Co-op City Times 12/4/21 by Co-op City Times

(see page 9 for details)

Vol. 56 No. 49

Saturday, December 4, 2021

$1.25

Board Ok’s Mortgage Insurance Application as Refinancing Exploration Continues BY ROZAAN BOONE

Management Report

The Riverbay Board held a special meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 1, to discuss and then vote on Emergency Resolution 21-53 which advances the pro$621,500,000 – the same as the current loan secured in November 2012 – with a new 35-year, self-amortizing loan. The resolution was approved by a vote among Board directors of 11-1, with three abstentions.

The pandemic-related supply chain disruptions services we purchase is having a serious impact on

of approximately $506,500,000 and fund a capital reserve account of approximately $115M, dependent on when the loan closes and the interest rate locked in at that time. Emergency Resolution 21-53 states that Riverbay Corporation has retained Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Co-op City’s mortgagee, to prepare, submit, and p r o cess an application for mortgage insurance provided by the Federal Housing

We are now into the 21st month of managing Co-op City during the pandemic. During 2020, we adapted those procedures and schedules that we could control with the aim to protect the staff and residents from getting infected to our maximum ability while continuing work on our vital capital projects, maintaining the facilities and providing services. Our carrying charge collections remained strong, while our expenses actually went down. It enabled us to delay the implementation of the second stage carrying charge increase authorized in the prior budget from September 1, 2020 to January 1, 2021. In April 2021, the Board approved a new two-year budget as required by our state regulatory agency, HCR, that we believed was in balance after implementing increases to the equity price paid by new shareholders, garage

mortgage, pursuant to FHA’s Section 223(a)(7) mortgage insurance program. Resolution 21-53 approves spending $932,250 or .15% of the proposed loan amount for the HUD application fee, which will be reimbursed to Riverbay completed application. On Thursday following the Board voteå, Riverbay Board President Bernard Cylich said: “Last night at a special meeting, the Board took an historic step by approving an application fee of $932,250 to HUD, a necessary step in our pur-

(Continued on page 4)

for $621.5 million. Provided the present low interest rate remains – that’s why (Continued on page 9)

Mobile COVID-19 Vaccine Unit this weekend ONLY at Bartow Omicron Variant: What Is Known So Far BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Omicron is a variant of the COVID-19 virus, which the World Health reported to the WHO. As a virus reproduces inside a host, errors in the genomic replication process lead to genetic mutations in a virus. A virus variant has one or more mutations that distinguish it from one particular common ancestor. COVID-19 has produced many variants as it continues to mutate. However, not all COVID-19 variants are considered by the CDC to be at a level of concern. Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) uses for viruses. cording to the CDC:

cludes variants which data shows can be successfully combated by proven medical practices. Additionally, VBM also includes variants that may have once been highly transmitted or associated with severe disease, but are no longer spreading or being reported. There are currently 10 COVID-19 variants that fall un(Continued on page 5)

NYC Health & Hospitals Corporation’s Test & Trace Corps’ mobile Covid-19 unit will be accompanied by a mobile vaccine unit at 2049 Bartow Avenue (Bartow Mall) this weekend ONLY, Saturday, Dec. 4, and Sunday, Dec. 5. The units will be in operation from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The mobile vaccine unit will administer the one-shot Johnson & Johnson shots. The vaccine unit also has the capability to conduct Covid testing. Since closure of the Covid-19 test site at 105 Dreiser Loop on Nov. 20, Test & Trace Corps has deployed a mobile testing unit daily in Co-op City from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., available on a rotating basis at each of the three community (Continued on page 11)

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Economic hardship was and still is a reality for many New Yorkers trying to navigate their way through the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Hochul is hoping to make food security one less thing to worry about for families and especially older or disabled adults. to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which are aimed at encouraging more individuals to sign up for SNAP. (Continued on page 11)

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Board of Directors’ Meeting - Dec. 1, 2021 Emergency Resolution #21-53

December 1, 2021

Dr. Wolstein and staff wish you and your families a happy, healthy holiday! Podiatrist – Foot Specialist • Practicing in Co-op City since 1975

, Riverbay Corporation (“Riverbay”) has retained Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (“Wells Fargo”) to prepare, submit, and process an application (“Application”) for mortgage insurance provided by the Federal Housing Ad-

• Board Certified in Foot Surgery

previously made by Wells Fargo to Riverbay in November of 2012 (“Loan”) pursuant to FHA’s Section 223(a)(7) mortgage insurance program; and

• ALL conditions of the foot treated

principal amount of $621,500,000; at an interest rate acceptable to Riverbay;

HUD guidelines require payment at the time of Application of application fee being reimbursed to Riverbay at Closing from loan proceeds; that the Board approves and authorizes the payment of the required Application Fee ($932,250) to HUD, and

• Evening and Saturday appointments • Most health insurance plans accepted Now Accepting:

Fidelis • Health First • MVP • Community Health Se Habla Español

Call:

718.671.7226

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

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Co-op City Times 2nd COMBING

Front Page

The American Academy of Pediatrics Urges Parents to get their Children Vaccinated BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released their own set of recommendations a few weeks ago in response to the announcement

The AAP recommends universal mask wearing in all schools. As a preventative measure, the AAP gardless of vaccination status, should continue wearing masks inside schools

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

Parents interested in learning

ward and provides us all with more

Christmas Lunch, Clothes & Food Giveaway, Dec. 19 United Methodist Church of Co-op City is holding a Christmas Luncheon, clothes and food giveaway on Sunday, Dec. 19. The church is located at 2350 Palmer Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 (opposite Building 30), and it is pastored by Rev. Arnaldo Sanchez-Orta. Worship Service will be held at 10 a.m., followed by the Luncheon from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. This is a free service to the community. Donations can be brought to the church on Sunday. Please bring your vaccine card to sit in the fellowship hall. Gift exchange for those who bring a small, wrapped gift. For additional information, please contact the church by calling (917) 740-0256 or by emailing coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com.

Agatha House Food Distribution in Co-op City Resumes Jan. 2022 Weekly food distribution by Agatha House in Co-op City has ended for the season. The program will return in January 2022, according to Riverbay Director of Community Relations Michelle Sajous. Ms. Sajous was instrumental, along with Ms. Jeanette Joseph, founder of Agatha House Foundation, Inc., in bringing the food program to Co-op City since June 2020 when the stayat-home order was implemented in NY State to help mitigate spread of the Covid-19 virus. Be mindful & aware of your surroundings at all times. See Something, Say Something. CCPD: (718) 671-3050 NYPD: 911

President, said in a statement last

Window Guard Forms to be Mailed Soon

the recommendations parents should

The deadline to return completed the Window Guard form is February 15, 2022.

The AAP recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children. First among the recommendations nate their children if the child is 5 years

IMPORTANT TENANT INFORMATION While there is currently only one COVID-19 vaccine approved for children between the ages of 5 and 11, any subsequent vaccine that gets authorization or approval for children or adolescents is also recommended by the AAP.

ANNUAL SAFETY NOTICES ABC MANAGEMENT

COMPANY

c/o SiteCompli Safety Notice Processing P.O. Box 20240 Greeley Square Station New York, NY 100019998

Y EW ORK

WHAT IS IT?

FIRST CLASS US POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT 482

IMPORTANT SAF

Johnson and Johnson could also have

OFFICIAL NOTICE

In early January, look for a packet in the mail containing important fire & life safety, lead paint and window guard information for this building and your apartment.

ETY INFORMATI ON ENCLOSED

Annual Lead Paint, Window Guard & Fire Safety Inform ation Enclosed

Resident 123 Main Avenue New York, NY 10001

This includes a response card which you are required by law to return to building management.

ing parents that the AAP endorses any Dear Tenant This booklet contains importa nt safety information. It contain important fire safety informa s tion and some questions that will determine whether your apartment requires a lead paint inspection or window guards.

Children who have already been infected with COVID-19 should still get vaccinated. Some parents may feel that their child is already protected from

For your safety, please take a few minutes to read the information provided. Be sure to comple te the enclosed form and return it in the postage-paid envelope that is included to enable your landlord to ensure a safe environment for you and your family.

Estimado inquilino

Este folleto contiene informa ción importante sobre la seguridad. Contiene información importa nte sobre la seguridad en caso de incendios y algunas pregun tas que determinarán si es necesario llevar a cabo una inspección para detectar pintura con plomo o instalar rejas en las ventanas de su apartam ento. Por su seguridad, dediqu e algunos minutos a leer la información que se proporciona. Asegúrese de completar el formulario adjunto y de devolverlo en el sobre con franqueo pago que se incluye para que el propietario pueda garanti zar un entorno seguro para usted y para su familia.

Your response helps us serve you better.

Chè Lokatè Ti liv sa gen enfòmasyon enpòtan sou sekirite. Li gen enfòmasy on enpòtan oka gen dife ak kèk kesyon k ap detèmine si apatman w bezwen yon enspeksyon pou gade si gen plon nan penti kay bezwen enstale gad fenèt. la oswa gen Pou sekirite w, tanpri pran kèk li enfòmasyon yo bay lan. minit pou Tanpri ou ranpli fòmilè ki nan anvlop asire w lan, ajoute tenb lapòs lan, epi poste l pou asire l anviwonman an san mèt kay lan danje pou ou ak fanmi w.

Уважаемый аренд атор Данная брошюра содержит информацию по безопасно важную сти. найдете важную информац В ней Вы ию безопасности и некоторые по пожарной вопросы, которые определят, нуждается ли Ваша квартира в проверке покраски или в оконных решетках.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Для Вашей же безопасно сти, найдите несколько минут пожалуйста, для ознакомления с данной информацией. Пожалуйс забудьте заполнить прилагаем та, не уплатите почтовые расходы, ую форму, обратно, чтобы Ваш домовлади вышлите елец мог обеспечить Вам и Вашей семье безопасное проживание. © SiteCompli. All Rights

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AAP still recommends for parents to vaccinate their children regardless of

1. Fill out and tear off the response card 2. Place card in pre-paid envelope 3. Drop in mail

The AAP endorses the coadministration of routine childhood and adolescent vaccinations with COVID-19 vaccines. is safe for children to receive the a child receives one or multiple other know the AAP says giving a child the

OTHER WAYS TO RESPOND For details on these methods refer to your information packet.

PHONE

ONLINE

Thank you for helping keep your apartment and building safe!

FAX

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

and storage room fees and a 2% carrying charge increase effective next month (January 2022). Since implementation of the budget, as the country has tried to restart the economy, supply chain disruptions and price increases have had a significant impact on the budget. September) and presented it to the Board last month. Where the initial budget projected a $4M surplus that would have been rolled over into the second year of the The biggest but not sole reason for this is a dramatic increase in natural gas prices. The Power Plant uses natural gas to produce our electricity, heat and hot water. Last year, we purchased $9.7M of natural gas. Prices had begun to rise when we drafted the current budget and we projected our cost this year would be $13.4M. However, prices took off over the summer and into the fall. We now project our cost for this age at prices that are currently below the spot market price in an attempt to reduce our exposure to future increases. perienced shortages of supplies from time to time. It seems every week we get a report of something else we need being in short supply or unavailable. also looking at other areas such as reduction of overtime. However, any steps we take will have an impact on service delivery. Another area that may need to be considered is the delay in commencement of new capital projects. This would not affect ongoing projects. We currently are nearing completion of the residential elevator modernization project. We have completed 121 of 160 elevators and expect this will be completed next summer. -

The installation of new building entrances to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be completed next year as well as remedial work to repair deterioration in Garage 2. New capital projects we are planning to commence next year include façade repair work to the townhouse clusters, improvements in the building pump rooms also need to accelerate the modernization of the garage elevators that we did not expect to begin until 2023. The changes in our budget require us to delay commencement of these projects. This is not desired or advisable. All of these projects are necessary to maintain the community’s aging infrastructure. Delay will only allow conditions to worsen and We also have to ultimately deal with the condition of our convector system and what will be an expensive, lengthy and disruptive project to repair or replace comstudy to review the current condition of the system and recommend the path forward. To avoid sharply higher carrying charges or other fees and to allow for the continuation of our capital projects, we have recommended, and the Board has approved,

funds that will allow us to complete the capital projects in progress and those we are in allows us to borrow back up to the original loan amount at a minimal cost in closing fees. The new interest rate is projected to be very close to the current rate. It is expected that rates will soon rise as the Federal Reserve has indicated this week be close to what we are paying now and what is already included in our budget. year that will help to relieve pressure on our current budget and avoid an emergency carrying charge increase. It will also provide us with $109M placed in a restricted reserve fund that could only be used for future capital project expenses, including quire that every ten years we have a capital needs assessment completed by an inpenditures that will only cause service reductions and deteriorating infrastructure, At right, is a Q & A that I hope will answer all the questions relating to our cur-

The HUD-insured mortgage program that we are currently use allows us to when the new mortgage would close, it will provide Riverbay with approximately $120-$123M in proceeds because we have paid down that amount over the last ten years. The loan proceeds can only be used for future capital projects are required to perform every 10 years under the terms of our existing mortgage. in FY 2022-23 for current capital projects. This will provide relief for the opdue to primarily higher natural gas prices.

of those funds would be a combination of maintenance increases and decreases in our operating budget, primarily by a reduction in staff and services. With rising prices for fuel, supplies and materials that we use, together with ongoing supply chain problems, Riverbay’s cost of doing business will continue to increase. As such, a reforecast of future budgets will be necessary as we may need to adjust costs based on the changing circumstances. With will have more latitude when reforecasting FY 2021/2022 and a cushion for

low. Nearly all economists are projecting an increase in rates starting in midest rates in 2022. Further, the Federal Reserve has started to reduce its purchases of bonds, which has contributed to low interest, signaling to investors will occur as early as the 1st or 2nd quarter of next year.

to be deposited into a reserve account, the corporation will have the funding

likely will continue given the current economic situation. We went from a ing now while the situation is still favorable to the corporation. With the projected shortfall in the current operating budget, we will have to delay the commencement of new capital projects such as the townhouse façade renovation, garage elevator modernization and pump room renovation. All of these projects are necessary and must be undertaken sooner than later. If we delay projects, the conditions will worsen, the cost of completion will increase and place further strain on our limited resources. Further, as mentioned above, Riverbay’s existing loan agreement requires that every 10 years an outside property inspection company, approved by Wells Fargo, must be hired to review our infrastructure and project our capital needs for the next 10 years. We are then required to maintain adequate funds in a reserve account to pay for those expected capital repairs and imRiverbay will need to fund approximately $44M in capital reserves begin-

charges equals $1.8 million) and decrease expenditures.

us to meet all of our obligations. However, prices have increased higher than anticipated during the year. The budget reforecast recently provided to the Board includes the projected revenue from the increase. We have a negative not cover the cost of our operations given rising prices. We have imposed a partial hiring freeze and will only hire for critical vacant positions. We have also curtailed/reduced some departmental expenses as evidenced in the reforecast budget and continue to put strategies in place delayed new capital projects as discussed above.

so that we have been able to limit the increase in carrying charge fees while com-

Unsure, but it will dramatically contribute to alleviating any shortfall. It

for years. I have said to the Board that the proverbial can always seemed to have at my feet now and I do not intend to pass the problem to my successors. The Board has been deliberative and supportive of our initiatives. I hope the community also supports our plan as the best path forward to improve the infrastructure and limit your cost.

Management will be able to fully utilize an equal amount of revenue from additional $109M for future capital projects, starting in 2023.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Omicron ––––––

(Continued from page 1)

What is known about the Omicron variant? Variant of Concern (VOC)

Does the COVID-19 vaccine protect against the Omicron variant? Variant of High Consequence (VOHC)

How has the US responded?

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

Letters to the Editor

Co-op City Times

making a decision as interest rates are not guaranteed to

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Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times Times

agement might reconsider returning lobby attendants as a

Co-op City

We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at cctimes@riverbaycorp.com. Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner. Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The Co-op City Times does not publish anonymous material. Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which will be kept confidential – so authenticity and residency of the writer can be verified. Thank you for your cooperation.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Public Safety Reminds Cooperators to be a Good Neighbor by Being Respectful to Fellow Shareholders

Public Safety Report

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Co-op City is the world’s largest housing cooperative with approximately 50,000 residents living within its 35 buildings. Co-op City has provided a high quality of life for residents for more than 50 years. Being a good neighbor has been the key to the unique experience of living in Co-op City. Covid-19 restrictions have entered their 21st month, which can add to the stress of living in a multi-family dwelling. Now, it is even more important to be a good neighbor and respect fellow cooperators. Being a good neighbor means being thoughtful and looking out for the well-being of fellow cooperators. This is especially important during the holiday season. The Covid-19 pandemic has affected cooperators in different ways throughout the community. Some cooperators may now be working from home. Families with children may have children participating in remote learning from time to time. Other cooperators may find themselves furloughed or working reduced hours. All of these situations result in people being at home during hours when they would normally be out of the residence. We remind cooperators to be respectful of their neighbors when it pertains to noise. If you are at home during the day with children, please try to make sure there is not a great deal of noise, which can be causing a disturbance to your neighbors. Be especially mindful of noise which radiates to other apartments in different directions: jumping, hammering, banging, slamming doors, bouncing balls, dropping large items, stomping, walking with heavy shoes, etc. It might be a good idea to consider installing carpet or placing rugs in high traffic areas. Teach your children to be respectful of neighbors. First responders, healthcare workers and other essential workers may be working different hours and even overtime hours. These individuals may find themselves home and needing to sleep during different hours than normal. Other cooperators may be home with an illness or due to having to quarantine. All cooperators are reminded that they should have heightened awareness of the different situations their neighbors may be facing. If you are a cooperator who recently started hearing noise at hours that were normally quiet, try to understand that this may just be a temporary situation. Some coping strategies include playing music which you find soothing, perhaps with noise cancelling headphones. A white noise machine, which has pleasant background sounds such as waves or waterfalls to reduce the effect of outside, negative noise. In some cases, we cannot change a situation, but we can change our response to the situation. This is a healthy mindset to overcome stress. In the event that noise is unreasonable, call Public Safety. The courts have determined that there must be some allowance for normal living noises in multi-family dwellings. The expectation of absolute silence in a residential setting is not realistic. Based on this fact, agents of the corporation cannot issue summons unless the noise witnessed is in fact unreasonable for the time of day. Between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., the threshold for unreasonable noise is lower than during the afternoon and evening hours. Contact your Cooperator Service Office (CSO) if you are experiencing a chronic noise complaint. You will need to obtain a noise packet. Call your CSO office at (718) 320-3300; follow the prompts for your section. The noise packet is for unreasonable noise, not for normal living noises. The exception to the good neighbor rule is: Do not hold the door open for anyone you do not recognize. This is true for the buildings and the garages and is for everyone’s safety. Never take this personally. Some people are better at recognizing neighbors than others. Masks can make recognizing your friends and neighbors even more challenging. It is important that all residents care and (Continued on page 26)

Anonymous calls to Public Safety

From time to time, cooperators may witness someone violating the housing company’s rules and regulations, however, we understand that some may be apprehensive about reporting the situation for fear of their identity being divulged to the violator in question. Please know that you may request to remain anonymous when you contact the Co-op City Public Safety Department (CCPD) regarding said issues and the Public Safety dispatchers, officers and supervisors have been instructed to accept these calls

and investigate accordingly. If, however, you feel forced to surrender your identification in order to lodge your complaint, immediately request to speak with a supervisor. Rest assured that you should feel comfortable placing these calls to our Public Safety Department, as oftentimes residents are the first to know when an incident has taken place and, in most cases, who the individuals involved are. Thank you for your cooperation. ––Riverbay Management

Public Safety Blotter

November 21 - November 27, 2021 November 21 – Opposite 675 Co-op City Blvd. An anonymous female observed suspects lying under a parked vehicle and notified CCPD. Upon CCPD’s arrival, there were no suspects at the scene. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the catalytic converter had been removed from the vehicle. A canvas of the area for the suspects by CCPD was conducted with negative results. Follow-up investigation to be conducted. November 22 – 2063 Bartow Avenue Rite Aid The Rite Aid security guard reported that a suspect had removed several items from the shelves and exited the store without paying for the items. A canvas of the area was conducted by CCPD and the suspect was apprehended with all of the stolen items in his possession. He was arrested for Larceny. November 23 – 2063 Bartow Avenue Rite Aid A suspect removed several items from the shelves and proceeded to walk out of the store without paying for the items. Once the suspect was spotted, he dropped the items and ran out of the store. 1000 Baychester Avenue Upon arriving at her parked vehicle, the vehicle owner noticed that someone had removed the front bumper parking sensors from her vehicle. A report was filed with CCPD and the NYPD was notified by the owner. November 24, 2021 The Bronx District Attorney’s Office Senior Rackets Investigator traced a stolen 2021 BMW X5 auto with invalid and temporary Texas license plates parked in Garage 1 as of November 19, 2021. The stolen vehicle is under investigation and was towed out of Garage 1 and placed in the possession of the Senior Rackets Investigator. November 25, 2021 CCPD investigated a report of a smoke condition. Upon arrival, CCPD observed a fire in the dumpster that was attached to the compactor chute. The fire was extinguished when the sprinkler system activated. No property damage occurred. November 27 – 140 Elgar Place A cooperator stated a package that was delivered and left at her front door was taken. The cooperator checked her Ring camera and discovered an unknown person removing the package from her front door. The video of the incident was saved and a report was filed with CCPD. The matter is under investigation.

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

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

For employment opportunities, please search “Riverbay Corporation” at the following sites: www.Indeed.com www.Glassdoor.com Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply directly at either site. Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department. Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Claudia Sampson, Treasurer

Director’s Viewpoint –

Important Tips to Help Everyone, Most Especially Seniors, Avoid Fraudsters Given the tendency of older Americans to trust the federal government such as Social Security, Medicare, IRS et al, for their information, devious scammers are using clever schemes to trick unsuspecting seniors out of their precious savings and hardto-come-by incomes. So, what can you do to protect yourself from being preyed upon? Here’s some good advice that the October 2021 issue of AARP Fraud Watch Network claims that the government does or doesn’t do: * The federal government will not call you (unless Personal Protected Information (aka PPI and Social Security numbers. * They will contact you regarding any serious suspicious texts, emails, or any social media. * The government won’t reach out to offer you any federal grants. Unless you’ve applied for a grant for because it’s a scam. * No government entity will request an upfront Do not, under any circumstances, respond to any such requests. * The government will not suspend your Social else is using your identity” for unauthorized purposes. Don’t be bullied into sharing your personal information such as a bank account or credit card information. “no-no.” * Finally, the federal government won’t accept pay-

ments in pre-paid gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency. Just another dangerous ploy worth ignoring. Everybody can always use a few extra dollars to spend on food and other household expenses. In 2022, ing-adjustment (COLA will increase from the 1.3 percent in 2021, or about $20 a month for individuals, to approximately 6.2 percent or $96 a month. Rising prices in 2021 due to the pandemic have driven up the COLA. What is COLA you ask? In simple terms, it’s what a basket of goods and services such as food, fuel to drive our cars, energy to heat our homes, and medical care cost over the recent 12-month period that ended in July. Social Security COLA for the last 10 years averaged 1.7 percent, with a range of no increase in 2015 to 3.6 percent in 2011. The 2022 annual increase is expected to be the largest increase in decades. Every little bit helps, no doubt, especially when you may With the holiday season kicking into high gear, there’s a little ray of sunshine for adults and families ties like food, especially given the price increases at the supermarkets and grocery stores. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP gible Americans rose more than 20 percent in OctoMore than 8.7 million low-income households that receive SNAP to: aarpfoundation.org/SNAP.

Deadline Notice Articles for Co-op City building associations, clubs, churches and organizations are due on Mondays by 5 p.m. Email your articles to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

“SAFE RIVERBAY” December Report

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions Although Medicare patients are able to switch their insurance plans each fall, according to AARP, tentially choose to opt out of taking advantage of the dollars in savings and risk facing unexpected changes preferred providers may no longer be available to them? As the annual enrollment window will be closing on December 7, please be aware that there are key differences between Original Medicare (OM Medicare Advantage (MA seen the plethora of celebrity ads about the Mediup the phone and call those 800 numbers, here are some AARP recommendations when making your decisions: • Your prescription costs increased. • You need surgery and are looking for a special doctor. • You’ve been diagnosed with a chronic condition. • Your former employer is changing its retiree • You’ve decided to spend your winters (or sum• You’re super healthy and rarely need a doctor. •Your income has dropped. • Your regular doctor is no longer in network for your plan. Month to all indigenous people who were hopefully centered in our family feasts and gatherings. Hannukah Sameach! Please share your thoughts and comments with me at csampson@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Refinance

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(Continued from page 1)

the urgency of refinancing our mortgage without delay – it promises to minimally impact our carrying charges while providing our corporation approximately $124M for capital projects. Once consummated, the loan would immediately relieve our operating budget which is experiencing a $5.3M negative financial change due to unforeseen inflationary increases and will mitigate the need for an adjusted carrying charge increase. This refinance mortgage will be nothing but a win win for our cooperators.” In addition to Board President Cylich, Emergency Resolution 21-53 was approved by Directors Monique Coleman, Sonia Feliciano, Francine Reva Jones, Kevin Lambright, Andrea Leslie, Michelle Marbury, Mary Pearson, Leah Richardson, Bishop Angelo Rosario and Claudia Sampson. Directors Leslie Peterson, Rod Saunders and Anika Green-Watson abstained, and Director Daryl Johnson voted no. In a presentation to the Board on Wednesday night prior to the vote, Riverbay Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer explained that the proposed Wells Fargo refinancing could provide Riverbay with between $120-$123M in proceeds depending on when the loan closes and the interest rate secured. These proceeds can only be used for future capital projects outlined in the Replacement Reserve Analysis Funding Schedule and Non-Critical Repair report which is included in the completed Capital Needs Assessment (CAN) prepared by Dominion Due Diligence group as part of the loan application. Mr. Klehammer stressed that the immediate impact of the proposed refinance would be the availability of $14.5M in funding in FY 2022-23 for current capital projects. “This will provide relief for the operating budget which we now project has a negative $5.3 million change due primarily to higher fuel costs,” he said. “Refinancing will also allow Riverbay to fund its reserve accounts.” He pointed out that without refinancing, Riverbay would have to fund approximately $44M

BBB Scam Alert ––

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in reserves starting in 2023. “Absent a refinance, the source of those funds would be a combination of maintenance increases and decreases in our operating budget, primarily by a reduction in staff and service.” (See Management Report on page 1 for more details, and page 4 for a Q&A on the proposed refinancing.) In June of 2009, faced with Riverbay’s then current mortgage rate increasing from 5.2% to 6.2% in October of 2010 as the community began paying down the principal on the $480 million refinancing deal of 2004 with New York Community Bank, a majority of Board directors voted at that time to approve exploration of the community’s refinancing options. Up until August of 2011, HUD’s 223f program, which offers low interest, 35-year loan guarantees insured by the FHA, was only open to rentals, and not condos or cooperatives, such as Co-op City. Riverbay and Wells Fargo petitioned HUD to open up the program to condos and co-ops, and after an intensive 18 months of negotiations, were finally able to get HUD to agree. Riverbay then attempted to file for the program but were unsuccessful since there appeared to be no interest at HUD, with the size of Co-op City seemingly prohibitive. In the ensuing months, however, there were countless attempts, including site visits, by Wells Fargo to familiarize HUD with Co-op City, and its supervisory and financial structures. When the HUD-guaranteed $621.5M refinancing deal closed in November 2012, it was the first time that the federal 223f program had been applied to a cooperative development. To accomplish this, HUD had to waive its normal inspection protocols and instead allowed New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal’s inspection protocols to be used. In addition, HUD required the State of New York Mortgage Association (SONYMA) and New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) to provide $70M in top loss guarantee.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

For The Team Omicron. A friend’s niece is a chiropractor. She’s also an antivaxxer. The few chiropractors I’ve known tended to balance traditional “western” medicine with the more spiritual healing arts. Knowing this chiropractor, or that any chiropractor – who’s assumedly at least a borderline person of science – can deny the deadliness of the disease and the success the current widespread mistrust of science and our government incredibly disheartening. Sure, governments, politicians, political parties often can and do have questionable motives and secret agendas but, in my opinion, right now our leaders are just trying to get people to accept the fact that utilizing masks and vaccines and isolation is the only proven way out of this current pandemic. There is no intricate sinister plot at work here. The scientists (and concerned nosey-bodies) are all just trying to keep people alive and well and non-contagious. There are too many moving parts to argue the problem logically. For many, Covid has become a political issue and politics has practically risen to the level of a religion. Can’t argue with faith. I believe our political polarization has done this to both sides. We only come out of our set-in-stone silos to cast aspersions on each other’s points of view. Money and science are indeed intertwined in our country but I choose to believe the current data, statistics, and charts, and believe that the overwhelming number of experts speaking on behalf of my side are speaking truth. I believe the other side’s motives are more heavily pendable people. But if my side’s decisions fail, elections could be lost and all kumbaya ideology goes out the window. Money is never not an object. But for the more altruistic, money is not the only object. The other side has think-tanks full of smart people coming up with clever bits of word ammunition – catch phrases – for their followers to repeat without consideration of all the moving parts. And the most active of moving parts is the mutating coronavirus itself. Omicron – or a future, more deadly, mutation – is the threat staring us in the eye. We must never lose sight of that. No matter what argument the other side has its followers parrot for refusing to get vaccinated or for not staying masked at all times indoors – citing fear of the vaccine or the right of personal choice – parrot right back at ‘em: Take one for the team, the next mutation might kill us all. BxM7 96th St. bus stop. Remember when we clapped for months for our health care workers? There’s something more practical we can do for our fellow cooperators who work at Mt. Sinai Hospital. We can complain on their behalf. The MTA Bronx Bus Network Redesign (BBNR) Final Plan has added a 96th St./5th Ave. southbound stop and a 96th St./3rd Ave. northbound stop to the BxM7 route as well as for the BxM6, 8, 9, 10, and 11 riders. But the stop doesn’t go into effect till the summer of next year. Is there any reason why they can’t add it now? The BxM1, 3, 4, and 5 make those stops already. Do it for our essentials. Google MTA Comments or call 511. More bus complaints? Bet you’re sick of my endless bus complaining. I’m sick of waiting for the MTA to give me a reason to stop complaining. When will the Section 5 BxM7 bus stop curb be painted yellow already? When will willy-nilly express bus cancellations stop or a Temporary Emergency Schedule be put in place? Why can’t Public Service agencies remember But before discussing future messing with the buses – as can still be seen on the MTA BBNR site – I have a retraction. The last last run of the night BxM7 cancellation wasn’t on October 18th. It happened on Saturday, October 30th. I found my error while compiling a much longer list of all the BxM7 bus alert cancellations throughout the past several months. Help draw attention

to the disservice being done to our fellow cooperators who depend on the express bus. You too can pitch a Google MTA Comments or call 511. virtual public meeting input session video held on November 9th. Watch and learn from expert complainers in action! Now on to the dystopian future. Express bus cuts still on the table? Also on the MTA site is a November 2021 Bronx Bus Addendum. It describes the start, pause, restart, and rethink of the plan to improve the bus system. One line is particularly disconcerting talking about monitoring bus use My thought is, if you so damage the expectation of reliable service, ridership must naturally decline. I’m afraid The Project Status page insists changes to express bus service have been removed but that reassurance is only

questions (FAQ) page. There, links to the draconian express bus cuts remain. (Those weekday plans schedule one bus per hour during the afternoon, no southbound service at all after 3 p.m., and no northbound service till noon, with similar cuts to weekend scheduling.) Assemblyman Benedetto assured us he’d straightened out the hatchet job back in 2019, but a year and a half later, it looks like the MTA might need a booster shot of No You Don’t! Seems the threat is baa-aack, and just as wicked, or else it was never The Final Plan will be presented to the MTA Board this month. If approved, the project goes into effect in Summer 2022. I can be reached by voice or text at 718-219-2211 or by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

SNAP ––––––––––––––––

Mobile Vaccines –––––––––

(Continued from page 1)

application will be only one page, front and back, and is the same application

11 (Continued from page 1)

Secondly, older New Yorkers utilizing the program can now certify their going to out the necessary paperwork and to access the service’s health portal to view pandemic, leading to food insecurity in some cases and exacerbating it in othnext meal will be and I am proud to take these steps to remove barriers that prevented older adults and -

health, according to studies cited by the Governor’s and decreased long term care placement, health costs, and emergency visits,” also according to Governor -

“For older adults, food insecurity is associated with worsening chronic disease, illness, and debility, which is why nutrition has been a core focus of our pandemic response effort,” said Greg Olsen, continues to demand that we remain nimble in getjoin Governor Hochul in delivering these important program changes to simplify the application process and ensure continuity of food assistance for older

a booster shot should be prepared to provide a copy of their vaccine card or a

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

Car Service Companies Issue Sexual Assault Numbers Years ago, you could use a car service to take someone home or to an event. And, you didn’t have to worry a lot about their safety. However, as you’ll see, times have changed—drastically. Call And Brawl Service Some people have been anxious to go out and have a nice time. So, some airports were completely packed out during the week of Thanksgiving. Then, as people traveled across the country, they saw that lots of bars and restaurants were prepared for huge crowds. For instance, some bars in Texas offered drink specials to get people to hang out on Thanksgiving Eve. Then, on Thanksgiving day, a popular bar in Neptune Beach, Florida threw their annual block party in the morning, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. And, 5,000 people attended this block party that has been going on for almost 40 years. Thereafter, millions of people celebrated Thanksgiving at home and at popular spots with their family and friends. Then, as time moved on, some people may have wanted to pass on a few events and leave early. However, in some places, their choices to get home may have been limited to a car service. But, calling a car service may have been a horrible decision because there has been a lot of sexual assaults in some of these cars. For instance, let’s look at some details from an 84-page report that Uber released just two years ago. This report will detail some of the incidents that allegedly occurred with some of their drivers and some of their passengers. 1. There were 235 reports of rape in 2018, up from 229 in 2017. 2. There were 280 reports of attempted rape in 2018, down from 307 in 2017. 3. There were 1,560 reports of groping in 2018, up from 1,440 in 2017. 4. There were 376 reports of unwanted kissing to the breast, buttocks or mouth in 2018, down from 390 in 2017. 5. There were 594 reports of unwanted kissing to a different body part in 2018, up from 570 in

2017. 6. In all, Uber received 5,981 reports of sexual abuse between 2017 and 2018. Additionally, can you believe that 107 people died in Uber-related crashes? Now, some people might think that the drivers were responsible for all of these incidents. However, Uber reported that some riders were the accused party in 45 percent of these cases. Thereafter, Uber stated that they stepped up their background checks and added new safety features. So, they said that they were able to screen out more than one million applicants during 2017 and 2018. Previously, Uber stated that they will produce a new safety report every two years. So, let’s see what happens. Lyft is another big car service company that has released a report about inappropriate incidents between drivers and passengers. Between 2017 and 2019, there were 4,158 reports of sexual assaults between their drivers and their passengers. And, get this, that number included allegations that there were 360 reports of rape. Bottom line: Uber said that they do four million rides a day. And, that 99.9 percent of those rides end without a safety incident. Lyft also issued this statement in reference to their report: “From 2017 to 2019, over 99% of trips occurred without any reported safety incident.” Regardless, some of the statistics within these reports are beyond insane. So, please make sure that you have a safety plan ready before you get inside of any cab. Also, please consider having a discussion about travel arrangements with your loved ones before you invite them over. Can you make arrangements to have several designated drivers at your party? Can you make arrangements so that everyone can get home without a problem? Is it possible that some of your loved ones can stay over at your place or at a trusted person’s place if your party is going to last late in the night? If yes, then they can consider some additional travel options before going home.

Outrageous Budget Numbers Can you believe that a budget forecast indicates that we’re going to make more than $250 million in we’re hit with another 2 percent increase on January 1, 2022. Plus, our 2.4 percent loan is going to be dollars to spend on so-called capital projects. However, not one word has been spoken about reducing our budget. So, according to this forecast, they’re going to have over $251 million in expenses. Therefore, they’re projecting a loss of over $1.2 milOne of the biggest issues with Riverbay is that they have 27 departments here. So, the forecast calls for us to spend more than $144 million within this However, in my opinion, this is the area that we can make some smart and necessary cuts so that we can avoid these constant increases. Bottom line: Personally, I do not agree with the way that our budget is being handled. Furthermore, I believe that taking out another loan is just going to keep this community in debt for an extended period of time. So, I will vote no when we’re considering the loan. Close As you can see, times have changed drastically. So, please consider some safety issues before you have a party. Also, please have a safety plan ready before getting into any cab. Thank you. Contact Information Please do not send a letter to me at this time. However, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@ riverbayboard.com. Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Building 22A and 22B Association We hope everyone had a very wonderful Thanksgiving. Merry Christmas, Felix Navidad, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Kwanzaa to all. We will be taking our collection for janitorial service to thank them for their hard work during this pandemic. Envelopes will be left at the Co-op City Times’ news box in the lobbies. Please take one and then put your apartment and building number on it. Information will be posted in the lobby with times and dates when it will be collected. Lobby Holiday Decorations: It is time to decorate the lobbies. If you wish to volunteer, a sign-up sheet will be in the lobbies. Compactor Room: You will be getting more boxes. Please fold them down

and put them on the wooden shelf with newspapers. Larger boxes go to the basement. Wash out all containers and put them in a plastic bag. Laundry Room Etiquette: Please, continue to collect your clothes on time. Please report all non-working machines. Please wear your mask. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones. Check on the elderly, sick and shutins. Happy birthday to all this month. If you see something, say something. Thank you. ––Betty Leak

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Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

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Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021 Director’s Viewpoint –

Francine Reva Jones

The Needs of Our Community I trust that you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and Hanukkah. Although I know several friends who passed away due to Covid-19 and otherwise, my immediate family is safe and well and I am thankful for that. I trust yours is also. Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration You are invited to the 25th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration on December 11, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. This is the 25th Anniversary (a milestone) for the sponsor, Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. The newly elected President Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba comes with a great deal of leadership experience and we look forward to more accomplishments in the future. I applaud our former president, Virginia Stewart, who provided insightful and steadfast leadership to this organization for more than seven years. Thank you, Virginia. The lovely Ms. Ebony Rae Lambright will host the Pre-Kwanzaa event on December 11. We are excited that Dr. Umar Johnson, an educator and activist, will be our guest speaker. Our youth will present The Nguzo Saba/Seven Principles and our community churches and organizations will share with us some of their activities. There will be music, dancing, inspirational messages, prizes, and much more. One of the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa is called Imani, which means Faith, to believe with all our heart in our struggle, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our people. Last year, we initiated a segment called the Community Griot to honor a community elder for their life experience and wisdom. Elder George Crouch, affectionGriot to receive this tribute. This year, this auspicious recognition will be bestow upon Elder Eleanor “Ellie” Minor. You might already know Ellie. But whether you know her or not, you won’t want to miss the knowledge and wisdom she will impart. Zoom in on December 11th at 3:00 p.m. Join Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/, Meeting ID: 884 3008 5932, Passcode: 964363. Restoring Our Community Read and follow the Co-op City Times online at http://issuu.com/cctimes Issuu app now available for iOS and Android devices.

Building 25 Association Now that we got Thanksgiving Day 2021 behind us, it is time to start preparing for Christmas. Please be mindful of lit candles, and, if possible, use tealight candles, as they are safer and just as decorative. Too many plugs in one outlet is just downright dangerous. COVID-19 variants are still a concern, in other words, safety before celebrations. We wish all neighbors born in December a happy birthday, and for those of you who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon. We are taking a holiday break from our building meetings. However, we will be busy making our lobby festive so our next virtual building association meeting will be held Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. Look out for detailed log-in or call-in information notices posted near elevators as we get closer to the meeting date. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by logging onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know. Closing with the following: “They say you’re blessed to be a blessing to others. There’s no better time to live that saying than the holidays. Especially when so many families are struggling.” –Yo Gotti ––Wanda Bailey

was to represent the shareholders. As my colleague Sonia Feliciano often says, “Shareholders Matter.” As I matured as a Board director, I realized that it was just as important to support the Riverbay Corporation in its efforts to maintain the infrastructure of our property by investing in our property and keeping it in good condition. In doing so, we are protecting the shareholders. The Board of Directors and Management have been working together in an effort to secure and increase the value of our property. As you know, we are in the process of modernizing our elevators and installing American with Disabilities Act (ADA)-approved lobby doors. We are abiding by the Local Law 11 mandate by repairing our buildings, and we will soon be repairing the townhouses. We are constantly repairing sidewalks in order to avoid accidents. We and curb appeal to attract the public and potential residents. I believe the waterfront development will also add value to our property. The creation of our convectors might have been a design error, but we are stuck with them. However, it would be a mistake to continue living with endless ing damage, loss and inconvenience to cooperators and

money for drugstore items; No premium payments; No doctor copayments; Comprehensive dental, vision and hearing; Fitness programs; and much more. For more information, call (855) 820-1722 or visit www. medicare.gov . African-American Association Meeting Board Director Michelle Marbury is also president of the African-American Association of Co-op City. At the November 21st meeting, members were reminded that Native American Heritage Month is celebrated in November and that the festive Thanksago with the pilgrims arriving at Plymouth, Massaand taught to schoolchildren as the original story of what would later become the U.S. But many Native Americans say Thanksgiving Day is a reminder of the slaughter of millions of Indigenous people and the theft of the lands by outsiders. Thereafter, a short video was shown. https://abc7ny.com/native-american-indian-sutton-king-urban-indigenous-collective/11243184/. With the announcement of Critical Race Theory, I wonder if the truth will ever be taught in American public schools. It is up to us to teach our children and grandchildren the truth.

the passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing problems they will cause. Something must be done. Act of 2021 and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2021. In addition, there were complaints about the inmy hope is that Co-op City will be eligible for govern- adequate MTA bus service in Co-op City, especially ment Infrastructure funds. According to GovPilot.com, the #28 bus in the mornings. It was suggested to call “$5 billion has been set aside for National Infrastructure 511 (a direct line to the NYC Transit Authority) to Project Assistance grants, which will allow communi- request additional bus service. ties to pursue important projects. Local government Closing leadership will need to apply to be considered for these Our lives begin to end the day we become silent funds.” I will recommend that we apply ASAP. about things that matter. –Rev. Dr. Martin Luther Medicare Enrollment Period King, Jr. The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) Have a fantastic week ahead. Please stay safe and began October 15th and ends December 7th. During continue to wear a mask in indoor public spaces. this period, you can join, switch or drop a Medicare Please attend the Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration, DecemAdvantage or Part D prescription drug plan. If you ber 11, 3:00 p.m. are eligible, you might obtain: Monthly paybacks Thanks for taking the time to read my viewpoint. of $50-$100; No referrals to see a specialist; Extra You may contact me at: fjones@riverbayboard.com.

We are shareholders, not tenants! Get involved! Join your building association!

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

NAACP Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. NOTE: Due to the upcoming holiday, our next membership meeting will be held Sunday, December 19, at 3 p.m. Please make a note and save the date. Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP, took a moment to be thankful for all members across the country. He stated without the compassion and generosity of NAACP supporters like you, we would not have been able to put up the strongest defense possible against wave after wave of attacks on the rights of Black people and other people of color across our country. It is because of you that we were able to push the Biden administration to appoint a racial equity czar to ensure that there’s a whole-of-government approach to fostering holistic measures to tackle the pervasive problem of systemic racism and address the climate crisis that is disproportionately impacting communities of color. The NAACP was able to organize and mobilize to ensure that George Floyd’s family received justice. In so many ways, you and your fellow NAACP that, he is extraordinarily thankful for all that you gave of yourself this year. The NAACP has embarked upon an initiative to have you know more about COVID-19. We all have questions and concerns as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. The NAACP has provided information you can share through the COVID Know More campaign to help ease the uncertainties and safeguard our communities. Health disparities left Black Americans vulnerable to contracting COVID-19 and dying from it at higher rates, nearly two times greater than their share of the population. With the facts, we can all make the best decisions for ourselves and our over fears. For more information, you can google “NAACP Covid Know More.” We Need You In The Fight: Each and every NAACP member makes a difference to the complex, ongoing work of advancing racial equality. Join this multigenerational network of activists dismantling structural racism by using your power to take action on the most pressing issues of our time. I hope you take pride in knowing that you’re helping to create a more just America. Do not forget to follow us on Facebook at: Co-op City NAACP; and also follow NAACP’s Statements & Trending Topics online at NAACP.org. N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City, Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, NY 10475. contribution in any amount, we thank you in advance. Help the NAACP advocate for a more just and equal America. ––Leslie Peterson

Building 27 Association Happy Hanukkah and wishing you peace, love and happiness. Hello, neighbors. We hope Thanksgiving was a joyous occasion and that all who traveled here and there with their families, friends and loved ones returned to their destination safely and all will remain safe and healthy. Remember to take the booster shot and continue wearing your masks. It has been a trying time. However, we can still be thankful and grateful. The good news is our children are back in are told variants are on the rise, so people should take the vaccine shots. We pray for hearts to change, and when fear and anxiety are removed, all will work out for the best. Lobby Doors: We are happy that the lobby doors for Bldg. A and Bldg. B are now installed and that the contractor met their target date a week later. The ADA doors, lobby and now lighted apartment address register panel all look very nice. Building C lobby doors are now being installed. Please allow accessibility to the contractors to install the new door monitor system in your apartments. We appreciate our building staff and our postal clerk. In particular, our porters in the midst of this global pandemic, came to work, kept our building, compactor our porters are the best. Please stay with us always. God bless them all. In Appreciation: The Association will resume collection of donations for our building staff for the holidays. The collection for A, B and C buildings will be on Thursday, Dec. 9, and Friday, Dec. 10, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., both days. Cooperators have always been very generous in their giving in support of our Fliers will be posted; please feel free to come on down to help decorate our lobbies. Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. Condolences to our Co-op City families who lost a loved one. Let us continue to pray for one another. Please contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 to share information of illness, someone deceased or in a nursing home. Let us continue to stay prayerful. A smile is always welcomed; being kind, thoughtful and thankful makes life just a little easier. “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” –Coretta Scott King ––H. Overman

Donizetti Building Four Association We hope all is well and that everyone had an enjoyable and blessed Thanksgiving. This is the beginning of a month inclusive of eating delicious food and gathering with families and friends. Continue to be safe when coming together in numbers. We are planning to have a get together on Saturday, December 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. It has been longer than a year since we gathered. So, let us meet while socially distanced to say hello over a cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate. We would especially like to meet and welcome our new neighbors. The plan for Building 4 is to come back stronger and better than before. With your help and support, this can happen. We would like to thank our building staff workers for their diligence in keeping our building clean during this trying time. The holiday collection for our building staff will be slightly different this year. Envelopes will be placed under your doors for you to return to the building representative noted on the envelope. The lobby collection is scheduled for Monday, December 13, and Tuesday, December 14, only from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. If things go well, we will be able to resume our in-person meeting on every second Thursday of the month starting in January. Think about things you would like to do as an association and be ready to present them then. Note: There is an increase in people loitering in and around the building. The mail delivery of packages being left at your door has become an issue of theft. It is recommended that you check your door periodically if you are expecting a package because the delivery person(s) do not always ring the bell. Also, always notify the company/sender if your package is not delivered directly to your apartment. We deserve better service. Congratulations to those celebrating a special occasion in the month of December. Get well wishes are extended to our sick. We extend our condolences to those who have lost loved ones. Let us stay consistent and vigilant when monitoring the needs of the elderly and shut-in. Do not forget this is our home. If you see something, say something. We ––Yvonne Burrus (dw)

National Council of Negro Women Membership: Next Sunday, December 12, at 3 p.m. will be our last membership meeting of the year. Please remember to submit your section and national for women and men (Associates) and can be paid directly through the National for women and men (Associates). Section dues may be paid by check, via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=PWSEV8YLJJGDW, or through our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com. Checks can be made payable and mailed to our NCNW Co-op City Section: P.O. Box 93, Bronx, local dues by December 10 will be placed on our membership wheel and will opcity@gmail.com. Welcome to our two newest NCNW Co-op City Section members: Taisha Chambers and Dorothy J. Smith. We are just three short weeks away from our Holly Jolly Christmas Party in December at the Eastwood Manor, located at 3371 Eastchester Road, Bronx, buffet dinner, live DJ and open bar. Invite all of your vaccinated friends to our to NCNW Co-op City Section to P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. You may also pay through PayPal using the following link: https://www.paypal.com/ donate?hosted_button_id=HMQZ2VQX5KAB6. Payments can also be made through our Co-op City Section website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com. For additional information, contact Hospitality Chair Candacie Daniels at (646) 305-8013. It is that time of year again for our annual Winter Accessory Drive. We will be collecting winter accessories, pajamas, socks, books, Pull-Ups and toys (no weapons) to be donated to children and teens in a local shelter. Donations will be collected in Rm. 14 in Dreiser Community Center beginning today, December 4, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and will continue on December 6 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and December 11 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Donations from the community will be appreciated. Youth Section: The next Youth Section meeting will be Saturday, December 11, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in Rm. 14, Dreiser Community Center. For more information, contact: ncnwcoopcityyouth@gmail.com. Social Media: tysection.com; on Facebook: NCNWCoopcityBethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: www.ncnwco.opcity@gmail. com. ––Joyce Howard

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

Building 13 Association

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic, St. Joseph’s Church has suspended services until further notice. However, we continue to worship via teleconference on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Father Johnson also conducts daily weekday services at noon. You are invited to participate in these services by calling 1-425-436-6344, access code: 509 898, followed by the # sign. Fundraising Cake Sale – The Episcopal Church Women of St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church are having a Cake Sale on Saturday, March 26, 2022 starting at 12:00 noon. Please come down and join us for this event. Buy and take home some of our Delicious Baked Goodies!! Grace and Peace! ––M. Chambers

Step into Building 13 and you will realize “it is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas,” thanks to Doris, Lisa, Elena and Annice for starting the holiday cheer. The decorations are gorgeous and puts all cooperators and visitors in the spirit. Remember, “tis the season to be jolly,” so stop by the table when we begin collecting donations in December. Show your appreciation. Please check the bulletin board for exact dates and times. If you would like to volunteer, contact our vice president, Wendell Mattison. Updates will be posted in the lobby. Thanks again for your dedication and com- Volunteers pack food bags mitment to Building 13. Kudos to Building 13 neighbors and community friends who collectively offered meals and assisted in delivering meals to the community on Thanksgiving Day. The Thanksgiving meal giveaway was funded by the Mary Mitchell Family and Youth Center. Donations were also made by Bishop Angelo and Nancy Rosario and several anonymous donors. We thank all of them for their generosity. Delicious food was prepared by the main chef, Toni Hecker, along with Yasmine, Doris, Master Lucas hands out food packages Janice, Gail and Antoinette. Thanks to those who delivered the food: Akeisha Neely, Brittany, Felisha, Jessie Normant and children and People United as One and their volunteers. Additional thanks to those who also contributed in various capacities: Leslie, Elena, Jessy, Lil Lucas, Valerie, Denise and Tracy Carson. If you want to stay on top of what is happening in the building and our community, make sure you

Section 4 Partnership Building Associations and Committees – We must all (in every section and every building) show up for our building associations and committees. We may be on Zoom or Webex or other modes of video conferencing, but that is no excuse not to show up. It is even more of a reason to attend because you do not even have to leave your home. You cannot beat that commute. We all owe it to our shared community. Please think about this and make a silent pledge to get involved this coming year. 50th Anniversary T-Shirts – If you do not have one, make sure you get one or two! Many buildings are celebrating 50 years of existence making up the largest cooperative in the country. We have 50th Anniversary t-shirts. The shirts are beautiful and on sale now with the Section 4 Partnership logo on the back. You will be proud to wear it. If you would like one or two, contact us by emailing: section4partnership@gmail.com or phone: 347-915-4939. S4P Mission Statement: The Section 4 Partnership’s purpose is to promote a community of more than just neighbors, but as one family of many cultures, that proactively embraces greatness and promotes neighborhood interaction. The goal of the organization is to offer solutions that will educate, elevate, inspire and mobilize our community in unity; and to sustain affordability and growth in order to remain environmentally sound and vibrant for generations to come. Happy Holiday Season! The Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City wishes you and yours healthy and safe travels as you go. Please remember, we are still in a pandemic. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself, your loved ones and people around you. “All of us” divided by “Each one of us” equals a force for good. ––Michelle Marbury

Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry – 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pick up or after. It is a 30/31-day rotation. Black Forum will still text if additional items become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring at least four clean shopping bags with a handle and a shopping cart. We require masks and physical distancing. New registrants can receive food the same day they register. Please show a valid ID NYC card, a non-driver’s, or driver’s license with a 10475 address to register. Holiday Notice – The pantry will be closed on Fridays, December 24 and 31. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 Registration is open at this location for Section 5 residents. on Tues., Jan. 4, 2022. You must recertify in order to pick up food in the year 2022. No exceptions. Required documentation is as follows: NY State Drivers license, NY State Non-Drivers or NYC I.D (zip code 10475). Passports, Medicaid Cards, Medicare Cards, Job ID’s and Access-A-Ride ID’s are not acceptable. Parx Casino – Today, December 4. Pick-ups: 920 Baychester Avenue at 8 a.m.; Asch Loop by New York Public Library at 8:20 a.m.; Section 5 in front of the community center at 8:40 a.m. Return stops are Section 5, old Bingo Hall (Bartow Avenue), and 920 Baychester Avenue. Guests must be on time. Please call 917-209-5334 if you have questions. Defensive Driving Class – Black Forum has not scheduled Defensive Driving classes. Our normal meeting space is closed because of COVID-19 restrictions. We hope to see them return soon. An online version of the course is available at the Empire Safety Council website: https://www.empiresafetycouncil.com/. Use the promo code “WRIGHT” to receive a discount. Please keep checking this article for class updates. We appreciate your patience. Contact Us – Reach out to us at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. Please stay safe. ––D. Illis

board and our articles in the Co-op City Times. This is our way of keeping you in the loop. Our rear exit recently had some repair work done. We thank the Janitorial department director, Joshua Blake, and the Riverbay staff for this needed repair and making it happen in a safe and timely manner. Building 13 shareholders should make sure the Association has your email address. It is easier to log on to our Zoom meetings with the link. You do not have to be a member of the Association to attend. During these meetings, we try to provide all with an opportunity to ask and receive answers. We will not have a meeting in December but hope to return to Zooming in January. Visit our Facebook Page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City. Our website is: http://www. bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@ yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370; or Wendell Mattison, V. P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team. ––Leslie Peterson

Food being delivered

Akeisha Neely and daughters giving out food

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Velocity Track Club Velocity Track Club prays that everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving Holiday! On Saturday, November 27, we competed in two meets, The Foot Locker XC Northeast Championship at Van Cortlandt Park and the Metro Eagles Indoor Meet at the Armory in Fort Washington, NY. At the Foot Locker XC Northeast Championship, teams travel from as far as Pennsylvania to compete. The were hard to earn. They gave t-shirts to all competitors and the top 30 athletes received medals. The following races were contested: 10 years old and younger 3k (1.8 miles), 11/12 years old 3K, 13/14 years old 5K (3.1 miles) and 15 and up athletes 5K. Velocity Track Club at the Foot Locker Velocity was blessed with five Championship and the Metro Eagles Meet medals! In the 10 years old and under division: 7 year-old Xoan, 8 year-old Serenity and 9 year-old Lyon earned medals. In the 11/12 years division, Romel medaled and in the 13/14 age division, Kenese medaled. Great job to all who competed in that cold weather, it will make you all stronger athletes. The other athletes competed in the Metro Eagles Meet. The meet was well organized, and the competition was good. The following events were contested: 1-mile run, 55-meters, 800-meters, 55-meters hurdles, 200-meters, 4x200 meters relay, shot put, long jump, high jump, and weight throw. Medals were given to the top three athletes in their event, division and gender. Velocity was blessed with seven medals. The following athletes medaled. In the 11/12 girls division: Savannah M., 3rd place in the 55-meters hurdles. In the 13/14 Girls division: Talia took 3rd place in the 400-meters race. Rakae took 3rd in the 800-meters, Saniah took 2nd in the 800-meters and 1st in the long jump. In the 13/14 Boys division: Steven took 1st in the 400-meters and 3rd in the 200-meters. Velocity Track Club had many birthdays in November. Happy birthday to Dakota Hickman, Kenese Irish-Bramble, Matthiaus Love-Anderson, Royana Murray, Adonijah Washington, Talia Dixon, Julian Caldwell and Dontae Lindo! Our next meet will be on Saturday, December 4, at the AAU XC National Championship in Charlotte, NC. donation will go towards helping our children. Support our youth so they can continue to do wonderful things! For additional information, please go to our website, Velocitytrack.org or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins, at 914-441-6196, or email me at WATCLT@AOL.COM. Thank you! ––Winston Dinkins

Association of Building 14 Cooperators It is on! The 2021 winter holiday season has begun! three winning households of our annual Thanksgiving gift card drawing: the Johnson, the Frances and the Glasford families. All households were added to the draw. Building porters Rouke, Tommy and Coriano drew the winning apartment numbers. Wishes for the best are extended to our Jewish community. The season of Hanukkah began Porters anchored by Association president (left) and treasurer (right). this past Sunday and will end on Monday. Upcoming Activities: Holiday Gratuity Collection for building porters Friday, December 10, and Saturday, December 11, from 4 - 8 p.m. Sunday, December 12, from noon - 4 p.m. Christmas Tree and Lobby Decorations Thurs., Dec. 9, starting at 9 a.m., volunteers needed over multiple days. The winter holiday season is one of the most meaningful and cheerful times of the year, yet it can be challenging from a mental health and well-being perspective. Please keep affected individuals, families and our community in your thoughts and deeds. Another consideration during winter months is that cold weather brings us indoors, so please be respectful by keeping noise of all kinds to a minimum, especially during the work week. NYC Quiet Hours per Local Law 113 are from 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. The law includes pets making loud noises noise to Co-op City Public Safety (CCPD) and/or the NYPD at 311 and can do so anonymously. Lastly, cold, blustery winds do make pet walking unpleasant. However, NYC ordinances require owners to “Curb Your Dog.” Steer pets toward the street and not under the building or along the pathways to eliminate waste and dispose of it in a legal manner. Let us all be more neighborly! Be grateful. Be well. Be kind. Questions? Call/Text: 929.923.2792. Email: assocbldg14@gmail.com. ––Josie Ferguson

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Building 2 Association

Rivers Run Community Garden

Seasons Greetings, neighbors! Holiday Collection for Building Staff: The holiday collection for our diligent porters and Maintenance staff is now underway. A holiday collection envelope has been distributed to each apartment. Please return your contribution envelopes no later than December 13 to the following designated apartments (please slide your envelope under the door): Building 2A – Slide your envelope under the door of Apt. 22A Building 2B – Slide your envelope under the door of Apt. 3E Holiday Decoration of Lobbies: We plan to begin decorating our lobbies today on both the A & B sides of the building. Volunteers are needed for both lobbies. If you would like to lend a hand, please join us in the lobbies. Happy birthday to all the December birthday celebrants, we extend our best wishes to you in another year forward. New neighbors, welcome to your new home. Our prayers and get-well wishes go out to those who are recuperating from an illness. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to those who have suffered a loss. Please continue to wear a face mask (vaccinated and unvaccinated) when you are in crowded indoor spaces, riding in the elevators and when you are in the laundry room. Let us do our part to keep ourselves and our family members and the elderly safe and healthy. The date and time of our next general membership meeting will soon be announced. Meanwhile, please stay safe and stay well until we can meet again. ––Georgianna Rodriguez

2021, when a group of friends and neighbors prepared and distributed over 150 meals in less than two hours. I can still feel the gratitude and love of a day well spent. Thanks to the monetary and food donations from the Mary Mitchell Family and Youth Center, Building 13 Association, Inc., and Bishop Rosario as well as our anonymous donors. Thank you to the chef, Toni Hecker, who helped shop, cook and clean. Your fried and baked turkeys, garlic strings beans, mac and cheese and gravy was beyond delicious! We could not have done this event without you. Thank you to all the other chefs who contributed delicious additions: Yas Hecker, Antoinette, Alice Jackson, Doris and Janice Sanchez and me. Thank you also to the people who stepped up to deliver meals to the shut-ins: Akeisha Neely and daughters, Jessie Norment and children and People United As One founders, Yonna Lovell and Melanie Clunie; and their volunteers, Latisha and Isaiah Edwards. Thank you for the team that helped set up, distribute food and clean up: Jessy and Lucas Rodriguez, Elena Marrero, Valerie Gunn, Denise Shelley, Tracy, Janice, and Leslie Peterson. And thank you to garden members who grew the herbs used in cooking. If you would like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo. com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or me at 718-671-3801. See you soon. ––Gail Sharbaan

African-American Association of Co-op City Join the African-American Association of Co-op City! Become a member to be allowed entry into our gatherings. Platforms until the pandemic is completely over are presented via Zoom Meetings and Webinars. Remember: Membership is only $15 per year for a single membership and only $25 per year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@ gmail.com or call 929-430-3255. Our mailing address is: The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Upcoming AAACC Events Saturday, December 11, at 3 p.m. – Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration Sunday, January 16, 2022 at 3 p.m. – M.L. King Day Celebration and Sat., February 5, 2022 – 25th Annual Black History Month Film Festival

Saturday, March 19, 2022 – Co-op City Spelling Bee Saturday, April 19, 2022 – Holistic Health and Wellness Fair The African-American Association sponsors the following programs for your participation: (Contact respective instructors for updates) Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact Xonia, 646-3019438. Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact Cynthia, 917903-7073. Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact: Keith, 917-561-6211. Yoga and Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact Meena at 917-863-1507. “All” of us divided by “each” one of us equals a force for good. ––Michelle Marbury

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment Caregiver Tribute – Iya Antoinette M. Emers

Caregivers are unsung heroes, phenomenal and amazing human beings of all races, gender, and economic backgrounds who care for children, parents, spouses, partners, friends and animals. At times, they are sandwiched between people with little to no recognition or reward. Caregivers graciously give their time, money and resources. Caregivers provide unconditional Caregivers make the impossible possible. Let us value caregivers because what they do is priceless! Caregivers experience so many ups and downs but they wake up every day to give their very best! We must realize caregivers are the backbone of families and communities. Caregivers make a difference. Can you not see it? Caregivers matter. They have earned and deserved our love and respect for all they do to carry on. others. Caregivers are people too so let us recognize and appreciate all they do. Caregivers need space to self-care and self-love without judgment. Caregivers are A message from the founder and CEO, Diane Cooper: I was a caregiver for my father and mother. I am presently a caregiver for my husband. He is celebrating his third anniversary as a lung transplant recipient. I thank God for allowing

COME to advocate for family caregivers for over 15 years. I thank the board members for their continuous dedication and commitment to a worthy cause. The organization began in 2006 after my family and I cared for my father, Leon David Simmons. Through the eyes of a family caregiver and over 30 years of experience as a community health nurse at VNS, I started to look at family dynamics differently. This experience made me sensitive to the role of caregivers, to relate and better understand the challenges caregivers face daily. But most of all, I noticed caregivers’ lack of knowledge about navigating the health care system, reaching out for help and taking time out for self-care. I am grateful for individual support and the support and partnership with community organizations. With the help of sponsors, COME was able to bless 10 honorees of the Leon David Simmons Award with a monetary gift of $500. The Annual Award Recognition enables COME to realize a blessing. It gets the attenof caregivers, their challenges, needs and concerns. Every day, COME strives to make a difference in the lives of family caregivers. Our 45-minute monthly session was on December 1. The topic was, “Managing holiday stress and anxiety.” Special guest: Cruz Fuksman, New York Psychotherapy and Counseling Center Community Liaison. ––Diane Cooper

Broun Place Townhouse Association Good day, neighbors. We hope your Thanksgiving was delicious and wonderful. and hunger, please let us use them. So, Thanksgiving 2021 has passed and winter holiday season 2021 has commenced. Hanukkah, the festival/miracle of lights, started on Sunday, November 28. Unfortunately, we had to say rest in peace to several community people. We are very sad to inform you of the passing of Ms. Elaine Williams, Mr. Mack and Renee Valentine. We join with the friends and families of those neighbors to say RIP and they are gone too soon. Please appreciate our home community. Our Grounds department has been doing a super job in maintaining our grounds. To recognize that work, we are taking the annual collection. Just leave your gift with your address in our mail him directly and not be part of the collection. That is your choice. Contact Kevin Riley, Jamaal Bowman, Jamaal Bailey and Michael Benedetto about maintaining the corner off the Hutchinson River Parkway North exit and the area under the I-95 overpass that seems to say it is okay to dump, but it is not. Show you care and get involved. There has to be consequences. Regarding masks against COVID-19, it is essential to cover your nose and wear that protective mask when you are out and about in groups. Tucking it under

your chin or wearing it on your wrist is not doing the job. Please be aware that discarding masks in the streets and gutters is just littering and they need to be disposed of in pedestrian cans. We have spoken with community leader Marlene Smith. She appreciates your support. She reports she is coming along and please continue to keep her in your prayers as she recovers from surgery. Now, about vaccines. Many kinds are required for public health. We are required to protect ourselves from diseases like Pneumonia, Measles, Whooping Cough and Polio. Vaccines protect us all. The collected data shows the COVID-19 vaccine protects too. Evidence shows it is the people who do not take the vaccine who are the ones suffering and even dying and needing hospitalization. Your personal freedom is not at stake but your health is, so help us all and get vaccinated. I hope your children and grands have also been vaccinated. Local pharmacies are delivering the vaccine/booster right here. Check availabilAlso, register with the Riverbay “RUOK” Emergency contact programs. This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic ailment. Your information is stored Hope you had a joyful Thanksgiving. You can submit your tidings to me. Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever! ––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Open Door Ministries

Church of the New Vision

Open Door Ministries is collaborating with Circle of Christ Church and joining them in worship. Please go to circleofchristchurch.com for a schedule of services. Litany of Humility “Jesus! Meek and humble of heart, Hear me. “From the desire of being esteemed, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the desire of being loved, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the desire of being extolled, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the desire of being honored, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the desire of being praised, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the desire of being preferred to others, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the desire of being consulted, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the desire of being approved, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of being humiliated, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of being despised, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of suffering rebukes, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of being calumniated, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of being forgotten, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of being ridiculed, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of being wronged, Deliver me, Jesus. “From the fear of being suspected, Deliver me, Jesus. “That others may be loved more than I, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. “That others may be esteemed more than I, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. “That, in the opinion of the world, others may increase, and I may decrease, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. “That others may be chosen, and I set aside, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. “That others may be praised and I unnoticed, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. “That others may be preferred to me in everything, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. “That others may become holier than I, provided that I may become as holy as I should, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it. Amen.” –Attributed to Rafael Cardinal Merry Del Val, by Charles Belmonten (Handbook of Prayers, Studium Theologiae Foundation, Manila, 1986). Contact Open Door Ministries by phone/text: 917-334-4407. Blessings in Christ, ––Pastor Luis Ramos

Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In this season of Thanksgiving, we give thanks to God the Father for His abundant mercy towards us as His People. May we continue to look to heaven with thankful and grateful hearts for the blessings we have received. May you and your family have a blessed Thanksgiving! The Church of the New Vision and its pastors, Kenneth and Deborah Hodge, welcome you to worship with us.

Newsong Church

has reopened. There will be one service at 11 a.m. and Sunday School will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken. Welcome back. Services can also be viewed on YouTube after 1 p.m. Our Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study starts at 7 p.m. on our Conference Line Number: (646) 769-9909, Access Code: 3099388. Once prayer has begun, please mute your phone so all can hear with clarity. As we celebrate Jesus Christ, the very demonstration of God’s Love towards humanity (John 3:16), let us continue to be thankful and grateful. Let us as the Body of Christ remain steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that our labor is not in vain. Our verse of focus this year is: “And He said unto me, my ness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Love of God, be with you all. Amen. ––Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge. Sunday, November 28th Worship Service Theme: “All That the Lord Hath Spoken We Will Do” Scripture: “Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel. And Moses came and called for the elders of the people and laid before their faces all these words which the Lord commanded him. And all the people answered together, and said, all that the Lord hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord.” (Exodus 19: 3-7; Exodus 3:12; Psalms 133:1). As we enter into the season of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ, the Next Generation for Christ Youth Ministry invites you to come and celebrate at our “Ugly Sweater Christmas Party” on Saturday, December 18, from 2 - 5 p.m. The Church of New Vision extends our deepest sympathies to the grieving families. May God grant you the strength, combutions, Malachi 3:10. Mailing address: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475. ––Brenda Brown

Welcome home! Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We love God, we love people, and we love demonstrating that love through serving others! No matter what you have been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family. Check us out, we are located at 135 Einstein Loop! Sunday Worship Experience Our Sunday worship experience starts with celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. Colossians 3:16 says, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” For us, that is what making music is all about. We sing to bring glory and honor to God, and celebrate who He is and what He is doing in our church! Our Adult Worship Experience starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. in Rm. 45. Newsong Deaf Church, 11 a.m., Sunday mornings ...That is right. We are happy to announce that we now have an adult ASL worship experience for the deaf and hearing impaired in our community! The singing, the message, the fellowship, everything is in American Sign Language and designed to help you connect with God in your own language! Our Adult Deaf Worship Experience starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. in Rm. 38 Kidsong Kids are important to us so we have created a place where they can learn about Jesus on their levFamily Owned and Operated el. Every Sunday, pre-k through sixth-grade children experience safe, age-appropriate environments • Large Chapel • Pre-need counseling on premises where the Bible is taught in a creative and relevant way. Kidsong starts every Sunday morning at 11 • Out of town services • Ample Parking a.m. in Rm. 49 on premises Against The Flow A dignified funeral every family can afford. • Cremations A.T.F. is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s • Casket Showroom All areas are handicapped accessible middle and high school students will lead the next on premises generation of the church and change the world. At Amid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home is A.T.F., our goal is to graduate students into a lifeclosely monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and time of following Jesus. A.T.F. meets every Friday memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment. evening at 7:30 p.m. in Rm. 49. Is There Parking? Come on, this is Co-op City, Personalized & Professional Care • 55 Years Serving Our Community

but hey, there is discounted parking available in the parking garage! So what are you waiting for? There’s a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! We want to help you pose, and make a difference in this life! Take your Contact Us: Bldg. 19; Phone: 718-708-8385; Website: www. newsongchurchnyc.org. Social Media: Instagram: @newsongchurchbx, Facebook: @newsongchurchbx, Twitter: @newsongchurchbx, YouTube: Newsong Church NYC ––Pastor Mike Tolone

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Serving all cultures & faiths

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

AARP Chapter #4997

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

From the Desk of President Mickens: The Thanksgiving break has come and gone. The fall weather has come and gone. The elections have come and gone. Now we are moving forward with new plans and ideas. We are well into the big holiday season. We have so much to be thankful for and so much to be aware of! COVID-19 is far from controlled or over and, as much as I dislike reminding my friends and members, the danger is more real than ever. We recently were made aware of a new COVID-19 strain of concern, Omicron, by name and now we are seeing travel restrictions put back in place. All people 18 and over have been cleared for the boosters and they are still free. Think and act respectfully about the choices you make as you venture out into the neighborhood and stores. This variant is taking on a life of its own and we are back to social distancing, washing hands and wearing masks. AARP Chapter #4997 is having our last monthly meeting for the year on Monday, December 13. We will be meeting via Zoom ready to open. Hopefully, this will be our last virtual

Seasons Greetings, Retirees! Hopefully, your holidays have gotten off to a good start. Annual Holiday Luncheon

to open. We have also planned a post-holiday get-together for February 14, 2022. Room to be announced later. AARP is still requesting all members to contact Rights Bill. The number to call is 202-224-3121. Make the call as a reminder to the strengths and

Ms. Polite, Nominating chairperson, is accepting ter. She can be reached at 718-320-4278. Ms. Stella Baker, Membership chairperson, is collecting membership applications and can be reached at 718-3792088. Mrs. Frances Wilson, our Good and Welfare contact, advises that all our members are on the road to recovery and our prayers for them are working. We wish them continued speed and good health. If you would like to share information on members and family, please contact Mrs. Wilson at 718-671-5493. As always, we wish you safe and happy travelling and outings during the holidays but remain vigilant in safety procedures no matter where you go. Be well and I look forward to seeing you at our monthly General Meeting on December 13 at 1 p.m. Happy Hanukkah. ––Ann Purnell

luncheon which will be held at the Marina del Rey on December 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. If you would like to purchase a ticket, it is important that you go to the Retirees’ room, Rm. 19, on Tuesday or Thursday this week or contact Daisy Young at (718) 671-6122, or Beverly Waller at (718) 671-2978. Tickets are $100 per person and proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to purchase tickets. You will also be required to present your vaccination proof and a valid photo ID to the Marina del Rey on Dec. 16. Membership: The Membership Committee sponsored a new members luncheon on Wednesday, November 17, and it was well received. Welcome to all our new members. Many thanks to the Membership dinated this luncheon and to the committee members who attended the luncheon. If you are interested in

Goose Island Seniors friends. Wind Creek Casino Bethlehem, PA. Price: $45; bonus, $30 slot play. For reservation, you must pay $45. Call 718-379-9613 or 347-847-1941. All passengers must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Holiday Party: This Friday, December 10, at 1 ered-dish. Bring a pot of your favorite dish, salad, dessert or beverage; $5 donation, if no food donation. Must show proof of vaccination and mask required. 50th Anniversary Trip to Villa Roma, 2022: cheon, line-dancing, Doo-Wop show, Bingo and day of fun, all for $92. Choice of entrées: roast loin of pork, chicken parmigiana over linguini or Flounder Francese, all served with chef’s choice starch and vegetables. A $40 deposit, your choice of entree and your bus seat selection is required when signing up for the trip. Must show proof of vaccination. For res-

please contact Dorothy Chambers-Byrd at (646) 8422458. Annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period: tirees” that the deadline is December 7 to make any change in your Medicare health and/or prescription drug plan for 2022. NYC Pensioner-Retirees: The opt-out period for the NYC Medicare Advantage Plus Plan provided by

Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Bingo: p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for three cards, 12

notice. For additional information, you can call the special Alliance call center at 1 (833) 325-1190, Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sick and Shut-In: We wish brighter days ahead to those who are sick and shut-in. Condolences lences to Daisy Young-Anderson and her family on the loss of her nephew. Please keep Daisy and her family in your prayers. Next General Meeting will be held virtually on December 8 at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom. The link to join this meeting will be emailed to members. Happy birthday to all the December Retiree birthday celebrants. Best wishes to you on your special day and throughout the year. ––Georgianna Rodriguez

to three cards. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination and mask required. Temperature taken at entrance. Dues for 2022: We are now collecting dues. Must To all members: Happy birthday to all members who celebrate their birthday in the month of Decem-

Sick and Shut-in: band, is in a nursing home. Please say a prayer for Trujillo, get well soon, we miss you. Mary Pilla (former Goose Island president), misses everyone and sends her love to all. Call (718) 753-1816. (718) 379-9613. We are open. You may call (mornand Thu., 1 p.m.-6 p.m., and Mon., Wed. and Fri., 6 Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. ––Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Fri., Dec. 10

Thurs., Dec. 9

Wed., Dec. 8

Tues., Dec. 7

Mon., Dec. 6

Bartow

Einstein

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Arthritis Exercise Class w/Damion, 135 Einstein Loop Sr. Ctr., Rm. 45 (In-person, 11:10 a.m.-12:10 p.m.

Line Dance w/Ellie 135 Einstein Loop Sr. Ctr., Room 45 (In-person) 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Health & Wellness Support Grp., 10-11 a.m.,135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 49 (Virtual)

Health & Wellness Support Group, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 49 (In-person)

Walk w/Odessa Meeting place by the library on Asch Loop, 9-10 a.m.

Bereavement w/Dorine 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387. Zoom Smartphone & Tablet Class 2:00-3:00 p.m. Dial in #: 1-646-876-9923 Meeting ID: 889-6644-6693 Passcode: Bartow

Dreiser

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

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

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m. Meeting ID: 992 3169 6108, Passcode: 503637; Dial-in: 1-929-205-6099; Virtual & in-person Computer Learning Zoom Meeting w/Ralph, 6 p.m. Dial-in: 929Health & Wellness w/Ann 205-6609, Meeting ID: 936 8132 135 Einstein Loop Senior 9040, Passcode: 259554 Sr. Center, 10-11 a.m., Rm. Blood Pressure 1st & 3rd Tues. 49 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Rm. 2

Arts with Laura, 10 a.m.12 p.m. via Zoom and phone. Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387.

Bodies in Motion w/Ola 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Meeting ID: 815 1570 9421 Passcode: Einstein 929-205-6099 Line Dance w/Cynthia 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 45, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Weight Mgt. Support Group w/ Gigi, 2nd Wed. of the month 1-2 p.m. Conference call: 929299-1045, Passcode: 1386 BINGO, 1 p.m., Rm. 2 (in-person) or join Zoom, Meeting ID: 828 4139 6474, Passcode: 194662 Dial-in number: 1-929-205-6099

Arts with Laura

10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (via Zoom and Phone)

Smartphone/Tablet Class w/ Ralph, 1-2 p.m. Call Main Office,

718-320-2066, to register. Please give your name, telephone number and email address (NORC) Aerobic Classes every Fri., 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Mobile: 929.205.6099, Meeting ID: 986 8235 8691, Passcode: 849150 Line Dance w/Cynthia, 135 Einstein Sr. Center, Rm. 45, In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise Class w/Damion, every Thurs., 11:00 a.m.-12

Line Dancing w/Ellie

p.m. Zoom Meeting ID: 986 0021 6442, Passcode: 573762

11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Dreiser Loop Senior Center, Rm. 2 Wear your mask and maintain social distance during class

ZUMBA w/Ola 135 Einstein Loop Sr. Center Rm. 45, 1-2 p.m.

Knitting & Crochet Rm. 2, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Art Class w/Dmitry (Coming soon, Virtual only) Beginning November 19, 1-3 p.m. Meditative Moments (Meditation Class) Every Fri., 9-10 a.m., Rm. 2

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

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

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

Kosher

Non-Kosher

Chicken Cacciatore Rice Pilaf Italian Blend Vegetables Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit & Juice

Sweet and Sour Pork Loin White Rice Steamed Kale

Cheese Blintzes Winter Blend Vegetables Peach Compote Fresh fruit & Juice

Jerk Chicken Baked Sweet Potato Steamed Red or Green Cabbage

Beef Stew Bulgar California Blend Vegetables Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit & Juice

Sweet and Sour Tofu Yellow Rice and Pigeon Peas Okra w/tomatoes

Moroccan Salmon Brown Rice Steamed Green Stewed Codfish Beans Steamed Spinach Whole wheat Yuca bread Fresh fruit & Juice Roast Chicken Kasha and noodles Vegetable ratatouille Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit & Juice

Spanish Style Baked Chicken Brown Rice Baby Carrots w/ Parsley

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

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You to These Upcoming Activities BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Come & enjoy a relaxing 15-Minute Massage Since November 8, changes for the JASA Senior Meditation Class – GPC (Grand Parents), 11 a.m. starting on Fridays at the Einstein Senior Center, lunches for the three senior centers are as follows: - 12 p.m., 3rd Thurs. of every month Room 45 Nursing Students

Want to learn technology class – Zoom Line Dancing – Bartow Swingers, Dreiser JASA Bartow/Einstein Sr. Centers are partnerCenter, Room 2, ing w/Community Health Navigation for six-weeks Chronic Disease Self-Management Program Every Wed., Painting Classes – 9-11 a.m. Zoom meeting. Every Wed., Arthritis Exercise/Dance Class w/ Damion – 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Zoom meeting.

Beginning December 3 Beginning December 3 Zoom Beginning Nov. 22nd Zoom Beginning December 7

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Greater Love Refuge Ministries

Iglesia Evangelica MU de Co-op City

“Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God.” (2 Corinthians 5:20) Spiritual Food for Thought: Beloved, God would have you live your life as though the whole world watched, and you were unashamed. When you have truly given yourself to Him you will exhibit godly character and nature in righteousness and peace. Be His authentic ambassador. Bishop-elect Boyce Landrum, co-Pastor Carol Landrum, and the Greater Love Christian church family invite you to worship with us each Sunday morning at 11:30 a.m.; the church is now open. Although the church doors remain open, we are closely monitoring details about the recently announced COVID-19 variant of concern, Omicron, and will make adjustments to worship services if needed. For now, the requirements for in-person worship are a COVID-19 questionnaire along with a temperature check. Proof of vaccination is also accepted. Masks are required for everyone and are available at check-in. You can also join us on Zoom. Zoom Meeting ID#: 848 7443 8468, Audio: 1-929-205-6099; Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84874438468. Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway: On behalf of the Two Fish & Five Loaves Food

Co-op City United Methodist Church

the holiday to be of service to the community at our Thanksgiving Day event. We were blessed to meet many individuals from near and far and serve them delicious home-style meals with the love of Christ! Special mention goes to our beloved friends and volunteers from the community who always give of themselves in various ways to support the Greater Love Church as we help and serve those that God places in our path. They are: Sisters Dorothy Owen, Dolly Hyman, Linette Mason, Janice Wolcott, the Benjamin family and Mother Emogene Stamper. We sincerely appreciate you! Let us all be reminded of our responsibility toward others: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” (Matthew 25:35-36) Greater Love’s Prayer Line is held each Wednesday afternoon beginning at 1:30 p.m. and on Thursday evening at 8 p.m. All are invited. The dial-in number is: 351-999-3024. All Sunday school classes remain virtual from 9 a.m.-10 a.m. and will resume next week, December 12. Happy holidays! Stay Vigilant -- Be Mindful Grace & Peace, of your Surroundings ––Pastor Carol Landrum

Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds. If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. (Psalm 91:9-1.1) We offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multicultural and bilingual congregation. All are welcome! We are changing with the times and now offer online service. We are located at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across from Building 30 (entrance on Boller Ave.). Parking is available on Palmer Ave. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta. For more information about our services, please contact our administrative secretary, Marta Medina, by phone: 917-740-0256, or by email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com. Remote Schedule for Sundays...Come and receive a blessing: We would love for you to join us on Sundays. We are currently sharing our services online through our Facebook page. Facebook link: https:// www.facebook.com/UMCofCoopCity/. We are also holding services via Zoom. For more information, visit our website at www.coopcityumc.com. In-person 10 a.m. Bilingual Sunday Service at the church can also be viewed online via Facebook and Zoom. 12 p.m. (Spanish) and 7 p.m. (English) Sunday School: 8 a.m. (English) Food Pantry: The Food Pantry distribution center at our church serves Section 5. Ongoing registration and distribution of food are on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-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 or older can register. Only one participant per household may register. Blessings. ––Marta Medina

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

Pentecostal Tabernacle Pentecostal Tabernacle, located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, invites everyone to worship service. Telephone number: 718-324-0334 or 646-345-6707. All services are held online. To join, please call 720-740-9746, Access Code: 8876631. Sunday worship service is from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Prayer and fasting service are held every Wednesday morning from 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held Wed. evening starting at 7:30 p.m. Worship service every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. Focus: The Effective Fruitful Christian “Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” (11 Peter 1:1-3) Becoming A Matured Christian We become a matured Christian as we develop the qualities of virtue, knowledge, self-control, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. These qualities will develop in our growing relationship with Jesus Christ. In a letter to the believers in Ephesus, Paul addressed the topic of spiritual growth and maturity in Christ Jesus. “And he gave some Apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers. For the perfecting of the saints, for the edifying of the body of Christ. That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the which every joint supplies, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, makes increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that he henceforth walk, not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart, Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.” (Ephesians 4: 11-19) Progressive spiritual growth is a normal process for all spiritually healthy Christian believers. As individuals continue to grow in Christian character, their reverence and respect for God continue to increase. This process of growing spiritually brings a believer to full maturity in Christ. God has given to His church the gift of ministry in all its aspects and dimensions in order to perfect this process of spiritual growth for believers. We should continue to grow spiritually every day. ––Rev. R. Sibblies

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service held in-person at 8 and 11 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 50 (lower level). Masks are required and temperatures will be taken. The 11 a.m. service will continue to be on Zoom using the following Zoom information: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#. The Free Call Conference dial-in number is: 857-357-0254, the Access Code is: 660065. Adult Sunday School is held in the Fellowship Hall at 9:15 a.m. Adult Sunday School is also available on the Free Conference line at 857-357-0254, Access Code: 660065#. Young Teens Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m. and Junior Sunday School is held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study classes are held at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. You can join using the Zoom or Free Call Conference Line shown above. Thursday Prayer Warriors is held at noon. You can join using the Free Conference Call.com Line, 857-357-0254, PIN: #660065. Friday Prayer is held at 10 a.m. You can join using the Free Conference Call. com Line shown above. Friday Evening Prayer Service is held at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome to join using the Free Conference Call.com line shown above. The Scholarship Ministry will be going to Mt. Rushmore, the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota on August 12, 2022, for 11 days and 10 nights and they are inviting you to travel with them. Price per person, based on double occupancy, is $1,225, which includes 18 meals, 10 breakfast and eight dinners and motorcoach transportation. You will have 10 nights lodging including four consecutive nights in South Dakota. Book your tour along with a deposit of $100, due immediately. You may contact Sister Claudette Cutlar Day at 718-379-0541 or Sister Brenda Robinson at 718-671-1271 for additional information or to make your reservation. Please keep each other in prayer and be wise in your decisions. Continue to wear your masks, practice social distancing and stay safe! “God will strengthen us as we travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry. ––Hattie L. Lucas

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City The Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City is planning a Chanukah party on December 5 at 1 p.m. The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Saturday morning services will start at 10 a.m. The requirement for wearing a mask and social distancing will be strictly enforced during all synagogue services. General Information – The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place, in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue. The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. We need men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m. so we can take out the Torah. The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City. Sabbath ends on Saturday, December 4, at 5:21 p.m. Candle lighting for Friday, December 10, at 4:08 p.m. Good and Welfare – ory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree (If you want to buy a tree, call 347- 449-5005). Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you are ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue. To All Members – Happy birthday to our members who will be celebrating their birthday in December. Please send me your names and I will add them to the list. Fun and Games – After services and Kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends, peace and good health. ––Bruce Gitelson

Don’t drink or text and drive. It’s the Law.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021 APPLIANCE REPAIR

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12/25

FATHER & SON RECORDS WANTED

CO-OP SALES - JASON LASH

Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497

PAINTING

Cassandra Watson-Gabbidon, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant. Website: www.marykay.com/cwatson-gabbidon. Phone: 954-861-0475. Mention this ad when you call. 12/11

Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Send an e-mail to: reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

(Continued from page 7)

use their key or ring the intercom. Many of the crimes that occur within the building have the perpetrator let into the building by a well-meaning cooperator. Please share this information with all members of your household. Thefts of catalytic convertors have been increasing statewide. The Public Safety department has taken reports of these thefts from vehicles most often when parked on the street and occasionally in the garages. Thieves must cut the device, which is part of the exhaust system, out from underneath the car. If you observe this type of activity, call 9-1-1 and Public Safety immediately at (718) 671-3050. Please be vigilant and look out for your neighbors. Observant cooperators can help us to catch these criminals. Online shopping can be a safer option to in-person shopping but it is not len packages in Co-op City, New York City, and, in fact, it is an expanding national issue. Public Safety patrols the buildings but Co-op City is a large can minimize the amount of time your package spends in the hallway. You can request delivery with a signature from certain delivery methods. Ask a trusted neighbor to be on the look-out for your packages and do the same for them. Try to order items to arrive at a time when someone will be home. Both Amazon and UPS have secure drop boxes in Co-op City and the surrounding areas. Amazon is one company that allows its “Prime” members to select one day of the week to receive all of their deliveries on a selected day. On certain items, you will even receive a rebate for selecting this option.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety is asking cooperators to social distance and wear masks or face coverings in the public areas of the buildings including the lobbies, hallways, elevators and laundry rooms. Wearing a mask is for your safety and the safety of your neighbors and family members. People should avoid gathering in large groups. Hand washing, the use of hand sanitizer and not touching your face are other strategies to reduce the spread of Covid-19 and other illnesses. Speak to your doctor and see if a vaccine is right for you and your children. Please follow the latest information provided by the CDC and the New York City Department of Health for the latest information and recommendations on health and safety during the Coronavirus pandemic.Be a smart cooperator and be Co-op City Strong. Cooperators should never confront other cooperators who are not wearing a mask. Mask wearing is a very sensitive issue to many residents. All age groups have a valid concern over their neighbors taking every possible precaution to reduce transmission of COVID 19. We must all be especially mindful that Co-op City has a substantial senior community that is particularly susceptible to the pandemic. Even those who may not be required to wear a mask must remain sensitive to the perception and level of concern this presents to other cooperators. Public Safety frequently responds to complaints and concerns from cooperators on both sides of the mask-wearing conundrum. Please wear a mask when entering or remaining in any public space within Co-op City. The CDC recommends wearing a mask even if vaccinated. Be Co-op City Strong and wear your mask.

Co-op City Times / December 4, 2021

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