony Sutton's book “Wall Street and the Rise of Hitler" points out the role of the financial conspirators who are willing to do anything necessary to obtain money and power. The same financial backing applies towards the Communists, who we (unfortunately) have spent decades assisting. They are both merely two sides of the same coin. If the writer read my weekly columns in the City News, he would know that I attacked the pharmaceutical industry on numerous occasions. Unfortunately, they are not the sole culprits in the opioid crisis. Socialized medicine has also played a large role. To answer last week’s letter writer’s final question, I am on the side of America, which was founded on a philosophy of limited government, and I stand against the New World Order, which represents total government. —David Hammer

President Kennedy’s “Jelly Roll” Expression

To the Editor: Just because you call yourself a jelly roll doesn't mean you’re a jelly roll. The meaning of this expression is just because you call yourself a Conservative, Liberal, Progressive or Libertarian, doesn't mean you are. When I was growing up, Conservatives were anti-Israel. Before World War II, Conservatives didn't want to spend on the Armed Forces (sounds like what some people who call themselves Liberals are saying now). After the American Revolution, those who were considered Conservatives believed in a strong centralized government and those who were considered Liberals believed in a weak centralized government. Times have definitely changed. People have called President Wilson a Progressive because of the 40-hour work-week and child labor laws, Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

but there is no way I would call him a Progressive when he declared war on his own people and brought about strict segregation. After the American Revolution, there were those who declared that they didn't believe in any form of government, what we now call Anarchists. Half of those who call themselves Libertarians believe in decriminalized marijuana; the other half say no way. I got the “jelly roll” expression from President Kennedy's announcement which he made at the Berlin Wall. Interestingly, when I was stationed in Germany, a German asked me why did President Kennedy called himself a jelly roll? —Stephen Werner Please see page 24 for more Letters

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 9 Building 9

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr. Expiration Date

Building 9 100 & 120 Dreiser Loop

May 31, 2018

May 30, 2021

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

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Associate Editor

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

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

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Public Safety Report

Burglary Prevention Tips For Residents BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Burglary is a crime that tends to occur in patterns from time to time. Public Safety has observed a burglary pattern beginning to evolve. Advanced surveillance systems and improved technology have greatly reduced the occurrence of burglaries within Co-op City. It is always a good idea to be aware of steps that can be taken further decrease your odds of being a burglary victim. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety offers these tips to decrease your chance of being burglarized. Never welcome burglars by telephone. Burglars have been known to try to find out if anyone is home by phoning. If you get a pattern of several suspicious wrong numbers or hang up calls, notify 9-1-1 or the Co-op City Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Warn family members, children included, not to give out information by telephone. It is particularly important not to tell callers who is out or how long they are expected to be out. Also do not put this information on your answering machine. A standard greeting, “There is no one available to come to the phone right now, please leave a message” does not divulge extended absences to potential burglars. This idea is as old as answering machines with telephones plugged in, but it is still a good idea. It is always nice to post vacation pictures on Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites. Just remember not everyone that can view your information is truly your friend. Use caution when posting pictures. You can always wait until you get home to post photos. Also make sure your privacy settings exclude anyone other than your friends from viewing your photographs. This holds true for the social media sites of everyone in your household. This is good practice for a variety of safety reasons. Never open your door to anyone you do not know. Ask repair persons or delivery persons to show identification. All Riverbay employees and utility providers, such as Cablevision, are required to carry identification while on duty. There are several different contractors working within Co-op City. Riverbay attempts to notify cooperators in advance when contractors will be working in a particular building. Never open your door until you are sure the person on the other side is legitimate. Even if you are expecting someone ask who it is before opening your door. Solicitors of any type are not permitted within the buildings of Co-op City. If you have any doubt, call 9-1-1 or the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Always make your home look and sound occupied. Consider purchasing a timer with a random setting to turn on a radio and lights at different times every day while on vacation. Lights that are left on for long periods of time can also signal that no one is home. Never advertise your vacation plans. Inform a trusted neighbor who can collect newspapers, mail or other deliveries. The postal service will suspend mail service for vacation periods. Notify the Public Safety Department if you are a member of the “Are You Okay?” program. Install good pick-proof locks and use them every time you leave the house or go to sleep. Riverbay Corporation provides only bottom lock access. A good quality top lock with a safety plate is highly recommended. Always change your locks if you lose your keys. Never leave keys under the mat, on top of the door frame or in any other “hiding” spot. Always keep house keys separate from car keys when utilizing valet service. Never place identifying information on keys. Consider purchasing a burglar

alarm and set it every time you leave the house or when you go to sleep. Do not reward the burglar who does get in. If, despite your precautions, a burglar does get in, don’t reward him with a large sum of cash and jewelry. Never keep large sums of cash in your home. Keep jewelry not often worn in a safe deposit box. Consider purchasing a high quality personal safe for short term storage of certain valuables. Inventory valuables and keep receipts in a safe place in the event that you are the victim of a burglary. Never enter your apartment if you believe it has been burglarized. The burglar could still be in the apartment. You also do not want to ruin evidence, such as fingerprints, before they are collected by the police. Always remember, if you see something, say something. If you see suspicious persons or hear suspicious noise coming from you neighbor’s apartment, a burglary could be taking place, notify the authorities. Townhouse residents should also be vigilant for persons loitering about the townhouse areas. Try to get to know your neighbors so you can be alert to any unusual changes in their routine. Please be alert to any suspicious activity. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. Never pass a stopped school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must give pedestrians the same level of respect that they expect from motor vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road safely. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety

would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained. Lt. Pam Apollo would also like to thank her loyal readers who stop by to say hello or who provide feedback and suggest topics for future articles.

Anonymous Calls To Public Safety

Periodically, cooperators may witness someone violating the housing company’s rules and regulations, however, some people are apprehensive about reporting the situation for fear of their identity being divulged to the violator in question. Please know that you may request to remain anonymous when you contact the Co-op City Public Safety Department (CCPD) regarding said issues and the Public Safety dispatchers, officers and supervisors have been instructed to accept these calls and investigate, accordingly. If, however, you feel forced to surrender your identification in order to lodge your complaint, immediately request to speak with a supervisor. Rest assured that you should feel comfortable placing these calls to our Public Safety Department, as oftentimes residents are the first to know when an incident has taking place and in most cases who the individuals involved are, as well. Thank you very much for your cooperation. —Riverbay Management

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

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

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES

Contract 3256, Landscaping Supplies Bids Due: February 28, 2018 at 4 p.m. at 2049 Bartow Avenue Bronx, NY 10475 – Procurement Department

Contract 3257, Annuals Spring 2018 Bids Due: February 28, 2018 by 4 p.m. at 2049 Bartow Avenue Bronx, NY 10475 – Procurement Department

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

There are no new employment opportunities to list this week. Please check back again next week. Please Visit The Bartow Administration Office To See All Jobs Posted.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

The Community Needs Your Involvement

Director’s Viewpoint

Francine Reva Jones Assistant Secretary

All cooperators are encouraged to participate at the February 27th meeting at the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) in an effort to “turn off the lights.” There are two glaring LED lighted billboards at the new 7-Eleven store located at the corner of Bartow and Baychester Avenues. These lights are disturbing to the shareholders living in the nearby buildings. Riverbay is planning to reserve a bus for cooperators who wish to attend the Tuesday meeting. The owners of the 7-Eleven store have taken advantage of an old zoning law. However, the owners have been stopped from installing a third sign. It is my view that these owners and the community should work together. If they know that the community does not like the bright signs because it is disturbing to the residents, perhaps we should work together to decide how big and how bright their signs should be. The owners should be more respectful of the residents. If not, the community must force them to be – by whatever lawful means necessary. There have been discussions about a hotel and an animal shelter. However, for many years, this community has been trying to get a community center for our youth. The powers that be won’t expend the funds for a community center and have not opened Truman H.S. for our use. This is a hard fight, but one worth waging for our youth. Our Board president has been communicating with the Mayor’s Office and I am hopeful that there will be positive results. Black History Month With Bronx Borough President It was an amazing Black History Month Celebration last Saturday, sponsored by Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. It featured Cheryl Wills as the Mistress of Ceremonies and Elder Nitisha Moore and Delise Jones, who rendered the Invocation and US National Anthem and African-American National Anthem, respectively. There were greetings by Congressman Eliot Engel and Assemblyman Michael

Benedetto. Several other elected officials were represented by their staff. Entertaining us for the afternoon were the fabulous Bartow Singers and Dancing Gents. The 2018 honorees were the Hon. Helen D. Foster, NYS Division of Human Rights commissioner, and Tamika Mallory, president of Mallory Consulting and co-chair of the 2017 Women’s March. Both women have been speakers at past African-American Association events and I was pleased to see them being honored. It was announced that honoree Shaun King, journalist, humanitarian and activist, was ill and unable to attend. The Jonathan Hicks Memorial Award, Posthumous, was presented to the family of Emmanuel Mensah, descendants of Ghana. Emmanuel Mensah was a NY Army National Guard Soldier who died in a massive apartment house fire in the Bronx on 12/28/17. He was credited with saving four lives, rescuing people three times before he returned to the building and did not come out. Borough President Diaz took this time to point out how important some immigrants are to our communities and to our country. Diaz previously called out the H&M store for the negative “monkey” remarks on their T-shirts and the Bronx principal who refused to allow a teacher to teach Black history to her class. Diaz also served a delicious meal. Black History Month With Senator Jamaal Bailey Several cooperators ventured over to P.S. 103 last Friday for the Black History Month program sponsored by Sen. Bailey. It was well worth the trip. Featured in the program were young singers, dancers, designers and a play revealing the achievements and contributions that Africans in America have made to this country. Sen. Bailey encouraged the children to study, listen to their parents and teachers and stay in school. If they did this, they would be able to accomplish their goals in life. The African-American Association’s Annual Black Film Festival cannot tell all of Black history, nor can any of the other programs. If you’d like to know more, visit YouTube for knowledge from scholars like Dr. Ivan Van Sertima, Dr. Anthony Browder, and many others.

Bundles of thanks and appreciation to all cooperators of and visitors to Building 14 who supported our annual Show Some Love fundraiser. Love was not the only addiction for this special time of the year, the gourmet cookies and brownies especially were scrumptious and had us craving more than one! It was awesome to see so many of the hearts purchased to express well wishes to loved one and many just to neighbors. The proceeds primarily support expenses for the Summer Fun Day (June 23rd Block Party), i.e., building contributions, t-shirts for volunteers, etc. I was not available to attend the Open Board Meeting, but encourage each of you read the Building 14 cooperators and visitors display attestaCo-op City Times for next steps tions of love, friendship, remembrances and well wishes through annual "Show Some Love" event cel- discussed. As previously writebrating Valentine's Day. Pictured l-r: Association of ten, continue to file complaints Building 14 Cooperators' treasurer Sandy McMichael about the nuisance LED billand president Josie Ferguson (right). boards in solidarity with the households directly impacted by the 24/7 bright lights. Do not patronage the strip mall store(s) either. Who knows, a vacant plot near your building might be next! We must remain firm and focused. The next building association meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 22nd. In recognition of Black History Month, join us for a viewing of the short PBS documentary, Slavery By Another Name. This documentary will be of particular interest to young African American males and those advocating for changes in our criminal justice system. We’ll provide treats and beverages. Several folks mentioned being seriously ill and/or hospitalized this winter, so please take care of yourselves! Our sincere condolences to those grieving losses and congrats to newcomers to this world. Stay blessed. —Josie Ferguson

Association of Building 14 Cooperators

Open Board Meeting It was good to have an Open Board meeting again where cooperators could see the Board in the action of making decisions on their behalf. The Open Board meeting also gave cooperators an opportunity to obtain answers to their questions. From 6:00-7:00 p.m., the Management team and department directors were available to respond to your issues. This Board meeting was recorded and will be rebroadcast in order for cooperators to watch it in the comfort of your homes. By the time you read this article, you should have been informed when the rebroadcast would be shown. The cooperators raised important issues and I appreciated the comment that the Board is working better together. This might be the result of the annual Board training that the Board president has planned for the past few years. You can also read about the Board meeting in the February 10th issue of the Co-op City Times. Building Associations And Floor Captains Remember to make an effort to attend your building association meeting where you will find good neighbors and updates on what is happening in our community. I am pleased that the 16th floor of my building, 20A, has re-established the Floor Captain. Not all of my neighbors attended the 30 minute hall meeting, but it’s a start. We discussed the newspapers at the elevator and whether or not they wanted them at their doors, attending the building association meetings, voting in the Riverbay Board elections, the newly established Section 4 Partnership, the issue of the 7-Eleven bright LED billboards and the meeting at the BSA on Feb. 27th, cable, etc. If you don’t have a floor captain, speak to the neighbors on your floor about having one. Contact Should you wish to share your thoughts, you may write to me at: Riverbay Board of Directors, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or fjones@riverbayboard.com or call 718-671-5957.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Broun Place Townhouse Association

From Broun Place Townhouse Associa- some maintenance insurance or be liable for tion: Hope your Valentine’s Day was lovely. fees under the “Endurance” program. Be alert The front page of the February 10th, 2018 and suspicious, question before you respond! A report on the following meeting issues is issue of the Co-op City Times spoke of the new technology and improvements coming here: maintenance appointment acknowledgedown the road for garages. I went to the ment: cooperators should be appraised of Garage Department for a key to Garage #6 as repair work appointments by letter and phone; mine isn’t working on the back or side door fence repair work: starts in spring; delivery back. I couldn’t get a key! They didn’t have people, safety measures: please complain to keys! How can this department interview on the merchants and Public Safety; the basketfuture improvements, but not have keys? ball court opening event: will be in spring; grounds person: is Martin; water problems: Neighbors, does your key work? Broun Place attended the Riverbay Board, will be investigated; snow removal: snow Building and Grounds Committee on Tuesday. removal pertains to the main egress, that is A year plus has passed since we raised the where Grounds shovels first; and cooperators issue, “signage identifying Broun Place.” should submit the “borough tax letter” to Neighbors struggle with telling people where “Rent Bookkeeping.” Our Broun Place vice president wrote a is Broun Place. Have you directed visitors and cabs, deliveries, etc., “drive down past Bel- great report on the Cooperator’s United Meetlamy Loop, Broun Place is the townhouse ing that focused on the huge 7-Eleven signage. cluster at the end?” High rise buildings are It is disrespectful, intrusive and altogether getting new lobbies, do you think we could overkill. Three of us attended the rally. Take get a sign or two? Please help by attending the action: Call the owner’s business office to next meeting and sign the petitition. Did you lodge complaints and boycott the 7-Eleven. receive President Berk’s letter on “Capital The lot is registered to Baychester Retail III, Projects?” Read and save this letter. Keep it as LLC at (347) 850-7446. The owner listed on the (public) building documents can be reached a guide and information provider. Scammers attack by phone, email and even at (646) 660-4254. In addition, call 3-1-1 and postal mail. On the phone: “A warrant has the Planning Board. Negotiations could be been issued by the Internal Revenue Serv- forthcoming if and when the owner spoke ice…call — to get information;” by email, the to the community or Councilmember King. Building and Grounds committee member list Because of the litigation, further construction was hijacked to spread a phony charity of the largest, tallest light has stopped. Get the Flu inoculation to help protect request on behalf of an Autistic child; finally, a letter headed “Department of Automobile yourself and your family. —Eva Lazaar Records” saying call “this” number to renew

Riverbay Holiday Closing And Co-op City Times Deadline Notice

Riverbay’s administrative offices will be closed on Monday, February 19, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Because of the holiday shortened work-week, all Directors’ viewpoints and club articles must be submitted by 9 a.m. on Tuesday, February 20. Material received after this time will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, February 24th issue of the Co-op City Times. Please note that this deadline will be strictly enforced to ensure that the paper meets its production deadline. Articles and viewpoints may be submitted electronically by emailing 24/7 to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or by faxing to (718) 320-2595. Material may also be slipped under the door of room 21 in the Bartow Community Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. We wish our readers a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.

Tax Prep

through Friday. (The tax preparer will collect documentation until Thursday, March 22 and then no more taxes will be done after that date. All participants will be contacted when the forms are completed.) This free service is limited to the first 250 constituent respondents, so please present your materials early. All returns are prepared by student volunteers from Iona College as a service to the community. All returns will indicate that they were prepared by a non-preparer. For more information, please contact Assemblyman Benedetto’s office at 177 Dreiser Loop, room 12, Bronx, NY 10475, (718) 320-2220. (Continued from page 3)

Building 22 A&B Association

Our next meeting is February 26 at 7 p.m. Our dues for the association went well; if you didn’t see us you can come to our next meeting with your dues and input your ideas. The NYC Board of Standards and Appeals convenes a public hearing on Tuesday, February 27th for testimony at 10 a.m. at 22 Reade Street; all are invited. STAR credits appeared this month on your carrying charges. If you haven’t signed up, you can by going online – NYC Finance Department (STAR). Happy belated Valentine’s Day to all. Co-op City is hosting various African-American events – check Co-op City Times for all events and times. Happy birthday to all this month. Sympathies to all who lost loved ones. Pray for the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something. —Betty Leak

Keep On Striving For The Stars, Amanda! The excitement that you are experiencing as you prepare for your college years can only be matched by ours. You have been an unending joy and blessing to us for the last 17 years. Your unwavering dedication and stamina in all that you do will bring you success and happiness in the years to come. We are very proud of you and will always be here for your support. We love you. —Grandpa Ted, Grandma Dot, Mom, Father Donald, Jermiane Sr., Jermaine Jr, Alyssa, Aaliyah & Troy

Amanda Byrd

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

NYPD Cameras To Be Installed In Co-op City

I want the unlawful and unruly to spread the word to their friends. This is how I envision the conversation…Unlawful and unruly: “Listen guys, you can’t do this in this community anymore. We have to take it to your neighborhood.” Some of the friends, “We can’t do it in my neighborhood either.” The unlawful and the unruly, “Then, why are you Before I get started, I’ll like to give a shout-out doing it in my neighborhood?” Friends reply, and support to the ME TOO MOVEMENT. Also, to every woman who has been sexually harassed or “Because I can and because you let me.” What some of us need to realize is this is a new sexually, physically and mentally/psychologically world in which we live in today. Cameras are everyabused. To the abuser, if you’re doing it in any way where. You can’t walk out your door and get to your shape or form, stop it and get help. If you don’t want destination without being on someone’s camera. to get help, leave. A woman’s body nor brain is a Many influential neighborhoods have cameras, punching bag. whether it’s the city or in the suburbs. Also, more In my opinion, this quote by Mahatma Ghandi and more affluent communities, if they don’t have says it all: “Of all the evils for which man has made them, are beginning to request them. himself responsible, none is so degrading, so shockHear me loudly and clearly…what I’ve done and ing or so brutal as his abuse of the better half of whatever I do is “solely” to act as a deterrent, not to humanity; the female sex.” get someone arrested. They do that strictly by their NYPD Cameras that I actions. Therefore, I’ll not let anyone try to marginNow, I want to inform the community received confirmation that our community will soon alize, minimize, trivialize or diminish what I’ve be getting NYPD cameras. It’s official. done and I will continue to do for the betterment of Upon moving here eight (8) years ago and witour community. nessing some of the things that were taking place in How Did I Get Here? our community and considering the taxes that we pay, Soon after becoming a member of the Riverbay I realized we weren’t getting enough support from Board of Directors in 2015, I went to my friend, Rev. NYPD. I’ve been working very hard to change that. Dr. Robert Smith, and told him my vision. I asked him Some of you may know how I’ve often spoken who would be the best person to help me make getting as they have in London, NYPD cameras installed a reality. Without hesitation, about the RING-OF-STEEL, England. Well, before I thought about becoming a his reply was Assemblyman Michael Benedetto. Board member, I wanted these cameras as another Shortly after that conversation, I saw Assemblyform of deterrent for the people living in this comman Benedetto and Mr. George Clarke from afar but munity or visiting. I want the RING-OF-STEEL to by the time I reached them, Mr. Benedetto had left. I capture their ingress and egress (coming and going). introduced myself to Mr. Clarke, a very nice gentle-

Director’s Viewpoint

Junius Williams

Building 31A/B Association

We are back. Unfortunately, the cold weather we have been having since December kept our room so cold we were unable to hold a monthly meeting, as well as our regularly assigned activities. Just like our cold lobbies, we were feeling the same. Here we are in the middle of Feb. and we are getting ready for the first meeting and preparing for the rest of the year. Our first meeting of 2018 will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 27th at 7:30 p.m. Our guest speaker will be Mrs. Sprinkle from the soon-to-open day care center located on the A side. She has been asked to share her vision for the day care and when it will open. We are asking all caretakers of young children to come and listen to her so that you can plan and perhaps enroll your children in the day care. Our Scholarship Committee will be meeting soon to start planning our fundraisers. We are all about our children and how we can help them reach their goals in furthering their education so look soon for signs announcing our plans. We need your involvement in the association so that we can continue with its success. Plan on attending the meeting and be ready to share your new ideas. —Marilyn McDaniel

man, and relayed to him what I wanted to do. He thought it was a good idea and said that he would give Mr. Benedetto my number. The next day, Mr. Benedetto contacted me. He also liked the idea of getting NYPD cameras and stated that he was surprised no one had ever thought of it before. I didn’t have to wine and dine him. I didn’t even have to tell him that I would vote for him. I just made the request and he delivered. I’m also in the process of putting in for more cameras. I truly would like to thank you, Assemblyman Benedetto. I’d also like to thank you on behalf of the cooperators and the Riverbay Board of Directors who all voted for the installation of the cameras: Helen Atkins, Linda Berk, Bernie Cylich, Bill Gordon, Leah Graham, Dr. Pastor Deborah Jenkins, Daryl Johnson, Francine Reva Jones, Andrea Leslie, Rev. Calvin Owens, Leslie Peterson, Rod Saunders, Cleve Taylor and Evelyn Turner. I would also be remiss if I did not mention how grateful I am to Lt. Anthony Warner of CCPD for helping me determine the best locations for the installation of the cameras. Now, I would like to apologize to the cooperators in advance. In the past, some people have taken credit for things I’ve done for this community and I didn’t say anything. It stops now. I will no longer allow it. I have worked too hard and been through too much to let someone else take credit for what I’ve done. So, I will close by stating a quote by Don Miguel Ruiz: “People like to say that the conflict is between good and evil. The real conflict is between truth and lies.” I can be reached by phone, 718-594-3859, or by email, jwilliams@riverbayboard.com.

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

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

Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted. HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted. We participate in Postal Workers, Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Verizon Workers, 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire Plan, Medicare, Travelers, United Health Care and many other union and major medical plans. Se Habla Español MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Board Members Push For The STAR Credit

Director’s Viewpoint

Daryl Johnson

Last week, I reported that out of our 15,372 apartments here, only 8,171 cooperators received a credit from the STAR program on their February carrying charge statement. And, now, several board members and management are determined to get more cooperators enrolled in this program. Working Together As mentioned last week, the cooperators that were enrolled in the Basic STAR program received a credit of $96.64 on their February carrying charge statement. Similarly, the cooperators that were enrolled in the Enhanced STAR program received a credit of $211.56. But, as you can see, 7,201 cooperators did not receive any money. So, I wrote a resolution and sent it to the board and to management. Thereafter, I received a message from our executive general manager that management could provide "outreach" to get more cooperators enrolled into the STAR program. So, knowing his personality, I said that I would give him a chance by withdrawing my resolution. Thereafter, some of our board members stepped up with some good messages. "We should be able to resolve this with management," stated Director Leah Richardson. Then, she offered some brilliant comments to help all of our cooperators get the STAR credit. "A letter explaining the STAR program should be inserted … with the [carrying charge] statements. Once we get the website up and running we could add or create a portal for the STAR program." She also suggested that we get the word out with robocalls and making announcements during the orientation meeting with new cooperators. "The various organizations throughout the community may also want to address it at their meetings including building association meetings." During our board meeting on Thursday, February 8, our management assigned an employee to distribute information about the STAR program. Also, another director stated that information about this program was distributed at an orientation meeting for new cooperators. Bottom line: I would like for the board, manage-

ment, and our entire community to work together and help everyone here. So, please go to your building meetings and your board meetings. Thereafter, please think about mentioning some of the things that you've learned to your neighbors. This is one way that we can show that we care about each other and our community. Thank you. New Elevators Starting this year, all of our elevators will be replaced over the next five years. And, it will take about 6-8 weeks to replace each elevator. Dreiser Auditorium If you were at the recent board meeting in Dreiser, then you saw the condition of the auditorium. The lighting is bad. Plus, the stage, the ceiling, and the curtains look horrible. So, this auditorium is going to be renovated soon. This renovation is going to take 812 months to complete. Thereafter, I hope that this auditorium will become one of the top places in the Bronx to hold really nice events, like receptions and shows. New Lobby Doors After an extremely long and drawn out process, the lobby doors in our Chevron buildings are going to be replaced. According to management, a contractor is going to install the doors on two Chevron buildings at the same time. The other buildings – the Tower and the Triple-Core – will get their lobby doors after the Chevron buildings are finished. Bay Plaza - New Business Bay Plaza is going to get a new hotel. The hotel will be located across the street from the power plant on Bartow Avenue. Also, as mentioned before, a new Starbucks is being built near Staples. Income Tax Scam The IRS recently reported that thieves have filed lots of phony tax returns with information that was lifted from legitimate tax returns. So, the thieves had all of the original filer's information. Everything! And, yes, they even had their bank account information. So, with this bank account information, some thieves actually had refunds going to the original filer's bank account. Then, in one example, a thief posed as a debt collector. Next, victims were called on their phones and told that erroneous

Greetings! Let us continue to fight for voting rights and equal rights. Our next meeting is Monday, February 26, 7 p.m., activity room. Get On The Bus to protest the billboard signs at Bartow and Baychester Avenues on Tuesday, February 27th, 10:30 a.m., leaving in front of the Bingo Hall to the City Planning Office by calling 347-913-4224 to reserve your seat. Keep The Pressure On by calling the strip mall property owner 646-6604254 or 347-850-7446; NYC Buildings Dept. Bronx Commissioner, 718-9604700; Bronx DOT Commissioner Nivardo Lopez, 212-748-6680, or online at NYC.GOV/DOT; City Council Member Andy King, 718-684-5509; NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey, 718-547-8854 and NY State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, 718-320-2220. P.O. Boxes In Our Lobby: The consensus of opinion is that the P.O. boxes should not be in our lobby, but in the basement. This is not about accommodating the P.O. The P.O. on Connor Street should be accommodating us by hiring more window clerks to alleviate the lines to mail and to pick up packages. Spend Your Pre-Mother’s Day With Us: We still have seats available to see “JESUS” at the Sight And Sound Millennium Theatre, on Saturday, May 12, Leaving at 7 a.m., from Building 12. Adults $165 per person, each child under the age of 11, $140. Adult deposit of $82.50 due February 28th, final payment of $82.50 is due March 30th. Child deposit of $60 is due February 28th, final payment of $60 is due March 30th. Please make checks payable to Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association, 120 Casals Pl., 26L, Bronx, NY 10475. Contact Sonja, 718-379-7841, or Sonia at 718-379-8305 or Donald, 917-848-0122. “Straight Outta Co-op City” shirt purchases can be made by contacting president of Building 11, Deborah Henry, 718-379-6312. Sizes are children (smallxl) $10; adults (small-xl) $12; adults (2x-3x) $15. Please be extra careful when you are out and about. Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who has suffered a loss or is sick and shut-in. If you see something, say something. To contact CCPD (Public Safety) call 718-671-3050. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718-379-7841. —Sonja Maxwell

Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association

refunds had been sent to their bank accounts. Thereafter, this thief told the victims to send the money to a certain account. In another case, a thief called a man and allegedly told him that his tax refund was a mistake. And, if he didn't immediately wire the money, then they were going to "cut all of his rights." So, the man became very scared. Then, take a guess what the man did. That's right, he wired $700 to an account – in Peru. Thereafter, he discovered that he was scammed. Commenting on this matter, the IRS stated that they believe that thieves had used phishing schemes to target some tax preparers. So, malicious software may have been engaged as soon as the tax preparer clicked on a certain link in a phony email. Thereafter, the thieves captured everything from the tax returns that was stored on their computers. Horrible! We have a lot of people that live here. So, you know that thieves are going to try their best to play their horrible scams here. Therefore, the IRS states that we should be careful of people that ask us to: "sign a blank return, promise a big refund before looking at their records or charge fees based on a percentage of the refund. Fraudsters use flyers, advertisements, phony storefronts and word of mouth via community groups where trust is high to find victims." Close Please think about filing your taxes early so that duplicate returns can be flagged. Then, screen your calls, and please think twice before you click on an email link. Thank you. Questions or comments? Please send a letter to: Daryl H. Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Also, please call me at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a 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 / February 17, 2018

Spanish-American Community Club

Please join us on the 2nd Thursday of every month at 8:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome! Our next meeting will take place next month, on March 8th, in room 16 of the Dreiser Community Center. ‘Recordar Es Vivir,’ hosted by the Cultural Committee, took place on Saturday, February 10th. Our lucky participants enjoyed great music provided by el Trio Ideal and DJ Salsero. Many thanks to the committee and the other volunteers who helped out that evening. February’s ‘Social Friday’ will take place on the 23rd at 7:00 p.m. Upcoming Events Nomination of Club Officers and Elections are coming in March. Nominations will take place on March 8th. We will also be raffling off two individual tickets to the Installation Dinner. Everyone present at nominations will have a chance to participate, but the winners must be present on Election Night, March 22nd, in order to receive the prize. Members: Please plan to attend both meetings. The Installation of Officers Dinner and Dance is scheduled for Friday, April 28th at Maestro’s. Tickets are $60 for members, $80 for non-members. Due to space issues, we will only be able to accommodate the first 100 people who have paid. The payment deadline is April 12th. If you have not renewed your membership as of February, you will be required to pay the non-member rate. Please contact Luz Peña at (407) 716-4476, Daliah Rodriguez at (917) 577-9047 or Alfonso Gonzalez at (347) 249-3403 for more information. Applications for the Tony Mondesire Scholarship are now available. The forms will be available in room 16 of Dreiser Loop Center at any of our monthly meetings, either the second Thursday of every month or at the Board of Directors meetings on the first Tuesday of each month. Applicants must be from member households, at least 18 years of age and residents of the Bronx. Students must carry a minimum of 12 credits per semester at an accredited institution for at least one year. Applications must be returned by May 10th, either by mail, or to a member of the Scholarship Board of Trustees. Membership renewals for this year are past due. A penalty fee of $48 for the year ($4 a month) will now be assessed. Additional information for all of our upcoming club events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website: http:// spanamcccc .synthasite.com. You may also email the club at SpanAmCCCC@gmail.com or find us on Facebook (search for ‘spanamcccc’). —Carmen Rodriguez

Rivers Run Community Garden

Please join us for our first meeting of the year to be held on Thursday, February 22nd at beginning at 7:00 p.m. in Dreiser, room 4. All are invited. Maximizing Rivers Run Community Garden’s positive impact on the community is the goal of 2018. We welcome ideas, members and volunteers. We will begin collecting the membership dues at the February meeting. If you cannot attend, please mail your $20 check (no cash) to Rivers Run, 100 Casals Pl. #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. Please note: Due must be paid by March 16th. Important dates (All are welcome) • Thursday, February 22nd - 7 p.m., Dreiser, room 4 Member Meeting • Thursday, March 15th - 7 p.m., Dreiser, room 4 Member Meeting • Saturday, April 21st – 10 a.m., Earth Day/Family Day Parade Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome. If you’d like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or me at 718-671-3801. —Gail Sharbaan

Building 13 Association

The request for a permit to install an approximately 300-foot pole was submitted to the Department of Buildings by the owner of the 7-Eleven store located on Bartow and Baychester Avenues. On February 27, the Board of Standards and Appeals will continue seeking answers from the owner and DOB, and hold a public hearing. Shareholders will be offered three (3) minutes to make a statement regarding the submitted request. Shareholders are urged to attend. To reserve a seat on the bus provided by Riverbay, per the Co-op City Times, please call 347-913-4224. Read all notices regarding this matter to stay informed. File a complaint with the Department of Buildings (DOB) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) by calling 3-1-1 regarding the glaring lights in the homes, the effects on eyesight while driving and the concern about additional inappropriate advertising. This store is located at 2001 Bartow Avenue (aka 500 Baychester Avenue). Do your part as a community. It may not be right next to you today, but who knows what may be at your doorstep tomorrow. Please make sure to return your window guard forms immediately. Some may have missed the sign that was placed in the rear of the lobby, but you can contact the CSO office and request the code for your unit, ask for the telephone number and call to complete the process. It has been made very easy for you so take the time to prevent action from the Department of Health. Building 13 would like to have 100% of its neighbors receiving the STAR credit. As a shareholder living in Co-op City with less than $500,000 income, you are entitled to this annual benefit. You need only apply once. If you are over 65 with less than $86,000 (Enhanced STAR), the dollar amount you receive is greater. There is no reason Co-op City shouldn’t have more shareholders receiving this benefit. Hungry for some lobster, shrimp, chicken, ribs, and all types of deliciousness? Then join us Saturday, July 14, for our 2nd All-You-Can-Eat bonanza LOBSTERFEAST at the NORDIC LODGE, and 4-hour casino stay at Foxwoods with outlet shopping at Tangers. The cost is $165 per person (includes taxes and gratuities). Payment of $85 due February 28, and balance of $80 due April 30. Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. Contacts: Sherrie Hernandez at 914-837-5970; Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370 (daddpeterson@aol.com). Our website is http://www. bldg13assoc.com or email us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com. Again, thanks for making our team work. —Leslie Peterson

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner

First and foremost, thanks to all cooperators who attended the last Open Board meeting on February 8. Your comments and concerns were needed and appreciated. Although the cost of various projects was not shared at the open public forum, the resolutions pertaining to how your money is spent on projects can be found in the Co-op City Times. Protocol For Open Board Meetings Due to time factors, only the president and executive general manager have the opportunity to speak and share information for more than three (3) minutes. Therefore, it was difficult for some Board members to go into detail in giving their committee reports. In case you missed the meeting, here are some highlights: Lack Of Committee Chairs Presently, three (3) Board members have chosen not to chair a committee. Therefore, one Board member may have more than one or attempt to merge a committee no longer covered. A cooperator shared her concern about such a merger. A big concern is the “Dog Committee” that was of interest for a pervious Board member. We even had a newsletter at one point. This committee has been merged with another committee due to a lack of a Board member to chair it. It is the desire of a cooperator that Board member Jerome Rice, who spoke about the dog issues, share additional information about what is being done to monitor the number of “approved service dogs” in the community. He has been conducting a lot of research to ensure that we are in compliance as dogs are a part of our community. A cooperator had an excellent idea for the Community Relations Committee that I chair. Why not come up with an incentive to get cooperators to read the Co-op City Times. The idea is to have a prize for finding a “hidden clue” that one can only find by reading the paper. The committee will brainstorm this idea at the upcoming meeting on Tuesday, February 27, at 7 p.m. If you have other ideas, please share or attend the meeting. We are very appreciative of the Garage Depart-

Not 100% Transparency

ment leadership moving ahead to order bright directional signs for all garages. Other improvements are forthcoming that will not disrupt parking. Cablevision A cooperator, who had shared her concern about the escalating cable bill/monopoly, was not at the meeting to ask the question. Therefore, it was not addressed by Management at this time. It’s so important that cooperators attend open Board meetings and ask the hard questions of the leadership. Infrastructure Fasten your seatbelts as Co-op City is finally moving forward full steam ahead with addressing mandatory repairs, including elevators section by section. Management provided a detailed report and will continue to do so. Cooperator Concerns An irate cooperator called to express disapproval of a Board business letter being inserted in the monthly “Carrying Charge” envelop. Cooperators must understand that the Board president has the privilege of being creative in how information is provided. It is more cost effective by inserting a letter in the same envelope as the maintenance bill that has to be delivered, than paying for copying and stamps to each and every household. All elected leaders have special privileges and their own style. Section 5 A cooperator has expressed concern about the “poor aesthetics of how this mall is turning out to be.” Reportedly, there is loitering of individuals in front of the stationery store and the supermarket. Individuals have been observed eating food, drinking alcohol and panhandling. Also observed is an overflow of garbage spewing on the grounds in front of the supermarket entrance. This issue will be addressed by Management and the Section 5 Association. It is great that cooperators see something and say something. This is our home and we must fight to maintain a high standard of living, no exceptions.

At CCTM, individuals can work on acquiring new leadership and communication skills while honing various aspects of their presentation repertoire. Your skills and confidence are developed and improved, which is highly valued in the workplace. And did you know that Co-op City Toastmasters Club offers an avenue for recognition? Our members gain recognition through individualized club projects and speech competitions at home and around the world. Toastmasters is in over 100 countries globally. Each year, two competitions are held beginning at the club level, advancing to the area level, to the division level, the district level, and finally, the International Level where the World Champion of Public Speaking (WCPS) is crowned. Imagine you on the grand stage as a contestant and winner. It can happen if you prepare. Come to a meeting and get involved and learn how Co-op City Toastmasters can help you grow and be recognized. CCTM meets the first and third Thursday of each month. Meetings in March are scheduled for March 1st and March 15th. Mark your calendar now so that you don’t miss these fun and life-changing meetings. You may call 718-344-6719 or go to www.toastmasters46.org or toastmasters.org for more information. —Marietta C. Phoenix

Co-op City Toastmasters Club

We welcome your letters to the editor, however, if you would like your letter to be considered for publication, it must be signed, and include your address and telephone number – which will be kept confidential – so the authenticity of the writer can be verified. The Co-op City Times does not print anonymous or unsigned letters.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Land Donation Resolution The resolution/MEMORANDUM OF DONATION of your land to the city for a public waterfront park has not been rescinded by the Board. A cooperator writes that “it would be good to know about the possible park since these other developments seem to be hemming in the community.” An update is being requested. Cultural Terrorism Parents of children of African descent are to be commended for standing their ground in not allowing public school teachers’ and leaders’ attempt to neutralize your Black child’s cultural pride. This in nothing new. According to Asa G. Hillard III, Ed.D – Nana Baffour Amankwatia, “From the period before Africans passed through the ‘Last Doors’ of the dungeons along Africa’s coast, to the brutal middle passage, and to the period of enslavement when African genius and labor made many individuals and countries wealthy, the anti-African slander has been intense.” Parents, don’t allow the absence of information in our schools about one of the many ethnic groups in America, “Africans!” The challenge will be ongoing as individuals in power attempt to suppress the value of other cultures while fabricating their own history. Thanks to our elected officials and other Co-op City groups for reminding all Americans of “Black History.” There is no more serious work to do than advocate for positive cultural socialization of our children. Thanks for your ongoing support and continue to call or email me at: 917-324-1033 or eturner@riverbayboard.com or write: Evelyn M. Turner, LCSW, Board Member, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Retirees Of Dreiser Loop

Travel Events: (price includes Coach Bus; located at Dreiser Loop, in front of H&R Block) • March 13 (Tues) “SANDS CASINO RESORT.” Price: $40. Payment Due Date: Mon., Feb. 5. Contact: Serita G., 347-5645722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. • May 17 (Thurs.) (Date changed) “HUNTERDON HILLS PLAYHOUSE THEATRE,” NJ. Showtime: 11 a.m. Price: $75. Deposit: $40. Balance: $35 due Mon., April 19. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. • July 10-12, (Tues.-Thurs.) “DOVER DOWNS HOTEL & CASINO.” Price: Double $400/Single $490. Deposit required, $100. Two payments each - $150 double/$195 single. FINAL payment: May 21. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500. Theatre Committee: (price includes van transportation from Dreiser Loop opposite Rehab Center): • May16th. (Wed.) Price: $65 (Price correction). “SISTER ACT” at Westchester Broadway Theatre. Deposit $35 ASAP. $30 balance due by April 12. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671-4949. Remember – Your deposit, along with your name and telephone number, is required to reserve your trip &/or theatre seat. A check or money order only payable to RETIREES OF DREISER LOOP will be accepted. Committee members will be available in the Dreiser clubroom 19 (718-379-0377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:00-5:00 p.m. Good And Welfare Our heartfelt condolences to Pat Grayson whose beloved husband Charles Jennings passed away last week. And to those of you still under the weather, know that you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements. Our next JAZZ UP YOUR HEALTH WITH A SENIOR SPA DAY will be Wednesday, February 28th. Call Claudette D, 718379-4784 or Hattie L, 718-671-8449 if interested in joining us on our upcoming SENIOR SPA DAY. “To be HAPPY you must follow F.A.C.T.S. – FORGIVE others, ACCEPT your mistakes, CRY and move on, THANK GOD for everything, SMILE always.” —Claudette Davis

Black Forum

Defensive Driving Course Next course: March 10, 8:50 a.m. - 3 p.m., Dreiser Center, room 1. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to four points from your driver’s license. Please make checks of $35, payable to ‘Black Forum of CO-OP City,’ and mail to 177 Dreiser Loop, room 20, Bronx, NY 10475 at least 1½ weeks before class. Include name and phone number. Walk-ins are welcomed, but only a $35 cash payment will be accepted the day of the class – no checks. Call by noon Friday to register and assure seating. Please bring your current driver’s license and a pen; (718) 320-8035. Nordic Lodge & Foxwoods Casino Trip Join us Saturday, August 18, for an amazing dining experience at the award-winning Nordic Lodge, in Charlestown, Rhode Island. Enjoy 2-hours of an All-You-Can-Eat seafood-plus buffet with lobster, prime rib, specialty desserts and more! The excitement continues at Foxwoods Casino. $165 includes dining, shopping & round-trip coach transportation. Three payments of $55 due 1/26, 2/16 and 3/16. Those who reserved spots but have not made payments must do so immediately to keep their reservation. Please make checks payable to ‘Black Forum of Co-op City’ and mail to 177 Dreiser Loop, room 20, Bronx, NY 10475. Include name and phone number. NO REFUNDS. Pick-up and drop-off at Dreiser Loop, Asch Loop and Section 5. Please call 917-209-5334 or 718-320-0033 if you have questions. Emergency Food Program (10475 residents only) Our mission is to provide food pantry services to those facing economic hardships. Brand new guests must bring a current photo ID to register for the program. ONLY accepted IDs are driver’s and non-driver's licenses, and the ID NYC card. Bring four clean shopping bags and cart (if available). You'll be issued a card that must be shown on every visit to pick up food. Only ONE participant per household. Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food on Thursdays at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Buildings 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m., also on Thursdays. Section 5 townhouses can visit either church. Other buildings and townhouses must pick up at Dreiser, room 20. Dreiser food distribution hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Pilot Program: Dreiser hours extended Tuesdays, 5 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; Saturdays, March 10, April 14, May 12 and June 9, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. All hours are subject to change based on demand. New and currently registered guests are welcome to participate in extended hours. Re-certification for 2017 guests is now complete. Those who missed the deadline can recertify at a later date to be announced in this article. Contact Reach out to us if you have questions, (718) 320-8035 or coopcityblackforum@ gmail.com. —Tony Illis

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Co-op City Working Families Party

Success! Early Voting is becoming a reality! We fought to expand Early Rights in New York, an action that will substantially boost voter turnout. Co-op City residents supplied 91 petition signatures. Those, plus approximately 17,000 more just like them, were to be hand delivered to Gov. Cuomo on Valentine’s Day. Hope they gave him a big box of chocolates as well for doing what’s right. Monster Billboards The fight against the billboards at Bartow and Baychester Avenues continues. A petition campaign is underway. Volunteer to collect signatures. Help our neighbors, our Board, and our legislators fight against those who took advantage of a fifty-year-old zoning loophole to callously cause our fellow residents inconvenience and discomfort. Residents, especially residents living nearest the relentless lights, plan to attend a public hearing on this matter. Get there under your own steam or meet on Bartow at the old Bingo Hall at 10:30 a.m. on February 27th for the trip to the Spector Hall hearing at 22 Reade St., NYC, NY. If you can’t go yourself, send your signature (or a hundred) to go in your place. Next Actions We’ve been invited to phone bank with NO IDC and WFP/NY to make sure constituents of Jeff Klein, the Democrat who votes with the Republicans, know exactly who their senator is! We’ve also been invited by Indivisible NYCD16 to support Democratic Assemblywoman Shelley Meyer in her potential run for the State Senate. Learn all about it at the next meeting. Also, there’s still time to do some research. Please prepare a list of other 2018 candidates in need of our support and bring that list to our next meeting on February 20th. The Co-op City Working Families Mission As a political party, Working Families works to elect the most progressive candidates possible who will stand in the way of all regressive legislation. As a civic action group Co-op City Indivisible (an aspiring Co-op City certified community organization) promotes progressive causes. As Co-op City WF/Indivisible members, we do both. We embrace progressive values by modeling inclusion, respect, and fairness in all of our actions; we work to make Co-op City a stronger community; and we insist our representatives serve as our voice in Co-op City, in the Bronx, in Albany, and in Washington, D.C. Next Meeting The next meeting of the WFP is scheduled for this Tuesday, February 20th at 7:30 p.m. in room 35, Einstein Community Center, Section Five. WF meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month, through June. All progressives are welcome. For more information, please email mpjazz@optonline.net. —Mary Pearson

Co-op City Department of Public Safety (718) 671-3050

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018 The Executive Committee The executive committee met as usual on Wednesday, February 6th, and Commander Toba called the meeting to order by observing the necessary preamble and protocol of the American Legion. One of the major issues centered on the report of the mid-winter conference, which was delivered by the commander. He emphasized the need for comrades to find a way to attend events outside the Post in the future. He shared several literature and talked about one of the pillars of the American Legion – Americanism/children and youth. Americanism/Children & Youth Commander Toba reported that he attended workshop on Boys Scout at the mid-winter conference. With all that he learned on how to be a sponsor of such an organization in the local area, he recommended that the Post should consider the idea of working with PS 160 and charter the Cub Scouts that is in formation at the school. The recommendation was voted upon and passed, unanimously accepted. More so, the commander spoke about the importance of educating our children about the FLAG. He appointed Past Commander Rice to assist in making that possible by teaching the teachers who will go to all these schools to teach the children. This aspect of Flag etiquette will form part of this year’s Memorial Day event in May. Commander Rice will lead the charge for that. Black History Month As we continue to celebrate, it is very important to bring into the limelight how the services rendered by the Black community in the military has helped to shape this nation. The rarity of Blacks in the top ranks is apparent. For instance, statistic shows that only one of the 38 four-star generals or admirals serving as of May last year was Black. And just 10 Black men have ever gained four-star rank – five in the Army, four in the Air Force and one in the Navy, according to the Pentagon In 1989, President George H. W. Bush appointed Army General Colin Powell to the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, making Powell the highest-ranking officer in the United States military. Powell was the first, and is so far the only, African

NAACP Co-op City Branch #2210

Black History This Founders’ Day, we celebrate the brave men and women who forged our association in 1909 and all of those who have advanced our mission since. For 109 years, the NAACP has pushed the nation toward justice and equality, and we must continue. In 1908, a deadly race riot rocked the city of Springfield, Illinois, the very resting place of President Abraham Lincoln. It was then that a small group of activists and academics called for a meeting on February 12, 1909 to discuss racial justice. Some 60 people came together and formed a grassroots, membership-based organization committed to securing for all Americans the rights guaranteed by the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution. They insisted that the United States fulfill its promise of equal rights and protection for all. Our fight for social justice is not the work of the past, but a constant and daily struggle to make our democracy work for everyone. We must hold fast to our founders' mission to build a society where all people are respected. Become A Member/Become A Voice Don’t be on the sidelines of Justice, get into the fight by joining the NAACP CO-OP City Branch. Annual dues is just $30 for adults and $10 for children. For more details, contact Brenda Brown at 718-320-3210. Stay Woke. —Jerome Rice

American Legion Post 1871

American to hold that position. Women also serve as spies and some, disguised as men, serve as soldiers assigned to Army hospitals in the U.S. Hundreds more serve as support staff, spies, and a few disguise themselves as men to serve in the military. 1917–1918: During last two years of World War I, women are allowed to join the military Bus Tour Plans are underway to complete preparation for organizing a bus tour to the National Black Museum in Washington, DC by the veterans. We are using this opportunity to inform those who will be travelers to start making arrangement. This will be a joint venture between the Legionnaires and the Auxiliary. Let us get out there and having fun. Details later. Remember, our monthly meeting Saturday, February 17. Plan to attend and invite a veteran as well. —Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown O'toba

Commander Toba (second right) of Post 1871 met with this year's Bronx County Oratorical Contest Champion Charles Varenne of Salesian High School, New Rochelle (second left). Also in the picture are Charles’ mother and siblings.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Upgraded Technology Brings Cost Savings & Efficiency To Our Business Operation Director’s Viewpoint

Leah Richardson

As chairperson of the Technology Committee, I am excited to announce that, as part of our commitment to remain on the cutting edge of technology, Riverbay Corporation has moved into the 21st century and I have high expectations that we will continue to aggressively move towards our goals. Our new Technology director, Irfan Nadeem, has done a phenomenal job at addressing some of the major issues that prevented us from moving forward. There are 42 projects, 29 of which are completed and 13 in progress. Our systems are up-to-date and performing well. All desktop computers and servers are about 80% upgraded. In order to provide excellent service, the integrity of our network infrastructure must be intact. It is not cost effective for the organization to work with outdated software and hardware. In order to reduce the cost of service delivery, it is imperative that the corporation upgrade its systems. Below is a few of the upgrades that were completed: • Our comprehensive property management system is called Yardi. Yardi is an intergraded Property Management and Accounting software. In order for us to work more effectively, it is necessary for us to upgrade to the latest version. We are currently in our contract review stages and will begin upgrading in a few weeks. Yardi, Voyager version 7, will be fully upgraded within the next 12 months.

• One of our major projects that we are happy to have completed and which is now successfully up and running is the Intergraded Help Desk System. Management and staff are now able to send emails to one central address to get help, rather than stopping a computer staff member in the hallways. This system can help the organization resolve tech issues faster and allow the IT department to work more efficiently. A help desk organizes information, streamlines workflows, eliminates many manual processes and stops employees from having to track down someone for tech support. Employees can simply submit a ticket to the help desk through email or a custom web-based form. The help desk software will then receive, log and assign issues to the appropriate staff member. This is important because there are many calls that can be handled over the phone as opposed of the tech physically going to the users. This will save valuable time which can be used to solve more pressing issues. • We are using the Microsoft Office 365 suite as our office package software which includes MSWord (Word Processing); PowerPoint (Presentation) and Excel (Spreadsheet). This upgrade is important; it will allow everyone to work on the same platform. • Our Network Security has been strengthened. It is important that we have a Network Security package on our servers to prevent web-based and data theft. These threats may be malicious and obtain viruses, such as Trojans, that may affect the Network servers and files. The software can also be used to prevent employees from accessing websites deemed inappropriate for workplace viewing. The software

National Council Of Negro Women

Black History Month – Save the date, Saturday, February 24, when we will have our 17th Annual Black History Month Youth Celebration, co-sponsored with the Riverbay Fund. This free event will take place in Dreiser Center, Auditorium B, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Light refreshments will be served! It’s not too late for youth groups and young adults interested in volunteering to showcase their talent in song, dance, stepping, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc. Just call the NCNW Youth Committee at 917-399-2643. Women’s Celebration Program – Save the date, Saturday, April 21. This will be an afternoon free event in room 4, Dreiser Center. The theme is “Love Yourself.” This will be a literary afternoon of poetry, book excerpts, play monologues and recitations that will all encompass self-care, self-esteem and the strength of Black women. If you are interested in taking part, please email worrellswords@aol.com. Spirit Cruise Pre-Mothers’ Day Celebration – Back by popular demand, we will once again celebrate Mothers’Day on a Gospel Luncheon Cruise on Saturday, May 12, for a delightful 2-hour cruise with a lunch buffet, DJ and dancing, skyline views on New York Harbor and great gospel music as well. Mother will be delighted! No last minute desperate arrangements for you! For just $80 per person, your preparations are complete. For more information, contact (718) 379-3788 or (347) 602-5600 or (917) 670-4012. Checks are payable to NCNW Co-op City Section and can be mailed to P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. No refunds please. Bethune Height Recognition Program – Plans are underway for our 44th Annual Bethune Height Recognition Program that will take place on Saturday, May 19, at Russo’s On the Bay, 162-45 Cross Bay Boulevard, Howard Beach, NY. This is a celebration in which all NCNW sections in New York State come together to support and live the legacy of NCNW’s founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and Dr. Dorothy I. Height, Chair/President Emerita, by contributing to the work for which they dedicated their lives. The luncheon will be from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. and will cost $100. The theme for this year’s BHRP is “National Council of Negro Women, Strong through Multi-Generational Commitment.” Presidents’ Day – Contrary to popular belief, the observed federal holiday is actually called “Washington’s Birthday.” Neither Congress nor the president has ever stipulated that the name of the holiday observed as Washington’s Birthday be changed to Presidents’ Day. Additionally, Congress has never declared a national holiday binding in all states and each state decides its own legal holidays. This is why there are some calendar discrepancies. Today, George Washington’s Birthday is one of only eleven permanent holidays established by Congress. One of the great traditions followed for decades has been the reading of George Washington’s Farewell Address—which remains an annual event for the Senate to this day. —Joyce Howard

will allow us to recover any data that may be corrupted and protect our Network Servers. • We’ve also implemented SharePoint, which is Microsoft’s premier document management and collaborative server environment. It is offered in the cloud as part of the Office 365 suite. Departments will be able to manage, share and store documents. For example, you can actually have multiple people working on the same document at the same time. You can choose a pie chart from Excel, for example, and publish it as part of our web page in SharePoint. SharePoint lets various departments control their own security, workgroups, documents, and data. This can also be used on mobile devices. This product will help us improve our departments’ level of efficiency. • We are on target with the improvement of our new website. It will offer new features that will enable our shareholders and customers to quickly and easily gain access to our services. The Information Technology department is the backbone and a critical part of any organization. To work effectively and efficiently, we must keep our Network Infrastructure updated and secure. I encourage Management to train staff properly with any new systems that are being implemented. Help the employees use these systems to get the most out of the job, and the community will get the most out of our investment. I will keep you updated on any further new information I receive from our technical team. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, concerns, ideas or improvement you would like to see. I can be reached at lrichardson@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Co-op City Little League

Velocity Track Club

V T C ( Ve l o c i t y Track Club) studentathletes came up big at the 44th Annual Colgate Women’s Games! On Saturday, February 10th, VTC had seven student-athletes compete in the 2018 Colgate Women’s Games at the Famous New Balance Track & Field Armory in New York! After competing in four preliminary and semifinals races, our seven girls generated enough points to be one of the top six girls to make the finals. All finalists received lovely sweat suits and trophies. After the finals, the top three girls received educational grants as follows: 1st place, $1,000, 2nd place, $500 and 3rd place, $250. Plus, there were special awards: Most Improved Competitor, Most Promising Newcomer, Outstanding Competitor at the Finals and Outstanding Competitor at the Preliminaries and Semi Finals. In addition, there was an extra award given to one of the Outstanding Officials, Angela Williams! Angela is one of the most knowledgeable and friendliest official you can have at a meet. I can’t thank Colgate-Palmolive Company enough for sponsoring the Colgate Women’s Games and all the people who run it! Thank you!! Our athletes were ready and didn’t allow the lights, crowd and cameras to distract them from what they were there for! Most VTC athletes broke their personal record and were blessed with $3,500 in Educational Grants which they can use to purchase school books, pay for tutorial and much more! The following girls are: In the Elementary “A” Division: Brianna Burrell continued her undefeated Colgate season in the 55 & 200 meters running her personal best time in the 55 meters and earned a lovely trophy and $1,000. Hannah Deflorimonte also ran the 55-meter dash, finishing 5th place, breaking her personal record. Shyenne Blake broke her personal record in the 200 meters and finished 2nd earning $500. In the Elementary “B” Division: Jada Clarke ran her personal best in the 55-meter hurdles to finish in 2nd place and was blessed with a lovely trophy and $500. Dakota Hickman finished 2nd in the High Jump and she also

Co-op City Sports

Happy Saturday, dear neighbors. Black History Month – February is Black History Month, our "28 days-time to shine." There are many events planned (both inside and outside our community) to celebrate the sacrifices, contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout our nation's history. Please set aside some time and allow your children to experience some of these enlightening (many free) events. General Membership Meeting – Our first meeting of the new year was held on Tuesday, January 30th. We welcomed a new shareholder, recapped 2017 events and discussed plans for 2018. Members were challenged to become more proactive and to come up with suggestions for association-related activities they would like to see take place. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 27, at 7 p.m. Ms. Danielle O'Connor, director of Garage Parking and Storage Units, will be our guest speaker. Association Dues – We will begin collecting building association dues some time in March. Dues are $10 per family/apartment for the year. Flyers will be posted later this month. Please note, these monies are used for association-related expenses, i.e. bus trip expenses/supplies, meeting & party supplies & refreshments, etc. Piano Lessons – A piano was donated to the association and while it needs a little fine tuning, it's functional. If you know how to play and are interested in volunteering to teach others to play, please call (718) 320-2366. Laundry Room – Many residents are complaining to each other about the frigid temperature in the laundry room. There is no heat. Please lodge your complaint with the CSO in Dreiser. Building 10 Mission Statement – The overall goal of the Building 10 Association is to continually seek improvements in the quality of life for Building 10 cooperators and their families. The mission of the Building 10 Association Board is to be advocates for

Free Clinics And Registration Ending

Top photo: VTC Colgate Women’s Games finalists and coaches. Bottom photo: The Velocity team at Sky Zone.

received $500. Her sister, Kimaris Hickman, ran her personal best in the 400 meters and received a lovely trophy. In the Middle School Division: Hannah Gadpaille finished 1st in the 55 meters and earned a lovely trophy and $1,000. I would like to mention a former VTC athlete, Dominique Jackson, for winning the High School 200 meters race and earning the Outstanding Competitor at the Finals Award! Awesome job, ladies. After the meet, the team, family and friends went to Sky Zone in New Rochelle to celebrate! Our next meet will be on Monday, February 19th, at the Armory Youth Championship at the New Balance Track & Field Armory! Velocity Track Club New York is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit. One hundred percent of your donation go towards helping our children. For additional information, you can visit our website, Velocitytrack.org, or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins, at 914-441-6196 or email watclt@aol.com. —Winston Dinkins

Building 10 Association

the Riverbay Corporation and for Building 10 cooperators and families. We will seek opportunities to source information that will be useful to its members and plan for activities that will enhance the life and well-being of all.

Opening Day Set For 4/14 In preparation for its upcoming 2018 season, the Co-op City Little League will be hosting its final two free baseball clinics. The remaining two dates are Sunday, 2/18 and Sunday, 3/11. Times for boys and girls, ages 9-14 years old, are from 9-11 a.m.; children, ages 5-8, are from 11:15-12:45 p.m. The clinics are held at Truman HS, 750 Baychester Ave. (rear entrance). You may register your child for Co-op City Little League at the free clinics or by contacting us directly at coopcityll@yahoo.com to set up an individual time to register. Co-op City Little League has also set its Opening Day for Saturday, April 14th. We hope you can join us at the fields to open our 49th little league season. Finally, Co-op City Little League is proud to announce that next season, 2019, will mark our 50th Anniversary and we will begin to prepare for this monumental celebration. Our hope is to have extensive community involvement, as well as to reach out to the thousands of people who have affected or have been affected over the years by the Co-op City Little League to help us celebrate. To this end, we will begin collecting contact information for anyone who has been involved with the league since its inception. This will be an enormous undertaking so if there is anyone in the community who would like to get involved, please reach out to Joe Roman, president of Co-op City Little League, at coopcityll@yahoo.com or 914-262-9697. —Joe Roman

Have a wonderful week. “A people without knowledge of their history is like a tree without roots.” –Marcus Garvey —Carol Campbell

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

Building 21 Association

“For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.” –Psalms 27:5 Spiritual Food for Thought: Do not allow your faith to be shaken by adverse conditions and circumstances. Stand strong in what you know to be the truth. God is with you and for you. You are precious in His sight. Let God bring restoration and healing to your soul. Let Him raise you up in strength and power; He is your very present help in times of trouble. Senior Pastor Boyce Landrum and Pastor Carol Landrum and the Greater Love family welcome you to worship with us on Sunday mornings at 11:30 a.m. Worship at Greater Love Refuge Ministries means gathering with people of all ages and cultures to express our love for God, our Heavenly Father, and Jesus Christ, our Savior. Greater Love is conveniently located at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg. 2A), on the ground level, Bronx, N.Y., 10475; main entrance - red button. Parking is available for a nominal fee in Garage #1 on Darrow Place. Five Loaves & Two Fish Food Pantry: The pantry will reopen on Saturday, February 24th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Donations of non-perishable items & toiletries are needed. Please bring donations to the church or call us to arrange a convenient drop-off time. Thank you to all of our neighbors who continue to support the pantry and the generous donations left at our doorstep. All are invited to join us for Morning Worship on Sunday, February 25th at 11:30 a.m. for our ‘Lay Service’ being led by our Men’s Fellowship Dept.; The Majestic Men. Walking Deacon Harvey Fullwood will preside and Walking Deacon Richard Sates will bring a Scripture teaching. Also, save the date for our Deacons’ Ordination on Sunday, April 15th at 3:30 p.m. Save the Date: On Sunday, March 11th, Pastor Carol Landrum will celebrate her 60th birthday at Greater Love. Following morning worship (11:30 a.m.), there will be an afternoon service beginning at 3:30 p.m. to celebrate God’s amazing grace and keeping power. The guest preacher for the afternoon is Rev. Dr. Betty Hosten, founder & pastor of Word in Heart Healing & Deliverance Ministry in Queens, NY. Save the Date: The next Women’s Fellowship is Saturday, March 17th from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Our guest speaker is Chaplain Doreen G. Lesane, Domestic Violence educator, trainer, founder of Sunshine in My Living Room and author of: “THRIVER: My Story to Tell: What Domestic Violence Taught Me and How I Learned to Live.” There will be a book signing and a Back to Eden lunch provided. RSVP required. “THRIVER” can be purchased on Amazon. Weekly Schedule Church phone: 347-920-5607 Adult & Children Sunday Morning Bible School, 10:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Continental Breakfast: 11:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship: 11:30 a.m. Adult Bible Study/Discipleship Class: Tuesday evenings: 7:00 p.m. Mid-Week Prayer – Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. Prayer Line: Thursday, 9:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. (Dial 712.770.4010 – Access code: 527976) —Pastor Carol Landrum

What Do You Want? Hello, fellow cooperators, shareholders and Building 21’ers! That is the question…What do you want and what are you willing to do to have what you want? We address that question and whatever YOU bring to the TANK, in our “THINK TANK at Building 21” every Friday, 8:30-10 p.m. We are located in the rear of 21B, and ALL are always welcomed. Farewell to Joycelyn Davis, longtime resident of Building 21. Ms. Davis passed away on January 29th. Many of you will remember her as a Charter Member of the Building 21 Association. She always showed up. We will also remember her willingness to work together and work through differences. Many times “Miss Joyce” would take part in Think Tank discussions, general meetings, etc., and she always came back, ready to roll up her sleeves again and get involved. This is a loving community. Let us not forget to show our love, and send up prayers for our friend and neighbor and to the Davis family. Floor Captains are an ABSOLUTE NECESSITY IN EVERY BUILDING. If you have not yet done your part, please know that your building, your block, your community needs you. 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 OFFICES 718-320-3300 Rewards Points Program Is Going “21 Strong” The 21 Association Rewards Point Program is underway. The rewards are for all 21 association members, BUT NOT 21 ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS. Note: A member is any shareholder who has paid their annual $5 dues to the Building 21 Association. Every shareholder of CO-OP City is eligible to be a paid member of the Building 21 Association. Last year’s winner is a resident of Building 20 and won $300!!! Our next 21 Association gathering will be Thursday, February 22. Questions regarding The 21 Association? EMAIL: 21association@gmail.com. CALL: 347.504.1821. ATTEND the monthly meetings every 4th Thursday in the Gathering Room in the rear of the B-section at 7 p.m. FYI, all monies collected (i.e., annual dues, etc.) are turned in to our treasurer and installed in the association’s bank account. Fiscal year is September 2017 thru June 2018. We are dedicated to the self-development and empowerment of every shareholder in CO-OP City. We are passionate about our community. This is positive energy and passion? WHAT DO YOU WANT? Come join us at Building 21 sometime. Bring a friend. Bring a young friend. Come, and let’s begin again! Each one of us divided by ALL of us, equals a force for good. See you around the neighborhood! —Michelle Marbury

Community Protestant Church

On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone: (718) 862-9172. Regular Church Schedule Sunday School – 9:00 a.m. Worship Service – 11:00 a.m. Communion Service – Every first and third Sundays Noon Day Prayer – Hour of Power – Wednesday at noon Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. The following program is at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Sunday School Is Now In Session Every Sunday At 9:00 a.m. Sunday School is really a part of our history, and because someone cared and was concerned enough, many of us benefitted and know its value. In Sunday School, in a nurturing Christian education environment, an opportunity is provided for children to learn about the Bible, to grow in grace, to show love and respect for one another and to live more abundant lives. Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). We encourage you to bring your child, children or grandchildren to Sunday School and we look forward to seeing you.

Other Scheduled Events On Wednesdays at 12:00 noon, you are cordially invited to NOON DAY PRAYER AT CPC, an hour of Power, Prayer, Praise and Testimony. Refreshments will be served. RSVP: (718) 862-9172. As James 2:26 reminds us, “…Faith without works is dead.” Thus, the Sunday School Outreach Program is asking your help in collecting eyeglasses for the needy among us. Eyeglass donations may be placed in the box which will be located in the vestibule outside the Sanctuary on Sundays. Please support this worthy program by donating your old or outdated prescription eyeglasses which will be of immense benefit to someone else. In honor of Black History Month, a poem by our late Poet at Community Protestant, Sister Georgina Moses: Glorify His Name “Are your pathways all uncharted? Let God’s wisdom be imparted. Let Him change with love divine, making all your lives sublime. He will hear your supplication, He will answer every prayer. Let Him walk beside you, He will guide you never fear. . . . God’s comfort and peace assure us not to murmur or complain. Let us rest upon His promises, Let us glorify His name.” The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing. —Evan G. Mitchell

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Building 26 Association

Warm greetings to our Co-op City families, friends, merchants, and especially, our new residents. Well wishes for a speedy recovery to all sick, hospitalized, and home-bound residents. Congratulations to everyone celebrating birthdays, wedding anniversaries, new births, and other celebrated events during the month of February. Our sincere condolences to those families who’ve recently suffered the loss of a loved one. May you and your family be blessed during your difficult time of bereavement. February is designated Black History Month, but every day of the year should be dedicated to appreciating the accomplishments of our fore-parents. So, take time out to watch some historical documentaries, current movies, and read a book about our vast and informative history. Residents are reminded to be considerate of your neighbors. Please do not allow your children to run and make unnecessary noise; it disturbs your neighbors. Please do not put large boxes and/or large bags of garbage in the compactor rooms. They are to be taken down to the basement. If you see something, please call 9-1-1 for emergencies and call 3-1-1 for all non-emergencies. The life you save could be your own. —Yuvonne Lewis

Building 27 Association

Greetings, neighbors. We had a little sprinkle of snow, now hope for an early spring. We had an Open Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, February 8, at Dreiser Auditorium. Manager Klehammer gave a report, Riverbay is in good financial state, however, we do have various capital projects to be done and completed. All the information regarding the management report is in the Co-op Times. Linda Berk, president of the Board of Director, stated she will look into exactly what LED signage we are protesting, she also encouraged the people to attend the public hearing on February 27, 2018 downtown Reade Street in Manhattan and said that Co-op City should come out in full force. Linda stated a bus will be provided to take cooperators to the hearing on a first come basis. Please follow the instructions via posted information. Linda made note that an animal shelter is in the works by the city, a Hilton hotel may be in the works in the vicinity of our theater area. Stay Alert for what’s happening around us and begin to become proactive as oppose to reacting. Black History Month – There are a lot programs beginning February 1, so attend as many as you can for we, as a people, will continue to march forward and not backwards, no matter the circumstances. Remember others who are in bereavement. Contact Lydia Rondon at (718) 583-3030 to share news of any sickness or if a neighbor has deceased. Please continue to pray for our Board members to make the best decisions for our homes and community. Pray for peace amongst the nation’s leaders. —H. Overman

Building 30 A and B Association

The itinerary for the rest of the month of February is as follows: Building meeting Our building association meeting will be on Wednesday, February 21st with our guest speaker Edgar Perez from Restorations. The door to the association room will open at 7 p.m. and the meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. Crochet Class There was no crochet class on Valentine’s Day, Wednesday, February 14th. Classes will resume on Wednesday, the 21st of February, starts at 1 p.m. in the association room. Movie Night Movie Night will be on Friday, February the 23rd, with the door opening at 7 p.m. and the movie starting at 7:30 p.m. Those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and new arrivals, congratulations. Those who suffered a recent loss, our condolences. Those under the weather, get well soon. —Linda Werner

No Standing/Parking In Dumpster Pads Shareholders are reminded that there is no standing or parking in the dumpster pads. These areas are strictly for the use of Riverbay Corporation vehicles. All unauthorized vehicles will be towed at vehicle owners’ expense. Thank you for your cooperation.

Building 32 Association

Meeting Our next general membership meeting will be held in March; date and special guest will be announced shortly. Movie Days Movie matinees or evenings will start in April. Further information will follow. Dues Collection Dues collection of $5 per family for the year is ongoing. Please look for us in the lobby. Game Night Game night is ongoing. Please look for posters indicating when game night is being held. Please remember that the compactor room is not the place to leave boxes, household items, etc. They are to be brought to the basement and placed in the designated areas. We are still waiting for transportation news about our trip to the Dinner Theater on May 2. Thank you for your patience. —Lorna Smith

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 family. Our association philosophy is Thankful, Grateful, Blessed. The Building 9 Association Executive Board is thankful FOR you, grateful TO you and blessed BY you. People appreciate being appreciated. We appreciate the association members and the effort that is made by each of you to attend meetings, participate in social events, appear in our articles by name, deed or photo, support our fundraisers, support community events and rallies, volunteer to lobby-sit for collections, support the association via your membership dues, etc. It is our honor and our privilege to recognize your efforts. Your participation makes us better and is an inspiration to others. To our young people, never be concerned with the negative words of others. They are not your concern. Continue to do what you know is right and helpful and kind. We will continue to be proud and to recognize your efforts. The open Board meeting was informative. Riverbay will provide one bus for transport to the Board of Standards & Appeals Public Hearing. If you want to attend, contact the Riverbay Executive offices. It is a Public Hearing and you (the public) will be permitted 3-minutes to address the commissioners with your concerns after the representative for the New York City Eloise Coleman, Helen Blakes, Catherine Department of Buildings and the Volunteers: Lemon, Shirley Wells, Wanda Randall and Wanda attorney for Baychester Retailers Rodriguez. III, LLC, have made their arguments. You may also write letters, but letters must arrive at least a week prior to the hearing date. Petitions are being circulated as well. At the open Board meeting, we heard committee reports from the respective chairpersons. Just to name a few, Director Evelyn Turner, chairperson, Community Relations and the Parking & Garage Committees (both of which I am a member), provided an update on the status of the garage RFID access system which will maximize garage revenue and the status of reflective directional and other signage to improve safety in our garages. She also highlighted some innovative ideas the Community Relations Committee is developing. Director Sonia Feliciano, chairperson, Buildings & Grounds Committee, provided a well-considered and well-presented report on the broad scope of responsibility of the Buildings & Grounds Committee (of which I am a member). We will discuss the reports at our next meeting. One of our dear members slipped and was injured while on his way to the #38 bus stop on Dreiser Loop. We send him and his wife our best regards and wish him a complete and speedy recovery. Remember, the Building 9 Association Executive Board has an I.D.E.A: Information, Diversity, Empowerment, and Advancement for all. We hope you enjoyed our Valentine’s Day lobby decorations. Just a little something to bring a smile to your faces as you come and go. Thank you Shirley Wells, Gwen Anderson, Wanda Rodriguez and Antonio for volunteering to do the work for others to enjoy. We hope you were able to attend Councilman King’s Valentine’s Day celebration and Assemblyman Benedetto’s Black History event. “Let the work I’ve done speak for me.” —Old Negro Spiritual —Linda Collins

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

2018 Seniors Valentine’s Dance Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

The theme of the day was love everyone 365 days a year as City Councilman Andy King, State Senator Jamaal Bailey and Congressman Eliot Engel hosted more than 400 seniors throughout their districts for a Valentine’s Day Luncheon and Dance in Dreiser Auditorium. Senior Students from Truman High School and the Academy for Scholarship and Entrepreneurship assisted in serving the seniors while Councilman King and Senator Bailey hit the dance floor with their young at heart constituents after handing out roses to each senior in attendance. The fun afternoon was co-sponsored by Riverbay Corporation with the delicious lunch catered by the Ultimate Grill and the musical entertainment provided by Elegant Tunez. Congressman Engel could not make the gathering because of his duties in Washington, D.C but was ably represented by Co-op City’s own Maxine Sullivan. Photos by Bill Stuttig and Leandra Alexander-Peters

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome. Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. On Wednesdays, there is a very short midday service starting promptly at noon. Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m. and we are looking for new members. The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meets immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the 2nd Sunday of each month. We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 18, when we will celebrate The First Sunday in Lent. Our supply priest, Father Simeon O. Johnson, will be the preacher and celebrant. Members who have not yet submitted their 2018 Pledge Cards are encouraged to complete and submit them as soon as possible. Current Events and More Month of February: Special services in honor of Black History Month Last Sunday, February 11: Was the installation service for Wardens, vestry members, officers and other church representatives. Once again, the men of St. Joseph’s honored the women for Valentine’s Day and we thank them very much. Sunday, February 25: The Sunday School children will do their presentation in celebration of Black History Month. Fundraising Our Annual Cake Sale takes place at the church on March 17. ECW Raffle tickets are $1 each and $5 for a book of 6. If you have not yet picked up yours, please do so after service. Drawing is on Thursday, May 10, and winners need not be present. St. Joseph’s Day Luncheon will be held at Eastwood Manor in the Bronx on Saturday, May 26, from noon until 5:00 p.m. Flyers are out and we are depending on our members to distribute them and spread the word. Adults $100, children 12 and under $50. For tickets, contact Renee, 718-379-6511; Dorothea, 718-3044335; Janice, 718-781-0273; Merville, 718-3202089; Yvonne, 718-671-8815. Outreach Program: Collection of non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms is ongoing. Please remember to donate. For additional information on all of the above, you should call the church at 718-320-0844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org. “All the paths of the Lord are love and faithfulness * to those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.” —Psalm 25:9 —Merville Chambers

Open Door Ministries

When God leads us into Failure Judges 20:8 The people stood unified as one man, and spiritual wisdom and then wait. saying, “None of us will go to his tent, and none of us 10 If God leads you into failure there may be a will return to his home until this is settled. 9 But now greater blessing on the way. this is the thing which we will do to Gibeah; we will Sunday Services are @ 11 a.m. in Bartow Comgo up by lot against it.” 17 The men of Israel assem- munity Center, room 28. bled four hundred thousand men of war. 18 They Open Door Ministries’ Therapeutic Mentoring arose and went up to Bethel and asked of God and Program offers free counseling. Contact Pastor Luis said, “Which of us shall take the lead to battle against by text 917-334-4407 or email opendoorministries.net. the tribe of Benjamin?” And the Lord said, “Judah Blessings in Christ. —Pastor Luis Ramos shall go first.” 21 The sons of Benjamin came out of Gibeah and struck to the ground twenty-two thou(Cont’d from page 6) sand men of Israel. 23 The sons of Israel went up and wept before the Lord until evening, and asked of the Lord, “Shall we advance again to battle against the High Hopes sons of our brother Benjamin?” And the Lord said, “Go up against them.” 25 And the fighting men from To the Editor: the tribe of Benjamin went out of Gibeah against Got some great news recently: after being pressured them the second day and again struck to the ground and petitioned by many, many, small grassroots groups the sons of Israel, eighteen thousand men. 26 Then and individuals, (including 91 Co-op City citizens the sons of Israel and the people went up to Bethel through signatures and/or by their trekking up to Albany a few weeks ago), Governor Cuomo has come and wept; and they sat there before the Lord and just around on Early Voting. fasted that day until evening and offered burnt offerEarly Voting — a not-so-glamorous — Voting Rights ings and peace offerings before the Lord. 27 The issue, has been pursued for years. Having passed the State sons of Israel inquired of the Lord for the ark of the Assembly several times in past years, it finally made its covenant of God was there in those days, 28 and way to the governor who declared it an "unfunded manPhinehas the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, minis- date.” He said, in a nutshell — you can have your democtered before it, saying, “Shall I yet again go out to racy-promoting voting reform, but pay for it yourselves. But then, that changed. Due to grassroots efforts, our battle Benjamin, or shall I quit?” And the Lord said, Democratic legislators, and a persuasive Sunday NY “Go up, for tomorrow I will hand them over to you.” Times editorial, Governor Cuomo has agreed to fund this 1 When we plan without God – our plan is des- first step toward greater democracy in our state. NYS tined to fail for our own good. should be the country’s number one progressive state. 2 Acknowledge and repent of the evil you have Thanks to this single voting reform, we’re on our way. Now what else can we tackle? How about keeping our done before you seek to condemn others. 3 Being dependent on our knowledge, resources state at least as blue as it currently is by supporting Democratic candidates for office? Petitioning, canvassing, and or ability diminishes the work of God in us. general supporting works! (See above). 4 We may know what we should do but do not know And closer to home…those darn blazing billboards on how God wants us to do it. the corner of Bartow and Baychester must go. Many of 5 God may lead us into defeat because there are our fellow residents are suffering from the ceaseless LED lights from the signs, but some cooperators are also consome things that we have left undone. 6 Innocent people get hurt when we refuse to cerned with the content of the advertising. One crusader has done the impossible. Tony, the billacknowledge the rule of God over us. board crusader, personally contacted Jack Daniels mar7 Sometimes we do last what we should do first keting and he single-handedly convinced them to change and thus suffer loss. their decision to advertise at 500 Baychester Avenue. 8 Quitting is not an option in God’s plan but we Yet another triumph for activism. Imagine what we need to stay still and listen. can accomplish, cooperatively. —Mary Pearson 9 When faced with a major decision, seek counsel

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018 Pastors Kenneth Hodge and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us. Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s people. Serving the community for over 45 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian love. All are welcome. Order of Services Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Adult and Youth Sunday School: 9:45 – 10:45 a.m. Mid-day Bible Study: Tuesdays, 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Youth Ministry: Fridays, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Upcoming Events • Friday, February 16th, the NGFC Youth Ministry invites you to a Friday Night service “Jesus Loves You.”A night of prayer, praise and worship, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Let us gather together to fellowship. Worship and share the love of Lord Jesus Christ. The NGFC Youth Ministry will be hosting a Dinner Sale, Saturday, February 24th from 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Come and get your fish and chicken dinners. Donation $10, all proceeds go towards the Youth Ministry. ‘If you’d like to donate a dish,” please contact Sis. Dominique Hodge at 475-225-1878. • Sunday, March 11th, there will be one morning service at 10:00 a.m. There will also be an afternoon service at 3:30 p.m. We will celebrate Rev. Kenneth Hodge’s birthday and second year anniversary as pastor and Rev. Deborah Hodge as asst. pastor. • Cruise with us in 2018, July 20th to July 27th on the Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Sea. Going to Port Canaveral, Fl., Cococay, Bahamas, and Nassau, Bahamas. Interior $1,025 - Ocean View $1,175 - Balcony $1,320. NOTE: $500 for all staterooms is due now. Remaining balance is due by April 1 (price Includes taxes, fees and transportation to/from cruise ship in NJ). Gratuities, not included, can be charged to your stateroom upon check-in. No refunds after January 21. For additional information, please contact Sadie James at 718652-8943 or Hermena Smith at 917-974-9282. Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: (718) 671-8746 or (203) 374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 75303, Bronx, NY 10475. Visit our Facebook page: Church of the New Vision concerning upcoming events and trips or call the church. —Sis. Carol Haque

Church of New Vision

Newsong Church

Co-op City Seventh-day Adventist Church This is the final installment of the history of our congregation’s thirty-six years in this community. We celebrate and thank our neighbors and the various organizations that have partnered with us in bringing health and wellness programming, community services, Disabilities Awareness and Bible Studies to the community. In 2010, the Disabilities Ministries hosted a program on Disaster Preparedness with the CERT 10 team which focused on persons with disabilities. The sacrifice and dedication of this present congregation through prayer and fasting reflects God’s anointing…This far by faith! Among the programs that we continue to highlight includes, our Community Services Outreach (more will be written on this in the near future) which now serves hundreds through the pantry from a humble beginning with a Bread Ministry to our neighbors. The Disabilities Expos, since 2015, have served thousands as we bring resources to this area of the Bronx with the combined efforts of the Riverbay Fund, Riverbay’s Disabilities and Accommodations Committee, various elected officials and organization. This event is free and open to all. Again, we thank all who helped with the organizing of the event, attended, or promoted the event. This proves that together, we can accomplish much. Cooking School Our Cooking School is an integral part of our outreach since day one. We encourage our members and friends to eat a plant-based diet by sharing recipes and cooking methods to facilitate a healthy lifestyle. Research has proven that eating a plant-based diet can reverse Diabetes, helps with heart conditions and improves the mood. A Cooking Class is scheduled for February 25. We invite you to attend and continue with your resolve for a healthier lifestyle this year. More information on the Cooking Class will be available in the next issue. This historical review was gathered and complied by Cheryl C. Silvera in April 2012 with research from the Center for Adventist Research, James White Library, Andrews University and from the notes of Jonas Apau II, and Pastor Billwayne Jamal. To be continued. Services and Community Outreach Sunday — February 25. Cooking School. All are welcome. Wednesday — Food Pantry every 1st and 3rd, 4:30 – 6 p.m. Wednesday — Night prayer meeting, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Saturday — Sabbath School, 9:15 a.m. Saturday — Divine Worship, 11:00 a.m. Saturday — Adventist Youth Program, 2:30 p.m. The Co-op City Seventh-day Adventist Church is located at 1010 Baychester Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; http://coopcity22.adventistchurchconnect.org/ —Cheryl C. Silvera

Celebrating Our Thirty-Six Years In Co-op City – Part 4

The Wisdom to Discern Life is full of choices. Because we have so many options, it can be hard to make a decision. The other night, my wife and I were trying to watch a movie on Netflix. By the time we finally found something we could both enjoy, it was too back…after all, I’m a man, and men don’t ask for directions! After an hour or so late to watch the movie! of getting nowhere fast, I humbled myself and asked for directions. In the same The same thing happens to us in life. We often have so many options that way, when we don’t know what choice to make, we need to ask God. Remember, we’re afraid to decide for fear that it’s the wrong choice. Often, when we make God is for us. He wants us to walk in His will. His Holy Spirit advises us, and no decision, it’s worse than if we had made the wrong decision. We need divine will lead us along the right path. We just need to humble ourselves and ask. direction. God, by the power of the Holy Spirit, gives us the wisdom to discern DECIDE which choice we should make. Here’s how… In the 1984 movie, “The Karate Kid,” Mr. Miyagi explains to Daniel that he WALK 20 Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers must decide if he really wants to learn karate or not. He says, “Walk on road. Walk right side, safe. Walk left side, safe. Walk middle, sooner or later, get squish, harm. –Proverbs 13:30 (Emphasis Mine) just like grape.” Friend, the same goes for us. We can walk with the wise, we can There’s an old saying that goes like this… “Birds of a feather, flock together.” ask God for help, but sooner or later we must trust God and decide or we’ll get There’s a new saying that goes like this…“Show me your friends, and I’ll show squish…just like grape! you your future.” If you want divine direction, you’ve got to stop taking direcWe invite you to join us this Sunday as we start a new teaching series called tion from people who do not walk with God! It’s almost impossible to live the “Divine Direction.” right life when you’ve got the wrong friends! This Sunday’s Schedule ASK New Location: 135 Einstein Loop (room 45) 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all New Service Time: 11 a.m. finding fault, and it will be given to you. –James 1:5 (Emphasis Mine) *Kidsong available in Rm. 49; *Deaf Interpretation available during adult service My wife and I were vacationing in the Allegheny Mountains. As I was driving, For more information about Newsong Church, our beliefs or our ministries, I took a wrong turn and ended up not knowing which way to go. My wife kept please go to our website, www.newsongchurchnyc.org. —Pastor Mike Tolone saying to me, just stop and ask for directions, but I knew that I could find my way

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718.239.7110

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

JASA Closed in Observance of Presidents’ Day Word Games: 9:30–11:30 a.m. Walking Club: 10:30 a.m. Bingo: 12:30–2:00 p.m. Caregiver Support Group: 1:00 p.m., 1st and 3rd Tues. Card Games: 2–4 p.m. Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Fri., Feb. 23

Thu., Feb. 22

Wed., Feb. 21

Mon., Feb. 19

Einstein Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Tues., Feb. 20

Bartow Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Blood Pressure: Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday 9–10 a.m. Games 9:30–11 a.m. Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Line Dancing 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Bingo 1–2 p.m. Card Games 2–4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m. Smartphone Class Bartow Main office Beginner – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Intermediate 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Library 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Word Games 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Spanish Class 11 a.m.–12 p.m., Bartow Main Office Chat Session 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Bingo 1–2 p.m. Card Games 2–4 p.m. Dominos 2:30 p.m. Men’s Line Dancing 9–10 a.m. Word Games 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Women’s Line Dancing 10-11:30 a.m. Chat Session 10 a.m. Piano Sing-along 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Bingo 1–2 p.m. Card Games 2–4 p.m. Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

JASA Closed in Observance of Presidents’ Day

Dominoes 10 a.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30–10:30 a.m. Matinee Movie 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Alert & Alive 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (New) Computer Class – Rm. 13 Health & Wellness Support Group Beginner 11:00 a.m. – noon 10–11 a.m. Cultural Dance 10:30–11:30 a.m., Aud. B Mind Teasers 12–1 p.m., Rm. 4 Karaoke by Steven 1–2 p.m., Rm. 45 Zumba 1–2 p.m., Aud. A Walk Group 9:30 a.m., Rm. 40 Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 10 a.m. Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Computer Lab Zumba 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Dominos 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Grandparent Connection 1st Thurs., Rm. 35 10:30 a.m. Arthritis Exercise 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m. Word Search 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Karaoke by Steven 1 p.m., Rm. 45 Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Art 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Bingo 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Card Games 2–4 p.m. Pokeno 2–4 p.m., Rm. 35 Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Friday, 10–11:30 a.m., Rm. 45 Free Oil Painting Classes Rm. 38, 10:00–11:30 a.m.

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

(Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips @ 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.

Kosher

Non-Kosher

JASA Closed in Observance of President’s Day

Apple juice Shake & Bake chicken Pork chops w/ Mashed sweet Oyster sauce potatoes Baked macaroni Cole Slaw & cheese Whole wheat bread Red cabbage salad Canned Pears Alt: Salmon salad

Computer Class – Rm. 13; Beginner Orange Pineapple 10–11 a.m.; Intermediate 11 a.m. – 12 Chicken & Broccoli Juice, Turkey & Beef p.m. Only 6 seats available. stir fry Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Salisbury steak Brown rice 9:30–10:30 a.m. w/mushroom gravy Tossed salad Sewing 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Orzo, Creamy spinach w/dressing Tai Chi 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Healthy Wildberry & or Mind Teasers 12 p.m.–1 p.m., Rm. 4 Applesauce African Brazilian Dance 1 p.m., Rm. 2 Oriental blend Whole wheat bread Art Class 1–3 p.m. Alt: Tuna fish salad Yoga 2 p.m.–3 p.m., Rm. 2

Apple juice Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Lemon pepper Tilapia 9:30–10:30 a.m. Blood Pressure 10–11:30 a.m. 1st & 3rd, Rm. 8 Cuban style Brown rice Green beans w/tomaLine Dancing 10–11 a.m., Aud. A toes, Whole wheat Piano Sing Along 11 a.m.–12 p.m. bread, Apple sauce Drama Club 1:30–4:00 p.m. Alt: Turkey salad

Beef pot roast Baby carrots w/ parsley Red bliss potatoes

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Apple juice Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Roasted chicken 9:30–10, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Meditative Moments 11 a.m.–12 p.m., Mashed red potatoes Rm. 8 Steamed peas & Pokeno 3rd Fri., 1 p.m.–2:30 p.m. carrots, Challah bread Movie - Raisin in the Sun – 1:00 p.m. Alt: Gefilte Fish Card Games, Dominoes 2–4 p.m.

BBQ chicken leg quarters Braised collard greens Mashed sweet potatoes

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk *Menu subject to change without notice. Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

Upcoming Events/Trips

JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 (NEW) – Movie Matinee Mondays, 1 p.m. until AND OLDER! Payments for trips can be made at June. Dreiser Center, rm. 7. all three centers. Trip registration policy: There will This update is for Dreiser Loop only. Notary be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip change for 2018 in Dreiser Loop: Jeannette Graves transportation! All trips must be paid in advance – will be available every Thursday at 177 Dreiser Loop, JASA will not accept checks under $5. rm. 13, for the months of Jan., Feb. & Mar., 11 a.m. - 2 (FREE) LiveOn NY— SCRIE/SNAP (Food p.m. Jeanette will be in the other locations as scheduled. Stamps) Assistance – Friday, Feb. 23rd, 9 a.m. – 2 “Remembrance through Film” – Showing at the p.m., JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. No Dreiser Loop Senior Center, rm. 7, Fri., Feb. 23, appointments. Walk-ins! First come! First served! “Mudbound” at 1 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 7. Please make copies of your documents before comTuesday movies shown at Dreiser will be suspended ing to the office. for the month of February. Free Tax Help! AARP Foundation Tax Aide – “Game Day” – Sat., Feb. 24th at the 135 Einstein Free e-Filing until April 17, 10 a.m., Tuesdays and Loop Senior Center. Dominos, Cards, Bingo & Wednesdays, JASA Einstein Senior Center, room 35. lunch: baked chicken, macaroni & cheese, sautéed First come, first served (Walk-ins only). This free string beans (Kosher food by request). Call the Eintax assistance program is for taxpayers with low and stein Senior Center, 718-671-5161, or stop by to moderate incomes with special attention to those 50 sign up for lunch. $2 for seniors and $5 for guest. and older. Tax assistance is limited to the first 15-25 Cabaret LuLu – direct from Harlem’s Historic taxpayers; No exceptions! Call 718-320-2066 for Alhambra Ballroom, Wed., Feb. 21st, $55. PAYadditional information. MENT DUE NOW. Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. NEW – NORC Cross Roads Program – If you “EveryTime I Feel The Spirit.” Music from Gospel to are 50–59 years old, we invite you to join us to Motown honoring great artists like Mahalia Jackson, explore your future, Tuesdays, Feb. 20th and 27th, Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, The 10 a.m.-12 p.m., 2049 Bartow Avenue, JASA main Supremes & Marvin Gaye which includes lunch and a office. Stuart Singer, facilitator. complimentary glass of wine. Lunch is served at 11:30 NEW – Every Tuesday Choir/Singing Class, a.m. Show starts at 1 p.m. Pick-ups: Dreiser – 9:30 1 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm 7. a.m.; Bartow, 9:45 a.m.; Einstein, 10 a.m. Wait list.

“Jesus” at the Sight & Sound Theater – Thurs., April 26th, $130. Refreshments will be provided. Deluxe Motor Coach transportation. Enjoy a delicious family-style luncheon at the Good & Plenty Restaurant from 1–2 p.m. Show starts at 3 p.m. Depart from destination at 5:30 p.m. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8:45; Dreiser Loop, 9 a.m. & Einstein Loop, 9:15 a.m. Payment due no later than Fri., March 24th. Wait list. St. Mary’s Pool – Fri., Mar. 2nd & 16th; $3. Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m. There is a $25 yearly fee to use the facility which can be paid at the pool by check or money order. Computer Class – March 5th, 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 34. Beginners, 9:30-10:30 a.m.; Intermediate, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Advanced, 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. (6 seats available). Smartphone Class – Mon., March 5, JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. Beginner: 1:15 p.m. Please call the JASA office to register, 718-320-2066. Smartphone Class – Wed., March 7, JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. Beginner: 12:30 p.m. & Intermediate: 1:30 p.m. Please call the JASA office to register, 718-320-2066. Computer Class – Tues., March 6, 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 12. Beginner 11 a.m. Please call the Dreiser Loop Ctr. to register, 718-320-1345 (8 seats available).

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

2/20/2018 - 2/25/2018 Organizations

Function Type

Date & Time

Room

Adler Place Townhouse Association

Meeting

Tuesday, 2/20 – 7:00 pm

Bartow Avenue Room # 31

Youth & Adult Line Dancing

Tuesday, 2/20 – 6:30 pm

Belly Dancing Line Dancing Yoga/Zumba

Wednesday, 2/21 – 7:00 pm Thursday, 2/22 – 7:00 pm Saturday, 2/24– 10:00 am

Black Forum of Co-op City

Zumba Body Conditioning

Wednesday, 2/21- 7:30 pm Thursday, 2/22 – 7:30 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 1

Deeper Life Church

Bible Study

Tuesday, 2/20 – 6:30 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 1

Duplicate Bridge Club

Social

Wednesday, 2/21-1:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 1

Harvest Restoration Ministries

Bible Study

Sunday, 2/25 – 9:00 am

Einstein Loop Room # 38

Islamic Cultural Center

Worship

Friday, 2/23 – 1:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 9

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

Bible Study

Tuesday, 2/20 – 5:30 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 8

Teen Worship

Friday, 2/23 – 6:00 pm

Worship

Sunday, 2/25 -11:00 am

Einstein Loop Rooms # 45 & 49

New Rochelle Huguenot

Double Dutch Practice

Tuesday, 2/20 – 4:00 pm Friday, 2/23 – 4:00 pm

Einstein Loop Room # 45

Open Door Ministries

Worship

Sunday, 2/25 – 10:00 am

Bartow Room # 28

Rivers Run Community Garden

Meeting

Thursday, 2/22 – 7:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 4

Weight Watchers

Meeting

Tuesday, 2/20 – 6:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Room # 4

Working Families of Co-op City

Meeting

Tuesday, 2/20 – 7:30 pm

Einstein Loop Room # 35

Zodiacs Track Team

Track Practice

Tuesday, 2/20 – 6:00 pm Friday, 2/23 – 6:00 pm

Dreiser Loop Aud. A<B<C

African-American Association

NewSong Church

Goose Island Seniors

Thank you for coming with us to the Resorts outing last Thursday. We are so glad you made it. Hope you had a great time. Today, February 17th starts the Presidents’ Day weekend. Have a nice weekend, see you Tuesday. Introducing — Wii Sports. Bowling, Tennis, etc. and Walk Away the Pounds DVD Exercises on Game Days every Tuesday and Thursday in our club room #39. Game Days — Tuesdays and Thursdays. Our club room is set up for Dominoes, Spades, UNO, Kalooki, Mahjong and now Wii games and Exercise DVD from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Stop in and have some fun. Members only. (Members may bring a friend or two, to play with them). ($1 is collected for snacks). Bingo —Wednesday, February 21st, 1:30 p.m. with Stephen in our club room #39. Members only. (One-time non-member guest visit is allowed. Guest has to be a member next visit). Admission, $5 for 3 cards, 12 games and Jackpot. Extra cards are 25¢ each. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Matinee Movie — Tuesday, February 20th. Time change: 9:45 a.m. for refreshments, movie starts at 10 a.m. in room #45. All are welcome. Feature movie: “Girl’s Trip.” Four lifetime friends travel to New Orleans for Essence Festival. 2 hrs. ($1 is collected for refreshments and snacks). Matinee Movies are every 3rd Tuesday. For Game Day see Stephen in room 45 to let you into room 39. There will be Karaoke at 1 p.m. in room 45. Spring Indoor Picnic — April 18th at 1:30 p.m. with Stephen in our club room #39. Members only. $3 donation. It’s a cover dish picnic, so if you want to cook something, feel free. No cash donation if food, drink or dessert is donated. Come have fun

FYI – AARP Smart Driver Class scheduled for Saturday, April 7, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. For an appointment, contact Ellie Minor, 718-379-4429. Fee $20 for National AARP members; $25 for non-members (ONLY check or money order). Get Well Wishes are extended to Shirley Ward-El. Good & Welfare: Please contact our Good & Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-6715493, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home. 2018 Tour Activities April 10, 2018-April 11: Sight & Sound Theatre & Sands Casino – Motor coach trip to Sands Casino with casino bonus and shopping; next day (after Breakfast) to Sight & Sound spectacular production of “Jesus” to experience the greatest rescue story of all time (reserved seating); dinner & breakfast coupons. $309/per person-Double; $395-Single; $295/per person Triple; $50/per person Deposit + optional Travel Protection - $34/per person due ASAP. Final payment due February 23. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370. April 23, 2018 (Monday): Pop The Cork Theme Party at Thomasville Winery (Hammonton, NJ) – full luncheon, wine tasting, music and dancing; “Mommy Dearest” raffle; “beauty wins” door prizes; 4-hour stay at Resorts Casino w/$25 slot play; deluxe motor coach transportation. $125. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370. July 21: Nordic Lodge & Foxwoods Casino – All-You-Can-Eat lobster buffet; 4-hour stay at Foxwoods Casino; deluxe Motor coach transportation. $170. $50 deposit due ASAP; balance due June 1st. Contact Hannah 718-379-7962. Attention: When signing up for the above trips, please give your name, phone number and a deposit. Checks/money orders made payable to AARP Chapter 4997 with the name of the trip in the memo section of your check/money order. Room O (Dreiser Community Center) is opened Monday or Thursday, noon-3 p.m. for checks to be dropped off (in an envelope w/Group/Trip Leader name). They may be mailed to the Group/Trip Leader. —Sharon Clarke

AARP Chapter #4997

Scheduling Activities Calendar Co-op City Times Schedule

Einstein Loop Room # 38

Dreiser Loop Room # 2

Bartow Room # 31

with us. Sands Casino — Thursday May 24, in Bethlehem, PA. Price: $35. Planning to go? Give us your name, phone number and seat location on bus. If possible, pay whole payment or deposit for trip. If you call, please leave a message if no one answers. Office hours are at end of article. Sister Act — Friday, June 15, at the Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford, NY. Come and enjoy a delicious lunch and a terrific show. Price: $79. See Ann, Stephen or Mary. To all members: Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to all members who celebrate their day in the month of February: Dorothy Gilliard, George Vasquez, Joyce Chaney, Lucila Correa and Aida Gonzalez. Our Lounge — Come sit and relax, read a book from our large library, play games every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. ($1 is collected for refreshments and snacks). Play Bingo every Wednesday for $5 for only $15 per year dues. All are welcome to Bingo the last Sunday of each month for $6. Also, come with us on wonderful trips. Membership dues are for indoor club room activities, only except Sunday Bingo. Membership not necessary for trips. Note: Call Ann or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613, or visit Ann, Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39. Visit or call Stephen in room 39, every Mon. & Fri. from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Tues. & Thus., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Wed., 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. or 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Call Stephen at 347-847-1941. Good health to all. —Stephen Roberts Sr.

Cooperators United Of Co-op City

Greetings! Let us celebrate our accomplishments and remain vigilant. GET INVOLVED. SPEAK OUT. Please note that on Tuesday, February 27, at noon, the Planning Office will hold a hearing regarding the billboards. We must show up and be heard. Riverbay is providing transportation to the hearing. To reserve your seat, call 347-913-4224. The bus will leave at 10:30 a.m. from in front of the Bingo Hall. Keep The Pressure On by calling the strip mall property owner, 646-660-4254 or 347-850-7446; NYC Buildings Dept.-Bronx Commissioner, 718960-4700; Bronx DOT Commissioner Nivardo Lopez, 212-748-6680 or online at NYC.gov/dot.; City Council Member Andy King, 718-684-5509; NY State Senator Jamaal Bailey, 718-547-8854 and NY State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, 718320-2220. The next Cooperators United of Co-op City meeting is Tuesday, February 27, 7 p.m., Bartow, room 31. We will have an update on the Strip Mall signs and a discussion regarding USPS Boxes and mail delivery. Regarding the Post Office, the consensus of opinion at our last meeting is that we do not want the P.O. Boxes in our lobbies and a better place for the P.O. Boxes would be in the basements. Also, in our backyard are proposed an animal shelter and a hotel. Shareholders have got to GET INVOLVED. Best wishes to all who are celebrating a special event this month. Be careful when out and about. Our thoughts and prayers to go out to all who have suffered a loss or is sick and shut-in. Special thank you to everyone who so generously gave and continue to give to the Hurricane Relief efforts. We can be reached at MLSAH@aol.com or 718379-7841. —Sonja Maxwell

Traditional Synagogue

General Information: The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of Building 27B. We are on the ground floor of Building 27B; it’s handicap accessible, no steps. Phone #: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message. The synagogue has Services Saturday morning starting at 9 a.m. After Services, we always have a nice kiddush. The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue. Rabbi Kronengold will conduct services. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to service. Please come by 10 a.m. so we can take out the Torah. Our synagogue has a casual atmosphere. Come on down for about two hours; this will be a mitzvah, you’ll feel better. We welcome all men and women from Young Israel in Section 1 who want to attend services. We are now the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbaths ends on Saturday, February 17, at 6:15 p.m. Candle Lighting for Friday, February 23, at 5:22 p.m. Bingo: The synagogue’s next Bingo is Sunday, March 4, weather permitting, at 1 p.m. The cost is $3 admission, which includes refreshments and 10 games of Bingo. Also, there is a 3-part Jackpot game for $2 in which you can win up to $30 if you win. Purim Party: Thursday, March 1, we will celebrate the Purim Holiday. The rabbi will read the Book of Esther (The Megillah) at 11 a.m., followed by a Purim party, 50/50 raffle and Mini Bingo. The cost for the party is $20. We will be serving roasted chicken, mixed salad, potato and macaroni salad, coffee, tea, soda and hamantaschen. Please make a reservation ASAP; only 12 days to Purim holiday. Let the synagogue know if you want dark meat or white meat chicken. Also, the rabbi will read the Megillah on Wednesday, February 28, at about 8:15 p.m. in the synagogue. Good & Welfare: We sell Tree Certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel tov to all having simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make a donation to the synagogue. Wishing Birthday wishes to Debbie Schwartz. Fun and Games: After services and kiddush, some men and women play Rummy Cube game. Your support of the Traditional Synagogue, and Men’s Club is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health, and a happy holiday season. —Gary Schwartz

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for worship service. Sunday School for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us. The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774. And, be sure to extend your worship with us today and every Saturday, 4 – 5 p.m. on Principle Centered Living Radio, redeemradiofm.com. Also, learn more about our pastor and the principles of our church, while enjoying a laugh or two on Facebook (Principle Centered Living with Rev. Sheldon Williams). Please “Like” the page and share the posts. Only those who “LIKE” the page will qualify for upcoming contests and rewards. Join us for a midweek spiritual pick-up at our midweek worship service held on Wednesdays at noon. Bible Study classes are held on Wednesdays at 1 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. Prayer service is held on Fridays at noon. Prayer Service is also held on Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us from the comfort of their home for an hour of prayer. Making use of available technology, Friday evening prayer service is held using a conference call line. On Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m., you can call 563-9992090; when asked for the PIN, enter 660065 and you will be connected. PLEASE NOTE: Prayer service

will no longer be held on the 1st Friday the month. Tomorrow, Sunday, February 18 at our 11:00 a.m. service, the First Lady’s Ministry will celebrate their 22nd Anniversary. The guest speaker will be Minister Diane Asphal, associate minister of Mt. Zion Christian Baptist Church, Mt. Vernon, NY. The theme for the day will be “Praise God for the great things he has done.” Philippians 4:8. All are welcome to this celebratory service. Black History Sunday will be celebrated on Sunday, February 25, at the 11:00 a.m. service. The guest speaker will be Rev. Kenneth Hodge, pastor of Church of the New Vision here in Co-op City. Join us for this celebratory service. The First Lady’s Ministry will sponsor its annual Women’s History Month event, “Herstory,” on Saturday, March 24, at 10:00 a.m. Central to this event is hearing from an AfricanAmerican female community leader focusing on her life’s journey to her current status. Their 2018 presenter will be Ms. Patricia Myers, manager of McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, Inc. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 to 17. All are invited to join us. The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible Study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry. —Hattie L. Lucas

Our first trip of the year is Sunday, March 18 to the Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. The cost of the trip is $35 per person. You will receive $25 slot play. All men and women over 21 years old can attend our trips and functions. You need a Resorts Casino card or a government ID, passport, non- or driver’s license to receive the bonus. On the bus, we provide a drink, snacks, play Bingo, 50/50 raffle and show a recent movie. We keep you entertained, the ride goes fast to Atlantic City. Enjoy the boardwalk, take a stroll, enjoy the sights, food, have a good time. The bus stops by all three shopping centers going

and returning. This trip, we will be leaving Einstein Loop at 8 a.m. by the supermarket; Asch Loop, 8:15 a.m. by the library, and Dreiser Loop by 8:25 a.m. For a reservation, call Gary at 718-671-8424 or Bruce, 718-320-2234. Please make out check, money order or cash to Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place, Lobby, Building 27B, Bronx, New York 10475. Hope to see you on the trip. Your support of the Men’s Club is greatly appreciated. Wishing everyone peace and good health. —Gary Schwartz

The new year has begun and if you enjoy being creative, painting will give you much satisfaction. Come and join BVA’s art classes and you will be among the many who find pleasure in creating. Our session of art classes began on February 6th with two class schedules to choose from which are 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The fees are as follows: Annual membership is $35 a year and a session of 10 classes is $60. This is the

best bargain in the Bronx – maybe even the city – given the quality of instruction offered. Come and join us. Visit our studio room 5 and see beautiful paintings on display. You will be amazed at the artwork done by BVA members. Many of our members have won awards at art shows. Some of our members started to paint for the first time when joining BVA and they have been pleased with their completed work. Mr. Moses Groves, BVA’s own art instructor, will be the artistic guide for these classes. Mr. Groves is an accomplished artist who has studied at the Art Students League and NYU. He has exhibited work in the New York and New Jersey area and has won awards for his artwork. You can call M. Groves at 201-862-0847 or S. Lochansky at 718-379-1049 for more information. You can register by mail by indicating the class time desired. Tuition can be sent to Baychester Visual Arts, P.O. Box 678, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. BVA is a non-profit, self-supporting organization that needs your support to continue offering high level art instruction at these bargain prices. So come join BVA on this fabulous artistic trek, take a class, make a tax deductible donation, and feel the satisfaction of being a creator and/or patron of the arts. All checks should be made out as indicated above. Science is for the body and art is for the soul. —Sylvia Lochansky

Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue Try your luck with the Men’s Club

Baychester Visual Arts Association

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to attend worship service at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 Sundays: Sunday School for all age groups begins at 10: 30 a.m. Midday Worship Service starts at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday: Prayer and fasting service every Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m. Effective Fervent Prayers change things. Come and experience the power of Biblical prayer. Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power is released through His Word. Come and study the word of God; it can change your life. Friday: Youth service will start at 7:30 p.m. Focus: Right Living MICAH 6: 1-9 Hear ye now what the Lord saith; Arise, contend thou before the mountains; and let the hills hear thy voice. Hear ye, O mountains, the Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s controversy, and ye strong foundations of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with his people, and he will plead with Israel. O my people, what have I done unto thee? And wherein have I wearied thee? Testify against me. For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed out of the house of servants; and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam. O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may know the righteousness of the

Lord, Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He hath shown thee O man, what is good; and what doeth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? The Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s voice crieth unto the city, and the man of wisdom shall see thy name; hear he the rod, and who hath appointed it. The Requirements The prophet questioned, in Micah 6,6-7 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? The answer is no. God does not want mere outward signs of contrition or a mere show of repentance. The Lord requires us to do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God Micah 6:8 In the New Testament, Jesus simplified the Law into two commandments. First we must love the Lord with all our hearts. Second, we are to love our neighbors as ourselves. Matthew 22:3739. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Rev. R. Sibblies

Faith In God Church & Bible Institute

Pastor & Evangelist Vernon Little greet everyone in the name of Jesus, that name which is above every name. We want you to know that you are welcome in this house of the Lord! It is His house by ownership: it is our house by stewardship: and it can be your house by membership; so come on in and join with us. May God bless you in this house! No one is an island. We all need help sometimes. The Maker of the universe is the helper of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s look at scripture to support this. Psalms 121 says: 1) I lift up my eyes to the mountainsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;where does my help come from? 2) My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. 3) He will not let your foot slipâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; he who watches over you will not slumber; 4) indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 5) The Lord watches over youâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;

the Lord is your shade at your right hand; 6) the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. 7) The Lord will keep you from all harmâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;he will watch over your life; 8) The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Invitation: Sweet Hour of Prayer is today at 3 p.m. Sunday School is tomorrow at 10 a.m. Our Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 11 a.m. Every 3rd Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion. Vernon Little just released a new EP titled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Double Mindedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, etc. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fusion of Gospel, R&B, and Rap. He also has videos on YouTube. You will be blessed, encouraged, and inspired. We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone # is (347) 276-4925. Jesus loves you, and so do we! â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Pastor Vernon Little

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The Circle of Christ Church family extends a warm welcome to you and your family and invites you to come and worship with us at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level (located in the Dreiser Community Center). La familia de la Iglesia Circulo de Cristo les extiende una cĂĄlida invitaciĂłn a usted y su familia para que vengan a alabar a Dios junto con nosotros. Nos encontramos en el 147 de Dreiser Loop, al nivel del patio. We are a multicultural church that embraces Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love for all. Family unity is very important to us. We have a wonderful children ministry focus on learning Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s word. Our Youth Ministry is very active and dynamic. The youth are involved in music, retreats, concerts, debates, conferences, drama, counseling among many other activities. Somos una Iglesia multicultural que recibe y da del amor the Dios para todos. La unidad de la familia es muy importante para nosotros. Tenemos un ministerio para los jĂłvenes que es muy dinĂĄmico. Los jĂłvenes disfrutan de mĂşsica, retiros, conciertos, debates, conferencias, dramas, consejerĂa y mucho mas. We also have a food pantry for those in need in our community. Our phone number is 347-945-1992. In case there is no one in the office, please feel free to leave a message, we will call you back.Â Suplimos comida a aquellos en nuestra comunidad que lo necesitan.

Nuestro telĂŠfono es 347-945-1992 de no haber nadie en la oficina sientancenÂ libres de dejar un mensaje, le devolveremos su llamada.Â Thought for the Week Faith in Action 1 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Heb 11:1 Reflexion para la semana La fe 1Es, pues, la fe la certeza de lo que se espera, la convicciĂłn de lo que no se ve. Hebreos 11:1 English Services Wednesday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Prayer & Bible Study. Friday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Youth NightÂ Sunday, 11:00 a.m., Worship and the Word Children Church, 5 years old to 12 years old Little lamb nursery. Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 a.m., Prayer and the Word Thursday, 5:00 p.m., Boys and Girls ClubÂ Horario de Servicios en EspaĂąol Domingo, 9:00 a 10:30 a.m., Alabanzas y PredicaciĂłn Jueves, 12:00 p.m., OraciĂłn y Estudio BĂblico Special Event: Boys and Girls Club. This is a free outreach every Friday at 4:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Rev. Sam Colon

Circle of Christ Church

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

STAR Program

(Continued from page 1)

for as the primary residence of at least one owner. Therefore, for a married couple applying for Enhanced STAR, if one owner is absent from the property because they are receiving inpatient health related services at a residential health care facility, such as a nursing home or any other facility that provides lodging, board and physical care, as long as the property is not occupied by anyone other than the remaining spouse or co-owner, the property may qualify for Enhanced STAR as long as the following criteria are also met: the property owner(s) must be age 65 or older as of December 31 of the exemption year and have an annual total combined household income of $86,000 or less to qualify. Shareholders who are 60 years and older and need assistance completing their STAR applications, may contact the JASA Senior Services Office at (718) 3202066, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or you may also walk in. Applicants must bring their 2016 taxes, if filed, and photo ID. You must also know how many shares you own and the specific date of purchase of your apartment. If you cannot locate your stock certificate, you can obtain this information from the Riverbay Finance Department. Shareholders who did not file taxes in 2016 must attach proof of their 2016 earnings to their STAR application, such as a Social Security statement, a1099 or W-2. Total combined household income is the federal adjusted gross income minus the taxable amount of IRA distributions. If you are a shareholder of Co-op City and you applied for the STAR program last year, 2017/2018, and did not receive a credit, you should contact the New York City Department of Finance at calling 3-1-1. If you have not yet filed an application and, as a result, did not receive a credit this year, you should fill out an application before the upcoming March 15th deadline for a credit next year. All applications must be postmarked by Thursday, March 15, 2018. You can obtain a STAR application by calling 3-1-1, or by logging onto the

DOF website at www.nyc.gov/star. Completed STAR applications should be mailed to: New York City Department of Finance, P.O. Box 311, Maplewood, NJ 07040-0311. You should retain a copy of the completed application for your records. Eligibility for the upcoming 2018/2019 STAR credit, which will be received by those who qualify next year, is based on income information from the 2016 tax year. You will also need the following information to complete your STAR application: • Cooperators who live in Sections 1-4, and in the Adler, Asch, Cooper, Debs, DeFoe and Broun Place townhouses – “Block #: 5141; Lot#: 120. • Cooperators who live in Section 5 and the Earhart Lane townhouses – Block#: 5135; Lot: 51. Current Basic STAR enrollees who would like to aplly for ENHANCED STAR can download the STAR application from the NYC Department of Finance website. www.nyc.gov/star or contact 3-1-1. First time applicants or those who did not have STAR on their apartments in the 2015/2016 tax year must register with New York State at https://www.tax.ny .gov/star/, or by contacting New York State Department of Taxation and Finance at (518) 457-2036. This year, eligible shareholders who applied for the 2017/2018 tax year before the March 15, 2017 deadline, received their credit on their Feb. 1, 2018 carrying charge statement. Recipients of the 2017/18 Basic STAR received $96.64 and those who qualified for Enhanced STAR received $211.56. Out of Co-op City’s 15,372 apartments, 8,171 received the credit for 2017/2018, which amounted to a total of $1,154,062 that was shared by those households for Basic and Enhanced STAR.

NYC Health Department Warns About Unsolicited Calls From Individuals Claiming To Be From National Poison Help Hotline

HOSTILES Not even kidding, HOSTILES is one of the most powerful films I have ever seen. I was quite taken aback by it. No scene is wasted in this film. Had such powerful and extraordinary performances. Christian Bale is extraordinary. So many scenes in this film prove why he is one of the best actors. He brings such fierceness in this role. At times, he is vicious, but at times, he is a heartbroken soldier. Rosamund Pike, again, is mesmerizing in this film, her story is a real gutwrencher. The beginning was actually very, very hard to get through. It was actually a shocker. Scott Cooper had zero remorse in this one. He again showed why he is incredible in real-human drama. Same as was the case in OUT OF THE FURNACE and CRAZY HEART and even BLACK MASS. Insane amount of powerful drama in HOSTILES. It was a very, very heavy film. Wes Studi was incredible here as well. I love all of the real Native American language here. Was incredible that Christian Bale’s Captain communicated in the language with the Chief. So awesome to watch. So many great actors here; Stephen Lang, Rory Cochrane, Jesse Plemons, Jonathan Majors, Ben Foster, Adam Beach and even Timothee Chalamet, was in this. Of course, before him blowing up in Hollywood from CALL ME BY YOUR NAME, a lot of intense scenes in this film by such extraordinary actors. The cinematography was beautiful, the score was fantastic. The script was amazing. This is a great companion piece to WIND RIVER, which is like one of my favorite films in years. HOSTILES, is no different. I will definitely not forget this film any time soon as I am still trying to process what I witnessed last night. It is a part of a dying genre, the western genre is definitely alive and well! This is a film about sacrifice, spirituality and appreciation for life. HOSTILES is a definite masterpiece of a true filmmaker. A tenner for sure. HOSTILES, 2017, RATED R, 134 Minutes Director – Scott Cooper Writer – Scott Cooper Christian Bale – Capt. Joseph J. Blocker Rosamund Pike – Rosalie Quaid Wes Studi – Chief Yellow Hawk Rory Cochrane – Master Sgt. Thomas Metz Jeese Plemons – Lt. Rudy Kidder BY ANATOLIY BUDNITSKIY

The fraudulent calls have solicited payments and asked for personal information of victims, many of whom are elderly Poison Control Centers never request personal information or payments

The Health Department this week warned New Yorkers about unsolicited calls from individuals claiming to be from the National Poison Help Hotline (800-222-1222). These calls, which have targeted individuals and health care providers nationwide, are not legitimate calls from Poison Control Centers. Callers have solicited payments and requested personal information from victims, many of whom are elderly. In some instances, the caller has identified himself as “Justin.” The New York City Poison Control Center has received over 50 calls from victims stating to have received these suspicious calls. Poison Control Centers, including the New York City Poison Control Center, never request personal information or payments. The NYC Poison Control Center is one of 13 poison centers that have been receiving these calls. In response to these calls, the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) has filed formal complaints with the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Communications Commission. AAPCC is also working with Verizon and AT&T on this investigation. Any New Yorker who receives a suspicious call should immediately contact the National Poison Help Hotline at (800) 222-1222 and provide as much detail as possible. “We join Poison Control Centers nationwide in warning the public about these unsolicited calls that have the potential to cause real harm to residents,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “New Yorkers should know that neither the New York City Poison Control Center, nor the National Poison Help Hotline will ever ask for personal information or payment via phone calls. We ask New Yorkers to immediately call the National Poison Help Hotline if they receive one of these suspicious calls.” The NYC Poison Control Center is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for treatment advice about intentional and unintentional exposures or questions about medicine safety. Pharmacists and nurses certified in poison information are there to give advice. All calls are free and confidential. Translator services are provided in more than 150 languages. Call (212) POISONS (212-764-7667), or from outside the city, call (800) 222-1222. More information can be found on nyc.gov/health. The AAPCC supports the nation’s 55 poison center members in their efforts to treat and prevent drug, consumer product, animal, environmental and food poisoning. Members of the AAPCC staff work for the National Poison Help Hotline, which provides free, confidential, expert medical advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year from toxicology specialists, including nurses, pharmacists, physicians and poison information providers.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS 718-320-3300 x3384 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

SPOONER

DOMESTIC SERVICE

• Basic Cleaning $90 • Deep Cleaning $130 • Non-Medical Senior Care $80 • 4 Hour Min. + 8.78% tax • Bonded • 7 Days • Cash, Pay-Pal www.spoonercleaning.com 3/24 (718) 320-5112

Drummer Needed

Local mature band has upcoming shows. We have our own studio space.

Painting

Cleaning Services

Advertise in the Co-op City Times! Call for rates! Ads starting at $8/week! 718-320-3300 x3384

Top Quality Work - Painting, Plastering, Tiles, Walls & Floors, Floor Sanding, Refinishing, Waxing. 3/31

Call Wesley 212.996.7347 or

917.325.5334

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

JB RYAN COMPUTER REPAIR & UPGRADE

You MUST have own drums kit AND transportation.

FATHER & SON

2/24

Decorator

Call: 917-327-5109

2/24 2/17

— SERVICES — SERVICES — SERVICES — Appliance Repair

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

2/24

Home Improvement 2/24

CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L&L APPLIANCE REPAIR

$20

OFF

Present This Coupon (except vacuums/lamps)

STOVES • WASHERS • REFRIGERATORS • VACUUM CLEANERS and more. LIMIT — One Coupon Per Person. Fully Insured • NYC License #1233497

718.792.2655

10/8

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

• RANGE HOODS We BEAT • LIGHT FIXTURES Any • KITCHEN CABINETS • CABINET REFACING Quote! • COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

Grout & Carpet Cleaning Co-op City Resident Specials

Elim in Bugsate

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

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

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

2/24

Locksmith

(except vacuums)

718.792.2655

2951 Middletown Road, Bronx, NY 10461 (Near Pelham Bay Station)

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

Breathe Easy

EMERGENCY SERVICE

Fully Insured

1-800-479-2667

10/8

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS Licensed and Bonded

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS

Cleaning Services

20% Off Any Lock Job!

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

NEW STYLE BLINDS

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

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION

Re-installation of any types of Blinds. Repair Closet Doors and Sell New Bi-Fold Doors! Serving Co-op City for over 25 years. “When you see me, You’ll know me.” Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290

2/24

Public Safety Department

3/17

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

BLACK HISTORY MONTH Black Women In Art And Literature (Continued From Last Week) The Late 20th And Early 21st Centuries In more recent years, many African-American female artists have proved themselves unafraid of provoking controversy. In the 1970s, the artist Betye Saar played on the theme of “Aunt Jemima,” an age-old stereotype of the domestic black woman in her work. More recently, the California-born artist Kara Walker was the subject of similar controversy over her use of intricate full-size cutpaper silhouettes depicting disturbing scenes of life in the antebellum South. In 2006, Walker’s exhibition “After the Deluge,” inspired in part by the devastation of New Orleans by Hurricane Katrina the previous year, was displayed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Walker has earned widespread acclaim, but has also drawn criticism from some other African-American artists (including Saar), who claim that her work depicts sexist and racist stereotypes (albeit in the form of parody). The photographer Lorna Simpson also explores race and gender stereotypes–particularly those having to do with black women–in her work. In 1990, Simpson became the first African-American woman to exhibit at the prestigious Venice Biennale, and she was the subject of a 20-year retrospective at the Whitney in 2007 The growth of the woman’s movement, and its impact on the consciousness of African-American women in particular, helped fuel a “black women’s literary renaissance” of the 1970s, beginning in earnest with the publication of “The Bluest Eye” (1970), by Toni Morrison. Morrison went on to publish “Sula” (1973) and “Song of Solomon” (1977); her fifth novel, the slave narrative “Beloved” (1987) became arguably the most influential work of African-American literature of the late 20th century (rivaled only by Ralph Ellison’s “Invisible Man”). The success of writers like Morrison, Maya Angelou (poet and author of the 1970 memoir “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”) and Alice Walker (winner of the National Book Award and the Pulitzer Prize in 1982 for “The Color Purple”) helped inspire a generation of younger black female novelists, including Toni Cade Bambara and Gloria Naylor. Later African-American writers include the novelists Paule Marshall, Octavia E. Butler, Gayl Jones, Jamaica Kincaid and Edwidge Danticat; the poets Audre Lord and Rita Dove (who won the Pulitzer Prize for poetry in 1987); and the playwrights Ntozake Shange and Suzan-Lori Parks. Source: History.com

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2018

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Additional Locations: 2169 White Plains Road, Bronx, NY 10462 718-597-6314

1 East Fordham Road, Bronx, NY 10468 718-365-0990

183 West 231 Street, Bronx, NY 10463 718-543-1123

427 Fort Washington Ave., Suite 1C, NY, NY 10033 212-923-7644