Co-op City Times 02/17/2024

RIVERBAY HOLIDAY CLOSING In observance of Presidents’ Day on Mon., Feb. 19, 2024, Riverbay Administrative Offices will be closed. For emergency services, call: MAINTENANCE: 718-320-3300, press option 2; PUBLIC SAFETY: 718-671-3050

Vol. 59 No. 7

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Winter 2024

$1.25

Working Together President’s Report

Sonia Feliciano

Mother Nature blanketed Co-op City with approximately 7” of snow on Tuesday, February 13, when the New York City area experienced the most significant snowfall of Winter 2024 thus far. In the photo above, crews from the Riverbay Grounds department were out early clearing walkways and sidewalks around the residential buildings and townhouses. (See page 14 for more pictures.)

Photo by Brandon Ortiz

Retired Riverbay Employee Arrested for Stealing Riverbay Property On Friday, February 9, 2024 at approximately 12:30 p.m., CCPD received a call from a Riverbay employee who witnessed a 65-year-old male retired Riverbay employee, removing Riverbay property from a storage room at 140 Benchley Place.

The retired employee was observed taking these items and placing them into the trunk of his private vehicle. CCPD Officers responded, confronted the retired employee, searched his vehicle and recovered the stolen items he had removed, which still had Riverbay’s identifying decals on them. The items were verified by a Riverbay Janitorial supervisor as being Riverbay property.

The 65-year-old male was then placed under arrest and charged with Burglary and Larceny; he is not a Co-op City resident.

Auto Crime in and Around Co-op City All Co-op City residents should be aware of a spike in auto-related crime in and around the Co-op City community. The theft of air bags has increased.

Thieves appear to be targeting Honda and Acura vehicles, although other makes of vehicles have also been involved.

Shareholders are reminded to: • Leave no personal property in plain sight • Park in a well-lit and well-traveled area, if possible • Lock your car doors • The use of mechanical steering wheel locks is also encouraged Public Safety and NYPD are aware of the ongoing threat and are working towards apprehending violators.

—CCPD

CCTimes Holiday Deadline Notice Because of the shortened work week, all articles and directors’ viewpoints submitted for publication in the Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024 issue must be received before 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 20.

Material received after this time will be considered on a first come basis as space allows.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Have a safe and enjoyable Presidents’ Day!

Dear fellow shareholders: The month of February is Black History Month.

Known as African American History Month, we celebrate the role of African Americans in U. S. History. It is a time when we honor notables who played an important part in history through their contributions. Created by Carter G. Wooden, a Harvard-educated scholar, author and journalist, he was known as the Father of Black History. It began in 1926 as Negro History Week and expanded to Black History Month. Black history is all the things that represent honor, opportunity, culture, and respect. We teach our children its meaning and continue to honor the tradition that should be (Continued on page 2)

Feb. 21st Board Meeting to be Live Streamed on Crawler The Wednesday, Feb. 21st meeting of the Riverbay Board of Directors will be live streamed on the Crawler beginning at 7 p.m. Among the Resolutions to be voted on will be energy management services and additional funds for turnkey contract. There will also be a Board President Report and Management Report. Tune in to channel 12 (MATV) or channel 591 (Altice/Optimum subscribers) .

DRIE Applications SCRIE Applications Disabled shareholders who meet criteria may be eligible for the city’s Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) which would essentially freeze monthly carrying charges for those who qualify, and exempt them from future increases.

Please note that DRIE is administered by the New York City Department of Finance (DOF).

Like SCRIE, it is part of the city’s Rent Freeze Program. Unlike SCRIE, it is not administered by the city’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

Completed applications and supporting documents must be submitted to: New York City Department of Finance Rent Freeze Program: DRIE, P.O. Box 3179, Union, NJ 07083.

Information on DRIE can be obtained by calling 311 or send a message to DOF by visiting www. nyc.gov/contactdrie. TTY callers, use (212) 639-9675. Virtual appointments are also available.

(See page 3 for eligibilty requirements.)

Senior shareholders 62 years and older who meet criteria may be eligible for the city’s Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) which would essentially freeze monthly carrying charges for those who qualify, and exempt them from future carrying charges.

Please note that for Mitchell-Lama developments such as Co-op City SCRIE is not administered by the NYC Department of Finance. Although the program is part of the New York City Rent Freeze program, it is administered by the city’s Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

Completed applications and supporting documents must therefore be submitted to: SCRIE Unit, New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development, Division of Housing Supervision, 100 Gold Street, 7th floor, New York, NY 10038. Applications and supporting documents can also be emailed to SCRIE@hpd.nyc.gov.

Information on SCRIE can be obtained by calling HPD’s SCRIE Unit at (212) 863-8494, or 311, or by going online to: nyc.gov/hpd.

(See page 3 for eligibility requirements.)

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

President’s Report ––––– (Continued from page 1) celebrated yearly. As we look at those who paved the way for the injustices suffered by African Americans, such as Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Mary McLeon Bethune and Dorothy Height, to name a few, we honor all African Americans who have played a huge role in shaping U.S. History.

In Co-op City, our trailblazers shape where we are today through their volunteerism, engagement, and connecting to others with programs, health and wellness services, education, and scholarship programs. They create opportunities that strengthen our community, promoting the well-being of our community. They are: Michelle Marbury – President of the African American Association, a Riverbay Board director, assistant treasurer of the Riverbay Corporation and vice president of her Building Association. Michelle is a long-time resident of Co-op City. As president of the African American Association, she engages in inclusive interaction with Black History by putting together a film festival in Tribute to the Ancestors. The organization does wholistic and wellness programs for the community, the Co-op City Spelling Bee for our children, Pre-Kwanzaa celebrations and the Section 4 Partnership’s Ice Cream Social and Book Bag Giveaway. These events are open to every Co-op City resident.

Leslie Peterson – Leslie is a 40-year resident of Co-op City. She is the president of the NAACP, a national organization committed to fighting for justice and equality for all Americans; a Board director, a former VP of the Spanish American Club, and president of her Building Association. Leslie put in motion the Rivers Run Community Garden, an oasis of fun for the entire community through her building’s 501c3 designation.

Sakeena Shaw – Sakeena is a long-time shareholder of Co-op City. She is the president of the Kevin Shaw Jr., Foundation created by her late husband, Kevin Shaw Sr., in memory of her late son, Kevin, who tragically passed away in 2015.

Sakeena, along with her daughter Ebone Shaw, are board members of the foundation that has awarded 37 scholarships to first-year college students, who are selected through a rigorous application process.

Sakeena is the embodiment of a selfless community and is well deserving of this recognition.

Sheila Richburg is the president of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Co-op City chapter. NCNW works at improving the living standards of African American women and their families. They have a multitude of community programs, such as health and wellness fairs, school drives with the youth, they support food drives with a local shelter, and scholarship programs. Delivering services to the community is what they do best.

We salute these trailblazers, women of distinction, for their activism and caring for the Co-op City community.

“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they have the heart.” –Elizabeth Andrew Budget The Board asked the Riverbay Corporation to provide a conservative budget based on management projections for 2023/2024. However, DHCR showed their numbers as significantly higher. While DHCR projections show Riverbay’s income as a decreasing, why is the shelter rent tax that is based on income not decreasing? We projected Power Plant income and expenses based on details from actual operations, but those numbers are not in DHCRs projections. We also looked at gas prices that are partially hedged, but not reflected in DHCR’s projections. In addition, the price of electricity can vary based on fuel adjustments, but we don’t know what factors were considered by HCR. We have an outside Accounting firm looking at the numbers.

If the conservative budget that was requested by the Board is unrealistic then DHCR should state this. The burden of proof needs to be provided by DHCR. Maintaining affordability is not sustainable when 97% of the budget is paid from the pockets of the shareholders. Residents with fixed incomes cannot respond to the pressures of inflation which then creates unaffordability defeating the purpose of the Mitchell-Lama program. We need to find alter-

native revenue sources that will create income for our community.

Etiquette Dogs – I feel that I am beating a dead horse, but will continue to do so to get the message across that we are a community of many and we have to be considerate of each other. Dog owners have an accommodation. The accommodation does not say you should not clean up after your dog, nor does it say that your dog can run loose or urinate in our toddler parks that children play in. Our toddler parks are not dog run parks. I thank all those who do the right thing, and ask those who do not do the right thing to start doing so. We are going to start getting aggressive with fines. Let’s do better.

Laundry Rooms – More and more, shareholders are complaining that residents are leaving their washers or dryers full of clothes without the benefit of removing them in a timely manner. We don’t own these machines, and we need to be considerate of the next person who needs to use them. If you are not downstairs within 10 to 15 minutes at the ending of your wash or dry, do not get offended when your clothes are removed. Having an altercation with another resident only brings in the police or a Community Complaint. Is this necessary? I think we all have to be mindful of the things we equally share in and consider that someone else is waiting to wash their clothes. Let’s work together to end this madness.

If you have any concerns, you can reach me as follows: S. Feliciano, c/o Liaisons office at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; email: Sfeliciano@riverbayboard.com.

Thank you for the privilege of serving you. Please stay well and be safe.

Shareholders First – We Matter.

Estimados accionistas: El mes de febrero es el Mes de la Historia Negra.

Conocido como el Mes de la Historia Afroamericana, celebramos el papel de los afroamericanos en la historia de los Estados Unidos. Es un momento en el que honramos a personas notables que desempeñaron un papel importante en la historia a través de sus contribuciones. Creado por Carter G. Wooden, un erudito, autor y periodista educado en Harvard, fue conocido como el Padre de la Historia Negra. Comenzó en 1926 como Semana de la Historia Negra y se amplió como Mes de la Historia Negra. La historia negra es todo aquello que representa honor, oportunidad, cultura y respeto. Enseñamos a nuestros hijos su significado y continuamos honrando la tradición que debería celebrarse anualmente. Al mirar a aquellos que allanaron el camino

para las injusticias sufridas por los afroamericanos, como Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, Mary McLeon Bethune y Dorothy Height, por nombrar algunos, honramos a todos los afroamericanos que han desempeñado un enorme papel en la conformación de la Historia de los Estados Unidos.

En Co-op City, nuestros pioneros dan forma a lo que somos hoy a través de su trabajo voluntario, su compromiso y su conexión con los demás con programas, servicios de salud y bienestar, educación y programas de becas. Crean oportunidades que fortalecen nuestra comunidad promoviendo el bienestar de nuestra comunidad. Ellos son: Michelle Marbury – Presidenta de la Asociación Afroamericana, Directora de la Junta de Riverbay, Tesorera Adjunta de la Corporación Riverbay y Vicepresidenta de la Asociación de su Edificio. Michelle reside en Co-op City desde hace mucho tiempo. Como Presidenta de la Asociación Afroamericana, participa en una interacción inclusiva con la Historia Negra, organizando un festival de cine en homenaje a los antepasados. La organización lleva a cabo programas integrales y de bienestar para la comunidad, el concurso de deletreo de Co-op City para nuestros niños, celebraciones de Pre-Kwanzaa y el helado social de la asociación de la Sección 4 y la entrega de bolsas de libros. Estos eventos están abiertos a todos los residentes de Co-op City.

Leslie Peterson – Leslie es una residente de 40 años de Co-op City. Ella es la Presidenta de la NAACP, una organización nacional comprometida con la lucha por la justicia y la igualdad para todos los estadounidenses, es una director de la junta, y un ex vicepresidente del Club Hispano Americano, Presidenta de su Asociación de Edificios. Leslie puso en marcha el Jardín Comunitario de Rivers Run, un oasis de diversión para toda la Comunidad a través de la designación 501C-3 de su edificio.

Sakeena Shaw – Sakeena es accionista de Co-op City desde hace mucho tiempo. Es la presidenta de la Fundación Kevin Shaw Jr. creada por su difunto marido Kevin Shaw Sr., en memoria de su difunto hijo Kevin, que falleció trágicamente en 2015. Sakeena, junto con su hija Ebone Shaw, son miembros del consejo de la fundación, que ha concedido 37 becas a estudiantes universitarios de primer año, seleccionados mediante un riguroso proceso de solicitud. Sakeena es la encarnación de una comunidad desinteresada y bien merece este reconocimiento.

Sheila Richburg es la Presidenta del Consejo Nacional de Mujeres Negras (NCNW), sección de Co-op City. El NCNW trabaja para mejorar el nivel de vida de las mujeres afroamericanas y sus familias. Tienen una multitud de programas comunitarios, (Continued on page 4)

Riverbay Corporation – Co-op City

2024 Supplier Fair Calling all vendors, contractors & consultants to join us and learn about doing business with Riverbay!

Thursday, March 28, 2024 • 10 AM - 2 PM Dreiser Auditorium, 177 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 RSVP to procurementdept@riverbaycorp.com Free parking available in Garage #2 (99 Dreiser Loop) Suppliers can register their goods & services at https://riverbaycorp.procureware.com/Login or by using the QR Code below.

To learn more about Riverbay Corporation and Co-op City, please visit our website at www.coopcity.com or use the QR Code below.

2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 Riverbay Ad.indd 1

2/13/24 3:23 PM

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Co-op City Times COMBING

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

Feb. CB #10 Meeting The next General Board meeting and public hearing of CB #10 will take place on Wednesday, February 21, at 7 p.m. at Villa Barone Manor, 737 Throgs Neck Expressway, Bronx, NY 10465. For additional information, you may contact CB#10 at (718) 892-1161 or by email: bx10@cb.nyc.gov.

Black History Month Celebration, Feb. 22 Assemblyman Michael Benedetto’s Black History Month celebration will be held in the Dreiser Auditorium on Thursday, February 22, beginning at 12 p.m. The Guest Speaker will be Lester Young Jr., Chancellor, NY State Board of Regents.

There will also be live performances and lunch.

To attend, RSVP by calling (718) 320-2220 or email Iris Figueras at Figuerasi@nyassembly.gov or Tremaine Ogarro at Ogarrot@nyassembly.gov.

African Americans and the Arts Church of the New Vision and the NAACP Co-op City Branch are partnering to present a Black History Month Celebration, “African Americans and the Arts,” on Saturday, Feb. 24, 3 p.m. at the Einstein Center, 115 Einstein Loop N. This is a free community event.

For more information, call (718) 671-8746.

Senior Food Box Distribution Senior food boxes will be distributed at the Dreiser Center on Thursday, March 14, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. next to the hardware store. Current enrollees must bring photo ID. Proxies must bring their own photo ID, photo ID of the person you are picking up for and signed Food Bank Proxy form. No new enrollees accepted at this time.

This program is open to seniors 60 years and older. It is a collaboration among the Food Bank of New York, USDA and Riverbay Corporation.

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Front nd Page

Eligibility for SCRIE

Eligibility for DRIE

To be eligible for the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE), applicants must meet all of the following criteria on the effective date of the carrying charge increase: 1. Your (or spouse) lived in the apartment 2. Your (or spouse) are head of the household 3. You (or spouse) are 62 years of age or older 4. Total household income does not exceed $50,000 (household income for all persons living in unit) 5. Monthly basic carrying charge is more than or equal to 1/3 of your total annual household income (Any portion of your carrying charge that is for other fees/charges is not considered part of your base carrying charge) 6. You are NOT on any other carrying charge assisted program (i.e., DRIE, Section 8) Supporting Documents Supporting documents for SCRIE applicants must be provided for all persons living in the unit. All financial information required is for the calendar year immediately PRIOR to the year in which the carrying charge increase becomes effective.

Supporting documents include: • Current year Social Security award letter • Proof of age (government issued Driver’s license, ID, passport or birth certificate) • Federal and New York State tax return with All schedules or tax transcripts. If taxes not filed, provide a non-filing verification letter from the IRS for each occupant in unit • W-2 for all wage earners • 1099-R form for all pension(s) held • November and December bank statements to verify SSI and SSP • Proof of public assistance or unemployment, if applicable • Retirement letter, if applicable

To be eligible for the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE), applicants must answer “yes” to all of the following: • Be 18 years old or older • Be named on the lease/occupancy agreement or have been granted succession rights • Have a combined household income of $50,000 or less • Spend more than one-third of your monthly household income on carrying charges/maintenance • Have you been awarded one of the following benefits?

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) • Federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability pension or compensation, or • Disability-related Medicaid if the applicant has received either SSI or SSDI in the past Do you live in NYC in one of these types of housing?

• a rent stabilized apartment • a rent controlled apartment • a Mitchell-Lama development • a Limited Dividend development • a redevelopment company development • a Housing Development Fund Company (HDFC) Cooperative development • a Section 213 Cooperative unit • a rent regulated hotel or single room occupancy unit Supporting Documents Supporting documents to accompany a DRIE application (for applicant and each additional household member): 1. Proof of Age – Copy of birth certificate, baptismal record, passport, Driver’s license, government-issued photo identification card, or other federal, state, or local document displaying date of birth.

2. Proof of Income – Copy of federal or state income tax returns with all schedules and 1099s (for calendar year immediately prior to date carrying charge increase becomes effective).

If applicant or any additional household member who did not file a federal or state tax return, submit copies of all sources of income including wages, salaries, and tips; Social Security benefits (SSA, SSDI, SSI); Pension payments; unemployment, workers’ compensation, or disability benefits; IRA earnings; annuity earnings; capital gains; Interest or dividends (taxable and non-taxable); child support or alimony payments received; public assistance (cash); financial support from family or friends for rent/ carrying charges; debt cancellation, and all other sources of income 3. Proof of carrying charge – For Mitchell-Lama shareholders, submit HCR Commissioner’s Orders, carrying charge history printout or letter from management office specifying the date of your last carrying charge increase and the amount before and after the most recent carrying charge increase 4. Power of Attorney (if applicable) – If a power of attorney or court-appointed guardian signs the DRIE application on behalf of the applicant, documentation for the power of attorney or guardianship must be submitted.

Be mindful & aware of your surroundings at all times.

See Something, Say Something.

NYPD: 911 CCPD: 718-671-3050

Free Income Tax Prep Help for Seniors 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 Tuesday, February 21. This service is limited to seniors who meet the following criteria: • Simple filings only! (no business owners/income, rental properties/income, earnings from investment income, itemized deductions, etc…)

• Complete copies of 2022 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 2022 must be under $50,000 • All necessary paperwork 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 •You must provide a photo ID so a copy can be included with your tax paperwork • Include a cancelled check to facilitate the timely deposit of the refund into your checking account Please let the office know if there have been any changes in taxpayers or dependents from your 2023 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 to 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 12, anytime from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. (The tax preparer will collect documentation until Friday, March 11, and 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 100 constituent respondents.

Tax 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 (718) 320-2220 or (718) 892-2235.

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

President’s Report ––––– (Continued from page 2) como salud y bienestar, campañas escolares con los jóvenes, apoyo a campañas de recogida de alimentos con un refugio local y programas de becas... Prestar servicios a la comunidad es lo que mejor saben hacer.

Saludamos a estas pioneras, mujeres de distinción por su activismo y cuidado de la comunidad de Co-op City.

“Los voluntarios no tienen necesariamente tiempo, tienen corazón.” –Elizabeth Andrew Presupuesto La Junta pidió al Riverbay Corporation que presentara un presupuesto conservador basado en las proyecciones de gestión para 2023/2024. Sin embargo, DHCR mostró sus números como significativamente mayor. Mientras que las proyecciones de HCR muestran una disminución de los ingresos de Riverbay, ¿por qué no disminuye el impuesto de alquiler de refugio que se basa en los ingresos? Hemos proyectado los ingresos y gastos de la central eléctrica basándonos en los detalles de las operaciones reales, pero esas cifras no figuran en las proyecciones de DHCR. También tuvimos en cuenta los precios del gas, que están parcialmente cubiertos, pero no se reflejan en las previsiones de HCR. Además, el precio de la electricidad puede variar en función de los ajustes del combustible, pero no sabemos qué factores tuvo en cuenta DHCR. Contamos con una empresa de contabilidad externa que está examinando las cifras. Si el presupuesto conservador solicitado por el Consejo no es realistico, DHCR debería indicarlo. La carga de la prueba debe ser aportada por HCR. Mantener la asequibilidad no es sostenible cuando el 97% del presupuesto se paga con los bolsillos de los accionistas. Los residentes con ingresos fijos no pueden responder a las presiones de la inflación, lo que crea una inasequibilidad que anula el propósito del programa Mitchell Lama. Tenemos que encontrar fuentes de ingresos alternativas que generen ingresos para nuestra comunidad.

Etiqueta Perros – Siento que estoy golpeando un caballo muerto, pero voy a seguir

Hot Water Shut Down High temperature hot water is expected to be shut down on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., for Power Plant personnel to do exploratory excavation to prep for a leak repair in the vicinity of Building 21, Adler Place and Broun Place Townhouses.

The following areas may be affected: Zone 1: Buildings 1-7, 15-20; Adler Place, DeFoe Place; Shopping Centers 1 & 2; and PS 180 Zone 2: Buildings 8-14, 21-25; Cooper Place, Debs Place and Broun Place Heat and cold water will be available.

Please note this is a fluid situation and the affected areas and duration of the outage could change. Stay tuned to the Crawler and Phone Tree for updates from Riverbay.

haciéndolo para transmitir el mensaje de que somos una comunidad de muchos y tenemos que ser considerados unos con otros. Los dueños de perros tienen un alojamiento. El alojamiento no dice que usted no debe limpiar después de su perro, ni dice que su perro puede correr suelto u orinar en nuestros parques para niños pequeños en los que los niños juegan. Nuestros parques infantiles no son parques para perros. Doy las gracias a todos los que hacen lo correcto, y pido a los que no lo hacen que empiecen a hacerlo. Vamos a empezar a ser agresivos con las multas. Hay que hacerlo mejor.

Lavanderías – Cada vez son más los accionistas que se quejan de que los residentes que dejan sus lavadoras o secadoras llenas de ropa sin que puedan sacarla a tiempo. No somos dueños de estas máquinas, y tenemos que ser considerados con la siguiente persona que necesite usarlas. Si no estás abajo en 10 ó 15 minutos al finalizar tu lavado o secado, no te ofendas cuando retiren tu ropa. Tener un altercado con otro residente sólo trae a la policía o una queja de la comunidad. ¿Es esto necesario? Creo que todos tenemos que ser conscientes de las cosas que compartimos por igual y considerar que alguien más está esperando la misma oportunidad de lavar su ropa. Trabajemos juntos para acabar con esta locura.

Si tiene alguna duda, puede ponerse en contacto conmigo de la siguiente manera: S. Feliciano, c/o Liaisons office @ 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; email: Sfeliciano@riverbayboard.com.

Gracias por el privilegio de servirles.

Los Accionistas Primero – Nosotros Importamos.

BSA Decision on 500 Baychester Avenue Imminent District Manager Matt Cruz of Community Board #10 reported this week that he has learned that the New York City Board of Standards and Appeals will render a decision in the matter at 500 Baychester Avenue on either Monday, Feb. 26, or Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024. Owners of the property are appealing a 2022 NYC Dept. of Buildings revocation that prohibits advertising in the C7 zoned district. The case was reopened at the BSA’s Nov. 13, 2023 public review session when the owners submitted new testimony in support of their case. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist – Foot Specialist • Practicing in Co-op City since 1975 • Board Certified in Foot Surgery • ALL conditions of the foot treated • Evening and Saturday appointments • Most health insurance plans accepted Se Habla Español

Call:

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Very Special Birthday, Norca

Co-op Creatives: Terry Ferguson

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Terry Ferguson, 57, has lived in Co-op City for thirty years, but weekly listeners from around the world tune in to her 14-year-old podcast. She streams her one-hour show, “A Bowl of Soul: A Mixed Stew of Soul Music™,” from her Section 4 apartment with only her microphone, a computTerry Ferguson er and a handful of podcasting programs. Also known as Professor T-Love, she owns the show and the network of the same name, and she uses both to share her lifelong love of R&B music and history with the world.

Ferguson grew up listening to DJs like Frankie Crocker on WBLS and admired him for featuring “a cross section of music that you don’t hear today.”

She appreciated the way he mixed music from the 1940s with the likes of Bob Marley and Chic, and eventually went on to DJ as a teen. Though a bass player herself, her appreciation of radio stations like KissFM led her more toward that medium.

More than a decade after starting the podcast and network with The Progressive Radio Network and

Live365, “A Bowl of Soul” now has hundreds of archived episodes. Ferguson platforms music from the beginning of R&B and into the contemporary music scene to give listeners jazz, blues, swing, and music they may not associate with the modern genre. “I wanted to start from 1949 because that’s when you started to hear R&B getting on the charts crossing over, but also that’s when you heard the roots,” she said.

Listeners from New York and Virginia, all the way to Sweden and Thailand tune in to her network to experience the pioneers of soul. From her home, she organizes a team of DJs from across the country specializing in gospel, house music, jazz, blues, and even comedy. Though she works full time in human resources for the Department of Education, she considers this a full-time job.

Ferguson encourages people interested in radio to explore it with consistency until they gain traction and build their own team.

“If you have a topic that you feel will be important and will help solve someone’s problem or help them advance to another level, that’s the way you got to go,” Ferguson said.

Terry Ferguson’s work can be found at https:// www.abowlofsoul.com/.

(If you are a Co-op Creative and would like your work featured in the Co-op City Times, please contact pmcampbell@riverbaycorp.com.)

To Norca, a very special lady on a very special birthday. Enjoy your special day. Forty-one years together and still going strong...

Love, —David Hammer

Assemblyman Benedetto’s Next Lobby Visit Assemblyman Michael Benedetto will host his next Co-op City Lobby Visit on Thursday, February 29, 140 Alcott Place (Building 19), 5:15 p.m.-7 p.m.

NYC Summer Youth Application Now Open The NYC Department of Youth and Community Development’s 2024 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) Application for young people 14-24 years of age is available online at https://application.nycsyep.com. The application deadline is March 1, 2024. This program offers career exploration, project-based learning, work experience, community building and the opportunity to earn money. Selection is based on a lottery, and submission of an application does not guarantee an offer of summer employment. To find out more about SYEP, contact Community Connect at (800) 246-4646.

IT'S TAX TIME AGAIN And We're Here To Help Get You The Largest Refund Available!

Advanced Tax Centers Proudly serving Co-op City for over 45 years!!!

2089 Bartow Ave. (next to Sangria Cafe) Bronx, NY 10475

347-947-4455

alan.stentiford61@gmail.com Our office will be staffed full-time starting January 29.

Appointments and walk-ins are always welcome!

Welcome Jackson Hewitt Clients!

As you may know, Jackson Hewitt has closed their Bartow office.

We welcome their clients with a 25% discount on Jackson Hewitt’s 2022 price.

(Please bring your copy of tax return and receipt)

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

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

– • Letters to the Editor • –

Response to Mr. Miller

My View of Feb. 7 Metro-North Meeting

To the Editor: I am writing in response to Mr. Miller’s February 10th Letter to the Editor. As a dog owner who regularly walks my dog on our beautiful greenway, I agree with Mr. Miller’s sentiments. I do not doubt that many of the dog waste left behind is from irresponsible cooperators, but I have seen people park their vehicles along Co-op City Blvd. and walk several dogs on our property. I, of course, cannot confirm that they do not live here, but I am guessing they do not.

I would love to see a strong CCPD presence during the morning and evening rush (6 a.m.-8 a.m. and 5 p.m.8 p.m.) along Section 4 Greenway. Because of the lack of enforcement, those individuals will continue to be bad neighbors. Is it wrong for CCPD to ask the individual walking a dog for the dog’s tag number, along with the building and apartment number of the cooperator to confirm that the dog is indeed registered with Riverbay?

To protect cooperators’ privacy, CCPD does not need to know why they have the dog, they just need to ensure that the dog is registered.

Mr. Miller, I am with you. We should not let our community go because of careless, apathetic people with no decency, but an abundance of indifference.

—H. Malone

To the Editor: The main speaker stated that his organization oversees only the construction of the new Metro-North route and the construction of the Co-pp City station. He said he has no information regarding the running of the train or its costs.

The original position of the station was behind Garage 8 which precluded access to or from the south side of the station. The current position of the station is now under I-95. This is because Amtrak has decided to build a new non-drawbridge to replace the current bridge. The new bridge is much higher and requires a longer distance from the new station.

The problem with the new station is the car traffic from outside Co-op City. However, the new position of the station allows Riverbay to push for a slight change in the current design that could remove most, if not all, car traffic heading to or from the new station.

The diagram supplied by the MTA at the meeting shows the new position for the station. The new position would allow complete access from the south to the new station.

Scrutinizing the diagram, the area marked for the “Platform” is where, for the last ten years, it has been used as a school bus parking lot which has access to and exit from the I-95 exit ramp to Pelham Parkway West.

In my view, what would be required to expand access from the south (Pelham Parkway) to the new station: 1. Expand the current platform that goes from the 2nd floor platform to the northbound track to a place south of the last track and provides ADA access to the south of the train tracks.

2. DOT to replace the current access to school bus parking lot from the east to the west and give it direct access to Pelham Parkway East and West.

—Bruce Gitelson

Cooperative Responsibilities To the Editor: On January 30, 2024, George Simon, our NY State Housing and Community Renewal representative, convened a virtual meeting to hear shareholders’ comments on the contemplated 2.1% carrying charge increase. The Board approved a 2.1% increase mainly due to the rising prices of fuel and inflation.

I have read about double digit apartment increases in the Bronx, and, currently, a three-bedroom apartment in the Bronx could rent for $1,900.00 per month, without utilities; while in Co-op City, even with the 2.1% increase, it would cost $914.34 per month, including utilities. However, it will be the Housing Commissioner, who will assess all of the information and decide on the amount of the increase.

One of the recommendations that would help lower our expenses would be to reduce our use of utilities. Although utilities are included in our carrying charges, they are not free. Therefore, we should be conservative, and not wasteful, in our use of water, gas and light. Co-op City is still the best deal around.

The community should know that the Riverbay Executive General Manager has stated several times that there are 27 Riverbay departments, and not 28. Shareholders should know that the Board of Directors has discussed and found ways to reduce the amount of carrying charge increases. Although it was not a well-liked decision, millions of dollars were saved when the lobby attendants and garage attendants were eliminated. Also, crime in Co-op City has not increased due to these removals, but they have made a significant difference in our budget.

—Francine Jones

Rental Scooter in Garage 8 – Executive GM At Work To the Editor: On Saturday, Feb. 10, in Garage #8, a VEO rental scooter was found in the drive pathway, laid on its side, in front of my vehicle on the sixth floor. The fire hazard these scooters pose is a dangerous condition in the garage.

I initially thought the rider crashed into my vehicle and left it there. My vehicle was undamaged; the scooter was too heavy to move to a safe space. I reported this incident to the Parking and Leasing department by way of Public Safety. For those of you who are unaware, to get a message to Parking and Leasing during non-business hours, we can call Public Safety for them to transfer the call to (Continued on page 8)

Who is Watching Due Dates?

To the Editor: According to a Board director’s viewpoint, a multi-million-dollar insurance policy was presented to the Board just days before expiration and it cost shareholders $82,500 in consultant fees. This amount was probably not a budget item and we can assume that we don’t have staff in place or political contacts in New York State government to provide suggestion? Do we – Co-op City – have political advocates? Do you think that our voting participation has an impact on the tax dollars coming back to Co-op City? Did you note who in Co-op City received funding from the present City Councilman?

The director also reported that we have “28 departments and spend about $900 million to keep 950 employees in those departments.” That said, can shareholders see a copy of the Organizational Chart with position names only. This would make it clear that in order to maintain a corporation this size, all said departments and support staff are needed.

Reportedly, DHCR is requesting an 8.1% increase based on what is coined as “inflation.” For sure, we believe in democracy and capitalism and, as such, can increase prices of goods as those in charge see fit. Where can you live in New York City if you are part of the “middle class?”

We are asked to apply for SCRIE and DRIE, if you are a senior or have a documented disability. Has the maximum amount of eligible income been increased? If not, why not? According to a fellow shareholder in a Letter to the Editor, “The City has processed no – ZERO – applications for 2022.” Is this age group in trouble?

Will Riverbay Corporation be impacted by mass evictions?

It is worth noting that cannabis is here to stay. The legal and black market are both competing with each other. Parents, be aware that black market cannabis may be laced with Fentanyl that is killing our youth and young adults.

—Evelyn M. Turner

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

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m.

Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@ riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475.

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

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

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

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

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

Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

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

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

Thank you for your cooperation.

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Public Safety Report

Rise of Rental Scooters and Ensuring Safe Usage in NYC

In recent years, the adoption of rental scooters has surged worldwide as cities seek to provide sustainable and convenient transportation options. New York City, known for its bustling streets and diverse transportation landscape, has witnessed a significant rise in the popularity of rental scooters. This article explores the factors contributing to the growth of rental scooters in NYC, the benefits they offer, and most importantly, strategies to ensure their safe usage in the urban environment. By examining regulatory frameworks, technological innovations, and educational initiatives, CCPD aims to provide insights into fostering a safe and efficient scooter-sharing ecosystem in the city.

New York City, renowned for its iconic skyline and bustling streets, has long been at the forefront of innovation in transportation. In recent years, the city has witnessed a surge in the adoption of rental scooters as a convenient

Public Safety Blotter

February 4 – February 10, 2024 February 4, 2024 140 Casals Place A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without her permission.

February 05, 2024 100 Erskine Place An observant cooperator notified CCPD of a suspect who removed a delivered package from in front of her apartment door without her permission. CCPD apprehended the suspect at the rear of the building. Upon further investigation and subsequent building inspection, an additional large bag containing other packages belonging to multiple cooperators was discovered. The suspect was arrested. As part of the follow-up investigation, five additional victims were located and contacted. As a result, additional charges were brought against the suspect who has an extensive criminal record including a prior arrest by Public Safety officers at Coop City for the same offense.

February 06, 2024 120 Dreiser Loop A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from the lobby/mailbox area by an unknown individual without her permission.

2037 Bartow Avenue The store manager from Gina Beauty Supply reported that two male suspects removed an item from the store and fled the store in an unknown direction without paying.

2440 Hunter Avenue A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door without her permission.

100 Donizetti Place CCPD Detective Squad investigated a complaint of a cooperator storing e-Scooters inside of his apartment.

Upon investigation, the cooperator was found to be detaining the elevator as he loaded the e-Bikes into the elevator and was in possession of two unauthorized e-Bike scooters, which he stored inside of his apartment. The cooperator was issued three Community Complaints for the violations.

February 07, 2024 2063 Bartow Avenue A Rite Aid employee reported a group of teenagers entering the estab-

lishment, removing candy from the shelf and leaving the establishment without paying.

February 08, 2024 140 Darrow Place A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without his permission.

99 Dreiser Loop A cooperator reported returning to her parked vehicle in Garage 2 and observing that an unknown individual bent the windshield wipers on her vehicle.

February 09, 2024 140 Benchley Place A Riverbay employee reported that while he was working, an unknown individual removed all four wheels from his work cart without his permission.

Follow up: On Friday, February 9, Public Safety Officers arrested a former Riverbay employee for burglary on a separate incident. That same suspect will be charged with this theft.

Front of 2035 Bartow Avenue A non-resident youth reported that a group of youths approached him and a friend while an unknown individual removed personal property from his jacket pocket without his permission. A second unknown individual asked to use his friend’s cell phone and once received, he did not give it back. Both the non-resident and his friend were physically assaulted by the group which fled the scene causing no injuries. CCPD and NYPD were present on scene.

February 10, 2024 140 Casals Place A cooperator reported observing a group of juveniles who most likely attend a neighboring Charter School enter the tot-lot playground and damage a bench. Once the group observed CCPD approaching, the group fled the area.

140 Benchley Place CCPD responded to a call of a burglary in the Ash Cart Room. Upon arrival and subsequent investigation, CCPD arrested a suspect who was in possession of multiple gallons of paint he had removed from a secure storage room. The paint was recovered from the rear of his private vehicle. The suspect, a former Riverbay employee, was arrested for burglary.

and eco-friendly mode of urban mobility. This increase of rental scooters in NYC can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the growing emphasis on sustainable transportation solutions amid concerns over climate change has led policymakers to explore alternative modes of mobility. Secondly, the increasing congestion on roads and public transit systems has fueled the demand for flexible and last-mile transportation options, making rental scooters an attractive choice for short-distance trips. Thirdly, advancements in technology, particularly the widespread adoption of smartphone apps and GPS tracking, have facilitated the seamless operation and management of scooter-sharing services.

Rental scooters offer numerous benefits to both riders and cities. They provide a cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation, particularly for short trips within urban areas. Scooter sharing also helps reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and promote a healthier lifestyle by encouraging active modes of transportation. However, challenges such as safety concerns, sidewalk clutter, and regulatory issues have accompanied the rapid proliferation of scooters in cities like NYC. Significantly, integration of IoT sensors, geofencing technology, and AI-powered algorithms can help monitor scooter usage, detect potential hazards, and enforce compliance with traffic regulations. In addition, features such as built-in lights, reflective materials, and automatic braking systems can improve visibility and mitigate the risk of accidents, especially during nighttime riding.

Effective regulation is essential to ensure the safe and orderly operation of rental scooters in NYC. Educating riders about safe scooter usage is paramount to preventing accidents and injuries. NYC must, therefore, invest in public awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of wearing helmets, obeying traffic laws, and respecting pedestrian rights-of-way. Training programs and online tutorials can also educate riders on how to operate scooters safely and responsibly, thereby reducing the likelihood of collisions and conflicts with other road users.

Covid is still with us. Be sure to take necessary precautions, especially when entering indoor spaces without room to social distance. Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Wearing a mask can be helpful, even if not mandatory.

(Continued on page 22)

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

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

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES For employment opportunities, please visit these following sites: www.Indeed.com https://indeedhi.re/ 3SgTKEr

www.Glassdoor.com

www.ZipRecruiter.com

https://bit.ly/3SgI9Go

https://bit.ly/3Se8bdw

Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply at any site.

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

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024 Director’s Viewpoint

Claudia Sampson, First Vice President

SCRIE (Senior Citizen’s Rent Increase Exemption) – Updates Since the SCRIE Office, administered by the NYC Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), is temporarily closed to walk-ins, the best way to contact them is via telephone or email. The number to call is: 212-863-8494. Please be sure to speak slowly and clearly when leaving your name, telephone number and email address (the latter is optional). Should you decide to email with a question, send your inquiries to this email: collymom@ hpd.nyc.gov.

Note: If you’re currently enrolled and receiving SCRIE, you should not re-apply! Riverbay Finance department will be informed directly by SCRIE about your updated status once the carrying charge increase takes effect. Only new SCRIE applications should be submitted. The turnaround time to receive a response for new applications is 90 days, according to HCR’s VP of Administration.

As of December 2022 when we received an update from SCRIE, there were 1100+ shareholders in Co-op City receiving SCRIE with an additional 300 applications pending. We understand that given the small number of staff assigned to cover 300 co-ops across NYC, there has been a tremendous backlog from shareholders reaching out to the SCRIE office for information. Consider these factors which are outside of Riverbay Management’s control and the Board’s bailiwick, and be patient since anyone who meets the eligibility criteria which includes not exceeding the household income threshold of $50,000, will be afforded the increase exemption once approved by HPD. Speaking of which, we have, on a number of occasions, requested that the income ceiling be increased since it was set decades ago and prohibits shareholders making more than $50,000 from qualifying for SCRIE. Perhaps writing to your elected officials or speaking directly to them when they’re here asking what they can do to help alleviate the burden placed on many who are struggling to keep up with the carrying charge increases when their incomes are not keeping pace with inflation. This would be a cause worthy of pursuing. Let’s not let this opportune moment to speak with one voice go to waste.

Beacon Program in Co-op City In 1991, the first Beacons were established by then-Commissioner Richard Murphy to address public safety and drug-related crime in 10 so-called “high poverty” neighborhoods. It was cast as prevention-focused, collaborative, multi-service safe havens for both youth and adults, and are school-

based community centers serving children ages six and older as well as adults. There are currently 91 Beacons located throughout the five NYC boroughs, operating in the afternoon and evenings, on weekends, as well as during school holidays and vacations periods including the summer months.

Funded by the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), Good Shepherds Services (GSS) was selected to administer the program located in Truman High School at 750 Baychester Avenue.

In early November of 2023, members of the Riverbay Board, senior Management, and facilitated

by Council Member Riley’s Chief-of-Staff, Jahmal Yapp, we were given a very comprehensive overview of the Beacon Program services and opportunities for Co-op City organizations interested in co-locating at Truman (using the space free of charge to conduct events open to the public). The Good Shepherds’ staff, Shaneva Gaskin, Chante Brown and Annie Minguez, did a great job presenting the program’s offerings and opportunities for greater access to those community-based Co-op City organizations.

Asked to provide some key data about enrollment for the 10475 zip code and Co-op City residents’ participation, here’s what we learned: In Fiscal Year 2023, 239 participants (45% of enrolled participants) live in the 10475 zip code — 219 of them reside in Co-op City. Whereas, in FY 2024 YTD, 119 participants (38% of enrolled participants) live in the 10475 Zip Code — 110 live in Co-op City. Note: These enrollment figures are as of 11/21/23, so they’re more likely to have increased. The Sections with the highest enrollment in 2023 were 1, 3 and 5. Whereas in 2024, Sections 1, 3 and 4 were the highest. We are unsure as to what caused the decline in Section 5 which currently lags behind all other Sections.

With regard to a request for the addition of a Boxing program by a meeting attendee, Good Shepherd is exploring different options and funding opportunities as there are about seven subcontractors offering other programs like basketball clinics, adult cooking and salsa classes.

For more information on the Beacon Program, please email Ricardine Verdiner, Bronx Community Relations Manager, GSS

Letters ––––– (Continued from page 6) the Parking and Leasing dispatcher.

Five hours later, upon my return to the garage, the scooter had not been removed. The chain of events that required reporting this matter to Parking and Leasing and Public Safety’s role were also reported to our Executive General Manager, Marvin Walton. Mr. Walton, to his credit, expeditiously responded with solutions to address the breakdown in communications that occurred.

We need a motto––instead of telling shareholders what cannot be done upon hearing a complaint, our motto should be, “Tell Our Shareholders What We Can Do.” We need shareholders to report concerns and discouraging us from doing so, by way of lackluster service, will not improve our quality of life.

“See Something Say Something” is not a catch phrase we throw around for entertainment, it means something significant. It is information, observations, photos, videos, etc.––not subjective to the whim of the receiver of the information, who ponders to themselves, “Well, did you really see something?”

Mr. Walton, thank you for showing a positive attitude and providing immediate solutions to address operations in our community on a non-business day. We are on the right track when we receive this level of service from our executive general manager.

—Ruth Sharma For up-to-date communication from Riverbay Corporation, read the Co-op City Times, delivered to your building lobby and the community centers on Saturdays, tune in to the Crawler on your home TVs and lobby monitors, and register for Phone Tree notifications.

at: Ricardine_Verdiner@GoodShepherds.org. or scan the QR code on their flyers posted on bulletin boards throughout community.

There’s a quarterly meeting planned for March when feedback from Co-op City shareholders about the program will be offered. Feel free to share your thoughts and comments with me so they can be passed along to the Good Shepherd’s team.

We must use our voices to get and maintain the services we deserve!

Riverbay Fund: Looking for Candidates for Non-Voting Associate Membership Having reorganized its operating structure, amended and restated its By-Laws to better support its main goal and ensure efficiencies, the Riverbay Fund formed five Committees: Nominating/Governance, Finance/Budget, Community Engagement, Fundraising and Strategic Partnerships. Looking to be more inclusive, diverse and growth-oriented, the Fund seeks to build the power of the Co-op City community through strategic cultural, recreational and educational partnerships such as the National Council of Negro Women Co-op City Branch, the Renaissance Youth Center Music & Dance Program and the American Legion Co-op City Post 1871, just to name a few.

To connect cooperators, residents and individuals to programs, resources and to each other, the Fund’s mission is empowering the Co-op City community where everyone thrives. If you’re 18 years or older, consider joining the Fund as a non-voting Associate member, to initiate and participate in discussions that take place at any meeting. Residency at Co-op City is not required. You can be a business owner, foundation, corporation, an individual. To join as a Non-voting Associate Member of the Riverbay Fund, email: Nominations@riverbayfund.org. You will receive packet of information and application to complete.

I can be reached at either csampson@riverbayboard.com or csampson@riverbayfund.org.

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

9

Black Forum

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. All guests must present a pantry card, at least 4-6 clean shopping bags with handles, and a shopping cart to receive food. We require guests to wear masks when visiting the pantry. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Religious affiliation is not required to receive food.

New Client Registration & Re-Certification for Returning Guests Registration and re-certification are now open through April 2024. Guests must be 18 years or older to apply or recertify. The required identification is as follows: NYC I.D. (zip code 10475), NY State Driver’s license, or NY State Non-Driver’s license. Passports, Medicaid and Medicare cards, employment identification, and Access-A-Ride identification are not accepted. At the time of registration or recertification, every member of the household must be present and produce valid identification. Household members need to have the same 10475 address. The intake forms will only include the number of household members who are able to show up in person at the office. Those living in Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 will register or recertify at the 920 Baychester Avenue location. Those living in Section 5 will register or recertify at the 2350 Palmer Avenue location on Thursdays.

Upcoming Trips In 2024, Black Forum will sponsor an exciting season of events! Here’s what’s to come: Saturday, February 17 – (Masks required) Winds Creek Casino, Bethlehem, PA; $55, Rebate: $25, full cash only payment is due now. Only a few seats remaining.

Saturday, June 8 – Caesars Atlantic City Casino, NJ; $55, Rebate: TBA. Full payment is due by April 26.

Saturday, August 17 – The Nordic, RI and Foxwoods Resort Casino, CT; $225; first payment ($75) is due by March 15; second payment ($75) is due by May 24; third payment ($75) is due by June 28. The Nordic is a popular hangout with an endless supply of lobster, crab, prime rib, filet mignon, shrimp, salads, veggies, and much, much more.

Saturday, October 19 – Black Eyed Sally Southern Cajun Kitchen with MGM Casino; $120, first payment ($60) is due by September 6; second payment ($60) is due by October 4. We are accepting payments for trips now.

Non-refundable payments will only be accepted in the following forms: cash, personal checks, and only postal money orders. Please call 917-209-5334 to book trips and arrange payment drop-offs.

Contact Us: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

––D. Illis

This week, we begin by thanking Mrs. Vivian Burrus, vice president, for attending the meeting sponsored by our Executive General Manager, Mr. Marvin Walton. We prepared for a meeting that would brainstorm on mutual problems between clusters. In the past, we have had the opportunity to go through processes to submit and contact Riverbay so I, for one, would like to go to the next step – submit a list of things needing improvement especially with the carrying charge increase coming up.

We have been made aware of someone misrepresenting our Association and wrongly harassing a neighbor. We have no association with “Broun Place Neighborhood Watch.” A neighbor received a letter with that heading threatening and accusing him. This is unauthorized. If you have a complaint, let me know. Sending an unauthorized letter is the work of a coward and is a problem for many reasons.

One thing you can help with is the abidance of dog owners to Riverbay rules for dog owners. If you can report seeing someone not picking up their dog’s business, give a location and description of it. We have to allow support dogs, but they must be registered with Riverbay Corporation. The rule breakers do not pick-up, they allow the dog to walk unleashed and barking, and are uncorrected. We have a right to quality of life, too. If you see a crime or something you know is against our rules and regulations, call CCPD; phone number: 718671-3050.

Cooperators, participate in our opportunities to voice opinions and ask questions. It is only effective if you participate. Thank you, Sonia Feliciano, president of the Riverbay Board of Director, for stating clearly the disappointment when just 33 people attend a meeting discussing a future carrying charge increase. Are we an apathetic group? Yet when Mayor Eric Adams came for a community conversation, the auditorium was overflowing. That meeting met all the markers for being well-run and answering questions that could not be answered by our Board of Directors.

We had a conversation with a long-time Section Four cooperator. He has made inquiries regarding the commercial leasing side of Co-op City. He has spoken with some owners about why they are leaving and others why they left. He states they have complained to him that their rent is very high. The question of who sets rates needs to be asked. A small business owner needs to feel a bond to the community where the business is, and the consumers to the business.

Please let me know if you have a tiding to publish. We send best wishes and hopes for complete healing to all those who are recovering from suffering and illness. Former First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, wrote this, “Where flowers bloom, there is hope.” It is a short, easy to memorize, meaningful statement.

We hope your Valentine’s Day was beautiful.

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

How many informative facts do you know about Macular Degeneration? Are you ready to take on the challenge? Grab a pencil and paper and answer the questions below. Remember, it’s okay if you don’t get everything correct; this quiz aims to test your knowledge and help you better understand Macular Degeneration and the symptoms associated with the disease.

True or False: (1) Macular degeneration is an age-related eye disease. (2) Macular degeneration is a common cause of vision loss in older adults. (3) Macular degeneration affects the peripheral vision. (4) Smoking increases the risk of developing macular degeneration. (5) There is currently no cure for macular degeneration. Here are the answers: 1. True 2. True 3. False 4. True 5. True.

Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a progressive eye disease that primarily typically affects older individuals, usually those over 50. It is characterized by the deterioration of the macula, a small area in the retina’s center responsible for sharp, detailed, and color vision. Macular degeneration can lead to significant vision loss, affecting daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.

There are two main types of macular degeneration: dry AMD and wet AMD. Dry AMD is the most common form, characterized by the gradual thinning and aging of the macula. It progresses slowly and typically causes mild to moderate vision loss. Wet AMD is less common but more severe. It involves the abnormal growth of blood vessels under the retina, which can leak fluid and cause rapid and severe vision loss if left untreated. It is vital to seek early diagnosis and treatment for wet AMD to help prevent irreversible vision damage. Regular eye exams and a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking and eating a balanced diet of antioxidants, can help reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration. While there is no known cure for macular degeneration, treatments such as injections and laser therapy can help slow its progression and manage symptoms.

Here are some safety tips to help family caregivers provide the best care while ensuring their own safety: Seek professional training. Familiarize yourself with proper techniques for transferring, manual handling, and assisting the person with mobility limitations. Proper training can help prevent injuries to both you

and your loved one. Create a safe environment: Remove any tripping hazards such as loose rugs, cluttered walkways, and uneven surfaces. Install grab bars in the bathroom and ensure the living area is free of sharp corners or objects that could cause harm. Use assistive devices and equipment: Depending on the person’s needs, consider using aids like wheelchairs, walker frames, and lifts to assist with mobility and transfers. These tools can help reduce strain on both caregiver and care recipient. Take precautions during personal care: When assisting with bathing, toileting, or dressing, ensure proper body mechanics to avoid straining your back or causing injury. Use adaptive equipment like shower chairs or handrails to make these tasks safer and more comfortable.

––Diane Cooper

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024 Director’s Viewpoint –

Michelle Marbury, Assistant Treasurer

My Talk With Mayor Adams – Defending Us Against DHCR Mandates An Increase is on the Horizon, Why? Greetings, shareholders.

First, there was a DHCR meeting with the community and the turnout was very low. The shareholders who were present asked great questions. It was expressed to DHCR that while we have been paying our bills, it has not been without a struggle.

Unfortunately, DHCR thinks that the 2.1% carrying charge increase presented to them is not sufficient and are pushing for close to 8%.

Our President Sonia Feliciano and many of the members of the Board, including myself, have received correspondence from shareholders appealing to us regarding a halt to this increase. Rest assured that our best efforts are being put forward to ensure that this proposed 8% increase does not happen, and that we incur the lowest possible increase acceptable by DHCR. Remember, We do not Have Control over a DHCR Mandate We want to maintain affordability here. We are obliged to you, “our community,” to maintain and retain the title, “most affordable co-op in the world.” We take this responsibility very seriously.

DHCR uses the Consumer Price Index to arrive at their figures while we use historical data that is not always a good indicator of market trends. I would like to see a united Board working to change that process. You should know, many times, Management has asked for higher than 2% and many of your Board members did not agree. All we have been tossing around is increases in garage fees, storage fees, etc., which won’t get the job done.

Know this, we are concerned about shareholders’ pockets, as those pockets are ours as well. I ask you to understand and help others to understand that we (the Board) are obligated to provide a balanced budget. When we are told that there is a “20-million-dollar shortfall,” it makes hard decisions even harder when trying to keep increasing carrying

charges at the lowest possible denominator.

A Most Notable Quote from President Feliciano During a meeting, our Board President Feliciano stated: “Please note that Amalgamated Housing is in forbearance and is asking for a delay in paying their mortgage. They are in very bad shape. Tracy Towers is doing poorly as well.” She emphasized that we, shareholders, need to work together. As the greatest Co-op in the world, we all need to ensure that we remain the greatest, working together to have a meaningful budget, she said, “even it if causes all of us some pain in increasing carrying charges.” Well said, President Feliciano. Shareholders, these are just some of the tasks put before us.

Do You Have Ideas to Bring Income to “Our” Community?

While the future of an “affordable community” may seem hopeless, I believe there are some “revenue generating” options that we can tap into. One option that we (i.e., the Board) have been investigating is EV charging stations. A good investment for us, especially when the customers are TLC, Lyft and Uber drivers. Can you imagine the income we could garner? I don’t think these stations should be in our garages, but we certainly have land in and around the campus that, when we put our heads together, we can find the perfect spots to take advantage of this opportunity.

What Was Your Take-Away from the Last Open Board Meeting?

My fondest take away was the Board’s completion of Resolution 23-70. This resolution rolled back pricing of community rooms and allows certified Community Organizations free use of a community room if the program

Building 6 Association Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this, it finds you in great standing. This past week was a productive one. Last Friday, February 9, FDNY ENT Sgt. Green came and demonstrated a free CPR training course at which several neighbors from all over Co-op City were in attendance.

It was informative, fun, but best of all, essential because between 100,000-200,000 adults and children’s lives can be saved performing CPR each year. The Cleveland Clinic statistics say 54% of Americans do not know how to perform CPR, so when we know better, we will do better.

Save the Dates: Saturday, February 24, is our monthly Game Night from 4:30-8:30 p.m.; Thursday, March 7, is our Get Empowered Self-Defense Class for all, demonstrated by CCPD Sgt. Gregory, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Thursday, April 4, is the NYS National Guard Disaster Emergency Preparedness course, demonstrated by Special Staff Sgt. Chen, from 6-8:30 p.m. All of these events are held in the Building 6 Association Room. All are welcomed. Please RSVP at 347-366-7690, or email the association: bldng6assoc@gmail.com.

Neighbors, we are looking to build up the Buildings & Grounds and Youth committees. Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much. So, let us all work in unison to build this building back better and stronger. Until next time, I pray safety over all. Godspeed.

“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.”

–Archbishop Tutu —Lauren K. Lassiter

or event is free of charge and open to all residents of Co-op City. This perk is available once per year.

One example would be a program like the Annual Spelling Bee, offered by the African-American Association of Co-op City. More details are available to you by reading the Co-op City Times where all resolutions are posted. The meeting date of this resolution was January 24th, so it would have been posted in the January 27th edition.

Meeting with Mayor Eric Adams The turnout for Mayor Adams was fantastic. I only wish “we” (i.e., our community) would come out for Open Board meetings and all community events in the same fashion. Believe it or not, it’s the only way we will accomplish major goals. My subject matter for the Mayor was regarding a routine and consistent maintenance plan of the community that borders the Co-op City property lines: (i.e., medians, water edge along Bartow Ave. leading to Hutchinson River Parkway, etc.). I mentioned to Mayor Adams that several 311 calls have been initiated regarding the missing crosswalk near the stop sign of Building 15, and asked for an introduction to the contact person for our area. He introduced me to several members of his staff. We are working on a plan of action and I will report back to you what the plan of action will be once it is put into place and fine-tuned.

Thank you for the compliment of reading my viewpoint.

You can reach me at mmarbury@riverbayboard. com. I hope your Valentine’s Day was sweet. Let’s do more to better our score, in 2024…

11

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Building 8 Association

Building 25 Association

Building 29 Association

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Be an Engaged Shareholder!

Get involved with your building association, join a Board Committee and/or community group, or write a Letter to the Editor about quality of life concerns!

12

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024 Director’s’ Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

We’re Dealing With A Terrible Budget During a public hearing on January 27, 2024, the NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) agency recommended an 8.1 percent carrying charge increase for our community. However, in my opinion, their budget projections are unreasonably high.

A Budget With Too Many Problems Riverbay prepared a budget last year that included a provision for a 2.1 percent carrying charge increase. Then, they sent that budget to HCR to be approved. So, HCR reviewed the budget and then threw in their own projections. Thereafter, Riverbay was looking at an 8.1 or possibly a 10 percent carrying charge increase.

Our board then had a meeting with our lawyer.

Then, I stated that I would review this budget to see exactly what happened with Riverbay’s numbers and HCR’s projections. And, almost immediately, I could see that there were big problems within this budget.

And, one major problem was that HCR simply placed their own elevated projection numbers into several areas of Riverbay’s budget. And, they used those questionable numbers to propose an 8.1 percent carrying charge increase for our community.

So, our lawyer is going to see if a meeting can be convened with Riverbay and HCR. Thereafter, we are going to see if we can convince HCR to reduce their budget projections. Cooperators should also write to: Mr. George Simon, NYS Homes and Community Renewal, 641 Lexington Avenue, NY, NY 10022; (george.simon@hcr.ny.gov) to state their concerns about this huge increase.

Feds Bust 70 Current and Former NYCHA Employees On Tuesday, February 6, 2024, several federal agencies arrested 70 current and former NYCHA employees on bribery and extortion charges. Allegedly, this bribery and extortion scheme had been going on from 2013 – 2023. And, according to published reports, some employees at NYCHA could hire contractors without going through a bidding process. Then, some contractors allegedly had to pay a bribe of 10-20 percent or even more money to those employees.

Bottom line: In addition to these allegations, there are some terrible conditions inside of some NYCHA buildings. So, some people might think that NYCHA doesn’t receive a lot of money to

maintain their developments.

However, did you know that NYCHA receives over $1.5 billion annually from HUD to operate those 335 developments? Did you know that NYCHA operates 177,569 apartments within their 335 developments throughout NYC? Can you believe that 1 in 17 people that live in NYC reside in a NYCHA development?

Look, I’m glad to see that the federal authorities have taken action against the NYCHA development. Therefore, these same authorities need to watch over all housing developments that receive federal funding.

Outrageous Package Thefts According to the Co-op City Times, a man allegedly brought a shopping cart into building 31A on Monday, February 5, 2024. Then, at approximately 3:15 p.m., a Ring camera sent out an alert and a video that this man allegedly removed a package near an apartment. So, a cooperator called Public Safety.

Thereafter, “the suspect was observed coming out of the rear lobby stairwell with a shopping cart filled with the stolen property he had removed from multiple locations on multiple floors within the building.”

Then, our officers arrested this suspect. Next, our “CCPD Detective Squad recovered empty boxes and packages that were left in the stairwells.”

As usual, our officers did a very good job with this arrest. However, as a community, we have to understand that we have a tremendous problem with thieves stealing lots of packages in our buildings.

Shopping carts? Thieves are shopping here. But, think, how did this alleged thief know that he should bring a shopping cart into our buildings?

Look, he knew that he should bring a shopping cart into our buildings because our packages are being delivered outside of our doors, in the hallways.

Therefore, why should he purchase merchandise at a store when he knows that he can get everything that he wants for free?

The article stated that the man “has an extensive criminal record involving property crime and violent crimes against persons.” So, based on this record of violence, what do you think could happen to you if you were to open your door and then be confronted by

Building 27 Association Hello, neighbors, we trust all is well. Stay vigilant, cautious and wear your masks in crowds. Hospitals and facilities have remandated mask wearing.

Showtime – Building. 27 Association fundraising event will be Saturday, February 24. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. Donations: $5, Movie: “Rustin” and light refreshment included. Location: 140 Erdman Pl., Bldg C, in the rear lobby Association Room. Seats are limited, RSVP to aaron.carnegie@gmail.com.

Black History Month – In 1976, President Gerald Ford was the first president to officially recognize Black History Month. We now have two talented and intelligent ladies, Sherri Sheppard and Jennifer Hudson, gracing the platform of television, providing and introducing so many younger adults who are doing very well. It is a pleasure to see all is not lost, there are good and positive things happening around us.

NYC Summer – Youth application now open for young people ages 14-24 years of age and the deadline is March 1. Pass the word on to those parents and youths you may know. The program offers career exploration, project-based learning. Work experience, community building. Selection is based on a lottery.

To find out more about SYEP, contact Community Connect at 800-246-4646.

Office of Council Member Kevin C. Riley, District 12 Tax Preparation Services – Free services for individuals without dependents with maximum income of $59,000; and with dependents, income maximum of $85,000. Individuals may call the office at 718-684-5509 or visit Section 5, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 44; phone (347) 326-8652; or 940 East Gun Hill Rd., (718) 684-5509.

Happy birthday to all celebrating this month. We offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the family of Diane Sweeting on the loss of her mother. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card; she is excellent in sharing good will. Also notify her of any illness, or if a neighbor has become deceased or transferred to a nursing home.

“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” –Margaret J. Wheatley ––H. Overman

this man? Is there a chance that he could attack you and your family? Now, if your answer is yes or even maybe, then we must put a stop to this problem.

Bottom line: Personally, I think that we should have a discussion with Amazon on setting up a customer support center here. Drivers can then deliver all of their packages to this center. And, drivers would not have to deliver your packages to the lobby areas and into the hallways of our buildings. Furthermore, none of your packages could be stolen or lost.

Amazon could then save millions of dollars on labor expenses with the drivers. Additionally, they could save a tremendous amount of money on replacing lost and stolen packages. Moreover, cooperators could retrieve and return all packages here.

Problem solved!

Close We need to have another meeting with HCR so that we can drastically reduce or eliminate the upcoming carrying charge increase.

Thank you.

Contact Information Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Currently, here is my ONLY email account: djohnson@riverbayboard.com.

I will never ask for or accept money from anyone. Therefore, please do not respond to any message with my name on it that requests money, money transfers, gift cards, personal information, or anything from you. And, please do not ever send money or anything to anyone because you saw my name on a false message.

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

And, please hang up your phone immediately if someone calls you and says that they’re Daryl Johnson or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else.

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

13

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Don’t just say I love NYC. -JWF JU

Show your community how much you care by wearing your heart on your uniform. Sign up now to become an NYPD Police Officer.

Step Forward & Join the NYPD

©2023 The City of New York. The NYPD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Scan to show the city how big your heart is and sign up to become an NYPD Police Officer.

14

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Snow Clean-up

Building 9 Association Greetings, Building 9 Association family and friends.

The January Executive Board election results, along with photos of the newly elected Board members, are posted on our lobby bulletin boards.

On Thursday, February 8, Riverbay Corporation Executive General Manager Marvin Walton invited building presidents to attend a brainstorming session geared toward identifying problems with the apartment repairs process. The top common concerns were discussed and presented. We expect to meet with the Executive General Manager again in several weeks to determine best practices going forward. Stay tuned.

Our next Building 9 Association General Membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 29, at 7 p.m. Sgt. Gregory will be our guest presenter.

Date Change: The Creative Arts session is rescheduled for Saturday, March 23, at 7 p.m.

Today, Dinora Tirado, Rosemary Bailey, Wanda Randall and I will support the casino bus ride.

Last Saturday, the JASA-Bartow Arts and Crafts exhibit was well attended. Crafts from the Intergenerational Arts and Crafts class were on display.

March is designated Women’s History Month. As such, the Drammeh Institute will host its annual Global African Women’s Day gala luncheon.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 16, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the famous Alhambra Ballroom in Harlem, At JASA-Bartow Art New York City. Ticket infor- show... Yvonne (L), wearing Linda’s (R) mask. mation will follow.

“A goal without a plan is just wishful thinking.” –Anonymous ––Linda Collins

Above, Riverbay Parking and Leasing department, assisted by the Construction department, clean up the Bartow Mall/Community Center area following Tuesday’s snowstorm, while Grounds crews tackled sidewalks and pathways throughout the development to ensure safe passage for shareholders.

Photos by Brandon Ortiz and MaryAnn Sowah

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

Stay informed! Scan the code!

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• PEPPER STEAK: $40 • TRIPE HONEYCOMB: $25 • BEEF STEW: $40 • COW FEET: $15 • PORK CUTLETS: $30 • TURKEY WINGS SMALL: $30 • OXTAIL: $50 • GOAT MEAT: $20 • GROUND CHUCK: $25 • GROUND SIRLOIN: $35 • CHICKEN THIGHS SKINLESS BONELESS: $20 • PORK CHOPS BONE IN OR BONELESS: $20 BEST OF EVERYTHING THIS IS INSANE! FAMILY PACK 5 PEOPLE CAN S 6 lbs Chicken (2) S 1 lb Chicken Cutlets S 1 Top Rnd London Broil (1”) S EAT FOR 5 DAYS 3 lbs Beef Stew 2 lbs Italian Sausage 3 lbs Spare Ribs 3 lbs Shell Steak A 1 lb Chicken Cutlets A 2 pkg Sabrett Franks A 2 lbs Chicken Cutlets A 3 lbs Beef Stew CC Pork Chops V 2 lbs CC Pork Chops V 3 lbs Chicken Legs V 3 lbs CC Pork Chops V 36 lbs lbs Chicken (2) 2 lbs Sirloin Chopmeat 2 lbs Chuck Chop 2 lbs Italian Sausage 3 lbs Chuck Chop E E E E

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Guy’s heart stopped twice.

Back coaching days later.

“I technically died, and here I am. I’m incredibly lucky. I could not have been in better hands.”

—Guy Monseair, City Island Rowing Coach “We had an immediate critical decision to make in the race to save Guy’s life. We decided to proceed with emergent quadruple coronary artery bypass surgery despite Guy’s swollen and weak heart resulting from his acute heart attack and cardiac arrest. There are very few health systems in the country with the knowledge base and the skill that we have at Montefiore Einstein for managing these kinds of complex life-threatening conditions.”

—Robert Michler, MD Surgeon-in-Chief and Chair, Surgery and Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery Montefiore Einstein

See Guy’s story at montefiore.org/guy

15

16

Join the Fight Against Hunger

Did you attend the Saturday morning fresh produce distribution at the Section 5 fridge and pantry? Community volunteers were ready with a variety of veggies and fruits such as green bananas, lettuce, Brussel sprouts, apples, melons and string beans. So, if you did not, you are warmly invited to drop by with your cart or shopping bag. The Section 5 fridge/pantry is located next to the Montefiore Mosholu Community Center (MMCC) in Section 5. Come join us as we fight to drive out hunger!

Register/volunteer @grassrootsgroceryny; or drop us a note via email: coopcitycommunityfridge@ gmail.com.

–Yolanda Ramirez Photos by Linda Brown

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Building 26 Association Building 26 Association Returns with Exciting Plans for 2024 Greetings, Building 26 shareholders! After a month-long hiatus, your Association is thrilled to be back in action and geared up for an exciting year ahead. As we dive into February, let us not only commemorate Black History Month but also recognize American Heart Month, reminding us to prioritize our health and well-being.

Upcoming Events: Mark Your Calendars • Floor Captain Orientation: Monday, February 26, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room. This meeting is not only for those who have signed up, but for anyone interested in learning more about becoming a floor captain and making a difference in our community.

• General Meeting: Tuesday, February 27, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room. Light refreshments will be served followed by a 50/50 raffle.

Meet Your Board Members: Over the next six weeks, we will introduce you to the dedicated individuals serving on our Association board, starting with our esteemed president, Eunice Cuevas.

Eunice Cuevas: President of Building 26 Association. Career Journey: Eunice brings a wealth of experience from her involvement in International Programs for Cultural Immersion and Community Engagement.

Co-op City Origin: Rooted deeply in the community, Eunice’s connection to Co-op City spans generations, making Eunice Cuevas her a true advocate for its residents.

First Impressions: Eunice’s initial encounters with Co-op City residents, particularly during a lively game of paddleball in Section 5, highlighted the vibrant spirit and active engagement within our community.

Our Team: The Building 26 Association is driven by ambitious goals and a commitment to creating meaningful experiences for our neighbors.

Short-term Goal: We aim to foster greater involvement from younger members of our community, ensuring a diverse and vibrant representation within our association.

Long-term Goal: Eunice envisions organizing enriching trips to her favorite destinations, fostering cultural exchange and memorable experiences for our community members.

As we embark on this journey together, let us embrace the spirit of collaboration and innovation, making 2024 a year to remember for Building 26.

February Birthdays Celebration: We want to extend warm birthday wishes to all those celebrating in February! As I anticipate my own birthday celebration, let’s make sure to spread joy and cheer to all our February-born neighbors.

Sweetheart Mini Photoshoot Session: The delightful Sweetheart Mini Photoshoot that took place on February 11 was a great experience. Despite a low turnout, attendees reveled in capturing cherished memories with their families against stunning backdrops. The meticulously arranged décor added to the charm of the event. A heartfelt thank you goes to the incredible “Photo Squad” comprising of Jasmine, Tanya and Jonathan, whose exceptional work made the day truly memorable.

Get Involved! As we put together our upcoming calendar, we value your input and feedback. Please feel free to reach out to us via email: Coopcityta26@gmail.com, or leave a message with any questions, thoughts, or concerns: 860-821 0475. Your input is invaluable as we strive to create a vibrant and inclusive community within Building 26.

––Tanya Cruz-Cooke

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

17

Building 10 Association Greetings, fellow cooperators.

New Cooperators – Welcome, all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next General Membership meeting.

Building 10 Association Dues – The collection of Building Association dues for 2024 will begin on March 1. Building Association dues are $10 per apartment. We will be available in the Association Room to collect dues on March 7 and March 28 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. You can also bring your dues to the Building Association meeting or give to any executive board member. Please note, the money collected is used for Association-related expenses, L H À\HUV PHHWLQJ DQG SDUW\ VXSSOLHV DQG UHIUHVKPHQWV HWF General Membership Meeting – Our next General Membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, at 6:45 p.m. in the Association Room located in the rear of Building 10B. Call Center – The Call Center has begun giving work order numbers when you call in for work to be done in your apartment. Please note this number and who you spoke to for future reference.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call

311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-879-6311.

Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help is 988; you can call or text.

Someone is available 24 hours a day.

Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Facebook ³%XLOGLQJ $%& $VVRFLDWLRQ ´ /LNH RXU SDJH DQG JHW QRWL¿HG RI DOO WKH happenings in and around Building 10.

Deepest condolences to the friends and family of Ms. Phyllis L. Jones who passed away on January 20. She was a cooperator of Building 10C. Ms. Jones will be missed.

We would like to wish all who are born this month an incredibly happy birthday.

Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy Anniversary!

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

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

Have a wonderful week.

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Building 24 Association Dear Building 24 cooperators. Happy Valentine’s Day greetings to all.

Last week, I attended Management’s meeting with Building Association presidents to hear from them and get their ideas about how to improve Maintenance work here. Attendees were seated by section where each one discussed and wrote down their ideas. Those suggestions for improvements were transferred to large sheets on easels and each section took turns reading their ideas to all in attendance. Management collected all the sheets and pledged to review and present them at a future meeting where Board members and cooperators will also be present. Hopefully, some of those ideas will be implemented and Maintenance work will be improved.

For instance, I presented a suggestion made by one of our Association members, that for work requiring multiple steps to complete, for example, repair of a leak where breaking a wall and all the steps that entails is necessary, that an inspector evaluate each step and if done correctly, he or she, with the shareholder, will then schedule the next step in the repair. This, we believe, would

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improve time required for completion and quality of work.

On another matter, I have noticed that some of our dog owners are not following the community’s rules for dog ownership regarding cleaning up their pet’s messes also known as scooping the poop. This affects the overall health of Co-op. Plastic bags are available in a station near the Greenway behind Bldg. 25. It’s a simple matter using one of the bags as a glove to pick up the poop and deposit it in the nearest garbage can. If you haven’t been scooping, please follow the rules; respect your neighbors and the overall health of our community and scoop the poop.

One last suggestion for helping us save money and maybe reduce future carrying charge increases. Consider recycling plastics, etc., and curbing excessive water use. Increasing the former is good for the environment and makes us some money, and reducing excessive water use could also reduce our huge water bill.

Stay warm and be well.

––Bruce Silberman

18

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Director’s Viewpoint

Rod Saunders

Maybe We Did Ask For This!

As reported in the Feb. 11th edition of the Co-op City Times, I had the opportunity to address our community’s ongoing concerns regarding the proposed new Metro-North station that will be built in Section 5. The new station is expected to go into operation some time in the year 2027. I want to thank Joe O’Donnell, director of Governmental and Community Relations for MTA’s Construction & Development, as well as the contingent of MTA/ Metro-North representatives who came with him.

My comments served to support what most cooperators, especially those living in Section 5, and the surrounding private homes are concerned with the parking of vehicles by commuters who do not “kiss and drive off.” Parking in Section 5 is already challenging. Our own parking garages have been at capacity for over a decade. Having to compete for a parking space with motor vehicles driven by rail commuters arriving from outside of Co-op City, who – except for the Metro-North train station would have no need to be here – is absolutely unfair. MTA/Metro-North has no intentions of providing off-street parking for any of the proposed four new Metro-North stations, and they’ve been adamant about that since 2012.

We Didn’t Ask For This (or Did We?) I understand that the other three communities where the stations are being constructed all requested parking be facilitated, and that they too were told that this was not in the MTA/Metro-North plans. I stated that “the concept does not match the reality.” And that no other community had 15,373 apartments behind their stations; That no other community had the huge Bay Plaza Mall next to it; That there is a Public School building directly in the path of the main street leading to the train station, and that the creation of a bottle-necked roadway, combined with an exit ramp from the Hutchinson River Parkway adding more vehicles, will ultimately result in a fatality caused by a traffic jam. These

conditions are a nightmare waiting to happen. I then stated that “we didn’t ask for this…” Apparently, I am incorrect. Cooperators did ask for this, and that occurred back in 2012.

As Reported in our Own Co-op City Times As reported in the September 29, 2012 edition of our own Co-op City Times, the vice president of Planning for Metro-North, Robert MacLagger, came to Co-op City to announce the probable go ahead for the proposed building of four Metro-North train stations on the existing Amtrak lines. The proposed Co-op City station would be the northern most of the four.

The article reported that there were approximately 1,000 people in Dreiser Auditorium that evening, and after I re-read the article, I see that most of the cooperators were in favor of constructing the proposed new station here. I came to that meeting late, but I did have an opportunity to speak to former Congressman Engel, former Community Board #10 Manager Ken Kearns, and NYC Councilman Jimmy Vacca.

Back then though, my first thought was not in line with everyone else’s, especially not our elected representatives, neither of whom lived in Co-op City.

There were several issues that I believed would be immediately problematic, and I didn’t need an environmental impact study to figure it out. Although V.P. MacLagger communicated during the meeting that there was a plan to add shuttle buses bringing the other Sections of Co-op City, timed to the train schedules, to the new station, he was clear that the MTA/Metro-North had no plans to provide parking for the new station. I knew that this was going to create more traffic issues than the proposed new stations would solve. I am quoted in that same issue of the Co-op City Times as being skeptical of the exact same issues then, as I am now, only more so at this time, especially considering the newly designed and built traffic patterns on both I-95, the Hutchinson River Parkway, and the bottleneck on Bartow Ave. So Now What?

To be honest, the MTA/Metro-North meeting that

I attended in Section 5 on February 7th is not going to move the needle any further than MTA/Metro-North originally wanted to, especially in regards to providing a parking lot for the commuters who drive to the station and leave their vehicles until they return. Based on the number of cooperators who were in attendance (basically the same few concerned shareholders), it does not appear that the vast majority of Co-op City residents are too concerned about the station’s impact on our quality of life here. Trust me, when Batrow Ave./Hutchinson River Parkway E. traffic gets out of control here, and the logistical impact of the Metro-North station becomes a reality, there will be tons of people asking that same old tired question: “How did our Board members and elected representatives let this happen?” Then you might want to ask yourself – where was I? The MTA Takes Over Originally, Co-op City was given a really good surface transit transportation system. There were four (4) bus routes that were arguably the best run in the Bronx. The Bx15, the Bx17, which were NYC MABSTOA bus routes traveling across Gun Hill Rd., and Allerton Ave., respectively. No one ever ran for a bus, because the next one was only minutes behind. The remaining two buses were privately owned – the Q1 from Queens, and the New York Bus Service’s express bus to lower Manhattan. A lot of people were envious of our bus transportation service.

Since the MTA took over our bus service and routes, we no longer enjoy having the best run service in the Bronx.

The MTA’s 2018/19 proposed “Fast Forward” rerouting of our buses would have been a total nightmare for Co-op City’s bus commuters had it not been for the Ad-Hoc MTA Committee, and the support of all of our elected representatives, especially Assemblyman Michael Benedetto. The current scheduling does not meet our community’s needs.

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

Building 13 Association There were various meetings scheduled in January that created timing conflicts. As a result, our January meeting was postponed and we had an early February meeting. Our Building Association meeting was held on February 5, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room at which time, nominations were made for offices in preparation for the March election.

The nominations were as follows: Leslie Peterson nominated for president; nominated for vice president was Wendell Mattison; for secretary, Adrienne Spivey; treasurer, Gail Sharbaan; assistant treasurer, Doris Sanchez; sgt.-atarms, Annice Bailey; and assistant to the sergeant-at-arms, Lisa Rodriguez.

There were no oppositions to the nominations and all accepted the nomination.

Moving forward, at our March meeting, the officers will be sworn into office.

During our meeting, we also discussed maintenance repairs. Although we

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did hear similar stories from shareholders, the purpose was to get possible suggestions from shareholders who might help rectify the situation. We did receive many proposals for changes that can be made to the current process. At the meeting with the Executive General Manager and all Building presidents in attendance, the suggestions were shared. Thank you. As always, we encourage you to stay informed and continue to check the bulletin boards in the lobby for information regarding our community.

In March, we will also be discussing participatory budgeting. Participatory Budgeting (PB) is a citizen engagement process through which community members decide how to allocate a portion of a public budget. Citizens make direct decisions about how government money is spent in their community by identifying and prioritizing public spending projects. District 12 constituents can decide how to spend $1 million in capital funding locally. Idea Collection and Volunteer Recruitment takes place September – November. Through community meetings, residents brainstorm ideas.

This may be an opportune time to get some of the things that we think are important additions to our district, such as proper recycling containers throughout the community. Jahmal Yapp is the Deputy Chief-of-Staff and & Budget Director from Councilman Riley’s Office and will attend a meeting to discuss the process of Participatory Budgeting with us.

Programs • Assemblyman Benedetto is sponsoring a Black History Month Program on Thursday, February 22, at the Dreiser Loop Community Center at noon.

• Church of the New Vision and the NAACP Co-op City Branch invite you to a Black History Month Celebration focusing “African Americans and the Arts” on Saturday, February 24, at 3:00 p.m. at 115 Einstein Loop. This is a FREE community event.

• NCNW Youth Black History Month at Dreiser, February 24, from 12-3 p.m.

“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community.” –Cesar Chavez Visit our Facebook page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City.

Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@ yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370; or Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our Team.

—Leslie Peterson

19

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

National Council of Negro Women NCNW Co-op City Section – At our February monthly meeting last Sunday, February 11, our Membership Committee gave a gift card to one of our members who had paid her annual dues on time. There was a roulette wheel with the names RI DOO ¿QDQFLDO PHPEHUV WKDW ZDV spun and our member, Brittney White, won the prize! It was wonderful to have a bit of fun, because we were all saddened by the news of the passing of one of our long-time section members, Gladys Williams, who died on February 8th after a long illness.

We are beginning our 53rd year in the Co-op City community, and from the beginning, we have been blessed with members like Gladys who believed in our mission, “…develop and advocate for women of African descent as they support their families and communities.”

Youth Committee – NCNW, in partnership with the Riverbay Fund, will be sponsoring our 23rd Annual Black History Celebration on Saturday, February 24, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. in Dreiser Community Center, Auditorium “A.” Please note that this is a different location from that listed in previous articles. The location of our program will be in Dreiser Community Center, not Bartow Community Center! It is not too late to volunteer to showcase your talents if you are a youth group or young adult with talents in song, dance, playing an instrument, poetry, spoken word, drama skit, etc. Please contact the NCNW Youth Committee at 914-826-5644 or send a video of your performance to ncnwcoopcitysocial@gmail. com.

NCNW Youth Section – Our newly chartered Youth Section meets on the second Saturday of each month, except July and August. It strives to empower the next generation of young women ages 9-18 to lead and advocate for women of African descent and their families. At their meeting on Saturday, February 10, in light of American Heart Month, the members participated in a Beginners Jazz Dance Workshop. Good health habits should start early in life and dancing, as a fun physical activity, can be enjoyed lifelong. If you or a young person you know might be interested in our Youth Section, please emai:, ncnwcoopcityyouth@ gmail.com or visit our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com, for more information.

February is Heart Health Awareness Month (con’t) – About half of all Americans have at least one of three key risk factors for heart disease: high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking. Obesity can lead to high blood pressure and diabetes as well as heart disease. Heart-healthy living involves making healthy choices. Consider making one, or several, of the following lifestyle changes. Move more! Get at least two and a half hours of physical activity each ZHHN ± WKDW LV MXVW PLQXWHV D GD\ ¿YH GD\V D week. Eat healthy foods! Eat a diet low in salt and fat. Eat more vegetables and fruit. Limit foods high in sugar. Do not drink too much alcohol which can raise your blood pressure. Quit smoking! Reduce stress and improve sleep! It is easier to prevent than to treat heart disease.

––Joyce Howard

Building 32 Association We, of the Building 32 Association, would like to thank everyone who took part as vendors in the Association’s Market 32 event. Both vendor-shareholders and those who came and purchased great items made the event a resounding success! It was an amazing time and we hope to do it again later this year. In order to make that happen, we need the support of shareholders like you. Let us keep the positive momentum going!

Openings for the Association’s Executive Board are once again available. If you are a member in good standing (attended at least three meetings) and would like to be hands-on with the Building 32 Association and your community, please attend our March 12 General meeting at 7 p.m.

There, we will have elections for open positions. Current open positions are president, vice president and possibly treasurer.

Please continue to watch this space. We hope to see you soon.

––Ezekiel Springer

20

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson

It’s Only Money As the self-appointed Don’t let the MTA and DOT construction projects kill Section 5 torchbearer (and thank you former Board director Evelyn Turner for the shout-out in a recent letter to the editor to that regard), I’ve been trying to keep up with the demands of reaching out to fellow residential allies (from within and outside Co-op City) as well as to elected official allies. Those efforts include participating in related events by Zoom or in person and endlessly writing about construction issues – either directly to all of the above (ally and adversary alike) – or in these pages. I’ve been relentless in sharing information regarding both the Bruckner-Hutch Project X progress and the Pennsylvania Station Access project progress – wanted or not. And I do not plan to stop.

Project X731.27, by appearance, is complete, save for the unveiling of Ramp U – the Hutch North exit ramp onto Bartow. Within a few months, I’m quite sure we’ll begin to experience ever-increasing traffic jams within Section 5. Soon thereafter, I expect traffic will start to encroach on westbound Bartow Ave. as well. At that point, maybe we’ll see some serious lobbying to get the sister-ramp, the Hutch South entrance ramp at Bartow, put back into the original plan.

Other New York State DOT projects in our immediate area have yet to become problems for us.

But, patience. They will!

As for the coming Metro-North railroad, the MTA has been busily making preparations to bring the Co-op City station to Section 5’s backyard. With a far-off 2027 completion date for the simultaneous launch of all four of the stations, addressing the issues and the details right now may not seem urgent. But isn’t that what we thought of Project X? Some vital changes to the plan, as is, are necessary.

To that end, I’ve been preparing a video, Video #3, entitled ALL ABOARD! It champions full

south-of-the-tracks station access and a Park ‘n Ride for our neighbors, for their convenience and for our survival.

The video is almost done. Meaning it’s almost re-done. (I live to edit!) Here’s a sneak peak of the opening frame (rolling, à la Star Wars): The Metro-North Station is coming to Co-op City. Thirty minutes to Penn Station! But how long will it take to get to the Co-op City station without full access to the south side of the tracks? For that, we need... Ramp C: The Road to the Road to the Train.

As you know, currently the only plan to reach the station would be to come through Section 5, in one way or another, by several means of approach.

The most northern approach is via Bartow Ave. (from a variety of directions including from the soon-to-be-opened Death Ramp to Killer Curve, aka Ramp U aka Hutch North Exit 2) and down the single-laned Hutchinson River Parkway East (HRPE) to Palmer to Stillwell to De Reimer to Erskine.

Approaching the train station from Palmer Ave., off I-95 north’s Exit 9 (to Stillwell to De Reimer to Erskine) is the second route. And the third route is from I-95 south’s Exit 9 onto Erskine Place.

All that spells: KILLER TRAFFIC. And that’s before adding in traffic from the “enemy from within.”

While anxiously awaiting Video #3 to arrive in your email inbox, check out Video #1 – Project X. The five-minute video, produced with the help of the Building 27 (plus Andrea Mayo) audio-play-artistes, is easy to Google. Put in Bruckner Hutch Project X and it pops right up.

That video highlights the inconvenience and danger to Section 5 that the NYS DOT construction project would cause, if left unchallenged and uncurbed, as well as the folly of the project itself. It shows the bigger picture, the interconnection of the two projects and the result they would have on the

area. And it’s only slightly out of date.

Video #2, the recently tweaked – Save Ramp C – shows the former route home Section 5 drivers used to enjoy, and stresses the role that the nearly discarded ramp could still play by providing full access to the coming train station. Ramp C can no longer take Section 5 drivers directly from Pelham Parkway to Palmer Ave., but what’s left of it is still the most direct route from Pelham Parkway to the south-side-of-the-tracks, to a Park ‘n Ride, and to an additional connection to the station.

We need much better depictions of the station layout, and a drawing just won’t do. After all, the plan is for half of the station to be under I-95 with its head sticking out on the west side of the Interstate and its feet sticking out on the east side. Who can picture that? Don’t send a two-dimensional drawing when a three-dimensional model is what’s needed.

But until we get that, Video #3 to the temporary rescue.

At the latest in-person MTA meeting, all was revealed. What actually stands between an immobilized Section 5 and a traffic-jam preventing second station entrance? Money!!

The MTA didn’t budget for the new location of the station so they don’t have any money for the admittedly now-possible, second entrance. But as MTA spokesperson Joe O’Donnell said, “It does not preclude us from doing it in the future.”

Only trouble is (gee whiz), the money from the two infrastructure bills will be long gone before this dilemma is revisited.

We need to remember what’s needed now. The time to concern ourselves with safety and aesthetics is years from now. The Co-op City station plan and its construction is today’s order of business. The MTA pot of money can’t quite cover what we need.

We need to find another pot.

Have a good week, everybody. MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.

Building 23 Association

African-American Association

Hello to all and a welcome to our new shareholders. We continue to celebrate our Black History past, present and future in our everyday lives and strive for a better future for all.

We appreciate your continued support and welcome your participation. We encourage our members to stay updated by reading the Co-op City Times. Reference our Building 23 lobby bulletin board which lists current events and additional things to know in and around our community. Please continue to alert our Building 23 president (929-732-4132) about your Building 23 concerns/issues. Also, contact the Riverbay Call Center and/or our CSO Customer Service at 718-320-3300 for repairs/maintenance, parking, etc. Let’s remain engaged and continue to educate ourselves as we actively participate in shaping our community’s future.

Our guest speakers at our February 1, Building 23 Association meeting were our Janitorial director, Mr. Joshua Blake, and Mr. Toma Kastrati, assistant director, Maintenance. It was a very informative meeting. Some of the highlights were the recent uptick of graffiti appearing in our hallways, stairwells and elevators; installation of bike racks for delivery food personnel; laundry machine maintenance and Janitorial staffing changes. Mr. Kastrati updated us on the importance of knowing how to place your Emergency Maintenance calls and understanding the response time. We thanked both for coming out to our meeting.

Things to Know • In 2024, the Building 23 Association plans to review its bylaws for any updates and hold our election of officers: president, vice president, secretary and treasurer.

• Floor Captains are always needed and we ask for your participation.

• Compactor Rooms: Please ensure your small boxes are folded and the larger boxes taken to the basement.

• Laundry Room: Be courteous and remove your clothes so that no one has to wait for your machine. Our Porters do a great job in keeping our building clean. Please clean up after your spills.

• Defensive Driving classes, sponsored by Co-op City Toastmasters, is on winter recess. Next class is Sun., April 7.

• Our Building 23 president participated in the Riverbay Management meeting with the Co-op City Building Association presidents.

In closing, well wishes to the sick and shut-in. Condolences to those that have lost loved ones and Happy February Birthdays and Anniversaries! Remember also, February is Heart Healthy Month!

—Betty Smith

In celebration of Black History Month, we begin and end with quotes from the ancestors.

“Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity; it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.” –Nelson Mandela AAACC “OPEN MIC” Event TODAY! Saturday, February 17, 4 p.m.

Can you sing? Are you funny? Are you a dancer; a poet, novelist, or a Jackof-all of these trades? This platform (or THIS MIC) is for you. Come and have some fun and hone your talents. Adults only please and language must be kept respectable.

This Open MIC is a Fundraiser from 4 p.m.-8 p.m. in the Dreiser Community Center, Room 15, 2nd floor.

Join the AAACC $25.00/year single membership and $35.00/year family/household. You can Zelle us your payment using our email address. Email: aaaccpower@gmail. com. Call us at: 646-883-9095. The African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

The AAACC Programs Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917-903-7073 Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917-863-1507 Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” with Joyce Smith – Contact: Joyce, 718-320-0714 We wish you and yours a prosperous Black History Month, encourage you to take part in all Black History Celebrations and to be of service to your community.

We leave you with this in celebration: “Hate is too great a burden to bear.

It injures the hater more than it injures the hated.” —Coretta Scott King See you at the “OPEN MIC” later today!

—Michelle Marbury

21

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Co-op City United Methodist Church/ IEMU de Co-op City Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds.

Come and Visit us – We are a multi-ethnic and bilingual, %LEOH FHQWHUHG FRQJUHJDWLRQ ZLWK VSLULW ¿OOHG worship. We offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service to God and our community. Services are held in-person at 2350 Palmer Avenue across from Building 30. Parking is available. You can also participate with us via Zoom (904 4685745) or Facebook Live (United Methodist Church of Co-op City). You are always welcome. –Pastor David Jolly “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with DOO \RXU VRXO DQG ZLWK DOO \RXU PLQG ¶ 7KLV LV WKH ¿UVW DQG greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” –Matthew 22:37-39 NIV In the second greatest commandment, there is an assumption that as human beings, we naturally love and care for ourselves. However, when we read it, we either overlook or miss that last word “yourself.” Notice that God instructs us to love others in the same way that we love ourselves. In other words, He has given us permission to love ourselves, not more or less, but equally. This means that in the same way we take care of others, we should take care of ourselves.

While many people may view self-care as a form of VHO¿VK LQGXOJHQFH RU IHHO JXLOW\ IRU WDNLQJ WLPH IRU WKHPselves, caring for oneself is a necessary element of a person’s overall well-being and it is grounded in scripture.

Since the beginning of time, God has provided instructions for the care of our physical bodies, minds and soul.

He understands that we get tired physically, emotionally and spiritually. As a result, He commands a time to rest, and we have an open invitation to bring all our burdens to His feet and to rest in His presence. So, how can we develop a biblical practice of self-care?

6SHQGLQJ WLPH ZLWK *RG LQ SUD\HU LV WKH ¿UVW DQG PRVW important part of biblical self-care. As we begin the Season of Lent, do not focus on giving up something for the sake of giving something up. Instead, be intentional in adding time to rest in God’s presence, and to meditate on His word. Only in His presence we can have true rest and the renewal of our strength. Remember that every part of us is a precious gift from God to be used and cared for wisely in order to love Him and serving Him appropriately.

May the Holy Spirit guide you towards a deeper love for yourself, enabling you, to share God’s love with the world.

Come and Receive a Blessing: Daniel’s Book Online Bible Study (Zoom: 904-4685745) Tuesday – Español at 12:15 p.m.

Wednesday – English at 6:00 p.m.

Thursday, February 22: Bilingual Prayer Service at 10:00 a.m.

Food Pantry: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Upcoming Events – Save the dates. All are welcome!

Sunday, February 18: Spanish Service at 10:00 a.m. and English Service at 11:30 a.m.

––Graciela Abadia

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

E-mail: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-320-0844. Priest-in-Charge: Fr. Simeon O. Johnson; cell: 917-227-4303.

Greetings! As we continue to make the necessary repairs to our space at St. Joseph’s Church, we thank you for your patience and understanding. We are almost back to normal with our schedule of services and activities, and look forward to an early completion of the repairs. ,Q SHUVRQ ZRUVKLS VHUYLFH IRU WKH ¿UVW 6XQGD\ in Lent will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, February 18, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference. Please also remember to tune in for the usual teleconference weekday prayers at noon. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

Sunday School has reopened. Please be sure to bring out your children and grandchildren.

If you have not yet completed your Pledge Cards, kindly do so as soon as possible. These FDUGV UHÀHFW RXU ¿QDQFLDO SOHGJH DQG DUH XVHG WR update our proposed budget, as well as our offer to volunteer time and talent where and when possible.

Upcoming Events: • Saturday, February 24, Circle of Prayers starting at noon. Please bring your favorite prayer

and/or poem to share, as well as your lunch. The church will provide dessert and drink.

• Sunday, February 25, in honor of our ancestors and the last week of Black History Month, we would love for you to wear an African print of any kind.

• Save the date for Saturday, May 25, when we will be celebrating our Patron Saint Joseph with a midday Luncheon at the Eastwood Manor. Full details will appear in our weekly article and the UHOHYDQW À\HU ZLOO EH UHOHDVHG VKRUWO\ $OVR RXU XVXDO UDIÀH ZLOO WDNH SODFH DW WKH OXQFKHRQ DQG these tickets are now available for sale. Please contact Valrie at 347-200-5850 to collect your supply of tickets.

Condolences: Our thoughts and prayers go out to all our members, families and friends who have recently experienced the loss of loved ones.

Sick and Shut-in: To our sick and shut-in, we extend our well wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery.

Birthday Greetings: Best wishes to everyone who is celebrating a birthday this month.

We at St. Joseph’s are collecting food (cans and dry goods) for the food pantry at Grace Episcopal Church, West Farms. If you can, please contribute for those in need.

Grace and Peace!

—Merville Chambers

Traditional Synagogue The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate, or mail to The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Entrance to our synagogue for Saturday services is on the side door of Building 27B. General Information The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. ,W LV RQ WKH JURXQG ÀRRU RI %XLOGLQJ % LW LV handicap accessible, no steps. Phone #: 718-379 2I¿FH KRXUV DUH 7KXUVGD\ DQG 6XQGD\ from noon to 2 p.m. 3OHDVH FDOO WKH RI¿FH EHIRUH you attempt to come over. If no one is in the of¿FH SOHDVH OHDYH D PHVVDJH The synagogue has Services on Saturday morning starting at 10:00 a.m. After Services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who

live in Co-op City who do not come to services.

Please come by 10:00 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Sat., Feb 17, at 6:25 p.m.

Candle lighting for Fri., Feb. 23, at 5:19 p.m.

Good and Welfare :H VHOO 7UHH &HUWL¿FDWH LQ +RQRU RU 0HPRU\ of a loved one. The cost is only $15.00 per tree (if you want to buy a tree, call 347-449-5005). 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 your donation to the synagogue.

To all Members Happy Birthday to Debbie Schwartz, Pauline Clair, Daniel Azizo, Jeff Sherman, Mark Cartier and all members who will be celebrating their birthday in February. Please send me your name and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games After services and kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

—Bruce Gitelson

22

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

AARP Chapter #4997 Our Tour Committee has changed their pickup location for all trips. This starts with the April 30th trip to see “A Tribute to the Supremes,” and the new location is in Dreiser Loop near the H&R %ORFN 7D[ RI¿FH 7KH WLPH LV WKH VDPH DQG WKH three return drop-off locations will not change.

Our scheduled trip for June 18th to the Vynecrest Winery, stopping at the Wind Creek Casino, will also be leaving from Dreiser Loop. The cost is $139.00 and includes wine tasting, Wind Creek Casino and an all-you-can-eat Buffet Dinner. Please feel free to contact Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962, for reservations and/or information for all trip activities.

AARP Chapter #4997 is sending warm wishes and prayers to all as we move forward in 2024.

This being an election year, we will all be very busy contacting and aiding the candidates that we ZDQW WR VHH LQ RI¿FH 7KH $$53 EXV WULS WR $OEDny with the State and National organizations was a huge success. We met with and talked to many of RXU RZQ HOHFWHG RI¿FLDOV 2XU UHFHSWLRQ ZDV SRVLtive and well accepted.

During our trip to Albany, the main items we asked to be included in the new budget are increased support for family caregivers and more advocacy for the residents who must be in Long Term Care facilities. Both issues were reduced sigQL¿FDQWO\ ZLWK *RY +RFKXO¶V SURSRVHG EXGJHW WKLV

year and we need to make that change before the ¿QDO EXGJHW LV SDVVHG LQ $SULO 3UHVFULSWLRQ drug costs are another topic that needs change.

2XU RI¿FH GD\V DQG KRXUV DUH 0RQGD\ 7KXUVday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, Room “0,” VHFRQG ÀRRU WHOHSKRQH DQG HPDLO aarp4997@gmail.com. Please leave a message when you email or call, and we will return your LQTXLULHV RQ RXU QH[W LQ RI¿FH GD\ :H QHHG YROXQWHHUV IRU PDQQLQJ WKH RI¿FH DQG DQVZHULQJ WKH WHOHphones. Please contact Ms. Polite, 718-320-4278, to arrange a time that works for you. Ms. Baker, Membership contact, 718-379-2088, continues to renew/add members to our roster. The annual dues are $20.00, and you must be a member of the National organization to join a local chapter. You do not have to be a Co-op City resident to join us.

From Mrs. Wilson, Good and Welfare, 718671-5493, our prayers are being well received and answered.

On a personal note, I would like to send special prayers to those who have experienced a loss or a stressful occurrence. Your health is still your main concern, and you should be very aware of the area DURXQG \RX DQG \RXU VDIHW\ 2XU RI¿FHV DQG PHHWings are all masked mandated, they will be provided for you, if needed.

We are here to serve—not to be served.

—Ann Purnell

Retirees of Dreiser Loop Greetings, retirees and friends. We hope this artiFOH ¿QGV HYHU\RQH DQG WKHLU ORYHG RQHV GRLQJ ZHOO Wishing all a happy Presidents’ Day on February 19 and National Love Your Pet Day on February 20.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Wednesday, March 13. Price: $60 with $25 bonus slot play.

Payment is due now ASAP. Bus pick up at 8:30 a.m. at Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block. Return trip drop-offs at Einstein, Asch and Dreiser Loops.

Atlantic City Overnight Trip – Tropicana Casino/Hotel; Wednesday, May 29-30. One-night hotel stay and tribute to the “Jersey Boys and Girls” show; $295 per person/double, $345 per person/ single; $15 bonus slot play and $25 food voucher.

Deposit of $100 required now ASAP with the remaining balance due March 19. Bus pick up at 9 a.m. at Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block. Return trip drop-offs at Einstein, Asch and Dreiser Loops.

Carnival Cruise 2024 – Eastern Caribbean nine-day/eight-night cruise (traveling to Amber Cove (Dominican Republic), Grand Turks, and Half Moon Cay (Bahamas) on the beautiful new ship Venezia leaving from NYC on July 16 (cruising through July 24, 2024). Please contact Serita at (347) 564-5722 for information regarding these trips. Serita will be available in Room 19 from 1-3 p.m. to accept payments on Tuesday, February 20.

Entertainment Committee – Tickets will be available March 1 for our annual June luncheon to be held on Wednesday, June 12, from 11:30 a.m.3:30 p.m., at the beautiful Marina del Rey. Tickets DUH LQFOXGHV WUDQVSRUWDWLRQ RQ D ¿UVW SDLG

¿UVW VHDWHG EDVLV 'DLV\ ZLOO EH LQ 5RRP RQ Tuesday, March 12, and Thursday, March 14, from 1-3 p.m. Questions can be addressed to Daisy at (718) 671-6122 or (917) 292-7010, and Jay at (201) 310-2972.

Membership Committee – We are accepting annual membership dues for 2024. Please remit your check for the $25 annual dues made payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Please note “new member” or “renewing member” and the year(s) for the payment in the memo line on your check. Questions may be addressed to Mary at (718) 655-9170.

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

Condolences – Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who have recently experienced the loss of loved ones.

Good and Welfare – Please keep all of those who are sick and/or shut in, in your thoughts and healing prayers. We hope they will soon see brighter days ahead. Please notify Lorraine Parker at (718) 671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 6, at 1 p.m. in Dreiser Center Auditorium C. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend. We look forward to seeing you there.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

CCPD ––– &RQWLQXHG IURP SDJH Remember not to drive if you consume alcoholic beverages. Even one drink is too many if you are going to drive. Also, be sure to buckle your seatbelt, obey speed limits and avoid distractions when driving. Schools are open, drive safely. Never pass a stopped school bus in either direction when it has WKH UHG OLJKWV ÀDVKLQJ RU WKH 6WRS VLJQ RXW If you see something, say something. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 6713050. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. Visit CCPD on X, @CCPDnyc, to see what is happening here in Co-op City.

Submitting Club Articles to the Co-op City Times Shareholders are reminded to submit their club articles and other correspondence to cctimes@riverbay corp.com.

Sending it to team members’ individual email addresses increases the chance of it being overlooked.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Goose Island Seniors With a sad heart, we announce the passing of Ella E. Thorne, a faithful member to Goose Island Seniors, and Donald Chambers, husband to Audrey Chambers. Condolences to their families.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; this Tue., Feb. 20; $60, bonus, $25 play. Pick up: Einstein Loop, 7:45 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:15 a.m., and Dreiser Loop, 8:30 a.m. Payment due. Vaccination required.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Sat. Feb. 24; $60, bonus $25 play. Pick up: 8:15 a.m., Einstein Loop; 8:45 a.m., Asch Loop; and 8:55 a.m., Dreiser Loop. Call/text: 646-579-1701.

Resorts Atlantic City – Tue., March 19. Price: $65. Bonus: $20 slot play. Payment due: Feb. 28.

Make checks to Goose Island Seniors, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 39, Bx, NY 10475 or Zelle to 347847-1941. Vaccination required.

Mt. Airy Lodge Casino – Mt. Pocono, PA; Thu., April 18. Price: $65. No bonus.

Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA; Thu., April 25. Price: $215. Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant. Call/text: 646-579-1701.

Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA; Tue., May 7. Balcony seats (2 or 3 steps down).

Price: $195. Deposit: $50 to reserve seat on bus.

Balance due April 17. Golden Corral Restaurant before show.

Villa Roma – Tribute to Diana Ross and Gladys Knight, Catskills, NY; Tue., June 11. Wait list only. Price: $125. Down payment $50 to reserve seat. Balance due by May 20, 2024.

Tribute to Whitney Houston – at Tropicana Casino, June 27. Price: $150. Bonus: $25 slot play and $20 food voucher. Wait list only. Deposit $50 to reserve seat on bus. Balance due, June 5th.

Nordic Lodge Seafood Feast, Foxwood Casino and Tanger Outlets – Aug. 3. Price, $220. First payment $55 by Feb. 20. Call/text: 646-847-1701.

Holiday Hills – Prospect, CT; Tues., Aug. 20.

Price, $130; $50 deposit to reserve seat on bus.

Balance due: Wed. July 17.

2024 Norwegian Cruise – Hawaii, Aug. 31Sept. 7. Call: 646-579-1701.

Latin Day at Brownstone – Thu., Sept. 26.

Price, $145; $50 deposit. Balance due, Aug.28.

2024 Las Vegas Trip – Oct. 11. Call/text: 646579-1701.

Motown Holiday Party – On the Lake in CT; Thu., Dec. 12. Price: $145; $50 deposit. Final payment: Nov. 13.

Notary – with Yvonne Menefee, Thursdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 135 Einstein Loop, Room 34/39.

Bingo – Mon., Wed. and Fri., 1-3:30 p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for 3 cards; $0.25 each additional card; 12 games and jackpot. Refreshments.

Game day – Tue. and Thu., 1-5 p.m. Dominoes, Bid Whist, movies, socializing and more.

To all Members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of February: Ida (Mitiz) Cleare, Zelma Usher, Maria Mendez, Aida E. Grant, Lauren Frederick, Zoraida Garcia, Janice L. Walcott, Tommy E. Williams, Joyce Chaney, Lucila Correa, Yvonne Menefee and Aida Gonzalez.

Sick and Shut-in – Carlton Lawrence. We miss \RX 2XU IRUPHU SUHVLGHQW 0DU\ 3LOOD LV GRLQJ ¿QH and says hi to everyone. Call her, (718) 753-1816.

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, the Section 5 Community Center; (718) 379-9613. Stephen cell (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net; $StephenCarlSr. Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Please Drive Slowly and Cautiously in all Co-op &LW\¶V 3DUNLQJ )DFLOLWLHV

23

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities JASA FREE Tax Preparation – Income limits: single, $32,000; w/dependents, $60,000; 2049 BarWRZ $YH EDFN RI WKH -$6$ 125& 2I¿FH 0RQGD\V 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for appointments.

Agatha House Foundation - National Diabetes Prevention Program – 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Join our 6-9 month program. For more information or to register, FDOO &RDFK %ULWWDQ\ DW Bartow OAC Trips – Costco, Fri., Feb. 16, $6.

3LFN XSV %DUWRZ D P (LQVWHLQ D P 'UHLVHU D P QHDU WKH KDUGZDUH VWRUH 2QO\ VHDWV Mello Tymes Acupuncture Z 'U )ORUD /X\DQGR LQ WKH -$6$ 125& 2I¿FH :HG )HE 0DUFK a.m.-12 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 to make appointment.

Common Pantry – Tues., Jan. 27, from 9 a.m.-12 S P &RPPRQ 3DQWU\ LV QRZ WDNLQJ QHZ DSSOLFDQWV for their program. Please note: Seniors will need to bring their most recent award letter of income and 6WDWH ,GHQWL¿FDWLRQ &DUG IRU UHJLVWUDWLRQ SXUSRVHV

Mon., Feb. 19 Tues., Feb. 20 Wed., Feb. 21 Thurs., Feb. 22 Fri., Feb. 23

other services.

Steel Drum Classes ± -$6$ 125& 2I¿FH RQ :HG S P Notary ± -$6$ 125& 2I¿FH 7XHV D P :HGV DQG 7KXUV D P S P %\ DSSRLQWPHQW Technology Class ± 7KXUV S P 'LDO LQ QXPEHU 0HHWLQJ ,' 3DVVFRGH Line Dance with Bartow Swingers – 12-1 p.m., :HG DQG )UL S P DW 'UHLVHU /RRS $XG $ Notary ± (LQVWHLQ 2$& 8QWLO )HE 1RWDU\ DSSRLQWPHQWV RQO\ 7KXUV D P S P 6WDUWLQJ )HE ZLOO EH RQ 7XHV DQG 7KXUV IRU $I¿GDYLW 1RWDUL]DWLRQV HWF Please call Einstein OAC DW IRU Hair styling ¿UVW DQG WKLUG :HG RI WKH PRQWK D P EUDLGV KDLUFXWV VKDSH XSV WZLVWV SRQ\WDLOV curls and more. Facials and manicure HYHU\ 0RQ 1-3 p.m. Call for appointments.

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Dreiser

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

JASA Closed For Presidents’ Day

JASA Closed For Presidents’ Day

JASA Closed For Presidents’ Day

JASA Closed For Presidents’ Day

Bartow

Sat., Feb. 24

Einstein OAC, Essex Steam Train and River Boat Cruise – June 28. Tickets are $144, and can EH SDLG LQ IRXU LQVWDOOPHQWV 2I¿FH RSHQ WR UHFHLYH SD\PHQWV RQO\ 0RQGD\V DQG )ULGD\V IURP D P Einstein OAC, Holiday Hill Senior Day – August 20. Tickets are $124, and can be paid in four LQVWDOOPHQWV 2I¿FH RSHQ WR UHFHLYH SD\PHQWV RQO\ 0RQGD\V DQG )ULGD\V IURP D P Memory Matters: &RSLQJ Z 0HPRU\ DQG &RJQLWLYH &KDQJHV SUHVHQWHG E\ $O]KHLPHU¶V $VVRFLDWLRQ LQ SDUWQHUVKLS Z -$6$ )HEUXDU\ ±$SULO :HHNO\ *URXS 'LVFXVVLRQV IURP S P -$6$ 125& 2I¿FH 3UH UHJLVWUDWLRQ E\ )HE LV UHTXLUHG &RQWDFW RU UUNHUVH\#DO] RUJ Caringkind 7KH +HDUW RI $O]KHLPHU¶V &DUHJLYLQJ UHSUHVHQWDWLYH ZLOO EH LQ WKH %DUWRZ 0DLQ 2I¿FH HYHU\ WKLUG 0RQ RI WKH PRQWK IURP D P S P IRU $O]KHLPHU DQG 'HPHQWLD &RQVXOWDWLRQ +HDOWK &DUH 3UR[\ DQG 3RZHU RI $WWRUQH\ &RQVXOWDWLRQ DQG

Einstein

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

NO DINNER SERVED

Wellness Mornings, LUNCH: KOSHER: Chicken Breast Stuffed 9-10 a.m., Rm. 7 Z :LOG 5LFH 6ZHHW 3RWDWR %XWWHU %HDQV Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Bridge to Care Arthritis Exer- Art w/Lovie, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. 2x/month NON KOSHER: 6SDQLVK 6W\OH %DNHG Chicken, Yellow Rice, Sautéed Spinach cise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Aud. A DINNER: BARTOW ONLY Tai Chi w/Jimmy, 2-3 p.m. Room 2 Creative Arts & Painting, Computer & Tablet Class w/Ralph KOSHER: Beef Stew w/Brown Rice & 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 35 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Dial-in #: &DOLIRUQLD %OHQG 9HJHWDEOHV $SSOH NONGo Easy on us Computers 347-893-2966. Meeting ID: 854 KOSHER 6SDQLVK 6W\OH %DNHG &KLFNHQ 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 40 2963 5300. Passcode: Dreiser23 Yellow Rice, Sautéed Spinach, Apple LUNCH: KOSHER: &KLFNHQ 0DUVDOD Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa Hair Care 4U, 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

Coloring Time, 9-10 a.m.

2U]R 1RUPDQG\ %OHQG 9HJHWDEOHV NONAppointments only 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

KOSHER: 6XPPHU &KLFN 3HD 9HJJLH Bereavement Hour w/Dorine Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Spring in Your Step Stretch 6DODG %DVLF 3DVWD 6DODG .DOH 6DODG Z /HPRQ (1st Wednesday only per & Tone w/Ola, Arthritis Exercise w/Damion month) 12-1 p.m.

10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 45 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Auditorium A DINNER: BARTOW ONLY Line Dancing w/Cynthia Action Bodies In Motion Afternoon Crafts w/Ines & Julesa, Wed. & Fri., 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.

KOSHER: 6SHFLDO 9DOHQWLQH¶V 'D\ 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Room 45 1:15-3 p.m., Rm. 7 Dominoes w/Jose 'LQQHU NON-KOSHER: Special 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Prize Bingo & Board Games Drama Club, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Rm. 4 9DOHQWLQH¶V 'D\ 'LQQHU Dinner Hour: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 49A LUNCH: KOSHER 9HJHWDULDQ 6WXIIHG Game Time, 9-10 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, &DEEDJH 0DVKHG 3RWDWR 6WHDPHG &DUURWV 10 a.m.-11:15 a.m.

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

NON-KOSHER: Salmon Salad, Classic Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Visual Arts w/Laura via Zoom 0DFDURQL 6DODG *DUGHQ 6DODG Nutrition Education Presentation 10 a.m.-12 p.m. w/Amelia J., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Virtual DINNER: BARTOW ONLY Knitting/Crocheting with Lynne Salsa Dancing, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Wellness Mornings and Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

KOSHER: 6WXIIHG 9HJHWDEOH &DEEDJH ,QVWDQW 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

0DVKHG 3RWDWRHV 6WHDPHG &DUURWV 2UDQJH Card Games with Frankie, Walk With Ease, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

NON-KOSHER: Stew Chicken Thighs, Penne 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Spanish Class w/Angelica Pasta, Steamed Cabbage w/Green Peas, Banana 1-2 p.m. (Twice a month) Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Walk w/Odessa, on break until Spring 2024 Blood Pressure, 12-1 p.m., (1st & 3rd Tues.)

Health & Wellness w/Ann 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Adult coloring, 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

Smart Phone & Tablet Class w/Julesa, 1:45-2:45 p.m.

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

Never Too Old to Learn Spanish, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 35

Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-12 Sewing Class w/Joy, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Coloring for Calmness p.m.

Rm. 2 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m Manicure, 10:30 a.m-12 p.m.

Knitting & Crocheting w/Loretta Chess Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Line Dance with Cynthia 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.

Alert & Alive w/Cathy and Essie Blood Pressure Screening 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 4 Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Line Dance w/Sassy Drama Club w/Dazee Windley Let’s Get It on Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Aud. A 3 p.m.-4 p.m., in the back of 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Bingo w/Gay, 1:20-2:50 p.m., Rm. 4 the JASA NORC Office Intergenerational Arts & Crafts Menu Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served with w/Denise, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice.

Salsa with Rasheed For information, please call: (718) 320-2066. Schedule subject to 10 a.m.-11 a.m. change without notice.

Word Games Payments for trips can be made where noted, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-4 p.m. only.

Bingo on Saturdays 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. in the Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation. back of JASA NORC Office.

LUNCH: KOSHER %%4 &KLFNHQ /HJ *DUOLF DQG 5RVHPDU\ 5RDVWHG 3RWDWRHV *ULOOHG 9HJHWDEOHV NON-KOSHER: Baked Breaded )LVK )LOHW 3HDUOHG %DUOH\ %UDLVHG &ROODUG *UHHQV DINNER: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: %%4 &KLFNHQ /HJV *DUOLF 5RVHPDU\ 5RDVWHG 3RWDWRHV *ULOOHG 9HJHWDEOHV 3OXP NON-KOSHER: Eggplant Parmesan, Ziti Pasta, Steamed Cabbage w/Green Apple

Lunch Bartow Saturday: Lunch served Only at 12:30 p.m.

BARTOW OAC KOSHER: Beef of PotLUNCH Roast, Garlic XQWLO ¿QLVKHG: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: Baked Sautéed ChickenString Cutlet, in Mashed Potatoes, Beans, KOSHER: 0RURFFDQ 6W\OH 5RDVWHG Mushroom Gravy, Egg Barley, Banana Apple &KLFNHQ /HJV %URZQ 5LFH 6WHDPHG *UHHQ NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish in Black Beans, Plum Penne Bean Sauce, Pasta, Corn w/Peas NON-KOSHER: Whole Wheat Mac & NON-KOSHER 6RIW 7DFR Z 9HJHWDEOHV & Slicedw/Butter Carrots,Squash, OrangeSautéed String Cheese 5LFH 3LODI %DE\ &DUURWV Z 3DUVOH\ %DQDQD Beans

24

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Church of New Vision

Circle of Christ Church

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

Our scripture verse for 2024 is: (Hebrews 12:2 NIV) “/HW XV ¿[ our eyes on Jesus, the Author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the Throne of God.” Sunday service at 11:00 a.m. All are welcomed.

Masks are required and temperature will be taken.

Noon Day Prayer Line now open 12-12:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study, 7:00-8:00 p.m. The Conference Line Number: 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099388#. Please mute your phone.

February 11th Worship Service Theme: “A Sad Surprise.”

Scriptures: (Matthew 7:21-23) “Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me ye that work iniquity.”

Announcements and Save the Dates Saturday, February 24 – Church of the New Vision and NAACP Co-op City Branch invite you to a Black History Month Celebration “African American’s and the Arts” at 3:00 p.m. All are welcomed. This is a free community event!

Wednesday, August 14 – Now accepting $50 deposits to see “Daniel” at the Sight & Sound Theatre. Adults: $215. Youth: $175.

We continue to pray for speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, and offer condolences to families who lost loved ones and good health and wellness for all.

Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you.

––Brenda Brown

Iglesia Circulo de Cristo Forgiven but not Blessed *RG WROG 0RVHV WR H[SORUH WKH ODQG RI &DQDDQ WZHOYH PHQ ZHUH VHQW LQ 7HQ RI WKHP VDLG WKH ODQG ZDV JRRG EXW LQÀXHQFHG WKH SHRSOH ZLWK WKHLU IHDU 7KH\ VSUHDG D QHJDWLYH UHSRUW 7KH\ ZDQWHG WR VWRQH 0RVHV EXW KH SUD\HG IRU WKHP DQG DVNHG *RG WR IRUJLYH WKHLU VLQV Numbers 14:20 The Lord replied, I have forgiven them, as you asked. 21 Nevertheless, DV VXUHO\ DV , OLYH DQG DV VXUHO\ DV WKH JORU\ RI WKH /RUG ¿OOV WKH ZKROH HDUWK 22 not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and the wilderness but disobeyed me and tested me ten times 23 not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors. No one who has treated me with contempt will ever see it. *RG IRUJDYH DQG WKH SHRSOH ZHUH VDYHG IURP KLV ZUDWK EXW ORVW WKH EOHVVLQJV RI WKH ODQG 2QO\ &DOHE DQG -RVKXD HQWHUHG IRUW\ \HDUV ODWHU ,Q WKH VDPH ZD\ PDQ\ EHOLHYHUV UHFHLYH VDOYDWLRQ EXW JR QR IXUWKHU 7KH\ VLW DQG VRXU 0HGLWDWH DQG YHJHWDWH 7KH\ GRQ¶W JR LQ. Forty years later, Moses is preparing them to enter: Deuteronomy 30:15 See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death, and destruction. 16 I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees, and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. 17 But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, 18 I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess.

7KH FKXUFK LV LQ WKH VDPH SODFH WRGD\ :H KDYH EHHQ JLYHQ SURPLVHV DQG EOHVVLQJV \HW fail to appropriate them because of our unbelief and resistance to the Holy Spirit. We limit RXU VXUUHQGHU DQG UHFHLYH LQFRPSOHWH EOHVVLQJV *RG WHOOV WKH ,VUDHOLWHV DQG XV WKDW KH LV WKH RQH ZKR SURYLGHV UHVW EXW ZH FDQ¶W JR EDFN :H VWDQG ¿UPO\ RQ KLV SURPLVHV Schedule: 147 Dreiser Loop (lower level).

During February 20-22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., CCC Children’s Church (5-12 yrs.) will be hosting random acts of kindness. Register at the entrance.

(YHU\ ¿UVW 6XQGD\ RI WKH PRQWK ELOLQJXDO &RPPXQLRQ 6HUYLFH DW D P Sunday: Spanish, 9 a.m., & English Service, 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday: Prayer, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Wed. & Thurs.: Non-perishable food distribution, 12-2 p.m.

Thursday: Prayer/Bible Study, 6:30-8 p.m.

Friday: Youth Service (Operation Grace), 6:30-9 p.m.

Saturday: Women’s Fellowship, second Saturday of the month, 12-3 p.m.

Young Adults, third Saturday of the month, 12-3 p.m.

Men’s Fellowship, fourth Saturday of the month, 12-3 p.m.

Blessings in Christ, —Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

25

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Newsong Church The Lord’s Prayer – 4 “Give us this day our daily bread.” –Matthew 6:11 (NKJV) We are in the fourth section of this amazing model of prayer that Jesus taught us to follow.

When we ask God to give us our daily bread, we are dependent upon Him for everything. God promises to supply all for our needs and he wants us to trust Him for our provision. The Psalmist wrote: “I look to the mountains – does my help come from there?

My help comes from the Lord, who made Heaven and earth.” –Psalm 121:1-2 (NLT) As you pray, ask your heavenly Father for what you need. Bring your requests to Him and trust Him enough to hand them over to Him fully. It may help to open your hands before God to physically show your surrender to Him. Take a moment and pray to your heavenly Father. Tell Him what you are dealing with and be VSHFL¿F DERXW ZKDW LV RQ \RXU PLQG DQG LQ \RXU KHDUW $VN +LP WR ¿OO \RX ZLWK +LV SHDFH DV \RX trust Him to provide for all your needs.

Remember, problems can be yours or God’s; but they cannot be both!

About Us Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We believe that every person FDQ NQRZ *RG ¿QG IUHHGRP GLVFRYHU WKHLU SXUSRVH and make a difference in this world! No matter what you have been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family.

Check us out, we are located at 135 Einstein Loop!

Sunday Worship Experience Our Sunday worship experience starts with

celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. Colossians 3:16 says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” We sing to bring glory and honor to God, and celebrate who He is and what He is doing in our church! Our Worship Experience starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m.

Newsong Deaf Church (Room 35) Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language!

Kidsong (Room 49) We have created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level!

Newsong Church Youth NSCY is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world.

At NSCY, our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus. NSCY meets every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. in Room 42.

What are you waiting for? There is a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5?

Remember, a church alive is worth the drive!

Contact Us Social Media: Instagram: @newsongchurchbx, Facebook: @newsongchurchbx; Twitter: @newsong churchbx; YouTube: Newsong Church NYC Mailing Address: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 42 Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org Phone: 917-342-2559 ––Pastor Mike Tolone

Community Protestant Church Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469. You may contact us by phone: 718-862-9172, fax: 718-671-4416, or email: Administration@thecpcchurch.org.

Worship Schedule In person Sunday Morning Worship – 11:00 a.m.; Sunday School – 9:15 a.m.

Every Wednesday – “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer,” 12:00 p.m. on the Conference Call Line, (712) 432-3900; Access Code: 343284#.

Every Wednesday – 7:00 p.m. Bible Study via Zoom.

Special Services 7RPRUURZ LV 2I¿FLDO %RDUGV 'D\ -RLQ XV DW a.m. and help us celebrate the good stewards of our church, the Trustees and Deacons. To expound on their theme, “Serious Effort Serving God and Mankind,” (1Corinthians 4:1-5) will be guest preacher Rev. Gloria Ford, pastor at Mount Oliver Temple Baptist Church in the Bronx; Sunday, March 10, 11:00 a.m., the Usher Board Anniversary, and Friday, March 29, 12:00 p.m., Good Friday Service.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of our good and faithful member, Ms. Ernestine Youngs, and to all who are mourning the loss of a loved one. To our sick and shut in members, please know that we are praying for you and for your speedy recovery. If you are celebrating a birthday this month, we wish you a very Happy Birthday!

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”

–Psalm 100:4.

—Lexa M. Mingo

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow at 8 a.m. in-person only and at 11 a.m. in-person and on Zoom. Sunday School classes for all ages will be held at 9:30 a.m.

We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone, 718-3203774. Masks are required.

The service is also available on Zoom at https:// us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line, (646) 568-7788, Meeting ID: 962 343 0102#, Password: 788175#.

The Church’s Free Conference Call Line dial-in number is 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

Rev. Williams asks everyone who calls into the Sunday Worship service to use Zoom through your computer or dial in using the Zoom information shown above.

Tomorrow, the First Lady’s Ministry will celebrate their 28th Anniversary at the 11 a.m. service.

Our Pastor, Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams, will be the preacher. The theme is “Living by Faith.” (Romans 1:17). All are invited.

This week’s events: Wednesday Bible Study Class at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. by Zoom. Prayer Warriors Prayer Service on Thursday at 12 p.m.; Friday MidMorning Prayer Service at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Friday Evening Prayer Service – all are on the Church conference call line.

The CCBC Food Giveaway Ministry’s food distribution will be on Friday, February 23, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 135 Einstein Loop. Please remember to bring your own bag and perhaps a cart. Some products can be heavy.

Our Black History Sunday celebration will be on Sunday, February 25, at the 11 a.m. service. The guest preacher will be Rev. Diane Simmons, co-pastor of Life Line Ministries, Bronx, NY. Come dressed in your Afro-centric attire. All are invited.

The Scholarship Ministry invites you to cruise with them aboard the beautiful Celebrity Equinox Ship from Tuesday, July 30, to Thursday, August 8. Ports of call are Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

All staterooms at the prices previously listed are no longer available. If anyone is interested in receiving

a current quote, please contact Ms. Hermena Smith, travel agent, at 646-780-9813. Please be mindful of the date April 1. This is the deadline for paying the EDODQFH RQ WKH -XO\ FUXLVH %HIRUH PDNLQJ \RXU ¿QDO payment, please check with Sis. Claudette Cutlar Day at 718-379-0541 for the amount of your balance. For your convenience, payments and balances will be accepted prior to April 1, 2024.

The church has a free app available on your app store by putting in “Co Op CBC.” This app is open

to all.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through Worship, Prayer, Bible Study and Fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

––Marilyn C. Williams

Family Owned and Operated • Large Chapel on premises

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Serving all cultures & faiths

26

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

Pentecostal Tabernacle, 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A. Mailing address: P.O. Box 204, Bronx, N.Y. 10475; Tel. 718-324-0334.

Sunday School for all age groups starts at 10:30 a.m. Worship service starts at 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m.

Wednesday morning fasting and prayer service held at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

Worship service and Bible Study held every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m.

All night services will be on Zoom. To join, call 1-646-931-3860, Meeting ID: 7215591000, Pass code: 505050.

Focus: The fruit of the spirit. If we live in the spirit, let us also walk in the spirit. –Galatians 5:25 Galatians 5:16-23: 7KLV , VD\ WKHQ ZDON LQ WKH VSLULW DQG KH VKDOO QRW IXO¿OO WKH OXVW RI WKH ÀHVK )RU WKH ÀHVK OXVWHWK DJDLQVW WKH VSLULW DQG WKH VSLULW DJDLQVW ÀHVK and these are contrary the one to the other, so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

But if ye be led by the spirit, ye are not under the Law. Now the works of the ÀHVK DUH PDQLIHVW ZKLFK DUH WKHVH Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness. Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies. Envying, murders, drunkenness, revellings and such like: of which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. Meekness, temperance, against such there is no law.

The fruit of the spirit will fully develop in the life of the believer only with careful and diligent cultivation. The Christian must work daily on each aspect RI WKH IUXLW WR VHH SURJUHVV 2QH ZULWHU VWDWHG WKDW LW LV VLJQL¿FDQW WKDW WKH ZRUNV RI WKH ÀHVK DUH FRQWUDVWHG ZLWK WKH IUXLW RI WKH VSLULW :LWKRXW FXOWLYDWLRQ DQG HIIRUW WKH ÀHVK QDWXUDOO\ SURGXFHV QHJDWLYH WUDLWV If we allow the spirit of God to have full control of our life, the works of the ÀHVK ZLOO QRW EH DEOH WR PDQLIHVW LWVHOI Galatians 5:24 states: And they that DUH &KULVW¶V KDYH FUXFL¿HG WKH ÀHVK ZLWK WKH DIIHFWLRQV DQG OXVW 7KH JRDO RI each Christian should be to develop each aspect of the fruit of the spirit to the KLJKHVW SRVVLEOH SRWHQWLDO LQ KLV OLIH $ &KULVWLDQ VKRXOG QHYHU EH VDWLV¿HG ZLWK his present states; he should press on to a fuller dimension. It is important that Christians maintain the fruit of the spirit, Goodness is one that speaks of basic FKDUDFWHU 3DXO VDLG IRU , NQRZ WKDW LQ PH ³WKDW LV LQ P\ ÀHVK´ GZHOOHWK QR good thing. Romans 7:18 Goodness must be imparted to us from the character of Christ.

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? –Jeremiah 17:9 The basic character of goodness will affect one’s ethics. Keep yourselves in the love of God and our Lord Jesus Christ.

—Rev. R. Sibblies

'UHLVHU /RRS VHFRQG ÀRRU 5RRP Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The congregation and clergy of St. Thomas invite you to worship with us. Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” –Matthew 18:20 7KLV 6XQGD\ LV WKH ¿UVW 6XQGD\ LQ /HQW /HQW LV D VHDVRQ RI VHOI H[DPLQDWLRQ We have the opportunity to identify and correct our faults so that we may be worthy to stand before Christ. To do this effectively, we look to God for help with this prayer: Go before us, O Lord, in all our doings with thy most gracious favor, and further us with thy continual help, that in all our works, begun, continued and ended in thee, we may glorify thy holy name; through Christ our Lord.

Amen. This prayer may be said every day during Lent.

7KH ¿UVW 6XQGD\ LQ /HQW )HEUXDU\ WK • 11:00 a.m. – Communion Service • Fellowship with light refreshments following the service Bible Lessons: • 2 Corinthians 5:9,10,14,17, ch 6:3,4,6,7 • John 3:16-21 Prayer: O Lord, who for our solace hast appointed divers seasons unto thy church, grant us so justly to examine ourselves that, discerning clearly our IDXOWV ZH PD\ WUXO\ DPHQG WKHP DQG WKXV SUHSDUH RXUVHOYHV ¿WO\ WR FHOHEUDWH thu holy feast of Easter, O risen Lord, unto whom be praise and adoration for evermore. Amen.

—Rev. Dorian Miceli

Association of Building 14 Cooperators Hello, Building 14 cooperators! This is a short but important message. We QHHG \RX WR DWWHQG RXU ¿UVW $VVRFLDWLRQ PHHWLQJ RQ )HEUXDU\ WK ,W ZLOO be nice to see familiar faces as well as see new ones.

I was recently thinking back to when our Association was quite active. We celebrated and acknowledged every holiday with lobby decorations, had arts and crafts activities, held hospitality gatherings in the lobby, and had decent cooperator turnout at meetings. Believe it or not, those who held the fort down back then are still holding it down now – except that we are 20 years older! We need others to step up.

7KLV LV FHUWDLQO\ QRW WKH ¿UVW ³FDOO WR DFWLRQ´ DQG OLNHO\ ZRQ¶W EH WKH ODVW Yet, this is your community. Instead of folks feeling like it’s best to abandon LW DQG ZH XQGHUVWDQG WKDW VRPH DUH ³PRYLQJ RQ XS WR WKH WRS´ RU DUH VLPSO\ unhappy about how we are being managed), but for now, it is home. Be a part of bringing out the best in it! There’s a lot of good.

Hope to see you at the meeting, Thursday, February 29, at 7:30 p.m. in the Association Room.

—Josie Ferguson

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 135 Einstein Loop, Room 35, Bronx, NY 10475.

Mateo 11:28: Venid a mí todos los que estáis cansados... y te daré descanso.

Paz de Dios sea con ustedes.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 les hace una cordial invitación a la comunidad hispana a congregarse con nosotros.

Si usted está buscando una iglesia para adorar a nuestro Señor Jesucristo, si se siente solo, herido, deprimido o si necesita liberación nuestras puertas están abiertas para recibirlos. Cristo está dispuesto y es capaz de liberarte y sanarte. Él nos ama tanto que dejo su Trono de Gloria para salvarnos.

Juan 14:2: En la casa de mi Padre muchas moradas hay; si así no fuera, yo os lo hubiera dicho; voy, pues, a preparar lugar para vosotros.

Nuestra iglesia se encuentra en el centro comunitario de 135 Einstein Loop, Salón #33.

Servicios Ofrecidos Lunes: Servicio de Oración por teléfono, 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; codigo: 696248) Martes: Estudio Bíblico por Zoom, 8:00 p.m. (3447367643; codigo: 3jEJ2W) Jueves: Servicio de Oración por teléfono, 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; codigo: 696248) Viernes: Estudio Bíblico por Zoom, 8:00 p.m. (3447367643; codigo: 3jEJ2W) Domingos: Servicio de Adoración, 11:00 a.m.

La Santa Cena es el 1er Domingo del mes.

Que Dios le bendiga y recuerda que Cristo te ama.

Matthew 11:28: Come to me, all who are weary... and I will give you rest.

Peace of the Lord be with you.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 cordially invites the Hispanic community to come gather and worship with us.

If you are looking for a church to worship our Lord and Savior, if you feel alone, wounded, depressed, if you need liberation, our doors are open to receive you. Jesus is willing and able to free you and heal you.

He loves us so much that he left his Throne of Glory to save us.

John 14:2: In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I

would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.

Our church is located at 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, Room #33.

Services Offered Monday: Prayer Service by phone: 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; code: 696248) Tuesday: Zoom Bible Study, 8:00 p.m. (3447367643; code: 3jEJ2W) Thursday: Prayer Service by phone: 9:00 p.m. (564-888-5521; code: 696248) Friday: Zoom Bible Study, 8:00 p.m. (3447367643; code: 3jEJ2W) Sundays: Worship Service, 11:30 a.m.

Holy Communion is the 1st Sunday of the month God bless you and remember, Jesus loves you.

—Blanca Santana

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27

Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

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DONʼT PAY MORE AT YOUR LOCAL HARDWARE STORE! 2/24

RECORDS WANTED 2/24

Old Records Wanted.

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

LP, 78 or 45.

Call Joe 917-952-4408

LAUNDRY SERVICE

ENHANCE YOUR AD WITH COLOR FROM $5/ WEEK!

REUPHOLSTERY

REUPHOLSTERING 718.881.7691

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

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

2/24

2/10

LOCKSMITH

2/10

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS Licensed and Bonded

COMPUTER CONSULTANT & REPAIR

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS 20% Off Any Lock Job!

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

NEW STYLE BLINDS

All Colors • Vertical • Minis • Woods • 2 in. Regulars

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION • Repair Closet Doors

JB RYAN COMPUTER REPAIR & UPGRADE 2/17

Repair – Upgrade – Data Recovery – Virus Removal – Laptop Overheats – Cracked Screen – Broken Power Jack.

Call James 646-281-4475, 718-324-4332.

Serving Co-op City for over 25 years. “When you see me, You’ll know me.” Call Anytime • 7 Days A Week

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290

2/24

2/24

WHISTLEBLOWER ANONYMOUS HOTLINE If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by the following methods: Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services.com/riverbaycorp to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Email: reports@lighthouse-services.com; or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the email or fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Advertise in the Co-op City Times!

Classified Ad Rates from $11/week! sgreen@riverbaycorp.com 718-320-3300 x3379

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Co-op City Times / February 17, 2024

APPLIANCES

FLOOR COVERING

All Major Brands in Stock

NEW CARPET ANY BEDROOM

$695 Installed with pad

LVT WATERPROOF FLOORING ANY BEDROOM

$1295 Installed

0%

PRESIDENT’S DAY

INTEREST 18 MONTHS

SALES EVENT

MATTRESS & FURNITURE SPECIAL PURCHASE QUEEN SET ULTRA PLUSH

$599

SPECIAL PURCHASE WARDROBE CLOSET

$499

Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Dinette Sets & MORE!

ENTER TO WIN 50” LED FLAT SCREEN TV!

KITCHEN / BATH ASK US HOW! We Are Riverbay Specialists!

NEW CABINETS, COUNTERTOP, BACKSPLASH, APPLIANCES

AT DISCOUNT PRICES!

www.TristateInteriorsNY.com

VISIT OUR 20,000 SQ. FT. SHOWROOM! 2925 Westchester Ave. Bronx, NY 10461

STORE HOURS: Mon. - Sat.: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

718-823-3400