Co-op City Times 11/30/19

Vol. 54 No. 48

MTA to expand Access-ARide e-hail program to larger pool of disabled New Yorkers

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Blake joins Riverbay as janitorial director Lifelong Co-op City resident Joshua Blake, Riverbay’s newly appointed janitorial director, has more than the new job for which to be grateful. Along with his new position, Mr. Blake is a two-time cancer survivor. In remission for three years, he said he has a new lease on life and is eager to hit the ground running in his new position.

“That experience changed me as a person,” Mr. Blake told the Co-op City Times. “I’ve learned to live every day like it’s my last.”

In September 2015, Mr. Blake was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a form of cancer that affects the body’s lymphatic system, which is part of the human immune system and helps control the flow of fluids throughout the body.

Joshua Blake “I didn’t even know I had cancer; it all started with routine x-ray,” Mr. Blake said.

“I was in remission twice, that was disheartening. After the first treatment failed, the last option to save my life was a bone marrow transplant.”

He went on to endure an autologous transplant, in which, according to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, blood-forming stem cells are collected and treated with high doses of chemotherapy. The high-dose treatment kills the cancer cells, but it also gets rid of the blood-producing cells left in the bone marrow. Afterward, the collected stem cells are put back into the patient’s bloodstream, allowing the bone marrow to produce new blood cells.

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

(Continued on page 2)

$1.25

Limitations added to the program

The Metropolitan Transportation Agency announced during a Nov. 12 board meeting it is looking to double the number of participants in its e-hail Access-ARide program and make it available to more disabled New Yorkers. But there is a catch, as patrons will be limited to requesting just 16 rides per month.

In addition, riders will have a $15 subsidy cap for additional rides after their 16th, meaning after they spend their $15 subsidy, they will have to pay for the remainder of the rides out of pocket.

The plan is to double the on-demand taxi service to 2,400 riders. The original 1200 riders were selected randomly by Access a Ride.

Started in 1990, the Access-aRide program provides public transportation for riders who have disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from using public buses and subways. Access-a-Ride participation has ballooned from 25,000 to 159,000 riders this year. To qualify for Access-a-Ride, applicants must call 877-3372017 to schedule an appointment for assessment.

About five days after the call, the applicant will receive an appointment and application in the mail, according to Access-a-Ride’s website.

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

(Continued on page 2)

JASA Thanksgiving Dinner

The annual JASA Thanksgiving celebration was last Friday afternoon in the Einstein Community center. There was live music courtesy of DJ Woody and a 50/50 raffle with plenty of prizes. Look out for the next JASA party on Dec. 10 in room 35 of the Einstein Community center.

See page 3 for more Thanksgiving pictures.

Police search for serial predator See story on page 7

2

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Janitorial Director

(Continued from page 1)

In other words, Blake had to use his own harvested stem cells, once they were cancer-free, to replenish his bone’s marrow’s ability to produce new blood cells.

“I gave myself my bone marrow,” he said. “It’s like being reborn, some say.”

While Mr. Blake credits support from his mother and friends in helping through that difficult time, he also, although reluctant to go back, found his work to be an escape.

“I was apprehensive about going back to work because of the unknown, but going back to work was therapeutic – got my mind off cancer,” he said. “The job was an outlet that helped me slowly forget those things.”

Now, in remission for three years, Mr. Black said he is looking forward to kick-off his new job here at Riverbay, the place where his career first began.

“If it weren’t for the experience I received while working for Riverbay, I wouldn’t have been able to get the job at Fordham University as campus operations supervisor for facility operations,” he said.

Before coming full circle, Mr. Blake started working in Co-op City in 2004 in the grounds department as temporary staff. A year later, he became a fulltime staff member and went on to become a supervisor, overseeing the community centers in the neighborhood. In 2014, he decided to explore outside opportunities. But, then, 15 years after he started, the opportunity arose for Blake to come back to Riverbay.

“It was on my mind for some time,” Mr. Blake said. “I wanted to come back home.”

In his new role, Mr. Blake plans to use his outside experience to make Coop City a little greener. g “I’d like to use the things that I learned at Fordham and bring them back to Co-op City. I think it will be very beneficial for the community,” Mr. Blake said. “We need to catch up with the times, be innovative, friendly, and courteous,” he said, adding, in general, the janitorial industry isn’t what it used to be.

“The janitorial field is extensive and has grown over the years,” he said. “We do a variety of things that help the development every day. It isn’t just a mop and bucket; it’s a systematic process. Even though they have a routine, the routine produces productivity and helps the buildings maintain their appeal. I want this place to look as attractive as possible.”

As a resident of the community, Mr. Blake is interested in his fellow share-

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holders’ feedback.

“Living and working in this community keeps me on the pulse of how the corporation is running, from both a shareholder and operations standpoint,” he told the Times. “ I’m looking to be transparent with the shareholders. I like getting feedback from them; they are the eyes and ears of Co-op City. It’s beneficial.”

After all he’s been through, Mr. Blake remains appreciative.

“I started from the bottom and made it to the department head. It’s very gratifying,” he said. “I’m very humbled and thankful for the opportunity to come back home in a leadership role.”

Mr. Blake said he is looking forward to being healthy – getting routinely checked – and growing within Riverbay while putting everything he’s been through behind him and living life to the fullest.

In talking openly about his health and talking to others about his journey, he said he hopes to inspire others with his story.

“I want to be best person and leader that I can be and try to make a positive impact,” he said. “I was very fortunate to get a second lease on life.”

Access-A-Ride

Previously, the MTA’s e-hail Access-A-Ride program was only available to a test group of 1,200 disabled New Yorkers, who are able to use their smartphones to request rides on the spot at a cost of $2.75. Standard Access-A-Ride users are required to schedule transportation appointments at least 24 hour in advance.

The overwhelming use of the preliminary program has forced the MTA to ask the city for an additional $159 million to help subsidize the Access-A-Ride program’s burgeoning budget, which is expected to cost some $616 million this year.

“The program’s growth … coupled with the MTA’s current financial challenges, make it no longer sustainable for us to shoulder this disproportionally inflated share of growing operating expenses,” MTA chairman Pat Foye wrote in Nov. 11a letter to city hall .

“The city’s contribution to paratransit’s net operating expense has not kept pace with the growth in demand,” Foye said.

However, according to published reports, Mayor Bill de Blasio was critical of Foye’s letter and of the MTA asking for more money.

“We’ve got to have a blunt chat here about the MTA,” de Blasio was quoted as saying. “The MTA needs to fix its own problems before it asks for more money. Something like Access-A-Ride; it’s been a disaster, it’s arcane, it’s very poorly managed by the MTA.” MTA spokesman Shams Tarek was quoted calling the mayor’s position “disappointing.”

Public transit accessibility for disabled riders can be difficult in New York City. Only 120 out of the 472 the train stations across the city have elevators, which is equal to roughly 25%, according to the MTA’s website.

Please Refrain From Littering.

• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program

Keep Co-op City Clean!

• Evening and Saturday appointments

Thank You!

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

(Continued from page 1)

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

COMBING

Co-op City Times 2 n d

Front Page

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JASA celebrates Thanksgiving early with annual party

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

NCNW Annual Holiday Drive NCNW is accepting new unwrapped hats, scarves, gloves, socks, pajamas, toys (no weapons) and books for children and teens in need. We are also collecting diapers and pull-ups.

Donated items can be dropped off at the Dreiser Community Center: Fri., 12/6, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., rm. 1, and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., rm.

13; Sat., 12/7, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., rm.

14, and Tues., 12/10, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., rm. 14.

For more information contact 917-826-5644 or NCNWCoop CitySocial@gmail.com

Junior Tennis Register your child today for the NYJTL’s free winter community tennis program! Kids and teens ages 5 to 18 are eligible to participate. The program runs Saturdays and Sundays from 6 a.m. until 8 a.m. at the New York Tennis Club located at 3081 Harding Avenue in the Bronx. Registration is currently ongoing and is done in person on site. No child is put on a waiting list or rejected and attendance on any given day is optional. Free racquets and equipment are provided for use during lessons. For more information and a complete list of NYJTL Community Tennis Programs visit www.nyjtl.org/programs/free-tennis.

MetroCard Bus The MTA MetroCard bus will have an additional date added to its normal schedule. On Monday, Dec. 30, the bus will stop in front of the former bingo hall on Bartow Avenue from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Current service on the first and third Thursdays of each month will continue as follows: Bartow Avenue at Bartow Mall 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Einstein Loop 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Services offered include: Reduced-fare application assistance, purchasing or refilling of MetroCards, submitting damaged reduced-fare MetroCards for temporary replacements, reporting a stolen or lost reducedfare MetroCard and any other MetroCard related inquiries.

Co-op City JASA held their annual Thanksgiving party at the Einstein Community Center Nov. 22. Seniors enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving feast with turkey, candied yams, string beans, cranberries and sweet potato pie.

Music was provided by DJ Woody and there was a 50/50 raffle.

The next Co-op City NORC and JASA holiday party will be Tuesday, Dec. 10 also in room 35 of the Einstein Community center. Tickets for the party are on sale at all three senior centers. They will not be sold at the door of the event.

Photos by Brandon Ortiz

4

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Building 21 Association

Happy holiday season! Please be informed of the following dates: Think Tank: Fridays, 8 p.m. in the Gathering Room Dec. 6, open Section 4 Partnership meeting at 7 p.m., then Think Tank at 8 p.m.

Dec. 13, open Carolers come and prepare for our 3rd annual Christmas caroling with the Section 4 Partnership Friday, Dec. 20, closed Friday, Dec. 27, closed Friday, Jan. 3, 2020, open Decorating day Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. sharp. Holiday decorations will be left up to enjoy through Monday, Jan. 6, The Epiphany/Little Christmas. Decorations come down Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Building 21 Association general session gathering Fourth Thursday of each month Thursday, Jan. 23, 7 p.m.

The Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City is planning its 3rd annual Christmas caroling extravaganza and activities for the remainder of 2019. The date is Saturday, Dec. 14. The next Section 4 Partnership gathering will be Friday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. in The Gathering Room in the rear lobby of Building 21B, 120 Bellamy Loop. All are welcomed. Our Christmas extravaganza is sponsored by Bartow Liquors, Amalgamated Bank and the Riverbay Fund.

FYI, all monies collected are installed in the 21 Association’s bank account.

Monies collected for the association are used expressly for 21 Association gatherings. Holiday gift collections for porters, lobby attendants etc. are the responsibility of each floor individually and should be handled by the floor captains.

If you have questions regarding the 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information. Email: 21association@gmail.com. Call: 347-504-1821. Attend the monthly general meetings in the Gathering Room in the rear of the B-section at 7 p.m. Everyone from all buildings plan to come and join us at Building 21.

Bring a friend.

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

See you around the neighborhood!

—Michelle Marbury

Building 20 Association

Thank you to the Building 20 residents who attended the Nov. 21 meeting. For those unable to attend, the agenda included nominations for new officers of the Building 20 Association. The nominees were: Darline Keesley for president Erika Phipps and Naomi Delvalle for vice president Edward Whitten for corresponding secretary Francine Jones for treasurer Lillie Mangum, Edwinna Herrera and John Dent for sergeant-at-arms The next Building 20 Association meeting will take place Thursday, Dec. 19, 2019, at 7:30 p.m. in the rear of Building 20B. The agenda will include additional nominations for new officers as well as the election. At the last meeting, the residents voted and decided officers could be a shareholder or a resident listed on the income affidavit. The residents also voted and decided the voting would be by private paper ballots. In addition, there would be only one voting ballot for each apartment unit. All candidates must be dues-paying members in good standing. Notices will be posted throughout Building 20 to remind residents of the Dec. 19 meeting.

Thanks to guest speaker, Ms. Michelle Marbury. She informed us about the origin and purpose of the Section 4 Partnership, of which Building 20 is a member, and that she would like more Building 20 residents to participate. The annual dues are $100 for buildings and $50 for townhouses. She said she recently became president of the African-American Association and a member of the Riverbay Board of Directors. She also chairs the Riverbay Youth Committee.

Ms. Marbury exhibited the 50th anniversary T-shirt with the S4P logo on the back and encouraged residents to purchase them. The funds would be used for the rental of a parade float that would circle Co-op City on Dec. 14, 2019, at 4 p.m., while cooperators sing Christmas carols. The S4P will meet again Friday, Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. in the rear of Building 21B. All Section 4 residents are encouraged to attend.

In addition, Ms. Marbury invited everyone to the African-American Association Karaoke fundraiser on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019 in Einstein Center, room 49.

For tickets, call 718-671-5957, 917-903-7073 or 917-561-6211. Donation: $20.

The next AAA meeting is Dec. 16, 2019, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, room 15. Ms. Marbury encouraged everyone’s involvement in community events so our community may remain united and sound.

I look forward to seeing all Building 20 families on Dec. 19.

—William Craft

We are shareholders, not tenants!

Become involved in your building association!

Building 10 Association

Welcome all new cooperators. We look forward to seeing you at the next general membership meeting.

General membership meeting The Building 10 Association would like to thank Chief Joseph Riley, Lt. Del Valle and Lt. Maloney from CCPD for answering our questions regarding public safety issues. Chief Riley said if you have an emergency call NYPD at 911 and CCPD at 718-671-3050.

Holiday crafts for kids On Dec. 8, 2019, at 1 p.m., the Building 10 Association will have holiday crafts for kids in the association room located in the rear of Building 10B. We will be making ornaments and decorating cupcakes. We will also have karaoke. Bring your children for a fun-filled afternoon. Light refreshments will be served.

Fifth annual holiday gift drive We have begun accepting holiday shelter gift donations for newborns to 18year-olds. Donations will be accepted every Monday and Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the association room. The last day to drop off donations will be Monday, Dec. 16, 2019. Please see flyer posted in your building lobby.

Holiday gift collection for Building 10 workers The holiday gift collection for Building 10 workers will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Building 10A on Dec. 5, Building 10B on Dec. 12 and Building 10C on Dec. 19. You can also bring donations to the Building 10 Association room on Monday and Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Please see flyer posted in your building lobby.

Facebook The Building 10 Association is on Facebook. The page is Building 10 ABC Association. Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10.

Email address The Building 10 Association has a new email address, Building10Assoc@gmail.com.

Please use the email to contact the building association with your concerns and suggestions.

Deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Hubert West Pullam Sr., who was a longtime cooperator of Building 10A. Mr. Pullam will be missed.

We would like to wish all December babies a very happy birthday.

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

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

Have a great week.

—Jewel Crawford-Duncan

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Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

Building 9 Karaoke Night

BECAUSE YOUR EYES DESERVE THE BEST!

Under the Direction of

Dr. Gary Fishman and Dr. Simon Wu

N EYE EMERGENCIES! Get seen and treated by an Ophthalmologist same day, without the long wait of an ER!

The best things in life

“The grass is greener on the other side!!” Fact or myth?

Well let's consider first that we are all guilty of sometimes feeling "isolated" or bored with the stabilization of our existing lives.

We feel that life is passing us by, and we long for the so-called supreme facets of our dreams or our visions of our "utopia."

We ignore and withhold the everyday happenings for the so-called "big" events yet to come.

You should consider that happiness is in the eye of the beholder, and the best things in life are free.

The so-called little things in life are bigger than we think.

Be advised that you sometimes find worms in beautiful red apples.

You might reply that your life, like the ways of the world, are all on a downhill tilt.

Although the lures of life seem repetitive, beware that the reward for achieving success is the ability to understand what success is.

GOD’S hope for the welfare of man and the conditions of life's prosperities are always in favor of mankind’s existence. Any means justifies the end.

If you can see the logic of this statement you can understand that all that happens in GOD'S good earth has a positive conclusion; however it is not always easy to understand or identify.

The problem with finding the solution to a problem is sometimes not finding the problem.

We are blessed with everything that is needed to achieve a productive and enjoyable life.

One of the most efficient keys to life's fulfillments is to have something to look forward to each and every day.

—Frank Mayes

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Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

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 or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

– •the– authenticity • – • – of•–the•authors.

– • Anonymous – • – •cannot – •exceed – •–350•words.

– • –Ideally, – • –Letters 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

Weekly circulars substantially save food costs

To the Editor: The sudden ban on weekly circulars has hit very hard. I rely on them because they have saved a lot of money buying groceries, etc. Supermarkets offer extra savings in circulars delivered to homes. That is very important in these times of sharply rising housing and food costs. All the food banks here attest to large numbers who are food insecure.

Perhaps Riverbay Management didn’t realize how vital the circulars are to this community, so if readers make that known perhaps Management will reverse a very unfair

decision that hurts consumers and merchants alike.

Placing the circulars in a lobby stand was a great idea; it keeps them tidy and contained. People are continually bombarded with unsolicited advertising on computers, blinding flashing roadway signs and everywhere. The “unsolicited explanation does not apply here, though. Local store circulars really help shareholders save substantially on vital food and needs in a unique form they cannot receive any other way.

—Sally Kya-Hill

The future of Co-op City could be in the wind To the Editor: Riding the Bx12 to Co-Op City, I saw wind generated power in the Jacobi Hospital parking lot nearby Eastchester Road and Pelham Parkway. What’s wrong with the thinking here?

We have areas where wind is available. We invest in motors for elevators, a boiler that was too large for our power plant and consider ideas like a water park along Coop City boulevard that’s, in my opinion, not only senseless but, could also be a costly burden to our budget.

Wind power can generate enough power for lights on our greenways and public areas. To access the cost of this project shouldn’t be unlike the $50,000 we spent on the bingo hall. This project can eventually power town house public areas and more.

I think wind power is a win-win situation that will pay for itself in the future.

—Nick Liberati

Other Directors should express their view(point)s

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

Jason Chirevas Managing Editor

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

To the Editor: I would like to know why only two Board Directors, Mary Pearson and Daryl Johnson, are writing viewpoints?

These two Directors share a great deal of information. I would like to read viewpoints from other Directors, some of whom never write an article. Thank you.

—Marie Smith

On feedback and public safety To the Editor: The Board made a decision a few years ago to print the entire first reading of a resolution instead of just the title. The purpose was to share and get feedback from cooperators how money will be spent before the second reading and final vote.

Therefore, a suggestion I have is to not only make that clear to those of us who read our paper, but to add a name and email address of where comments should be forwarded. This way, cooperators can experience a sense of involvement with the process. Co-op City has a very diverse community when it comes to talent and expertise. We don’t have to depend solely on management and board recommendation for the final and only opinion. It’s been said before we are not tenants but shareholders.

Thank you, public safety. We are indeed fortunate to have such a service in our community. The articles they publish are very helpful and we should all read them carefully and heed their suggestions. At a recent building association meeting, Chief Riley shared challenges of the department; however, they are making a conscious effort to be visible, especially during this holiday season.

Happy holidays to all.

—Evelyn M. Turner Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

Co-op City Times

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

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

Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay 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.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 28 A, B & C Building 28 A, B & C

Building 28 A, B & C 100, 120 & 140 Einstein Loop

Current Lease Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2020

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Jan. 31, 2023

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

7

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Public Safety Report

Co-op City Department of Public Safety offers holiday robbery prevention tips for post-Thanksgiving shopping

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

As shoppers are anxious to get their holiday shopping underway, criminals are out trying to shop for their next victim. These criminals take advantage of frenzied shoppers in a distracted state. By following these tips, you can avoid being a victim or minimize injury if you become a victim.

Pickpocketing is a crime that tends to increase during the holiday season. The pickpocket is a criminal that would like to have his crime go undetected. Pickpockets often practice their skills and take pride in their ability to remove your property unnoticed. Some of these skills may be practiced in prisons or with other pickpockets. Fortunately, the pickpocket is not a violent criminal.

Pickpockets may work alone or can work in groups of two or more. One may serve as a lookout, while another serves as a decoy and a third grabs your property.

While shopping in crowded stores, be alert to any person that jostles into you or enters your personal space comfort zone. Pickpocket teams can often include one or more women. Never let your guard down.

Be alert to any persons loitering near banks or cash machines. Be alert to persons who follow you from a bank or cash machine. Avoid using cash machines at night.

If you must use a cash machine at night, choose a well-lit location with which you are familiar. Also, use caution when using a drive-up cash machine, be sure your car doors are locked. Consider doing banking errands with a friend or family member. Try to avoid days such as the first or the 15th of the month when many people receive checks.

Always walk confidently and with a purpose. Wearing practical shoes or sneakers is a good idea when shopping or running errands that include banking or carrying of cash. Proper footwear makes it easier to speed up at the first sign of danger.

Speaking on a cellphone, text messaging or wearing headphones with the volume turned up high makes it difficult for you to stay in touch with your surroundings.

Avoid placing packages in your vehicle if possible. If you must place packages in your vehicle, place them in your trunk or covered if your trunk is unavailable.

If feasible, move your vehicle to another spot after placing packages in the trunk.

Always choose a well-lit, busy area to park your vehicle.

Before you enter your vehicle, be sure no one is in or under your vehicle. Also

Police search for serial sexual predator

Local police are on the lookout for a man who groped and sexually assaulted four women during four separate incidents in one night last week.

On the evening of Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, four women in neighborhood of Co-op City were surprised by an unidentified man who forcibly touched them in their private areas. Although the incidents took place near Bartow and Baychester avenues, and Darrow Place, only one of the victims reside in Co-op City.

According to Co-op City Department of Public Safety officers, the unidentified man was captured on surveillance video. NYPD and CCPD are collaborating to capture the suspect.

CCPD urges all women — whether on foot or exiting a vehicle — to observe their surroundings, making sure there are no suspicious individuals following or lurking nearby. They advise women to get to a well-lit area and call 911 and/or CCPD if there’s any hint of suspicious activity.

The NYPD issued a wanted photo of the alleged perpetrator. Anyone with information is urged to contact Det. Ryan Healy at 718-378-8921, Detective Borough Bronx at 718-378-8083, or CCPD’s tips hotline at 718-879-6311.

— Reporting by Toriea McCauseland

Public Safety Blotter Nov. 17 to Nov. 23, 2019

Nov. 18, 2019 – Asch Loop and Adler Place A complainant reported to CCPD unknown persons did accost and forcibly removed property from her. The victim was not injured but lost personal property.

The males then fled the area. There is an ongoing investigation into what occurred.

Nov. 20, 2019 120 Dekruif Place A male reported to CCPD two unknown males snatched an iPhone out of his hands while he was walking. The male suffered no injuries.

2099 Bartow Ave. The owner of a vehicle parked at this location was notified by CCPD regarding someone stealing the tires off their car. This matter is still under investigation.

Nov. 21, 2019 120 Carver Loop A cooperator reported ordering items from Amazon. As per Amazon, the items were delivered but cooperator reported them stolen. It is recommended orders are sent to an Amazon locker for retrieval.

900 Co-op City Blvd.

A lobby attendant was assaulted by a man attempting to enter the building after the lobby attendant challenged him for the purpose of making log entries as a visitor.

The male was intercepted by CCPD officers, arrested and charged accordingly.

Nov. 22, 2019 – 140 Dekruif Place One male was arrested for trespass after being caught loitering in a staircase.

The male ran from officers but was quickly apprehended. The male was in possession of a knife longer than 4 inches.

be weary of anyone lurking around your building or the garage as you prepare to enter. If someone suspicious is observed, do not enter, call 911 and the department of public safety at 718-671-3050. Do not permit strangers to enter your building behind you. Not holding the door may seem rude but can keep a robber from entering your building.

To minimize the impact of all crimes involving theft of property from your person, keep your keys, money, identification and cellphone in your front pocket, separate from your non-valuables. Also consider an inside the clothing travel type wallet for your personal items and valuables. A pocket with a zipper, button or Velcro is ideal for this purpose. If carrying valuables and personal documents in your purse, place them inside of a plastic or metal container such as a mint case, which does not look like a wallet.

Remember, property can always be replaced; your safety is the most important thing. If someone does try to rob you despite your precautions; do not resist, especially if the person is armed with a weapon of any type. Try to remember as many details of the crime as well as a description of the perpetrator. Notify police immediately if you have been the victim of a crime.

For more information about crime prevention, contact the National Crime Prevention Council at 1000 Connecticut Ave., NW, 13th floor, Washington, D.C. 20036, 202-466-6267 or on their website, ncpc.org School is open, drive carefully. Never pass a school bus with a stop sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must give pedestrians the same level of respect that they expect from motor vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road safely.

If consuming alcoholic beverages is part of your seasonal festivities, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink. Call a taxi if necessary. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. The consequences of drunk driving are extremely severe. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State.

Always remember, if you see something, say something. If you see suspicious persons in the garage or lurking near parked vehicles on the street, an auto crime could be taking place or ready to happen, notify the authorities. Call 911 and the department of public safety at 718-671-3050. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

Enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained.

Co-op City is a diverse community with people of all ages, abilities and characteristics. All persons should remember to respect each other and embrace their differences. Don’t forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street. Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. It is also important to remember that not all disabilities are visible. Someone who appears to be healthy may have a physical or developmental disability.

8

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Greetings, Pilgrim

Director’s Viewpoint

Mary Pearson Secretary

Happy Thanksgiving Day weekend to all! Let the games begin! Soon, we’ll be up to our eyeballs in early winter holidays from the Winter Solstice, this year on Saturday, Dec. 21, through Martin Luther King Day, next celebrated on Jan. 20, 2020, stopping along the way for Hannukah,* Christmas, Kwanzaa and Three Kings Day. The phrase trick or treat belongs to Halloween but the holidays that follow can most definitely be a treat, and they can also be quite tricky. Here’s hoping joy wins the day and fills the months ahead for you and yours. *Of all the ways Chanukah, Chanukkah, Hanukkah, Hanuka, Hannukah can be spelled, I choose the last. I have my reasons.

Reasons to Be Thankful ‘Tis the season to be grateful. The number one reason to be thankful, as a community, is the threatened bus cut’s bark turned out to be worse than its bite. First, we did not lose a single Co-op City bus stop. Second, we keep rush-hour Bronx-Queens one-seat travel. Next, the Bx38, which was marked for extinction, will remain servicing the upper regions — Sections 1, 2, and 4 the same way its counterpart, the Bx28, services the lower areas — the Asch Loop stops, aka Section 3, and Section 5. But the biggest triumph is the Bx25. Following the identical internal routes of the Bx28/Bx38, the Bx25 will join the Bx26 in taking everybody to Allerton Avenue and beyond. Gaining the brand new Bx25 finally restores the remainder of the upper region service that was cut in 2010.

Now, if you’re looking for a reason to remain just a wee bit ungrateful, we still could use greater Bx23 frequency, we need better access to our own mall, an MTA Soundview Ferry shuttle would be marvelous, and would it break the bank to try out a split Q50, adding a Q50-54321 to the already labeled Q50-12345 and cut out all that needless meandering? Oh, and give us our half-price, 365, 24/7, Senior Fair Fare, please.

The Express Bus Fly in the Eggnog Perhaps you remember my not going to a meeting on Nov. 18 in Riverdale regarding the express bus surprise. The surprise was that in the June 1 redesign draft, the only mention of the BxM7 was to reassure riders that nothing would change. Nothing would change routing-wise. Nothing would change stop-wise, except for a tiny good change. A 96th Street stop — coming and going — was to be added. What they either forgot to mention at the time, or intentionally left out, was the maniacal decision to cut all Co-op City downtown service after 3 p.m. on weekdays.

No, I didn’t make that meeting. MTA President Andy Byford didn’t go to that meeting either but, from what I can tell by the pictures and from first-hand witnesses of the event and from the official follow-up letters, several elected officials and/or their representatives did go, along with some 500 Riverdale riders.

Will we have our own urgent town hall here in Co-op City? Our Councilmember, Andy King, is out of commission for a while and Assemblyman Michael Benedetto tells me he thinks it would be redundant at this point. Andy Byford has already gotten an eyeful of Co-op City. Mr. Benedetto made his concerns clear with Andy Byford the day the final plan came out with respect to those drastic express bus service cuts, he says. The Assemblyman also says, though he’s gotten no promises, the, “lines of communication remain open and Andy Byford is listening.”

Another happy ending may be around the corner, but in the meantime, it can’t hurt to continue to holler, “Transportation desert!” and “You are a public service.

Provide!” Perhaps you’ll want to do a mild version of that at the Dec. 2 MTA outreach event at our CB 11 neighbor’s location, 1741 Colden Ave., at 7 p.m. And by the way, if anyone gets their hands on one of those express-bus-specific comment flyers I’d love to make copies of it, so please give me a call.

Early Voting Review Now that’s the meeting I went to on Nov. 18,

Building 29 Association

This month’s meeting took place Friday, Nov. 15.

We did not have a scheduled speaker, but instead discussed various cooperator concerns and made plans for our holiday party, to be held Dec. 13, and for the lobby decoration.

We can still use more volunteers, especially if you want a really festive

looking lobby.

We would love to invite all our cooperators to the party, young and old. Food contributions are also welcome.

Finally, elections were held for board members, and all current members were re-elected.

—Katharine Wood

along with maybe four or five others. The audience was way outnumbered by staff. That may just turn out to be a good thing. One of the presenters was a higherup in the Bronx Board of Elections. She was admittedly as flummoxed by Co-op City’s atypical layout as the MTA seems to have been and she would appreciate input to make voting — early and otherwise — as easy as possible for our residents. As usual, I’m ready to contribute my two cents.

GOTV/GOTC Next year is right around the corner. In 2020, we will have three opportunities, or four times if you count the May Riverbay Board election, to get out the vote.

Plus there’s one more “Get Out” action; one mammoth get out the count – the census count – coming up in March and April.

One of our highly motivated educators on the subject — Mr. LaCrown Toba — is volunteering his time and offering his services to educate Co-op City on the importance of taking part in the once-every-10-yearssince-1790 event. He tells us a lot depends on accurately counting every last one of us, something many neighborhoods habitually fail to do. As a result of the 2010 census, NYS lost two congressional seats.

Not only is representation lost due to under-reportage, but funding is lost as well. Stand up and be counted to get our rightful share! Here’s a numerical incentive: In 2010 the average self-reporting rate nationally was 75.8%; NYC came in at 62%; Co-op City, 68% and Riverdale, 77.2%. Next year they’re making it easier than ever to count ourselves, by mail, phone, online, or in person. In 2020, there will be no excuse to leave a penny on the table as long as we GOTC! You can reach me by voice or text at 718-219-2211 or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 family. I trust you all enjoyed a happy, healthy and safe Thanksgiving holiday.

Please be vigilant as you travel, shop, bank, visit others, accept deliveries, etc., during this upcoming holiday season. Remain vigiBuilding 9 meeting, above. lant. Safety first!

Turkey raffle winner Jackie Lattie, below Please see our Karaoke Night photos on page 5 of this edition of the Co-op City Times. We thank all the participants.

Please monitor our lobby bulletin boards for photos and updates regarding Building 9 Association meetings, social events, notifications, etc.

Our Nov. 21 meeting of the Building 9 Association included a Turkey raffle. The raffle collection was $27. Our newest neighbor, Mr. Bishop, drew the ticket. Member Jackie Lattie won the turkey.

Congratulations, Jackie. Thank you, Mr. Bishop, and welcome to Building 9.

Iman Drammeh, director, Drammeh Cultural Center, was our guest speaker. Iman Drammeh presented a sample research work product for member information on the genealogy process.

We thank all 22 members in attendance at our meeting.

The 9A and 9B lobbies were decorated for the Thanksgiving holiday. Thank you to our decorating committee — Shirley Wells, Wanda Randall, Wanda Rodriguez and Linda Collins — for their hard work.

Our fourth annual year-end celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7, at 6:30 p.m. It is our opportunity to celebrate our diverse cultures. We commemorate Hanukah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and the Three Kings. As always, it will be a formal, sit-down dinner party for members only.

The 2019 staff collections are scheduled for the first two weeks in December 2019. CCPD has been notified. Dates and times to be announced. Thank you to all our wonderful and dedicated building 9 volunteers.

We will begin December holiday lobby decorating during the week of the 15th.

Please be reminded that it is the responsibility of each individual shareholder/member to contact Riverbay with your individual concerns. Do not wait for others to do it for you. You see it, you hear it, you know about, you report to the CSO, CCPD, maintenance, etc. The extermination contract provides for onsite services a couple of days per week. It is imperative any sightings of roaches, water bugs, bed bugs, termites, mice, rats, etc., be immediately reported to Riverbay by individual shareholders. This practice will help to eliminate any possibility of infestations. If you smell gas fumes, call 911. If you see suspicious activity or criminal activity contact CCPD or call NYPD. The Black Forum emergency food pantry is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The pantry is located in Building 1A, rear. If your family is in need, especially during the holiday season, please sign up with the food pantry for assistance. No judgement.

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Building 13 Association

9

Tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, “Boys to Men - Let’s Talk: A Multi-Cultural Experience” is being presented by the Building 13 Association from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the association room, hosted by Devon Sanders. Come and be heard, be understood and be appreciated. Welcome to a brotherhood of men, come in, have a seat, share or listen, your choice. Let’s talk!

Women Keeping It Real returns Saturday, Dec. 14, from 6:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. in the association room. Women Keeping It Real is an inspiring, insightful and informative social gathering of women of all ages exchanging information, empowering and encouraging each other. Join us! The atmosphere is fun, the refreshments delectable and the topics varied. We welcome new guests but you must be 18 or over to participate. Something on your mind, hmmm?

The holiday season is approaching. During the holidays, we take the time to say thank you to our building staff. If you would like to donate in any capacity, our next collection dates will be Dec. 4 to 7, 2019. The collection times will be posted shortly. The decorating committee has been doing a great job keeping up with the holidays. Thank you to Doris Sanchez and Vivian Campbell for organizing the decorating and collection efforts.

December’s calendar is full, we are all busy and there are many community events and parties planned during this holiday season, therefore we may either change the date or postpone our December monthly meeting. Please check the bulletin board in the lobby for updates. Our holiday party is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Come and have some fun after X-mas but before the New Year. Dance to the sounds of DJ Val. Donations of dishes are appreciated. If you will be donating a dish, please let us know. We thank you in advance.

Congratulations to the free turkey raffle winners, Nancy Santiago and Vivian Campbell.

Kudos to Building 13 shareholders for your support, the association will continue to address your questions and invite representative’s from management that can provide accurate information. Again, huge thank you to Mr. Toma Kastrati, assistant director of the maintenance department and Ms. Lutitia Matthias, director of the Call Center, and Mr. Hughes, assistant from the Call Center, for their awesome presentation explaining the reorganization of maintenance and the cross-training process currently taking place in the call center. The responses to questions and suggestions from the shareholders at our November meeting were very helpful.

Double Dutch Holiday Classic at the Apollo being held Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019, free on a first-come basis. Adults must be accompanied by a child. Tickets may still be available. Contact LPeters@Riverbaycorp.com or call 718-320-3300 ext. 3500.

We are located at: 100 Casals Place, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Contacts: President Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370, or daddpeterson@aol.com, or Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801. Our website is bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo.com.

Thanks for making our team work.

—Leslie Peterson

10

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Highlights From Our Board Meeting, 11/20/2019

ity detergents are more expensive. So, while following the instructions, try using a quality detergent to get Director’s Viewpoint better results.

Robbery My values and beliefs are basically from the old school. Therefore, you work hard and earn money for We had a board meeting on Wednesday, Novem- everything that you want. No nonsense! Rob? Assault? ber 20, 2019. So, let’s review some of the topics that Never! You do not rob or assault anyone to take something from them. Now, could you ever dream of assaultwe discussed. ing or robbing a lady? Never!!!

Laundry Rooms Regardless, some people could care less about showManagement reported that eighteen laundry rooms were completed. So, it’s good to know that our coop- ing basic human decency toward other people. Examerators can now use new machines to get their laun- ple: There are allegations that a lady was thrown to dry done. This is a big help because a lot of coopera- the ground and robbed by two young men on Monday, tors made complaints about broken machines in their November 18, 2019, at approximately 7:50 p.m. The building. For instance, there were seven washers and location was on Asch Loop and Adler Place, not too two dryers out of service in building 25 about a month far from the Bartow library. And, now, this case is being investigated by the NYPD and the CCPD. ago, on a Friday night.

Now, let’s look at another case. Two men allegedly So, lots of residents brought down huge loads of dirty clothes to the laundry room. However, all of the approached a working NYPD captain while he was in operable machines were taken. So, they had to take plainclothes on 41st street and 10th Avenue on Thursall of their clothes back upstairs. Horrible! Thereafter, day, October 10, 2019. Then, one of men, while pointa sharp email was sent out about this matter. Then, our ing to his waist to indicate that he had a gun, allegedly laundry company, CSC Service Works, replaced those asked: “What you got?” Next, for no reason, the other damaged machines with used machines from other guy punched the officer in the face. And, that’s when the officer took action and pulled out his gun. Then, buildings.

Some cooperators have voiced complaints about the two guys ran away. Horrible!

Bottom line: I hope that all of our residents will the shaded glass on the washers. So, management has stated that those glass panels will be replaced. By the consider this information and make a decision to never way, you might be surprised to learn that those wash- get involved in this type of behavior.

Resolutions ers are actually manufactured with shaded glass. Then, A lease for a deli at 2045 Bartow Avenue just changed those machines are delivered exactly as manufactured to buyers. Thereafter, a decision can be made about hands. So, now, we’re waiting to see the improvements that will be made to this space. There were other resoluthat glass.

Many years ago, lots of people used to add a lot of tions that involved a lease detergent and other cleaning agents to their laundry. renewal for Assemblyman Then, they would see lots of suds as their clothes were Benedetto, employee being washed. Thereafter, the rinse cycle would dis- matters, and preventative pose of all of those suds. However, our laundry maintenance on our machines have changed big time. And, now, our wash- sewers.

And, not surprisingly, ing machines only use a few gallons of water to clean these resolutions overour clothes.

So, can they handle a lot of suds from the deter- whelmingly passed. And, gents that we used to put in our former washing as printed in last week’s machines? No. In fact, our washing machines will mal- issue of the Co-op City function if they encounter too much soap. Plus, the Times, you’ll see that I suds from all of that detergent will probably not be voted yes for these resolutions and for the majorrinsed from your clothes.

Therefore, CSC recommends that we use a high- ity of the resolutions that efficiency (HE) laundry detergent in our washing come from our current machines. However, can you just dump a lot of HE managers.

However, if you look detergent into our washing machines to get better back, you’ll see that I results? No. Please remember that there is a reason used to vote no, with subwhy some detergents are cheap and why some qual-

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stantial reasons, on the majority of the resolutions that came before the board. Now, did I join a group? No. Am I following anyone? Never! I have never followed anyone and I will never follow anyone. Ever! Now, when appropriate, I will vote no if I feel that something is not right. However, I feel that management has made improvements in the way that business is conducted in this community. So, we must acknowledge our managers and our workers when they do a good job.

Upcoming Resolution Some board members created an upcoming resolution that I will be discussing in my next viewpoint.

A portion of the resolution, 19-51, states that: “directors are prohibited from publishing viewpoints or any other public statements that attack, either directly or indirectly, any policy or action adopted by the majority of the board. …”

Really? What is your point of view on this matter?

Do you honestly believe that all board members should not speak out against policies that they don’t like for our community?

Close I hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Also, I hope that everyone will enjoy this holiday season.

Thank you.Questions or comments? Please send a letter to Daryl H. Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week.

And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

11

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Cooper Place Association

Greetings, Cooper residents. The Cooper Place Association will hold its December meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m. We will be meeting in the Building 11 meeting room, located at 120 Carver Loop. We hope to see you all there.

The association will continue to meet on the third Tuesday of each month.

Building dues There is still time to pay 2019-2020 association dues of $10 per family and receive membership cards. Membership dues are not prorated. Those who are unable to attend meetings may still slip their dues in the mail slot of 13B. Please include your name and door number on the envelope. Dues enable the association to support programming for residents and should be paid in cash.

Deck the halls Cooper residents will gather in the courtyard directly outside of 13B to deck the halls Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2:30 p.m. We will decorate the common area of the Cooper cluster and mingle with our neighbors. Light refreshments will be served.

Please join us for some holiday fun. The rain date for this event will be Saturday, Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m.

Contact information If you would like to reach out to the association, please use cooper.townhouses@gmail.com.

—Anika Green

Building 25 Association

We hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving.

We would like to thank Mr. Ray Kenny, maintenance supervisor, for attending our November association meeting and for his continued service to our building.

Mr. Kenny offered neighbors assistance with unresolved problems, and one of the cooperators that attended the meeting later told me Mr. Kenny did visit her apartment as promised. Mr. Kenny further discussed how we as cooperators can be proactive to help avoid those pesky leaks in our apartments during the summer season. He suggested that we get small aluminum pans and place them under the convector, and check the pan for water build-up. If the water leaks into the pan, call Riverbay immediately for an appointment to have convectors flushed out. Mr. Kenny also provided information on how to get problems resolved going forward through our new Call Center at Riverbay Corporation by contacting 718320-3300 and following the prompts.

Look out for the date when our holiday party takes place, notices will be posted near the elevators. We usually host the party after the holidays, possibly the Saturday after New Year’s Day, but, again, the date will be posted near the elevators as soon as it’s decided.

We wish all neighbors born in November a happy birthday. For those who have been under the weather, we hope you get better soon.

Our building association meets every third Tuesday of the month, generally from September through June. The meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2019, at 7:30 p.m. has been cancelled due to the holidays, our next scheduled meeting will he held Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020, at 7:30 p.m. Please keep an eye out for postings outside your elevators. If you cannot make it to meetings due to scheduling or other obstacles, please log onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com and address your concerns or comments to any or all members of Building 25 Association.

Friendly reminder, our building annual dues are $5 per family. We would like to thank the residents who have paid their annual dues. Dues are collected at our monthly meetings by Carol Eilets, treasurer or Celeste Stukes, assistant treasurer.

Remember: As sure as summer will keep your mind on barbeques during the hot season, winter will keep your mind on holiday snow twinkles during the cold season.

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Building 6 Association

I want to thank everyone who came to our last building association meeting Nov. 18, 2019. It was good to see everyone come out in full force and pack the room. I want to also thank our CSO manager, Lois English, for coming to our building association meeting to answer all our questions and give us information about what is happening in and around Co-op City.

On Wednesday Dec. 4, 2019, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and on Friday, Dec. 6, 2019, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., we will be collecting money for new holiday decorations for our lobby and holiday lights for the bushes outside our building. Most cooperators in our building want to see new holiday decorations in our lobby this year. Any new holiday decorations donations are appreciated as well. They can be donated at that same time we are collecting money.

On Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, starting at 1 p.m., we will put up the Christmas tree and holiday decorations in our lobby. We would love to see the kids of all ages and cooperators come out and help us decorate our lobby to make a great holiday season and get us in the holiday mood.

We need also need to talk about our holiday building party date and what food we want to have at our party this year. We will have a sign-up sheet indicating what dates work well for everyone and what food they want to bring. We going to try to get DJ Tee to play music for our holiday party just like last year, DJ Tee was a big hit at our holiday party last year.

—Jeffrey Schwartz

Building 19 Association

Hi, Building 19 family. Happy belated Thanksgiving! I hope everyone enjoyed taking advantage of the one day out of the year, unless you count Christmas too, when you give yourself an excuse to eat a little extra without feeling guilty.

I want to thank those who attended our Nov. 22 general meeting. Congratulations to our fellow cooperators, Sidikiba Diallo and Monty Zamir, for winning the $50 Thanksgivings Day and 50/50 raffles respectively.

Today, the association will be decorating the lobby to reflect Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. We would love to have you join us in this fun activity. If you want to be part of the fun, come join me and your fellow cooperators in the lobby at 12 Building 19 Association members Monty Zamir, left, noon today. and Sidikiba “Sid” Diallo pose with their prizes from In less than two two raffles held at the association’s November 22 months, the association general meeting. Monty won a $50 gift card from will be holding elections the annual Thanksgiving Day raffle and Sid was the for positions on its execwinner of the association’s 50/50 raffle. utive board. The election will be held during our general meeting Friday, Jan. 17, 2020. The open positions are president, president-elect, secretary, treasurer and assistant treasurer. Those who are interested in running for any of the above mentioned positions can contact me at 917-442-9526. Cooperators can also list their names as candidates during our end-of-the-year party next month.

Starting today, the association will conduct its annual holiday collection for our porters. These individuals work hard each year to maintain our building. The tasks they perform are not easy and it can sometimes be a thankless job. It is important we, who benefit from the porters’ hard work, show our gratitude to these individuals. So I am asking you to find it in your heart to make a donation to show your thanks. The association will be collecting your donations in the lobby on the following dates: Saturday, Nov. 30, noon to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 3, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 7, noon to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 10, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 12, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

We want to present the porters with your donations Monday, Dec. 23, so please give generously.

Finally, I want to invite you to the association’s end-of-the-year party Friday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. This event is an opportunity for cooperators to eat, drink — responsibly, of course — and be merry before the year is over. We are asking those who are interested in attending to donate a dish, drink or dessert. Please reach out to me to let me know what you would like to bring.

Again, happy belated Thanksgiving and I look forward to seeing you in the lobby today to lend a hand to put up the holiday decorations.

—Leon Tulton

Club articles must be submitted to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com by 3 p.m. on Mondays to be considered for that Saturday’s issue.

12

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

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Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

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Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Building 35 Association

The Building 35 Association would like to thank Chief Riley, his two lieutenants and NYPD NCOs Jessica Griesinger and Jason Williamson for their presentations at our November meeting. The information provided was appreciated by all in attendance.

The building association will be conducting our annual holiday collection for our porters and lobby attendant Dec. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Dec 11, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Dec 14, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. We will also be collecting women’s winter coats — new, or slightly used and clean — for a shelter here in the Bronx.

Cooperators can also pay their annual dues during these periods.

Lobby decoration will be Dec 10 at 7 p.m.

—Diane Rodriguez

Donizetti Building Four Association

We hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving, family and friends.

Thanksgiving luncheon/fundraiser raffle Thanks to all that attended our pre-Thanksgiving luncheon Saturday Nov. 23. We had a full house. There was a variety of food prepared by the executive staff as well as food items contributed by generous cooperators. Thank you to Garry, who provided the music during the luncheon. It was great to see everyone having a good time and conversing with each other on a social level. It was also great to see new faces among us. Immediately after the luncheon, we held our fundraiser Thanksgiving raffle drawing. The prizes were: First prize $100, second prize was $75 and third prize was $50. The winners were Stacey Wigfall, Vivian Ramirez and Adam Tirado. Congratulations to the winners and thanks to all who purchased a raffles making this fund-raiser a success.

Meeting Our general meeting held Nov. 14 was well attended.

Cooperators express their thoughts regarding various topics and concerns. We are shareholders and should be treated as such. We agreed the universal action is to let our voices be heard; make calls or visit your CSO office, ask questions and follow-up for timely resolves.

We like to thank our guest speaker, Mr. Troy S. Griffith, who shared information and personal knowledge on Alopecia or sudden hair loss. This presentation was given after the regular meeting for those who were interested.

Our next general meeting will be Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the association meeting room located in rear of building 4B. We are expecting a guest speaker from public safety who will discuss and provide us with safety tips during the holiday season. Again, you are asked to bring your suggestions, ideas, concerns and expectations for year 2020. Bring a neighbor with you. Refreshments and raffle will take place.

Decorations We will begin our holiday lobby decorating in all lobbies Saturday, Nov. 30. The time for each building will be scheduled and posted by their building representative. Volunteers are always welcomed and needed.

Collection Check your association bulletin boards for dates to begin our annual holiday donation collection for building staff. Dates will depend on board members and volunteer’s availability. Notify an association board member if you are interested in sitting and collecting.

Your generosity and time will be greatly appreciated.

We welcome aboard our new janitorial director, Mr. Joshua Blake.

Congratulations to those celebrating a birthday or other special occasion in December. We pray for those who have lost a loved and our shut-in neighbors. Let’s keep our building clean and report loiters in our lobbies and stairwells. Safety first!

Remember this is our home. If you see something, say something.

—Yvonne Burrus

Building 30 A and B Association

Hope everybody had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

We will be decorating our lobbies today Saturday, Nov. 30, at 1 p.m. If you have any extra decorations and want to donate we will be very appreciative. Volunteers will be greatly appreciated for the decorating.

We will collect for the porters Dec. 10, 11, and 12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the lobbies.

Our holiday party will be Saturday, Dec. 21.

For those celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and new additions, our congratulations. Those who have recently suffered a loss our condolences. Those under the weather, get well soon.

—Linda Werner

Building 27 Association

Hello neighbors, the colorful fall leaves are falling.

Enjoy the sudden cold weather, wrap up accordingly.

We hope all enjoyed Thanksgiving; now if we need to run around the block, let’s go. However, this is the beginning of the eat-and-enjoy season until the beginning of the New Year. In any case, enjoy.

The general meeting for Building 27 Association was held Thursday, Nov. 21. A very good turnout. The president, Thalia, gave her report, 150 bags of goodies were given to a fun group of children on Oct. 31. The façade repair continues on until perhaps April of 2020.

Laundry room upgrade, we are not sure yet. If one wants to share, contact building27association@gmail.com.

Kudos to six raffles winners of $25 each. The winners from Building A: Charles, Wanda, his wife, how lovely, and Stephanie. Building C :Barbara, Evelyn and Sonja. Building B: 50/50 raffle winner Fred. We are starting the holidays with some happy cooperators.

By the way, we have a baker in the house. Ms. Margie, also the chairman of the entertainment committee. Ms. Margie, from time to time, surprises us with homemade cake and her favorite are colorful cupcakes A period of appreciation This is the time of year cooperators show their appreciation of our building porters, lobby attendant and postal clerk. NOTE: Representatives of Building 27 A, B and C will be in their respective lobby Monday, Dec. 5 and Tuesday, Dec. 6, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. both days to collect and we ask you to give generously. We can say we have the best porters, very clean in the upkeep of our buildings this is very much appreciated. Our lobby attendants are very friendly, actually family. The regular postal clerk gets to know the cooperators as well.

Volunteers Decorations of the lobbies will also be done on Dec. 5 and 6, usually at about 11 a.m., for each building. Men, women and youths are welcome to help and show your creative talent. Also bring your decorations if you like.

So sorry to announce the passing of Ms. Roberta Hunter McGee of Building 27 C. She was active in the association. We offer our sympathy and condolences to the family of Marion Smith of Building A. Happy birthday to all in this month. The best of health to all. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 to share news of an illness, or the deceased of a neighbor.

Pray for peace among the world leaders, now more than ever.

Be kind, be thoughtful, be genuine but, most of all, be thankful.

—H.Overman

Broun Place Town House Association

In addition to again sending the warmest, happiest Thanksgiving greetings possible to Broun Place residents, happy Thanksgiving is extended to all neighbors. But sadly, we need to pay tribute to Mr. Nels Grumer, a trusted, good friend and colleague. Mr. Grumer, a resident since 1970 and former Board member, was always available to give advice and console. We will miss him very much and remember him always. May his family know no more sorrow.

Congratulations to Mr. Lou Salegana on his retirement from the Riverbay Corporation Rent Booking Department, but his actual job title was comptroller, finance department. Many of us knew Mr. Salegana in that capacity and resepected him very much.

Once again, letters from Arthur Avenue Housing Preservation Department are coming our way incorrectly. In addition to forwarding to our fiance department, I sent a copy to HPD with a letter. What will it take for the state to get our property details correct? You are welcome to let us know if you received this notification.

The first bad cold of this season caused us to cancel the Nov. 13 meeting and not attend the buildings and grounds meeting of Tuesday, Nov. 12. However, we are following up with Mr. Ambo on buildings and grounds issues and Mr. Dickson on previously discussed cooperator issues. It will be rescheduled.

Regarding garage matters, new charges for infractions are posted in Garage 6 in the foyer to the front exit, around from the elevator. We sincerely hope these will be enforced. One car near the front elevator on the third floor has been sitting, slowly falling apart for months and nothing has been done.

Please bring your garbage to the main dumpster sites and follow the recycling color chart.

Attention neighbors, discarded mattresses must be covered to be dumped properly.

Please do not toss garbage over the fence. It doesn’t get in the bin.

Please, in your home, respect the hours of using hammers and such equipment; after 9 p.m. and before 8 a.m. is not allowed.

Neighbors, don’t forget to enjoy the botantanical garden holiday train show. Please patronize this beautiful location. And of course, read the Co-op City Times for the best local updates.

The Broun Place Executive Committee for the next two years is: Vice President Vivian Burrus Secretary Reverend Grace Emanuel Treasurer Lillian Richardson President Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar Thank you to the residents that attended that meeting.

Association dues are $12 per year, the year is September to September, dues are not pro-rated.

We encourage Broun Place neighbors to be vocal, communicate your issues.

It’s not too late, get your flu shot. Seniors get the stronger, special one.

Best wishes to all healing through an illness or incapacitation.

Remember, keep dancing and we guarantee happy days ahead.

Hope you all enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday traditions and festivities.

—Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Shareholders are reminded that the carrying charge deposit boxes located in the community centers open on the morning of the first business day of the month and close at midnight on the 10th of the month, which is the last day to pay your carrying charges before a late fee is accessed. If the 10th of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, the carrying charge boxes remain open through the next business day.

REMINDER—Carrying Charge Boxes

—Riverbay Management

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

African-American Association

Spotlight on Co-op City’s Soul Latin line instructor, Miss Cynthia Dixon In 1994, Cynthia Dixon took her first country western line dance lesson at Denim and Diamond in Manhattan. Ms. Dixon studied country western line dancing at Denim and Diamond for three years and visited numerous other country line dance halls in Yonkers. In 1999, Cynthia added ballroom dancing and Latin dance lessons, along with her repertoire of country line dancing. She studied at Steppin’ Out Dance Studio, Dance on 2 and the Harlem YMCA. In retrospect, these lessons prepared her for “Soul Line Dance.”

In 2009, Miss Cynthia enrolled in Ms. Ellie Minor’s line dance teacher school located at 100 Elgar Place. Dance etiquette, dance class rules and all phases of running a line dance business is what the students walked away with after completing the program.

The name Soul Latin Line Dancers represents Ms. Dixon’s passion for Soul and Latin dances/music. In May 2012, the then president of the African American Association, Ms. Fran Reva Jones, interviewed Cynthia and presented her the opportunity to teach at the organization’s evening line dance class that coming fall. Miss Cynthia’s weekly calendar also includes teaching the stay well exercise on Monday mornings at the Dreiser Loop Community Center. Join Miss Cynthia Dixon and the amazing Soul Latin Line Dancers. More information below.

AAA’s December fundraising event It’s Karaoke time! Can you sing or do you like to sing with the help of a fully produced track backing you up? Come and join us on Saturday, Dec. 7, in Section 5’s Einstein Center, room 49. We start at 3 p.m., don’t miss it. It’ll be a stone gas, honey! Sing a song and then party the rest of the night away. Tickets are only 20 bucks, and they are going fast. Need more information, email aaaccpower @gmail.com or call us at 929-430-3255, The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

The AAA sponsors the following programs for your participation Belly dance classes: Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, room 2. For a nominal fee, you will have fun and stay in shape. Call Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening line dance classes with Cynthia Dixon: Dance to Soul, Latin and Gospel music Thursdays, 7 p.m. in Dreiser Center, room 2; also first and third Tuesdays in Einstein Center, Section 5, 6 p.m. Fees are minimal. Call Cynthia, 917-903-7073.

Salsa class: Saturdays 10:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop, room 1. Call Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga and Zumba classes with Meena: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. in Dreiser Center, room 2.

Healing drum circle with Toni Roberts: Saturdays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Dreiser Center, room 15. The African-American Association requests a $3 donation from each drummer to cover rental costs for the room. This will be collected at the door each Saturday. Please do not stay away because of lack of funds! No one will be turned away! So bring your drums and other instruments and let’s make some joyful, healing noise. Come join us. Share the joy and just as Toni Roberts does. Maintain body-mind-soul-health far into what used to be old age.

—Michelle Marbury

Section 4 Partnership

Come-a-caroling with the Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City: The Section 4 Partnership is planning its third annual Christmas Caroling Event. Saturday, Dec. 14, 2019, we will have our Christmas Parade and hopefully you along with us. Come support our fundraiser, be a part of the parade and ride the Christmas parade float.

Would you like to be a sponsor? Information is available by emailing section4partnership@gmail.com or calling 347-915-4939. All are welcome to participate.

Have you seen the 50th anniversary T-shirts with the Section 4 Partnership logo on the back? They are beautiful and on sale now. The Section 4 Partnership Christmas parade float extravaganza is sponsored by Amalgamated Bank, Bartow Liquors, The Riverbay Fund and The Building 21 Association.

About the Section 4 Partnership: The Section 4 Partnership is comprised of every building in Co-op City that makes up the sectional geographic which is referred to as Co-op City’s Section 4 — Building 20, Asch Loop; Building 21, Bellamy Loop; Building 22, Co-op City Boulevard; buildings 23, 24 and 25, Benchley Place, the the Asch Loop Townhouses and the Broun Place Townhouses. Come and get involved. You don’t have to live in Section 4. Let’s show up! Let’s get it done!

Making an important and positive impact: Help us continue this positive effort and reap the benefits of a united community. You are already an important member of this team. You are a shareholder. The Section 4 Partnership is making an important impact on the community of Co-op City each time we show up for events like Pioneer Day, the MTA rallies, July 3 fireworks, Hoops and Beats, the ice cream social, the grand opening of the Section 4 basketball courts and other notable events, meetings and gatherings. Email section4partnership@gmail.com or call 347-915-4939.

—Michelle Marbury

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National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Northeast Regional Leadership Training Conference All members of NCNW are invited to attend the NCNW Northeast Regional Leadership Training Conference. It will be a one-day summit at Mercy College, The Rotunda, 555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, N.Y. The workshops will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Registration, due by Dec. 2, is $200. There will be no on-site registration. Room rate at the Hilton Garden Inn is $107 per night for members who would like to sleep over. This year’s theme is, “Strengthening Our Service Through Action … and Advocacy.” All members of NCNW Co-op City Section are invited to help plan, create, organize and serve as an integral part of the Leadership Steering Committee.

“Miracle of Christmas”: Thank you to all of our guests who joined us at Sight & Sound on Nov. 16. The show was spectacular and we enjoyed our lunch at Golden Corral. For some, this was their first trip to Sight & Sound and they mentioned it was a very memorable experience.

Holiday drive: We are gearing up for our 15th holiday drive. We will be collecting new hats, scarves, gloves, socks, toys — no weapons — pajamas, books, Pampers and pullups, which will be donated to children and teens at our local shelter. Please support us by donating new items to make a child happy during this season. Gifts may be dropped off in Dreiser Center on Friday Dec. 6, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in room 1, and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., room 13; on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., room 14 and on Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., room 14. For more information, contact 917-826-5644.

Holiday social: For the second year, members and friends will be celebrating the holidays Saturday, Dec. 14, at Londel’s, 2620 Frederick Douglass Blvd., from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Ticket price is $60 and includes dinner and social activities. If you’d like to join us for an afternoon of holiday food and fun, send your check, payable to NCNW Co-op City Section to P.O. Box 93, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

Also, on Monday, Dec. 2, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., you can bring your check to room 14 in Dreiser Center and you’ll save the cost of a stamp. For more information, contact 347-602-5600 or 718-655-9034 or 718-379-3788.

Founder’s Day: Members who are interested in being a part of the Founder’s Day Committee to recognize NCNW Founder’s Day at our Dec. 8 general membership meeting, please contact our first vice president at worrellswords@aol.com.

Membership meeting: Our December membership meeting will take place Sunday, Dec. 8, at 3 p.m. in room 11, Dreiser Center. December is the month we celebrate the establishment of National Council of Negro Women by Mary McLeod Bethune in 1935 in New York City.

Social media: Remember, you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcity Bethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

—Joyce Howard

Coalition of African-American churches and community organizations

The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City’s next general membership meeting will be held Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, at noon in the Dreiser Community Center, room 15. We are requesting all members to please attend. Please watch this column for further information. It is important that two representatives should be sent from each organization to attend all coalition meetings.

Our annual Kwanzaa Celebration will be Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, at 3 p.m. in the Bartow Community Center, room 31, 2049 Bartow Ave. It will feature Brother Bob Law — radio broadcaster, film maker, small business owner and national political activist — as well as a Kwanzaa ceremony, vendors, African dancing and the Karamu Feast. All Are welcome.

Please inform the coalition of any suggestions that you may have. Ms. Virginia Stewart is the president of the coalition. Phone number, 718-671-4506.

The coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicating to maintaining and improving the quality of life of cooperators while providing educational and culturally enriching programs for the community. We also act as one voice for all coalition members where there are issues of common concern and human rights. We also sponsor the Friends & Family Day Celebration, and the annual Kwanzaa celebration events, both events are free for the community. Members of the coalition include the following: African-American Association; Co-op City Baptist Church; Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; NAACP, Co-op City Branch; St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church, American Legion Post 1871 and Faith at Work Christian Church.

Churches and organizations that desire to join the coalition may apply for membership by calling 718-671-4506 or 718-671-9610 for membership application, which should returned with a letter on your church/organization’s letterhead and signed by the minister/president. Read the coalition’s weekly column for information about events and issues.

Remember, the coalition’s motto is, “Coming together is the beginning, keeping together is progress and working together is success.”

—Harman T. Leacock If you SEE something, SAY SOMETHING!!!

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

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Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Working Families of Co-op City

In the meantime, you can have you voice be heard by calling our legislatures and politely telling them we want fair, publicly funded elections in New York State and no fusion voting ban!

Those state legislators are currently in their home districts and can be reached at these numbers: Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, 718-654Mr. LaCrown Toba, far left, with Working 6539 Families/Indivisible Co-op City members Senate Majority Leader Andrea StewartTalkin’ Census 2020 Cousins, 914-423-4031 At our previous meeting, the Working Sen. Jamaal Bailey, 718-547-8854 Families/Indivisible Co-op City group was Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, 718treated to an informative presentation regard- 892-2235 ing the importance of the 2020 Census. CoBut hurry! If the commission rules the op City’s own Mr. Adeyemi LaCrown Toba, wrong way and bans fusion voting, and that census field supervisor, has taken it upon wrong decision isn’t overruled legislatively himself to educate his neighbors — group by Dec. 20, any decisions made become law. by group — to impress upon our residents Make those calls! how important it is to be officially counted Our mission — every last one of us — this coming April As progressives, Working Families/Indi2020. So much of our funding and repre- visible Co-op City group members work to sentation depends on an accurate count. elect the most progressive candidates posThanks for the talk, Toba! sible who will stand in the way of all regresBand together to ban the fusion sive legislation. In these divisive times it’s voting ban really important to keep an open point of Also at our last meeting, we discussed a view. In essence, the mission of Working life-and-death issue for the Working Families Families/Indivisible Co-op City is to proParty, the impending fusion voting ban. A Pub- mote tolerance and end second-class citilic Campaign Financing Commission has been zenship. Become a warrior for justice and put together and it seems to be heading down equality. That’s what this group stands for. a dangerous road. That road could lead to the Stand with this group. possible ban on candidates running on more Next Meeting than one party line in NY State elections. That’s Our next meeting will be held Dec. 17, called fusion voting. the usual third Tuesday of the month, in the As it stands now, a candidate can appear on Einstein Community Center, room 35, at 7 both the Democratic ticket as well as the Work- p.m. We’re aiming for another exciting guest ing Families Party line. In the same way, a speaker. Come for the information and who Republican can have his or her name placed knows what else! additionally on the Conservative line and/or You don’t have to have a family or a job other party lines. If that new rule should go to join Working Families of Co-op City. You into effect the Working Families Party could can be single or retired and still join WF/Indibe all but destroyed. For full details, go to visible Co-op City. All progressives are welnytimes.com/2019/11/07/opinion/public-elec- come. Text 718-219-2211 or email mpjazz@ tion-finance-new-york.html and/or fairelec- optonline.net. tionsny.org/press-release-november-poll.

—Mary Pearson

Co-op City Toastmasters

Co-op City Toastmasters — where leaders are made — extends a happy Thanksgiving wish to one and all.

We invite you to visit our meetings, where we focus on improving communication and leadership skills.

Meetings are held the first and third Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m.

Thanks also to members and guests who attended our holiday gathering. There was fun and food for the soul and food for the brain to be had by all. At Toastmasters, we combine learning and living.

You are always welcome, and we look forward to seeing you Dec. 5 for our Toys for Tots campaign.

Bring an unwrapped gift for tyke to teen to 2049 Bartow Ave. lower level, 7:30 p.m. sharp.

For more information go to toastmasters.org.

—Lauretta Jaysura

Black Forum

Emergency food pantry The pantry will adopt a reservation based system in the upcoming weeks to reduce lines and wait times for guests. Please download the Plentiful app at plentifulapp.com/families to learn how to reserve a spot in line and check service times.

The pantry is located at 920 Baychester Ave., Building 1A. It faces the yellow schoolhouse and basketball court at the back of the building. We open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program is not affiliated with any state agency/program or religious entity.

Please bring an up-to-date photo ID with your 10475 address when registering. The only accepted IDs are the ID NYC card or a non- or driver’s license. Bring three to four durable, clean and doubled shopping bags and a shopping cart. Guests are issued a card that must be shown at every visit in order to pick up anything, even non-food items. Canned food pick-up occurs on a 30-to-31-day rotation, once a month.

Defensive driving Next class: Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Dreiser Community Center, room 4. Cost: $35/person. Please arrive 15 to 20 minutes early. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to four points from your driver’s license. Checks and money orders can be made payable to Black Forum of Co-op City and mailed to 920 Baychester Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least one and a half weeks before class. Please include your name and phone number. Walk-ins are welcomed but only a $35 cash payment — exact change, please — will be accepted the day of the class, no checks.

Please bring your current driver’s license and a pen. Call any time before 1 p.m. the day before class to register for seating priority. Kindly leave a brief message with your name and telephone number at 718-320-8035. The class location is subject to change, so please check back for updates and arrive early to class. Late students may be denied entry into the class.

Sight & Sound ‘Queen Esther’ Second payment due Jan. 24, 2020 Join us for Sight & Sound Theatre’s live epic biblical stage event of “Queen Esther” on Tuesday, April 21, 2020. Dining is at Shady Maple Smorgasbord, ranked No. 1 on TripAdvisor’s Quick Bites in East Earl, Pennsylvania list. Menu includes an all-you-can-eat full buffet including mouth-watering fried chicken, carved beef, baked fish, grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, homemade bread, salad bar, hot desserts and more! Shady Maple also has a gift shop and a 130,000-square-foot farm market with an on-site smokehouse and locally grown produce. Meal, show and transportation: $170. No refunds. Guests can pay all at once or in three installments: Nov.15, 2019, $60; Jan. 24, 2020, $55 and Feb. 21, 2020, $55. The November payment reserves your seats. Please call 917-209-5334 or 718320-0033 if you have questions about the trip.

Contact us We look forward to hearing from you coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

—D. Illis

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Personalized & Professional Care • 52 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

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Serving all cultures & faiths

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

American Legion Post 1871

Thank you I want to use this opportunity to thank all the veterans and friends who made us proud in the month of November by volunteering for one event or the other during the maiden Commander’s Ball marking the 100-year celebration of American Legion establishment as well as on Veterans Day and the Thanksgiving celebration.

You are duly appreciated for making us proud.

At the resumption of this new fiscal year, Commander Toba campaigned for the need for leaving a good legacy for generation to come. Post 1871 answers that call by continuing to strive beyond its local area in reaching out to individuals in the larger community. On Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, Commander Toba led a group of veterans, including legionnaires and auxiliaries, to Bronxwood Assisted Living for fellowship with other veterans. It was such a historic moment to see family and friends come together in the facility to enjoy the fun of the moment. Special thank you to Varahn, the president of the council.

Oratorical contest The Bronx County competition will be held in Co-op City on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 5 p.m. Eligible students are encouraged to participate by reaching out to the chairman, Toba LaCrown, 347-327-6288, and obtain the form or do so by going online. Students from grades 9 through 12 are eligible to participate in the contest.

More than $138,000 in college scholarships can be awarded each year. For the first time, the overall national contest winner gets bumped up this year and it is now $20,000 scholarship for the first prize. Second place takes home $18,000, while the third prize is now $17,000. Any student who will be taking part in the contest will have to make their intention known on or before Friday, Dec. 12.

Oratorical speaking subjects are on some aspects of the U.S. Constitution, with some emphasis on the amendments detailing the duties and obligations of citizens to our government. Speeches are only eight to 10 minutes long; three- to five-minute speeches on an assigned topic are also part of the contest. Call for details. This contest is nationwide. If any of your qualified students do not live in the Bronx, just reach out to Commander Toba, who will help you find the location they can be part of the contest.

Please, don’t take this information lightly. Let’s engage our children so to say.

Christmas get-together As we approach the last days of the year, our last meeting, which is also going to be opportunity to celebrate Christmas, will come up on Saturday, Dec. 21, in Section Five Community Center room 41 by 11 a.m. Everyone is encouraged to be part of this celebration as you bring your own food and drinks. Let’s celebrate.

County Christmas On Saturday, Dec. 1, 2019, The county will be holding its Christmas party at the VA Hospital and I am using this opportunity to appeal to anyone interested and available to be part of this Christmas giveaway that comes up annually.

—Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown Toba, MSA

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

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The retirees invite you to celebrate with them at our annual holiday luncheon featuring music by the lively DJ Kool D. The luncheon will be held Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the elegant Marina Del Rey. Donation: $85. Come, be a part of this holiday merriment. Contacts: Daisy YoungAnderson and Beverly Waller in Dreiser, room 19, for tickets or call 718-3790377 for information.

Remember, the retirees’ next general membership meeting will be Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2019, at 1:30 p.m. in the Dreiser Community Center, room 19.

Travel events Price includes coach bus located on Dreiser Loop, front of H&R Block May 12, 2020, Tuesday, “I Left My Dignity in My Other Purse,” Hunterdon Hills Playhouse. Showtime: 11:30 a.m. Price: $85. Deposit ASAP to hold seat: $40. Balance due $45, no later than April 6, 2020. Contacts: Serita Grayson, 347564-5722 or Barbara Williams, 718-320-0500.

Theatre Committee Price includes van transport, from Dreiser Loop, front of rehab center Dec. 7, Saturday, Alvin Ailey, City Center. Showtime: 2 p.m. Price: $77.50.

Contact: Eleanor Barlow, 917-952-0861.

Dec. 10, Tuesday, The Edwards Twins, Westchester Broadway Theatre. Price: $80. Contact: Marie Green-Ryan, 718-671-4949.

We accept checks/money orders payable to Retirees of Dreiser Loop, along with your name and telephone number. Committee members will be available in the Dreiser club room 19, 718-379-0377, on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Good and Welfare To our members and friends on the mend, we hope each new day bring you renewed strength and a little sunshine to brighten your day. Call Josephine Flowers, 718-320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements.

Keep in mind, our next Jazz Up Your Health With a Senior Spa Day will be in the New Year, date to be determined. If interested in joining us, call Claudette D., 718-379-4784 or Hattie L. 718-671-8449.

“As we express our Gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” -John F. Kennedy —Claudette Davis

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Bartow

Einstein

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

MENU

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. - noon Word Games 9:30-11a.m.

Library 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Library 9:30 a.m.-1p.m.

Line Dancing 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., rm. 45 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Health & Wellness Support Group Around The Lunch Table 11:30 a.m. Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., rm. 2 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Basic Cell Phone & iPad training 11a.m.

Word Search 11 a.m. - noon Mind Teasers Noon - 1 p.m., rm. 4 YOGA w/Peggy 11a.m. - noon, Bingo 1 p.m. - 3 p.m., rm. 35 JASA main office Diabetes Support Group 2nd Mon. - Diabetes Support Group 1 p.m. – Last Monday of the month Arthritis Exercises11 a.m. - noon 1 p.m., rm. 49 Bereavement Counseling 1 p.m., rm. 8 Card Games 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Computer Class for Beg. 9:30 a.m., Gentle Yoga 1:15 p.m. - 2 p.m., rm. 2 Int. 10:30 a.m. & Adv. 11:30 a.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Intermediate Yoga 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session Word Games 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

New Social Worker, Royvi 9 a.m. Alert & Alive 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Health & Wellness Support Group noon Cultural Dance 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., rm. 2 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Walking Club 10:30 a.m.

Computer Class 11 a.m. - noon Caregiver Support Group 1:30 p.m. Karaoke by Steven 1 p.m., rm. 45 Mind Teasers Noon - 1 p.m., rm. 4 Zumba 1 p.m. - 2 p.m., Aud. A 1st & 3rd Tues., JASA main office Matinee Tues., 1 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

New Social Worker, Royvi 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Thu., Dec. 5

Blood Pressure Every 1st & 3rd Wed., 9 – 10 a.m.

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

Stay Well Exercise 10 a.m.- 11 a.m.

Line Dancing 11 a.m. - noon Card Games 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

NORC Computer Class Bartow main office, 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.

Smartphone Class Beginner 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.; Intermediate 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.; Bartow main office

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

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

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m. - 11a.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Fri., Dec. 6

Wed., Dec. 4

Tues., Dec. 3

Mon., Dec. 2

18

Men’s Line Dancing 9 -10 a.m.

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

Women’s Line Dancing 10-11:30 a.m.

Chat Session 10 a.m.

Piano Sing-along 11 a.m.-noon Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes 10 a.m., rm. 45 Spelling Bee 10 a.m.

Body in Motion w/Ola 10 a.m.– 11 a.m.

Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Computer Lab Zumba 11 a.m. - noon, rm. 4

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

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

Tai Chi 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., rm. 10,

Dominos 10 a.m., rm. 45 Grandparent Connection Meeting

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

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

Drama Club 1:30 – 4 p.m

Dominos 10 a.m., rm. 45 Art 10 a.m., rm. 45 Bingo 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Pokeno 2-4 p.m., rm. 35 Blood Pressure 2nd & 4th Fri., 10 11:30 a.m., rm. 45 Free Oil Painting Classes rm. 38, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-noon Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10: 11 a.m.-noon Meditative Moments 11 a.m. – noon, rm. 8 Pokeno 3rd Fri., 1- 2:30 p.m.

Bingo rm. 7, 1 -3 p.m.

Yoga w/Peggy 11 a.m. - noon, rm. 2

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

JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Payments for trips can be made at all three centers. Trip registration policy: there will be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation.

JASA will not accept checks under $5. All trips must be paid in advance. Drivers will no longer accept money for trips on the bus!

FREE LiveOn NY - SCRIE/SNAP (Food Stamps) Assistance – Fri., Dec. 6 & 20, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. No appointments!

Walk-ins! First come! First served! Please make copies of your documents before coming to the office.

Dreiser Sr. Ctr. Annual Christmas Toy Drive is happening now until Fri., Dec. 20 – Toys will be donated to the children in the local family shelter. Drop-off at 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 7, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FREE Diabetes Self-Management 7-week Program – Dec. 2, 9 & 16, 10 a.m. to noon with free lunch in the senior center lunchroom, 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 7. To register call the Bartow main office, 718-320-2066, or Julissa Reynoso, 646-946-1252.

“Stroke…Hero act FAST!!” Presentation – Tues., Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to noon. What is a stroke? Facts about warning signs & symptoms. Bartow main office, 40 seats available. Please call the Bartow main office to register, 718-320-2066.

Wegman’s Supermarket, Brooklyn, New York – Tues., Dec. 3, $10. Bartow – 8:30; Einstein 8:45; Dreiser – 9 a.m.

Empire Casino – Tues., Dec. 3, $5. Bartow – 9 a.m.; Einstein – 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m.

Kosher

Non-Kosher

Menu TBD

Beef meatballs in tomato sauce Spaghetti Broccoli & red peppers

Menu TBD

BBQ Chicken leg quarters Braised Collard greens Garlic & Rosemary roasted potatoes

Menu TBD

Pernil (Roasted pork shoulder) Yellow rice Sautéed Zucchini

Menu TBD

Oven fried chicken Baked macaroni & cheese Steamed kale

Menu TBD

Baked Tilapia Mashed butternut Steamed green beans

Art Class 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

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

1st Thurs. – rm. 40 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise 11 a.m., rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m.

Word search 11 a.m. - noon Karaoke by Steven 1 p.m. rm. 45

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

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Fee for lunch is $2.00; $5.00 for guest

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk *Menu subject to change without notice.

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available Bartow Center (929) 399-1394 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

Upcoming Events/Trips

Dreiser Sr. Ctr. Annual Winter Coat Drive in partnership w/NY Cares – Coats will be donated to the local family shelter. Dec. 3 – Thurs., Jan. 3, 2020. Drop-off at 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 7; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Aldi – Wed., Dec. 4, $3. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Walmart –Thurs., Dec. 5, $15. Bartow – 8:30 a.m.; Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 9 a.m.

St. Mary’s Pool – $3; Fri., Dec. 6 & 20; Mon., Dec. 23.

Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m. to noon. Bartow – 8:30 a.m., Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 9 a.m.

Co-op City NORC & Senior Centers Annual Christmas Party – Tues., Dec. 10, $7, 135 Einstein Loop, rm.

45; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Music by DJ Woody. Menu: rosemary chicken w/wild rice & strings beans; apple stuffed pork loin w/wild rice & string beans; cranberry sauce, garden salad & rolls; dessert – caramel apple. Tickets are on sale in all three senior centers. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Pickups – Bartow – 10:15 a.m.; Dreiser 10:30 a.m.

Central Ave. – Wed., Dec. 11; $13; Christmas Tree Store, Trader Joe’s and Amazing Savings. Bartow – 8:30 a.m.; Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser 9 a.m. There is a Shoprite right next door to Amazing Savings.

Fairway/BJ’s – Thurs., Dec. 12, $4. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Ridgehill – Fri., Dec. 13, $7. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Stew Leonard’s – Fri., Dec. 13; $6. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Shoprite, New Rochelle – Mon., Dec. 16, $4. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Empire Casino – Tues., Dec. 17, $5. Bartow – 9 a.m.; Einstein – 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m.

Walmart –Thurs., Dec. 17, $15. Bartow – 8:30 a.m.; Einstein – 8:45 a.m.; Dreiser 9 a.m.

IKEA/Christmas Tree Store/Bed Bath and Beyond – Wed., Dec. 18, $15. Bartow – 9 a.m.; Einstein – 9:15 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:30 a.m.

Aldi – Wed., Dec. 18, $3. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Fairway/BJ’s – Thurs., Dec. 19, $4. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

Costco – Fri., Dec. 20, $5. Bartow – 9:30 a.m.; Einstein – 9:45 a.m.; Dreiser – 10 a.m.

JASA will be closed Wednesday, December 25, Christ-

mas Day – Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Tina Turner – Broadway Show, Lunt Fontanne Theatre, rear orchestra center and far side seating; $145,Wed., February 12, 2020. Pickups: Bartow – 11:15 a.m., Dreiser – 11:30 a.m., Einstein – 11:45 a.m., 50 seats available. Motor coach bus. Payment deadline: Friday, Nov. 29, 2019.

West Side Story Musical – Wed., Feb. 19, 2020, $120, cash only. 1681 Broadway, NY; show time: 2 p.m. sharp; 45 seats available; coach bus. Payment deadline: Jan. 10, 2020. Dreiser – 11:15 a.m.; Bartow – 11:30 a.m.; Einstein Loop – 11:45 a.m.

Sight and Sound Queen Esther – Thurs., April 23, 2020; $155. Center stage seats. Family style lunch at Good and Plenty restaurant. Pickups: Bartow – 8 a.m.; Dreiser – 8:15a.m.; Einstein – 8:30 a.m.; 56 seats available. Motor coach bus. Payment deadline: Friday, Jan. 10, 2020.

Goose Island Seniors

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Holiday party Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, for the members of the Goose Island Seniors.

Let’s come together for a holiday celebration at noon. It’ll be a covered-dish party. Donate your favorite dish, salad, beverage or dessert.

If no food is donated, a donation of $5 will be collected at the door.

We had a good year, let’s end it with another day of fun. Members may bring a friend or two.

Sight & Sound “Queen Esther” Thursday, April 23, 2020, Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Price: $145, includes free buffet at Golden Corral then the play “Queen Esther.”

Seats: Center stage balcony, one to four steps down. Buses leaving from our three usual bus stops: Einstein at 8 a.m., Asch Loop at 8:10 a.m. and Dreiser at 8:20 a.m. All money is due by Wednesday, April 8. Make checks out to Goose Island Seniors, visit or mail to 135 Einstein Loop, room 39, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

Bingo Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Members only, in our club room 39. Admission $5 for three cards; 12 games and jackpot. Up to three extra cards are 25¢ each. Up to six cards are allowed. Sunday bingo Dec. 28 for members and non-members.

Karaoke Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. with Stephen in room 45. All are welcome. Come and listen or sing during the free concert.

To all members December birthdays include: Janie Williams, Barbara Hines, Brenda Brown, Adele Lawrence, Barbara Owens and Ada Snyder.

Note The dues for the Senior Citizens’ Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. will be $20 for the year 2020. You may pay your 2020 dues any time between now and Dec. 31, 2019. Those members who have a birthday in January must pay their dues before Dec. 28, 2019, for your name to appear in the Co-op City Times Goose Island Seniors article.

Call Ann or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718379-9613. If there is no answer, please leave a message.

—Stephen Roberts Sr.

Bronx County Chorus announces “Christmas Classics: from Handel to Hollywood”

This Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019, at 4 p.m., Bronx County Chorus, directed by Christian Aquino presents its winter program, “Christmas Classics: from Handel to Hollywood” at First Lutheran Church, 3075 Baisley Ave., Bronx 10461.

Tickets are, in advance, $15 general admission, $10 seniors and students. Tickets are available at those prices till midnight Dec. 7 at “christmasclassics.brownpapertickets.com.” Sunday, Dec. 8, prices are $20 general admission and $15 seniors and students.

This spectacular program showcases The Messiah, including “Hallelujah Chorus,” by Handel and memorable Hollywood holiday music presented from great holiday movies. This includes familiar songs like “White Christmas” and others like “Polar Express” that will become more unforgettable over time.

Chorus members are from Co-op City, Westchester County, Parkchester, Throggs Neck and all over this area. Interested in joining? Please try us out in midJanuary. Check out the website for more of those specifics. The church is accessible by bus — Bx5 or Q50 — or car. This chorus truly is the longest running chorus in the Bronx, having gotten its start in 1939.

Amber Care Care Assisted Living Center, located on Mace Avenue, again this year hosted the Bronx Country Chorus December outreach. The holiday musical feast is a potpourri of movie holiday classics that will trigger smiles and remind you of holiday memories. The Bronx County Chorus will be celebrating its 80 anniversary with fanfare for sure. We hope to see you become a follower of Bronx Country Chorus.

The Bronx County Chorus is made possible with public funds from the Bronx Council on The Arts.

Please direct questions to bronxcountrychorus.org.

AARP Chapter #4997

Our year-end meeting is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 9, in room 1, Dreiser Center, 1 p.m.

Plans for a Holiday celebration are in the works.

Get-well wishes to Virginia Bolling and Juanita Pusey. Heartfelt condolence to Gladys Polite on the loss of her two cousins.

Please contact our Good & Welfare Coordinator, Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home.

2019 tour activities Dec. 10, 2019, “Miracle of Christmas” at the Sight & Sound Theater with lunch at Golden Coral, shopping at Tangers outlet.

Includes motor coach transportation; 11 a.m. show. Sold out, waiting list available. All money due now. Bus leaving from Asch Loop in front of the library; arrive by 6:30 a.m., leaving at 7 a.m. sharp. Contact Hannah, 718-3797962, or Judith 718-379-3370.

2020 tour plans April 8, 2020, “Queen Esther” at the Sight &Sound Theater with lunch at Good & Plenty, shopping at Tangers outlet. Includes motor coach transportation; $170/person; $50 nonrefundable deposit due at sign-up. Contact Hannah, 718-379-7962, or Judith, 718-3793370.

19

May 1 to 3, 2020, Passport, Washington D.C. Three days, two nights visiting various embassies that open their doors to the public; sampling the different cultures; tasting the foods from around th world. $495/person, double; $634/single; $480/person, triple. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370, or Hannah, 718-3797962.

July 16 to 19, 2020, Ocean City, Maryland.

Four days, three nights; guided tour of Assateague Island; evening entertainment at the Red Rooster Restaurant; Sightseeing boat ride; shopping at Tanger outlet; gambling at Ocean Downs Casino. $789/person, double; $1,064/single; $50 non-refundable deposit due when signing up. Contact Judith, 718-3793370, or Hannah, 718-379-7962.

Attention When signing up for the above trips, please give your name, phone number and a deposit.

Checks/ money orders made payable to AARP Chapter 4997 with the name of the trip in the memo section of your check/money order.

Room 0, Dreiser Community Center, is open Monday or Thursday, noon to 3 p.m. for checks to be dropped off in an envelope with group/ trip leader name. They may also be mailed to the group/trip leader.

—Delores Debnam

Scheduling Activities Calendar

20

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Church of the New Vision

Pastors Kenneth Hodge and Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us. Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s people. Serving the community for more than 45 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian love. All are welcome!

Order of Services Sunday worship service, 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Adult and youth Sunday school, 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

Mid-day Bible study is canceled until further notice.

Wednesday night prayer and Bible study, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Youth ministry, Fridays 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Sundays, Dec. 22 and Dec. 29, we will have one service at 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 31, our watch night service will begin at 10 p.m.

Upcoming in 2020 Thursday, May 7, 2020, we will have a day trip to the Sight & Sound Theatre to see “Queen Esther.” Motor coach transportation and lunch at the Shady Maple Restaurant is provided. Early bird special: Non-refundable deposit of $25 received

by Nov. 30. Donation is $160 adults. Dec. 1, 2019, the rate will increase to $170 adults / youth 12 and under $125. Payments in full will guarantee an assigned seat. For additional information, contact B. Brown at 718-671-3748. Meal gratuities included.

Join us on July 21 to 24, 2020 on our four-day, three-night trip to Niagara Falls, Canada. Accommodations per person, quad $565 / triple $585 / double $645 / single $825. Includes roundtrip motor coach transportation, three full breakfasts and three full dinners, a guided tour of Niagara for two days, visit to the chocolate factory, Hornblower Cruise at the falls, taxes and gratuities, and much, much more. For additional information, contact B. Brown at 718-671-3748 or T. Gavin at 917-587-5057.

Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

Office: 718-671-8746 or 203-374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Visit our Facebook page, Church of the New Vision, concerning upcoming events and trips, email us at info.churchnewvisionbx@gmail.com or call the church office.

—Sis. Carol Haque

Open Door Ministries

“Crucified between two Thieves; Yesterday & Tomorrow” Full sermon on the Open Door Ministries YouTube Channel

Yesterday steals our hope for the present while we dwell on things past that we cannot change. When we focus on the past, we have difficulty being present and living our lives. We cannot undue the past but if the devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future. Matthew 25:41 Then he will say to those on his left, Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

Philippians 3:13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Isaiah 43:18 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

Luke 9:62 Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” Tomorrow steals our peace today as we dwell on things that have not happened and may never come to pass. We stress over things that might happen but may never materialize. When we project our fears forward we become stagnant and unable to make progress.

Proverbs 27:1 Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.

Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

James 4:13 Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”

The only way to get down from the cross of yesterday and tomorrow is to live today. Focus on what you can do today. Praise God today; work with what God has placed in your hands today. Live in the present; in the moment; savor your every breath because it can be your last. Plan for the future but live in the present; tomorrow is not sure but today is here.

Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Sunday services are at 11 a.m. in the Bartow Community Center, room 28.

Contact Open Door Ministries by text, 917-334-4407, or email, opendoorministries.net.

—Pastor Luis Ramos

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

147 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Come as you are.

Psalm 122:1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.”

If you are looking for a place of worship in the local area aimed at teaching the transforming word of God, Circle of Christ Church invites you to fellowship with us this Sunday. We are a non-denominational, multicultural and loving church that accepts you just the way you are. Senior Pastor Elisamuel Colón and the body of Christ are committed to love people into a life changing-liberating relationship with God. We are located at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level, in the Dreiser Community Center.

Our Sunday services are in Spanish and English. We have an anointed worship team and dance ministry that minister regularly. The English service has Bible-centered nursery program and children’s church in which children are ministered to from the cradle to 12 years of age. Please see our schedule below and followed us on Facebook and our website, circleofchristchurch.com.

Circle of Christ Church responds to Isaiah 68:10, which says: Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. We have a food pantry that serves the community and we offer family counseling based on need. Of you are interested, please contact us at 347-945-1992 or on facebook@Circle of Christ Church.

English services Tuesday prayer, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., prayer/Bible study Thursday, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Friday, 7a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Operation Grace youth service, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., young adults Sunday, service, 11 a.m.

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

Nuestros servicios dominicales son en español e inglés. Tenemos un equipo de adoración ungido y un ministerio de danza que ministran regularmente. El servicio de inglés tiene una iglesia infantil centrada en la biblia y un programa de guardería donde se atiende a los niños desde la cuna hasta los 12 años de edad.

Tenemos ministerios para todas las edades. Consulte nuestro programa a continuación y síganos en Facebook y en nuestro sitio web circleofchristchurch.com.

Distribuimos alimentos y ofrecemos asesoramiento familiar según las necesidades. Si está interesado, contáctenos al 347-945-1992 o en Facebook Circle of Christ Church.

Domingo:Culto de Adoración de 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Jueves Oración y Estudio Bíblico de 12 p.m.-2 p.m.

—Nancy Rosario-Rodriguez

Community Protestant Church

On behalf of Pastor Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens and our Church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, N.Y. 10469, 718-862-9172.

Regular church schedule Sunday school, 9 a.m.

Worship service, 11 a.m.

Communion service, every first and third Sunday Noon-day prayer – Hour of Power – Wednesday at noon Prayer meeting and Bible study, Wednesday at 7 p.m.

The following program is at the Church’s Annex — 2053 Asch Loop North — Neighborhood Bible study, Thursday at 10 a.m.

Sunday school is now in session every Sunday at 9 a.m. In Sunday school, a nurturing Christian education environment, an opportunity is provided for children to learn about the Bible, to grow in grace, to show love and respect for one another and to live more abundant lives.

Worship service begins at 11 a.m. Everyone is invited to come and be a part of this special moment set aside each Sunday morning to be in the presence of God. We will be delighted to blend our spirits with yours as we bend both body and soul before our heavenly father. We encourage you to spend time with God and, if it be His will, with us at Community Protestant.

Other scheduled events Beautiful 50th anniversary commemorative T-shirts in celebration of Community Protestant’s half-century anniversary are being sold by the missionary ministry. Sizes range from small to 2X. Donation: $20 each. To place an order for T-hirts, please contact Sister Julia Nicholson at 917-836-9701.

With the holidays fast approaching, Sister Gladys Polite is sponsoring a natural pecan and pecan clusters sale after service. Stop by her table and pick up a great holiday gift of pecans.

Saturday, Dec. 14, The North Carolina Team presents a Christmas dance “A Red & Black Affair,” in Bartow Center, room 31, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Music by DJ Rock A Lot. Donation: $25. For tickets and/or additional information, please call 646-866-8694.

The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing.

—Evan G. Mitchell

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Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

Newsong Church

Traditional Synagogue

Co-op City Baptist Church

Be My Witnesses-4

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will worship with us in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome. be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of Weekly schedule the earth.” –Acts 1:8 (NIV) Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday school are both at 9 a.m. disciples must have been excited to accept this mission from Jesus. They The Every fourth Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and had seen Jesus die on the cross and then were astonished when He rose again every fifth Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. three days later. Jesus knew that they would need more than excitement to carry We look forward to welcoming you to church tomorrow, Sunday, Dec. 1, at 9 a.m. when we will celebrate the first Sunday of Advent. Father Simeon Johnson, out this mission, they were going to need power! our supply priest, will be the preacher and celebrant.

When a person enlists in the armed forces, they’re not only properly trained, Please join us on Wednesdays for an uplifting midday service starting promptly they’re given everything they need to carry out the mission. Likewise the power at noon. the disciples would need to carry out their mission would come from the Holy Spirit.

On Thursdays, Father Johnson will be available for telephone calls and visitations Jesus said, not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the as well as interactive discussions on various topics in the Bible from 11 a.m. to Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized noon, followed by a short noon-day service. with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m., and we are always looking for new now.”–Acts 1:4-5 (NKJV) members.

Jesus told His disciples that they would receive power. The Greek word for P.S. This Thursday, there will be no activities due to the Thanksgiving holiday. power is “Dunamin” it means “mighty power”… It’s the same word we use for Group activities dynamite.

They would receive dynamite power after the Holy Spirit comes upon The Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service tomorrow. All This supernatural experience happened in Acts chapter two on the day of them! women in the church are invited to attend and participate in planning the activities Pentecost, and it still happens today! The Holy Spirit still empowers God’s people of the church. The men hold their meeting after service on the second Sunday of to be witnesses for Jesus. each month.

Fundraising event You and I are called to be witnesses. The Spirit-filled Spirit empowered life Reminder for the annual post-Thanksgiving Day Atlantic City trip to Bally’s gives us the tools we need to carry out this mission. Ask the Holy Spirit to baptize Casino today, Nov. 30. Deluxe motor coach will leave from Dreiser Loop in front you in His power today! of the rehab center at 8:45 a.m. The trip is sold out.

We would love to invite you to our Sunday worship experience. This Sunday, we Stay tuned for other upcoming events. start a new teaching series called “Merry ChristMESS.” This can be a stressful time General information of year. Life is often messy, and the holidays can magnify our mess. Join us and To those celebrating birthdays during the month of December, we wish you discover how Jesus can turn our mess into a miracle! Hope to see you at 11 a.m.! all a happy birthday and best wishes for many more.

Newsong Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop in Room 45. Discounted To the sick and shut-in, we have you in our prayers and wish you a speedy Parking is available in parking garage 7 and 8. recovery.

While you’re enjoying our worship experience, your children will be enjoying There is still time to submit your 2019 pledge cards, and you are encouraged “Kidsong.”

At Kidsong, children from nursery to 6th grade will learn about Jesus to complete and submit them as soon as possible. in fun, interactive ways!

Outreach program We also have a youth ministry called Against the Flow. At ATF, teens from 12 Our church supports the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West to 18 years old enjoy Christ centered discussion groups, cafe’ nights, and other Farms. This program is in desperate need of food. At St. Joseph’s, we collect nonperishable food items on an ongoing basis. Please remember to donate. A special outings. ATF meets every Friday night at 7 p.m. at 2049 Bartow Ave., room 28. thank you to all our friends and neighbors who have been responding to this If you have any questions you can contact us: Church office, 718-708-8385 request.

Website: newsongchurchnyc.org For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718Facebook: facebook.com/newsongchurchbx 320-0844. You may also visit our website, st.josephsepcbronx.org, for more inforTwitter: @newsongchurchBX mation relating to St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church, Co-op City, Bronx, N.Y. IG: @newsongchurchBX; @againsttheflow.nyc “I was glad when they said to me, let us go to the house of the Lord.” —Psalm Our Newsong family is here for you! Join us this Sunday and experience the 122:14 difference!

—Merville Chambers —Pastor Mike Tolone General information The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 9 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’s finances.

The synagogue is having its Chanukah party Dec. 22, 2019, from noon to 2 p.m. Menu is Chinese. Entertainment to follow. Cost $20.

The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There is a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to services. Please come by 9 a.m. so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, at 5:21 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, Dec. 6, 2019, 4:08 p.m.

Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree.

Mazel Tov, to all having Simchas.

If you’re ill, wishing all good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the Synagogue.

To all members Happy birthday to all members who will celebrate their birthday in November.

For those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in December, please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and games After services and kiddush, some men and women play Rummikub.

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

—Bruce Gitelson

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. for worship service. Sunday school for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study and pray with us.

The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774. Visit us on the web at coopcitybaptistchurch.org.

You are invited to join us for a mid-week spiritual pickup at our worship service held on Wednesdays at noon. Bible study is held Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Prayer service is held Fridays at noon.

Prayer service is also held Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us from the comfort of their home for an hour of prayer. Prayer service is held using a conference call line. On Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m., you can call 563-999-2090; when asked for the PIN, enter 660065 and you will be connected. Prayer service is not held on the first Friday of the month.

Next Sunday, Dec. 8, at our 11 a.m. service, the missionary ministry will celebrate its 47th anniversary. The theme is “God Supplies All Your Needs,” Philippians 4:19. The guest speaker will be Min. Pamela Green, associate minister, Ebenezer Baptist Church, Queens, N.Y. Refreshments will be served following the service.

The Sunday school’s Christmas program will be held Sunday, Dec. 22 at 9:15 a.m. All are invited to join them as they share the reason for the season.

The scholarship ministry is going to Mount Rushmore, the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota on July 17, 2020. This trip includes motor coach transportation, 10 nights lodging, 18 meals, visits to the spectacular Badlands National Park, the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and much more. Partial payments are now being accepted. At the present time, all seats have been sold but a wait list is being formed. For additional information, or to be placed on the wait list, please call 718-379-0541, 718-671-1271, 718-671-1918 or 917612-1245.

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

—Hattie L. Lucas

22

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

Evangelical UM Church of Co-op City Open doors, open hearts and open minds

The Irishman

THE IRISHMAN, RATED-R, 209 MINUTES, 2019 Martin Scorsese – Director Robert De Niro – Frank Sheeran Al Pacino – Jimmy Hoffa Joe Pesci – Russell Bufalino Stephen Graham – Anthony Provenzano Bobby Cannavale – Felix DiTullio Harvey Keitel – Angelo Bruno Ray Romano – Bill Bufalino

Had plenty of time to think about it and I still can’t completely put my thoughts together for THE IRISHMAN. But for the sake of it and for my love of writing about film, here we go!

I was completely floored and I was just left stunned at the end of the film. First and foremost, I owe a lot to Martin Scorsese; GOODFELLAS is my favorite film of all time and other films don’t even come close. That is the film that made me fall in love with movies.

Almost 30 years later after the masterpiece that was GOODFELLAS, Scorsese crafts another genre defining masterpiece with THE IRISHMAN. It really was a culmination of basically everyone’s career in the film. If Marty retires after THE IRISHMAN, he literally ‘drops the mic’ because it was 3 hours and 30 minutes of just absolute phenomenal and captivating storytelling.

The film spanned near 80 years. It was really mind-blowing how everything came to play. The de-aging was mesmerizing and flawless.

It was so amazing! The makeup is on another level for sure. Scorsese really came back to basics of what made him the filmmaker he is. His films are renowned for everything; whether for film buffs or film schools, they are universally known.

THE IRISHMAN is nothing less than a perfect film. Scorsese really left his signature on just about everything in this film. From the cast, to the music, to the editing, etc. The entire cast was phenomenal. From characters Ray Romano to Bobby Cannavale to Stephen Graham. It was just jam-packed with amazing actors.

But the real stories are the gods of cinema.

Robert De Niro is now my frontrunner for a Best Actor Oscar because he was jaw-droppingly spectacular. Yeah, people said he lost his step and whatnot, but he is Bobby D! This was out of this world from De Niro and he showed that he is still here to play. If he goes out with a bang after THE IRISHMAN well then ‘mic drop’ there too. He was at times sweet and kind hearted but then at times he was bone-chillingly fierce.

Al Pacino! Man, supporting actor award please and thank you! His Jimmy Hoffa was incredible. The amount of ferocity he showed in this role… like…just wow! He’s back! My sentiments on Pacino as well as was my thoughts for De Niro. When they were on screen together, it was just movie magic and I was tearing up at the legends all together on the screen. It was that good! So many memorable scenes! If this man wasn’t in the film, my opinion of who should get best supporting actor is clear but man, Joe Pesci is back! Holiest of the holy! He has been away like 13 years and he got back at it as he never left! He was a bit laid back from his other past Scorsese roles but you still saw that in his eyes. His Russ character is every bit as memorable as other Pesci roles.

As long as the film was, I never felt that it overstayed its welcome, not even a little bit. I was captivated throughout and I even wanted more! Harvey Keitel showed up too! I wanted more of him for sure.

He was in it for a couple of scenes, it was short and sweet. But yes, I am pretty much done with the superlatives from this unicorn of a film.

I didn’t think I would be blown away again for a while from a film as I was with JOKER but I am not surprised as such from a Martin Scorsese film. I know it is coming out on Netflix Nov. 27 but, if it is playing near you, in my opinion, you are doing yourself a disservice by not watching this in a great movie theater. Movie going is not dead, people! The Alamo was a packed house! And I absolutely loved the crowd last night! Keeping hope alive that streaming isn’t taking over just yet!

It was an amazing feeling for sure.

Can’t even put labels or scores on THE IRISHMAN because it was perfect in every way. So you can see it as 5 stars, 4 stars, 10/10, A+ what have you. Films to me just can’t be the same after this because of what I witnessed last night. It was a spectacle of storytelling, acting and just all around ingenious through it all. It was a marvel!

Ok, I’m done.

BY ANITOLIY BUDNITSKIY

Come and visit us You’re always welcome in God’s house, your house! We are a Bible-centered congregation with spirit-filled worship, offering a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multiethnic, multicultural and bilingual congregation; all are welcome! Services are held at 2350 Palmer Ave., across from Building 30. Parking is available. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta. Phone: 718320-3795 Email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com Schedule for Sundays, come and receive a blessing English service: 9:30 am to 11 a.m., Spanish service: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., bilingual service: first Sunday of each month, 10 a.m. to noon. Children Sunday school: 9:45 a.m., bring your children, they will have a great time while learning God’s word. Adult Sunday Bible study: English, 8:45 a.m./Spanish, 10 a.m.

English prayer/Bible study night and Spanish prayer/Bible study afternoon Tuesday Spanish prayer/Bible study: 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday evening Bible study: 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Tuesday English prayer service: 7:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Come, let’s pray together! “Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence this day.” –1 Kings 8:28b Friday night is Fun Night for youth ages 13 to 21, 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

This is a great time for the youth of our community to learn God’s word, enjoy each other’s company and make new friends. There will also be many activities. Exciting things are happening.

Food pantry Food pantry distribution center at our church serves buildings 26 A, B and C; 30 A and B; 31 A and B; 34, 35 and the Earhart Town Houses. Ongoing registration and distribution of food is on Thursdays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those registering must present one of the following government issued, up-to-date ID’s showing a 10475 zip code: driver, non-driver, or NYC ID. Anyone 18 of age or older can register. Only one participant per household may register. Pantry will be closed Nov. 28. Those scheduled for pick up on Nov. 28 can come for pick up Dec. 5 and join us Nov. 20 from noon to 3 p.m. for community luncheon.

Community Thanksgiving luncheon Join us! Nov. 30, 2019, from noon to 3 p.m. All are welcome! Is not the cup of Thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? 1 Corinthians 10:16 Sight & Sound theatre trip Come, join us to see the new theatre show of “Queen Esther” on Friday, April 17, 2020.

Trip includes: Visit/shop at Kitchen Kettle Village, “Queen Esther” at Sight & Sound and dinner at Smorgasbord. Cost: $203 p.p., children 5 to 12, $153. Payments can be made as follows: Pay in full or three-payment plan: Deposit of $75p.p. to hold seat. Checks payable to: Co-op City United Methodist Church can be mailed to 2350 Palmer Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10475. For more information, contact: Barbara 347-603-7473 or the church 718-320-3795.

If no one answers, leave a detailed message and someone will get back to you ASAP. —Marilyn Méndez-González

Pentecostal Tabernacle

We invite everyone to attend worship service at 100 Co-op City Blvd. Building 22A, Bronx N.Y. 10475. Sunday school for all age groups begins at 10:30 a.m. Midday worship service starts at 11:45 a.m.

Prayer and fasting service every Wednesday morning from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m.

Effective fervent prayers change things. Come and experience the power of Biblical prayer. God’s power is released through His word. Come and study the word of God; it can change your life.

Friday youth service will start at 7:30 p.m.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. As we go through this season, let us remember to take some time to give God thanks for sparing our lives, He who have been blessing us every day.

Focus: Right living Micah 6: 1-9: Hear ye now what the Lord saith; Arise, contend thou before the mountains; and let the hills hear thy voice. Hear ye, O mountains, the Lord’s controversy and ye strong foundations of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with his people, and he will plead with Israel. O my people, what have I done unto thee? A wherein have I wearied thee?

Testify against me. For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed out of the house of servants; and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.

O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may know the righteousness of the Lord, Wherewith, shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?

Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousand of rivers of oil?

Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?

He hath shown thee O man, what is good; and what doeth the Lord require of thee but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? The Lord’s voice crieth unto the city, and the man of wisdom shall see thy name; hear he the rod, and who hath appointed it.

What God requires of us is to do justly, to be in compliance with his order, Christ himself was obedient to death even death on the cross. Therefore, we should remember that obedience is an essential part of the Christian faith, and we should walk humbly before God obeying his words every day desiring to do good to everyone and be constant in prayer.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 states that we should pray without ceasing.

For further information, call 718-324-0334, 718-320-4218 —Ellen Siblies

23

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

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2. Worship center on lower level that seats over 100 people also available for rent.

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Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City Co-op City is private property and therefore prohibits distribution of unsolicited advertising material to shareholders’ homes and/or property, including cars parked in the development’s eight garages.

If you witness anyone depositing or distributing advertising material on Co-op City’s property, please call Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Be prepared to give the location and description of the person(s) leaving the material.

All unwanted, unsolicited advertising material should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground causing litter.

Thank you for your cooperation.

24

Co-op City Times / November 30, 2019

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