Co-op City Times 01/07/2023

Reminder to Eligible Shareholders: Apply for SCRIE or DRIE

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Senior shareholders 62 years and older, and shareholders who are disabled may be eligible for the city’s SCRIE (Senior Citizens Rent Increase Exemption) or DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption) program. Those who qualify may be minimally affected by the 7.5% carrying charge increase that was implemented January 1, 2023.

The increase order issued by the Commissioner of the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR), approving the 7.5% carrying charge increase, was published on page 1 of the Saturday, December 10, 2022 Co-op City Times

In addition to information in the Co-op City Times, to further help inform shareholders about the SCRIE program offered by the city of New York, the Riverbay Board and Riverbay Fund invited NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), administrator of the SCRIE program for Mitchell-Lama residents, to conduct a workshop in Co-op City on Saturday, December 3, 2022 where shareholders were able to ask questions and get information about the program as well as assistance with applications.

The more than 300 shareholders who attended the SCRIE workshop were advised by HPD not to submit their applications until all income-supporting documents are available. These documents are generally mailed by the rein preparation for the upcoming tax season.

Shareholders already receiving SCRIE or DRIE do not need to reapply. Riverbay submitted the paperwork following HCR approval.

Both SCRIE and DRIE are part of the city’s Rent Freeze Program, and for homeowners in Mitchell-Lama developments such as Co-op City, SCRIE is administered by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), not the NYC Department of Finance.

Information on SCRIE can be obtained by calling HPD’s SCRIE Unit at

Shareholders applying for DRIE do so through the NYC Rent Freeze program which is processed through the NYC Department of Finance. For in-

Window Guard Form & Safety Notice Mailed Early Jan.

Shareholders will soon begin receiving their annual Window Guard form and Safety Notice in the mail. In the meantime, copies of both documents are posted in each building lobby for informational purposes. included in the mailing, and returned to Riverbay Management or phoned in, faxed or emailed as per directions included in the package. The deadline is February 15, 2023.

More information will be disseminated as the mailing date approaches, however, for now, shareholders should familiarize themselves with the documents by reading the poster in the building lobby.

Please note this is an annual process that must be completed by shareholders every year.

Holiday Storm Forces Natural Gas Curtailment at Power Plant

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Co-op City’s Power Plant temporarily switched to fuel oil over the Christmas weekend during last month’s winter storm.

The switch happened in response to a notice from Con Edison for the power notice required a natural gas curtailment from Friday, December 23, at midnight until 10 a.m. on December 27, according to Riverbay Power Plant Senior Director of Utility Assets, Anthony Ligato.

Last month’s plummeting temperatures over Christmas weekend caused ConEd to call a winter Demand Response event for commercial customers like the Power Plant to discontinue natural gas use and switch to fuel oil to help reduce strain on the grid and avoid outages. Residential customers were also asked to turn down thermostats and avoid using gas-powered appliances.

Con Edison issued Riverbay the notice roughly a day in advance of the required temporary switch.

In general, Con Edison issues demand response notices in anticipation of potential power surges caused by extreme weather or temperature shifts. These response notices strategically help provide more stability and alleviate strains on New York’s power grid.

State Senate Bill Could Help Co-op Boards With Retrofitting Costs

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

A New York State Senate bill could potentially help Riverbay Corporation off-

State Senator Kevin Parker of the 21st Congressional District proposed the legislation, currently called State Senate Bill S9603.

If passed, the bill would amend the real property tax law by “establishing an abatement and exemption from real property taxes for capital improvements to reduce carbon emissions,” according to the NY State Senate online database.

In other words, the legislation would provide relief for property owners whocal Law 97.

As a quick recap, Local Law 97 mandates that buildings “over 25,000 squaresions limits by 2024, with stricter limits coming into effect in 2030,” as outlined in the NYC Department of Buildings website. Since Co-op City is a Mitchell-Lama affordable housing development, the deadline to comply with Local Law 97 is 2035.

Under the bill, tax exemptions for property owners would be calculated based on “any assessed value increase for the eligible improvement for a period of twenor after December 31, 2021 and were completed within 60 months of receiving a permit.

The bill also detailed that tax abatements would be determined by calculating

In general, tax exemptions lower the amount of tax owed by reducing a property’s assessed value, while abatements reduce taxes by applying credits to the total amount of taxes owed, as explained on the NYC Department of Finance website.

reported by Habitat

COMBING

Co-op City Times

What’s Going on In the Dawg Haus

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

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

Baychester Library Hosts Programs at Bay Plaza Mall

Baychester Library has partnered with Bay Plaza Mall to present several Adult (18+) and Chilof the mall in the back area of the served. The dates are as follows:

Children’s Storytime and Arts/ Crafts: Jan. 10 & 17, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Adult Book Discussion: Jan. 12, Nicholas Sparks’ “The Wish,” 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Adult Resource Tabling: Jan. 12 & 19, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

The library is closed for renovations and is expected to reopen early this year. To locate other NYPL branches, visit: nypl.org/ locations.

Bartow Mall Parking Alert

Shareholders, guests and shoppers are reminded that there is a two-hour parking limit in the Bartow Mall. Parking is for the exclusive use of customers while shopping within the Bartow Mall, with a posted two-hour limit.

Vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Test & Treat Mobile Van in Co-op City

NYC Test & Treat Corps’ Mobile Test to Treat unit is available daily on a rotating schedule at the three shopping centers, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. as follows next week:

Mon./Tues.: 135 Einstein Loop

Wed./Thurs.: 2049 Bartow Ave. Fri./ Sat./Sun.: 177 Dreiser Loop.

Locations are approximate depending on parking availability.

The mobile van offers PCR, Rapid, Flu and RSV testing.

Anyone who tests positive at the van can speak with an onsite clinician, and, if eligible, receive free Paxlovid anti-viral medication.

Appointments not required. Bring ID and insurance card, if available. Insurance is not necessary; service is open to everyone.

In the Dawg Haus

Fire Safety

ment, leave immediately, and alert

Co-op City shareholders are

Pete Marter, also known as “Pops,” is a seventy-seven year old shareholder of Co-op

In the Dawg Haus

In the Dawg Haus

Tanked. thanks his dear friend, Kevin

Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok

Pops Marter

Richie Marter

Better Business Bureau Scam Alert

Spotting Misleading Ads and Subscription Traps for Weight Loss Products

When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, scammers know that losing weight is one of the most popular goals. This popularity has led to a slew of scams involving supplements and weight loss formulas claiming to offer rapid results. Not only are the products themselves questionable, but so are the business dealings of the companies peddling them.

How This Scam Works

Most weight loss product scams start with promises that are simply too good to be true. Body wraps, topical creams, dietary supplements, pills, powders, skin patches, and even earrings have

You may see these ads on TV, in periodicals, or, more commonly, on social media. They usually come with some amazing before and after pictures of people who claim to have used the product and glowweight loss products often claim to have been featured on popular TV shows like Shark Tank.

The sad truth is the ads are misleading and many contain ingredients that can be damaging to your health.

To make matters worse, some of these companies engage in unscrupulous selling techniques.

product doesn’t work as claimed in the ads. Some consumers believed they were making a onetime purchase. Instead, the company repeatedly billed their credit cards for more of the product. How to Avoid Phony Weight Loss Products

• Don’t be quick to trust endorsements. Many scammers use pictures of celebrities, TV show mentions, or well-known company logos to gain consumers’ trust. Always research the company before doing business with them, no matter who supposedly endorses their product.

• Avoid products that tout sudden weight loss without diet or exercise. eticians, and other experts agree that losing weight takes work and should be gradual. Pass up any product that promises miraculous, sudden results without any effort.

• Be wary of free trial offers, and before signing up, understand all the terms and conditions. These deals can become “subscription traps” that hook consumers into expensive shipments of products they did not agree to buy.

If you’ve been the victim of a scam, report it to Better Business Bureau’s Scam Tracker. By reporting your experience, you can help others avoid falling for the same scam.

Reminder – Feeding animals

Shareholders are reminded that it is a violation of your lease to place food out for animals to eat.

A Community Complaint may be issued for littering to anyone who puts food out for any reason. Well-intentioned cooperators may think they are putting food out for stray cats or birds, but the food ends up attracting rats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes or other animals which can be a threat to residents.

Feeding wildlife, such as geese, also tends to change the migration and feeding patterns of these animals as they end food sources could also dry up leading to starvation.

Food placed out for animals is often lacking in the nutrition needed by the animals and serves to upset their ecological balance. Please resist the urge to place food out for animals in Co-op City or elsewhere.

Thank you for your cooperation.

BY P.M CAMPBELL

Are you an Artist interested in being featured in the Co-op City Times? We encourage Co-op City artists to submit their best pieces (Paintings. Poems. Photos.), regardless of age or technical skill for this month’s presentation.

Email your best work to PMcCoyCampbell@ riverbaycorp.com with “Co-op Creatives” in the subject line. Along with your artwork, please send a picture of yourself, your section of Co-op, a short personal bio including your pronouns, and an explanation of your piece/pieces. If you are selected, you will be featured in the Co-op City Times.

If you’re not selected for this month, don’t worry; there is always next month! We can’t wait to share all the very talented artists from Co-op City with our community!

Fatalities Dropped in 2022 for First Time in Three Years

Pedestrian Deaths Drop 6.3% from 2021

portation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced that in

fewest in recorded history.

New York City continues to defy national trends around pedestrian deaths, which are at a four-decade high nationally. Trafbicycle ridership has soared in recent years.

“Across the board, the numbers are clear: New York City is getting safer,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

North Star remains Vision Zero, and we will continue working York City.”

Ydanis Rodriguez. “We are proud that last year saw some encouraging trends, but Mayor Adams has made it clear that where

number is zero. As we enter the New Year, I want to thank the

improvements through a variety of treatments, including intersection redesigns, signal upgrades, all-way stop installations, day, seven days a week. The expansion more than doubled the

with month-over-month declines. In August, cameras recorded

tinue working with city and state elected leaders on legislative proposals aimed at increasing accountability among reckless drivers and keeping drivers with a history of dangerous behavior

“The city is taking proactive steps to ensure that it’s safe for pedestrians to traverse the vast expanses of our city,” said State

beginning to take a detour away from years of pedestrian and cycling dangers. The city’s work coupled with our efforts in the state legislature to lower the legal blood alcohol content from creating truly safe streets for everyone.”

Letter

to

the Editor

Illegal Postings are an Eyesore

Did you know the New York City Department of Sanitation has a unit that addresses illegal postings around posted to city (public) property. This form of advertising is illegal and an eyesore in our city. Upon receiving a 311 complaint, the NYC Sanitation department will respond to the location, obtain the contact information and, if possible, notify the party to remove the advertisement. If the advertisement is not removed within the time allotted, the party. Why is this important?

When you travel around our community, it looks cleaner when there are no signs attached, glued onto street light land grass. All of the above are eyesores and create garbage around our city. The signs are a distraction for drivers; importantly, it is illegal, and in order to have a cleaner community, this activity has to be reported to the city for action.

Look around our community and other areas of the city, do you see the difference?

What are your thoughts and comments, please share them in the Co-op City Times with a short letter (email) to the editor.

Shareholders should be aware that home invasions are on the rise nationwide.

These individuals dress up as if they are from a commonly known commercial delivery company and display a fraudulent package as if they are going to deliver it to you. Once you open up the door, the delivery impersonator, along with other hidden individuals, push their way inside of your home. They are known to use zip-ties to restrain their victims, then remove any valuable items inside your home.

There have not been any reported incidents in Co-op City, however, CCPD would like shareholders to be vigilant when a company is attempting to deliver a package to you.

It is always a wise decision to keep balcony and all other doors locked. Have a light on a timer to give the impression that someone is home. You can also consider keeping a radio or television on even if it’s just for an hour while you run a quick errand.

Door knob turners are also another version of a perpetrator attempting to commit a home invasion. Remind all members of your household not to open the door for strangers and if you suspect criminal activity, please call 911 and CCPD, (718) 671-3050.

Nowadays, anybody can obtain a delivery company uniform as well produce a bogus ID. To be on the safe side, have the person attempting to deliver a package to you leave it at your ing before retrieving it. If you suspect suspicious activity, immediately notify 911 and/or CCPD at 718-671-3050.

The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents.

When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.

Keep vehicles clear of ice and snow. Good vision is a key to good driving.

Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert. Remember, snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

Schedule extra time for winter travel and be patient during ice and snow removal operations. Never follow a snowplow too closely or attempt to pass one. Remember that the highway ahead of the plow is usually snow-covered.

Assume that bridge surfaces are slippery, as they freeze more quickly than road surfaces.

but makes conditions slippery when pavement temperatures are below freezing. Have a cell phone handy and charged. Equip your car with emergency supplies. Inform a responsible person of your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival.

Keep calm and do not panic in case of a vehicle breakdown, accident, or if you become snowbound. Keep your gas tank full to prevent gasoline freeze-up.

Run your engine for short periods of time to stay warm. Keep your down-wind window open and make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow.

Turn on the dome light at night when you are running the engine to signal rescuers.

Hang a brightly colored piece of cloth or piece of clothing from your car.

Exercise from time to time by vigorously moving to keep warm.

Preparing your vehicle for winter weather travel will help ensure your vehicle is in good working order when you need it most.

Have a mechanic check the following items on your vehicle:

* Battery

*

* Antifreeze * Ignition system * Thermostat * Lights * Exhaust system

* Flashing hazard lights * Heater * Brakes

* Defroster

* Oil level

equate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. You may also want to carry a set of tire chains in your vehicle for heavy snow conditions. Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal and maintain at least a half tank of gas throughout the winter season.

Finally, plan long trips carefully. Listen to the local media report or call law enforcement agencies for the latest road conditions.

Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

LETTERS TO

We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at

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.

Co-op City Times

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which ity and residency of the writer can be

Thank you for your cooperation.

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

CCPD Offers Illness Prevention Tips for the Duration of the Flu Season

Public Safety Report

Now is the perfect time to get a flu shot if your doctor recommends it. No one wants to take a chance of contracting the flu. Some flu symptoms may mimic Covid-19 symptoms. Getting flu in addition to Covid-19 is something no one would want to experience. By taking a few simple precautions, you can greatly reduce your risk of exposure to flu. Many of these precautions can also be effective at reducing your risk of contracting Covid-19. The Department of Public Safety offers these tips to keep you safe during the cold and flu season. If you have never gotten a flu shot, this may be a good year to start. The healthier everyone can be, the better.

Disease awareness has heightened during the Covid-19 pandemic. The flu is starting to receiving media attention which has not been the case since the “Swine Flu” epidemic of 2009. Every year, scientists attempt to predict the pending flu strains and produce an effective vaccination. We do not know yet if the devised vaccination will be 100% effective against all of the current flu strains that may affect the population. Some years’ vaccines are in short supply after the media creates flu awareness. It is always best to get your vaccine before supplies run low or you actually catch a full-blown case of the flu.

Do not put off getting your flu vaccine. Once you get the flu, it is too late. If you have ever had the flu, you know it is not something you would like to experience again. Fortunately, the large number of people receiving flu vaccinations and public awareness regarding disease prevention may have slowed the spread of flu and other illnesses.

The symptoms and degree of illness caused by the flu virus and Covid-19 vary for each individual. Some people will become very ill while others sustain only minor symptoms. Your general health and other risk factors will determine how any illness will affect you. Persons with other underlying health problems can face serious complications in connection with Covid-19 or the flu. High risk groups include the elderly, young children, pregnant women,

Public Safety Blotter

December 25 – December 31, 2022

December 25

133 Einstein Loop

CCPD officers responded for larceny of an e-Bike. The owner reported the bike was removed during business hours.

100 Carver Loop

CCPD officers responded for a dispute over money. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the perpetrator struck the victim and removed the victim’s cell phone and wallet. The victim’s property was recovered and the perpetrator was arrested. A community complaint was issued for Anti-Social Behavior.

December 26

100 Elgar Place

CCPD ESU responded for a wellness check. Upon entry into the apartment, the cooperator was located on the bedroom floor. EMS transported the individual to Montefiore Hospital.

120 Benchley Place

The building association reported their holiday ornaments being vandalized.

120 Elgar Place

CCPD responded to a dispute. Upon arrival, it was determined a domestic incident occurred and a report was prepared.

2071 Bartow Ave.

During a routine inspection,

CCPD found the commercial establishment unsecured and corrected the condition.

December 27

99 Carver Loop

A cooperator reported his motorcycle stolen from Garage 3. Adler Place Townhouses

CCPD responded for loud music. The offending apartment was issued a community complaint.

December 28

120 Casals Place

CCPD responded for individuals removing tires. Upon further investigation, the vehicle was listed as stolen. The vehicle was removed to police impound.

920 Baychester Ave.

A cooperator reported money being removed from his person by an unknown individual. It appears he was targeted after returning from the bank located at the Baychester Mall. Adler Place Townhouses

CCPD responded for loud music. The offending apartment was issued a community complaint.

December 30

920 Baychester Ave.

While on routine patrol, CCPD officers observed a vehicle with the passenger window broken and the hood removed.

BLOTTER BONUS: Shareholders should be familiar with their surroundings. There are scammers and fraudsters at work looking for an easy, dishonest buck. Bring a friend with you if you are withdrawing large sums of money from a financial institution. Better yet, have the money electronically transferred to a debit card. So now you know…protect that dough!

obese persons, diabetics, asthmatics and those with compromised immune systems. Those at high risk of complications should see their doctor and consider being vaccinated against this year’s strain of the flu. Vaccination has proved to be highly effective in preventing flu infection. Your doctor is your best resource for information regarding flu vaccinations or other vaccinations you see advertised on television.

The media may be focusing on Covid-19 reporting at this time. Illness prevention is always a good idea. The single most important step everyone can take to prevent contracting Covid-19, the flu or any other illness is frequent and thorough hand washing. This is especially important for school-age children. Children may sneeze or cough and then come in contact with items other children may touch. Children may then touch their face or their mask area allowing flu germs to enter the eyes, nose or mouth very easily. By washing your hands frequently and thoroughly with warm water and soap, you minimize the risk from this type of exposure. If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer should be utilized. Hand sanitizer is available in small containers which can easily be carried in a pocket or purse. Some of these decorative, small containers have cases designed to be clipped onto a lunch bag, backpack or belt loop.

If you or any member of your family exhibit flu or Covid-19 symptoms, be sure to stay home from work or school, get plenty of bed rest and increase fluid consumption. These are very important steps in preventing the spread of various illnesses. This gives the body the chance to rest and recover as rapidly as possible. Any school closings or outbreaks in the New York City schools can be found on the NYC website, www.nyc.gov/flu, or www.nyc.gov/coronavirus. Please be sure to notify your child’s school if your child becomes ill with the flu or any other contagious illness. Follow the advice of your doctor to determine when it is safe for your child to return to school.

Taking certain drugs can greatly decrease the severity of the flu virus if taken within 24 to 48 hours of exposure to the flu virus. See your doctor, especially if you have other underlying medical conditions or health risks. Don’t always expect a doctor to prescribe antibiotics for every illness. In many cases, antibiotics do nothing but make illnesses resistant to antibiotics. Upsetting the balance of your good intestinal bacteria can result in serious illnesses. It is still a good idea to rule out illnesses such as strep or flu.

The Centers for Disease Control no longer recommends taking flu medication for exposure to flu. It is only recommended for persons who actually exhibit flu symptoms. Check their website for more information at www.cdc.gov/ flu or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Do not allow media attention to create panic in regards to the flu virus. This year’s strain of the flu virus is no more serious than previous strains of flu. By taking precautions, you can minimize your risk of exposure to the flu virus. Your health goes hand-in-hand with your well-being and safety.

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

Director’s Viewpoint – Daryl Johnson

cial problems for a long period of tors are fed up with this nonsense and with this new 7.5 percent carry charge increase. So, the board must try to make things better in 2023.

We Must Do Better

Shortly, our executive general manager will be retiring. So, it’s possible that NYS will start to make agement company here. Now, naturally, NYS will nity. And, it’s possible that those thoughts could be true.

On the other hand, some management companies might not be good for our community. So, without a care in the world, they might think that they can do whatever they want. Therefore, they might try to spend almost every penny that we make. Furthermore, they might try to drain our bank accounts. Then, their quest for more money might continue.

Therefore, they might request additional carrying us. And, of course, they will always keep a watchful can continue to get more money for their projects. Thereafter, this community will just stay in debt. And, sadly, some folks will foolishly go around tors that this is the proper way that Riverbay should be operating. But, in my opinion, they’re horribly wrong. For instance, everyone needs to understand Therefore, the affordability of carrying charges is the primary purpose of this program. Now, do you honestly believe that most NYC ability of their apartments with a community like carrying charges to their rents. For instance, here are the median

Welcome to 2023

published in this newspaper on many occasions.

ers that can work with our board in a productive way to achieve the results that we want. Negative

make it happen.

Out of Control Dogs

There were some shows on television about dogs that were biting their owners, destroying families, and terrifying neighborhoods. Furthermore, those shows featured some dogs that were so out of control that they would not let anyone go near their owner.

dogs and people.

ing in a similar manner. And, unfortunately, some dog owners think that everyone is supposed to put up with this foolishness. They’re wrong! Why would a dog owner get upset and argumentative when their

other person when they’re in an elevator or outside? No, this type of conduct is simply wrong.

Do you think that there’s a problem when a dog owner cannot physically control an aggressive dog? What about dogs that are growling and barking in their apartment, and disturbing their neighbors?

ers refuse to clean up after their dog. For instance, there were allegations that a dog owner would let their dog go out the back door of their building to do their business. Afterward, the dog would run back inside to the owner.

NYC does not allow dogs and their owners

cited ways. Therefore, Riverbay can legally have aggressive dogs

So, does it make sense to compare our carrying ment, to what most landlords are charging in other tive, the answer is no. Regardless, this is the type of nonsense that goes on here to justify raising up our carrying charges on an annual basis. dous improvements to our community have been

munity. Also, NYC and against cooperators that refuse to clean up after their dog. However, how can Riverbay stop

porting these matters? Therefore, please call partment immediately see or experience these

negative behaviors.

erators and their dog might need some professional help? Yes! Therefore, please get that professional tain our community in a positive way. Thank you.

ingly, the director wanted to justify a pay increase not have enough money to pay their own bills. So, say that broker does for us. From my perspective, Riverbay should have Close

better?

Thank you.

Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@riverbayboard.com. you would like to have a brief discussion with me. ful week and a wonderful holiday. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

BY ANTHONY BARZELATTO

Fire Safety for Co-op City Residents

Importance of Closing the Door and Safe Use of Space Heaters

The tragic fire of January 2022 in Fordham Heights in the Bronx that claimed the lives of 19 children and adults, injured more than 65 and left scores of families homeless, was reportedly started by a malfunctioning space heater.

Fire in the affected apartment was not contained because the door was left open, causing the fire and smoke to spread. Smoke traveled throughout the building because stairwell doors were also left open. Firefighters found victims on every floor and in the stairwells.

This was one of the worst residential fires New York City has seen. The tragic loss of life and displacement of families could have been prevented, and this is an opportune time to remind Co-op City shareholders about fire safety.

Riverbay high rise buildings are “FIRE PROOF,” and it is therefore usually safer to stay inside your apartment when there is a fire in your building, rather than entering dangerous, smoke-filled hallways. Generally, fires in fireproof buildings will be contained to the portion of the building where the fire started. Additionally, if the fire is below your apartment, you could risk being caught in rising heat and smoke in stairwells. If you and your loved ones are not in imminent danger from a fire or a fire isn’t burning inside your apartment, do the following:

Keep your door closed

Seal doors or openings with duct tape, wet sheets or wet towels

It is ok to open your windows a few inches unless flames or smoke is coming from directly below

Do not break the windows as you may need to close them later Call 911 and give the dispatcher your apartment number and description of the conditions Follow instructions from Dispatchers; they are trained to help Remember to always listen to instructions from the Fire Department during a fire or emergency

Call Maintenance if your apartment door does not self-close and/or latch HOW CLOSING YOUR DOOR WORKS

You might think that a closed door would be no match for a the difference between how a room with an open door and a room with a closed door sur-

Smoke moves up and from the top down. So which means it can’t seep beneath the door easily. That’s why we’re taught to stay low in the case -

“The more control you can have over the oxygen, the more control you can the kitchen while you are sleeping, you may have enough time to wake up and

This could give you just enough time to exit the building or to call 911. But smoke, heat and toxic fumes are just beyond your door.

the temperature can remain below 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius) with carbon monoxide levels at 100 PPM (parts per million). Compare that to a room with the door open where temperatures can quickly rise above 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit (377 Celsius) and carbon monoxide levels become extremely more quickly today than they used to.

SPACE HEATERS

As temperatures drop outside, many families rely on portable space heaters to help keep them warmth in the winter, if used incorrectly, they can be dangerous. Space heaters cause about 1,700 fires annually nationwide. They are the culprits in 81% of fatal fires.

UNDERSTAND THE DANGERS

1. Do not leave space heaters on unattended which includes overnight while you sleep.

2. Do not place space heaters near anything combustible such as bedding, curtains and furniture. The rule is to keep space heaters a minimum of 3 feet away.

3. Do not let your kids near a space heaters.

4. Keep your space heater on flat ground. Do not place space heaters on top of a countertop. It may fall and start a fire.

5. Keep space heaters away from water.

6. Space heaters must be plugged directly into the wall outlet. Never use a surge protector, extension cord or plug timers. These added layers of electrical connection can increase the chance of overloading the circuit, or they can create additional resistance which allows heat to build up within the wiring.

7. Your space heater should have a label that shows it was tested by a recog-

8. Buy space heaters that have safety features like a tip-over switch that shuts off the unit if it falls over, along with an overheat sensor which does the same.

9. Check the cord and heater to ensure the unit is in safe working order with no cracks or tears.

10. Do not place the space heater’s cord under a rug or in an area where it

Happy New Year – Yes I Know, It’s The Service

First and foremost, I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe, healthy, and Happy New Year!

We all have a lot to be thankful for. Unfortunately, we also continue the uphill struggle with keeping Co-op City affordable while maintaining our above average quality of life.

During Bill Clinton’s initial run for the presidency in 1992, he ran on the country’s failing economy. While the incumbent President was attempting to build on his popularity upon America’s success in the Desert Storm war, the average American citizen was struggling economically. Candidate Bill Clinton’s recognition of that struggle connected with voters, and put forth his winning campaign slogan: It’s the economy stupid!

It’s The Service!

Shareholders have basically accepted the 7.5% increase that the majority of the Board voted for this past September.

The economic impact upon individual shareholders notwithstanding, cooperators are now asking – will the increases to our carrying charges come with any appreciable changes to our services? I understand, it’s the services! Nobody’s stupid, just frustrated, feeling that we are paying more, yet getting less!

Last year, I requested that the Board consider providing Management with a series of policy changes to one of the most often criticized areas – the corporation’s handling of calls to Maintenance, Restoration, and contractors representing the corporation. I presented memos to the Board addressing many of your concerns. There are several Directors who are like-minded. One of our newest Directors, Lynette Wright, is adamant about making adjustments to the Call Center, like giving shareholders the option to make non-emergency appointments by email. My

the appointment, ending with the cooperator’s satisfaction with the quality of work performed and the

In reviewing the much-anticipated report from the architects/engineers hired to assess the conditions of our heating and air conditioning piping (the convectors), I can tell you that the contents of the report are not at all favorable for shareholders. The projected cost to reconstruct the system is beyond reasonable consideration. I maintain that the immediate probby clogs created within the pipes, is the immediate concern, and must be addressed this coming spring. I have campaigned on, and will continue to advocate for having Management commence in taking a proactive approach to the removal of the build-up of substances within the convector pipes.

both the individual cooperator and to all shareholders who pay for the asbestos tests, and the restoration of

I’ve Heard You – So

My written opinion in this viewpoint should not be construed as a backdoor attack on Management.

and as a representative of each and every cooperator,

informed of major changes that are about to affect our shareholders’ quality of life, including the roll out of day-to-day operations.

Sale of Cannabis Products from Motor Vehicles

In my December 12th viewpoint, I mentioned that during the November 29th Legislative Committee meeting, Assemblyman Benedetto was made aware that there were at least two motor vehicles (vans) that were advertising (if not selling) cannabis products on and around Edson Ave. near the bus stops, and on Bartow Ave., near Sangria Restaurant. On or about December 6, 2022, a van with Virginia license plates, advertising the sale of cannabis products, began to park on Bartow Ave., near the corner of Co-op City Blvd.

The main issue of concern is the legality of dispensing the cannabis product on the streets to pedestrians on our sidewalks. The van is advertised as being connected to Green Empress Cannabis. (GREENEMPRESSCANNABIS.COM).

Green Empress LLC, is registered in Clermont, noid Hemp Retail License - OCM-HMPR-22-02633,

(OCM). The licenses that have been issued, but have not been cleared for the dispensing of cannabis products, and were only issued to brick and mortar businesses. According to the OCM, there have been no licenses issued for the dispensing of cannabis products to motor vehicles. NY State OCM (and news reporting) maintains that there is only one entity that is currently legally permitted to sell cannabis products

Cannabis Co.,in lower Manhattan.

Last point – the OCM license to dispense Cannabis products does not supersede the NYC Dept. of Consumer Affairs requirement to obtain a vendor’s license to operate from our streets or on our sidewalks.

Comments regarding the dispensing of cannabis products can be addressed by following the information within the NY State OCM website: https:// cannabis.ny.gov/marihuana-regulation-and-taxation-act-mrta. I strongly suggest that you do so today.

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

What You Can Do To Deter Package Theft

Utilizing a combination of the following tips can reduce the likelihood of thieves stealing your packages:

Always track your shipment online.

Choose a shipping option that requires a signature for delivery.

Schedule packages to arrive when you are home or arrange to ship your packages to a location where a friend, relative, trusted neighbor, or building super can accept them on your behalf.

Ship packages to your place of employment.

Request the delivery service hold your package for pick-up at their facility.

Utilize deliveries to retailer provided lockers or carrier provided alternate drop points where you can go to pick up your item.

Utilize free services that track packages, redirect packages to convenient locations for pick-up, and request vacation holds.

Have Others

There are a host of issues that many shareholders have openly expressed as being problematic. Arguably, none was articulated more than the belief that most cooperators feel that neither Board Directors nor Management are listening to them, or are adequately addressing their day-to-day issues. Transparency between Management, the Board and shareholders continues to an issue. The change in the Board’s leadership has demonstrated some new courses of action.

The Board’s role has historically been outlined Corporation and for approving policy by which we are all subject to adhere to and live by. In my opinion, the roll-out of policy must have the prior consent of the full Board. To that point, the Board as a body, did not participate, nor agree to, the present roll-out of the key fob/removal of the lobby and back door key cylinders. In my opinion, the Board should have been for our asking pertinent logistical questions on behalf of all shareholders.

Some shipping companies utilize tracking services which can include features such as shipping status noti cations and delivery scheduling. Check to see if these services are available in your area.

Wi-Fi enabled cameras that provide alerts.

Motion-sensor lighting.

Package lock-boxes.

Report suspicious persons to the police.

Where applicable, consider installing: Crime

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – Wow! Here we are in 2023! We wish all of our members, friends and neighbors, good health, peace and prosperity in this New Year!

the new year tomorrow, January 8, at 3 p.m. Members and Associates, havetional dues of $50 and local dues of $25 have been paid. You cannot run for -

website, NCNW.org. Our local section dues may be paid by check or via PayPal at https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=PWSEV8YLJJGDW, or through our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com. Checks can be made payable and mailed to NCNW Co-op City Section, P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475.

Holiday Collection for Children – We wish to thank the members of the Co-op City community who so very generously supported our efforts to make the Christmas season a happy one for the children of the Phipps Center, our neighbors. You donated new coats as well as scarfs, gloves, hats, books and toys to make the children’s Christmas holiday merry and bright. Thank you for always being so supportive of our efforts. The happiness that you brought will extend far into the New Year.

Community Refrigerator Collaboration – Despite the frigid temperature, we were able to provide avocados, pineapples, blueberries, green peppers, cau-

Eve, we served about 80-85 families. We gave blackberries, kale, radishes, mangoes, onions, potatoes, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and some prepared meals. It was a great way to end the year.

Youth Section – Our Youth Section was thrilled to have the opportunity to see the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on Christmas Eve. They even saw “Revelations,” the signature performance of the company.

National NCNW – NCNW is known for GoodHealthWINs which provides trusted health care information.

You are all invited to a webinar entitled, of You,” on Thursday, January 12, at 7 p.m. Dr. University of Medicine, will be the main speaker. You can register for this free Zoom at: https://bit.

Lost Ring

Graduation Ring; City College of New York; 1966

The stone has three Greek letters on it: Beta Sigma Rho. Lost in or around Food Universe in the Bartow Mall a couple of weeks ago. If found, please contact: Stewart Berman at (347) 889-2235.

for people living with chronic health conditions that put them at higher risk, it

––Joyce Howard

NCNW youth at Alvin Ailey Theater.

Building 13 Association

Wishing our community and family/friends both near and far a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

Thank you to all who joined the festivities celebrating the New Year 2023. The food and music were great. Thank you also for the volunteers who helped decorate the room for the event.

FDNY mobile CPR Training Unit: On Saturday, January 21, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, CPR classes will be held in the Bldg. 13 Association Room.

This a free course provided by the FDNY mobile CPR Training Unit. They will teach the skills required to act in the event of a cardiac arrest. The course generally takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour. It is

teach basic instructions on how to use an Automateding compression-only mannequins and “watch-whilepractice” DVD instruction for the general public.

Limited spaces available. To attend, RSVP: 917515-0264, or send an e-mail to lisaarodriguez0411@ gmail.com. Include your name, telephone number, address and apartment number.

NYC Public Service Retirees Update: It has beenvice & Labor Committee Carmen DeLaRosa brought the bill to change the Administrative Code 12-126

vote on January 19. The organization will provide information regarding these dates and how you can testify. Because this is going to the Civil Service and Labor Committee, the NYC Retiree Organization suggests you call or email them -

Building 25 Association

who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon. Our next building association meeting will be held Tuesday, January 17, at 7:30 p.m. Look out for detailed information notices posted near elevators as we get closer to the meeting date. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns via our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know.

“New Year’s Day. A fresh start. A new chapter in life waiting to be written. New questions to be asked, embraced, and loved. Answers to be discovered and then lived in this transformative year of delight and self-discovery. Today carve out a quiet interlude for yourself in which to dream, pen in hand. Only dreams give birth to change.”

––Wanda Bailey

–Sarah Ban Breathnach

The organization has provided a template for you when sending an email. For additional details, check the website at the NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees or look for them on Facebook

Reminders:

Look for the sign posted in your lobby by Riverbay or check the Co-op City Times for information. Documents will be coming soon in your mailbox.

Please make sure your apartment entrance door is self-closing. If you have requested repair and have not heard from anyone, please let us know.

Those who have not received their fob should contact the Parking Facilities and Commercial Leasing Department.

Visit our Facebook Page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City

––Leslie Peterson

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

The Co-op City Branch was established in July 1973. In recognition, we have a 50th Anniversary Commemorative Pin that is now available. Purchase yours now for $20 each. To order, send payment to the address below. More information to follow regarding our 50th Anniversary Celebration events.

Save the Dates: NYS Conference 1st Quarterly Meet and Training Session will be Saturday, January 14, at 10:00 a.m., UFT Building at 52 Broadway. If you would like to attend, RSVP Secretary Brenda Brown.

Note: The Townhall Meeting – Meet NYC DOE Chancellor David Banks presented by NAACP Co-op City Branch in collaboration with the NYC Department of Education and Riverbay Corporation has been postponed until further notice.

Democracy Wins: This election season, the NAACP worked diligently to mobilize voters across the country, and because of our members, we were able to:

Distribute nearly $7 million to 55 groups to support voter mobilization efforts

Place radio ads across Georgia, Arizona, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina, Nevada, Ohio, Wisconsin and Michigan to turn out voters.

Send approximately 8 million texts to encourage Americans to vote

Recruit 30,000 volunteers including poll workers and volunteers for relational organizing

Partner with Vote.org to register voters and recruit poll workers

Partner with HIT strategies to conduct critical research around key issues impacting the Black community

Partner with Lyft to offer free rides to and from polling stations for up to $50 off per person

Train legal experts, who were deployed across the country to monitor any irregularities at polling places, voter suppression, and intimidation.

With your help, we were able to make history – again.

Season’s Greetings to all and a happy, healthy New Year.

Covid-19 is still here. Wash hands, wear a mask, get vaccinated, boosted and the Flu shot.

Follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP. Become a member or gift a membership: adult: $30, youth: $10. Make checks/money orders payable to: NAACP Co-op City #2210, and mail to: N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City, Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

––Brenda Brown

Broun Place Townhouse Association

We hope a fabulous and happy new year was had by all, and that together with friends or family, you did the grand shout-out at midnight, “Happy New Year.” I was remiss in not sending birthday greetings to neighbors and friends, Mrs. Ann Ventrella and Ms. Tamara Hodges, on their shared birthday. Then on January 6, wish me a happy birthday as well as another anniversary that is going on, the anniversary of the insurrection on Washington D.C. We are listening very carefully to the news reports and we hope for justice for the nation’s capital. Finishing out the year, we join together to mourn Barbara Walters who died December 30 and the former Pope, Benedict XVl, who passed within hours of the new year. I also have to mention the anniversary of my mother’s passing on January 7. Finally, December is completed with the Kwanzaa celebration.

We loved seeing the total CCPD Toy Drive collection. Broun Place Townhouse Association donated a shopping cart full of toys and goodies to the CCPD Toy Drive. CCPD exhibited the total collection.

Thank you again to the generous residents who donated to our ground person collection. Donations were received by Association President, Eva Lazaar, and gifted to our grounds person before the holiday.

Statistics support you can expect to live longer in our NORC community. We have shopping, medical services, socialization opportunities and exercise options, all within walking distance. We are looking forward to the all-clear signal for Building 21’s meeting room so we can have association meetings again.

I was hoping to generate an association newsletter. We want your tidings and shout-outs. All your news is welcome; anything of importance from you is important to me.

Reviewing garbage procedures: the white bin is for paper, while green and blue are for all other house garbage. Bag old mattresses. It is a cooperator of-

continue to pick up gutter garbage littered by locals between Broun Place and Garage 6, do you? Clothes for recycling should be brought to Garage 6, front or rear. Brand new blue bins are at the gates of Garage 6.

877-VAX-4NYC, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine. Seniors, register with the Riverbay “RUOK” emergency contact programs. This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic sickness. Seniors, get involved with JASA. Do not waste water, prepare full washing machine loads and full dish loads too.

performances and stunning effects.

Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever!

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Building 22A & 22B Association

Happy New Year. Let us start by getting our vaccines and all the shots we need to stay healthy. The world is mourning Pele, Barbara Walters and Pope Benedict XVI among our heroes.

The 7.5% rent increase has gone into effect and the Social Security raise will help the seniors with the new maintenance. Please get your Co-op City Times; it will have all the community information.

2022 at about 6:30 p.m. via a robo-call from Co-op City’s emergency alert system. Co Ed instructed us to minimize our stove use until further notice while Co Ed was working on the problem. The laundry room was closed all day Wednesday, but we were cleared for use at 7 p.m. that evening. I urge all cooperators to apply for this service. To receive calls and texts, call or visit CSO II at the Bartow Community center to get the form.

Work on our association room will start this month. Check the bulletin board for more information. Decorations will be removed after Three Kings Day.

Dog Owners: Keep up the good work. Thank you. Do not throw anything off your terraces or you will get a community complaint.

Compactor Rooms: Please continue to follow the instructions for recycling. All bottles and cans should be washed and then put in plastic bags. Large boxes go to the basement, while smaller boxes should be folded down and placed on the wooden ledge with newspapers.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Please pick up fabric softener sheets. Remove

will help your clothes dry faster. Happy birthday to all this month. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones. Check on the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something.

Thank you.

––Betty Leak

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

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

General Membership Meeting – Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, January 12, at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:45 p.m.), in the Building 10 Association Room (rear lobby of Bldg. 10B). Our guest speaker will be Ms. Nichola Ferguson, Licensed Insurance Agent from the Allstate Insurance Company. Face masks are preferred. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. Light refreshments will be served.

Karaoke Night /Game Night – Karaoke night/Game night will be held on Saturday, January 14, in the Building 10 Association Room from 7 p.m.-11 p.m. A night of music, games and fun. Warm up your vocal cords, bring your favorite game and be prepared to have a great time. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call the Co-op City Public Safety Department at 718-671-3050 and NYPD at 911. For non-emergencies, call 311. You can also contact CCPD at their anonymous tips hotline: 718-879-6311.

Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help in NYC is 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355), or text “WELL” to 65173. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number is 988, you can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day.

Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Facebook

the happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born in January an incredibly happy birthday.

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

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

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Director’s Viewpoint – Leslie Peterson

Challenging Ourselves to Face Difficult Decisions Ahead

“Cheers to a New Year and another chance for us to get it right.” –Oprah Winfrey

As a community, we must continue to challenge

that, going forward, will cut back our operating expenses and lead us down the path of affordability that can be sustained. Although we recently requested a change in the carrying charge, make no mistake, the new budget is right around the corner. We should be looking at areas where changes can be made, where we can be more proactive in our collection process and take a deep look into whether we are getting the best productivity for the funds we are spending?

Update – Public Employee Retirees Medicare: Advocates with the Organization of Public Service Retirees contend that switching retirees to a proposed Medicare advantage plan would not

less choices for health care providers. It has been Service & Labor Committee Carmen DeLaRosa will be bringing the bill to change the Administrative Code 12-126 drafted by the MunicipalLabor ComWednesday, January 4, at noon.

It is suggested retirees go to the hearing scheduled

The organization will provide information regarding these dates and how you can testify. The Civil Service and Labor Committee of the NYC Council will be the presenters of the bill so the NYC Retiree Organization has suggested retirees call and/ or email City Council Members on the Civil Service and Labor Committee, primarily the chair and speaker of the Council (CALL BOTH NUMBERS):

condemn discrimination in any form, this law in its current form has the potential to be unfair to existing residents and to owners of New York City multiple dwellings, whose safety and well-being are also of concern.

responsibility to ensure safety and quality of life for all residents, they need access to past history in order to evaluate the nature of the crime, the length of time since it occurred and any evidence of recidivism. This would facilitate decisions considerate of all parties involved – the existing shareholders and unit owners as well as the candidate. Excluded from this bill are HUD-funded housing due to certain mandatory exclusions and is carved out of the bill as is Public Housing that also have policies in place.

Co-op City, via our Riverbay Board President and Legislative Chair, provided written testimony. As a Mitchell-Lama affordable housing cooperative, Riverbay is regulated by the New York State Division

of Housing and Community Renewal, and subject to a regulatory agreement with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Those entities have detailed regulations governing the shareholder selection process by Riverbay and therefore should be exempted from the proposed law’s coverage. You can let your City Councilmember know how you feel and emphasize that the bill could endanger the safety and well-being of our community. We will watch to see how this develops.

To see the entire hearing and discussion, you can go to the NYC Council calendar for December 8, 2022 (10:00 a.m.) and watch the video from the Committee on Civil and Human Rights.

When you have decided what you believe, what you feel must be done, have the courage to standalone and be counted.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

I am pleased to be of service to the community. I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com.

to advise your Council member Riley about your thoughts on the matter.

The organization has provided a template for you when sending an email. For additional details, check the website at The NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees or look for them on Facebook. If you are a city retiree, reach out to your City Council member and tell them to protect hard-working New Yorkers who gave their careers to public service

Residential Sales and Restoration (vacated units) Committee – As chairperson of this committee, I requested and was pleased to have both the Riverbay Finance Director and Riverbay Legal Counsel attend the December meeting.

We discussed succession, equity and the application process. Of concern was how to continue the reduction of the units we have not sold that are over 90 days old. A lively discussion was held on what can be done to help move the process along. The committee will present the suggestion to the Board shortly.

One of the discussions also pertained to the Committee on Civil and Human Rights (INT. 0632-2022) Fair Chance for Housing Act currently being discussed in the City Council. This is a Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to prohibiting housing discrimination on the basis of arrest record or criminal history. Int. 0632-2022 would prohibit any examination of the criminal history of any candidate to rent or purchase housing in New York City multiple dwellings, including cooperatives and condominiums.

Although we are supportive of fair housing and

Baychester Library is temporarily closed for renovations to make improvements to the branch. According to Library staff, holds can be picked up at the Eastchester Library, 1385 E. Gun Hill Rd., Bronx, NY.

Building 19 Association

Hello, Building 19 family. Happy New Year! I hope that 2023 treats you better than the previous year.

Thank you to all the cooperators who donated to the annual Christmas colcollected over $2,000, helping to give our hardworking porters a very merry Christmas.-

With the holidays now over, it is time to take down the lobby decorations. So, I am asking my fellow cooperators to join me next Saturday on January 14 in the lobby at noon to assist in the aforementioned task.mittee meeting on Tuesday, January 10. The other is the general meeting, which will be held on Friday, January 27. Both meetings will be held at 7:30 p.m. in dates for both events.ing activities this month.

––Leon Tulton

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. The weather is now becoming favorable. The New Year 2023 is here. We wish all a healthy, safe new year full of peace, love and joy. Please enjoy, celebrate and be thankful and grateful and keep each other safe

There are booster shots available in different areas. If you need to, take whatever is needed to keep you and those around you safe.

Shareholders/Cooperators of Building 27 – Your building association is advising all to dispose of their garbage in the proper area. This is the second noted time that cooperators are beginning to leave their garbage in the basement on the side of the elevator in Building B.

Large garbage should be carried towards building 100; there is an arrow sign pointing in the direction to bring all large garbage bags/trash and used Christmas trees. Reminder, failure to comply can result in a community complaint with a your building and community.

Building 27 Association –aware that the association representing our three buildings is working together for the betterment of our building and surroundings. There will be notices to inform you of the next meeting, which should be soon. So, stay posted by reading the Co-op City Times and scanning your bulletin boards in all three buildings.

Bartow Mall Parking Alert – Let your neighbors know as well. The twohour parking limit is being enforced in the Bartow Mall. Your vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense. I was told that plates are being scanned to deterwatch your time spent in the mall.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. We continue to offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card; she is has become deceased and if anyone is in a nursing home.

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” –Coretta Scott King ––H. Overman

Be careful and ask to see Employee ID

If you are having work done in your apartment, shareholders – especially those who are elderly and/or who live alone – are reminded that all personal items should be secured in a safe location. This is for your own peace of mind, as well as the protection of the Riverbay workers/ contractors coming into your home.

do the various Riverbay-approved contractors seeking access to your home. before allowing anyone to enter your

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry (Free) -

try opens Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pick up or after. It is a 30/31 day rotation, on average. Black Forum will text registered guests if items outside of regular distribution become available.

least four clean shopping bags with a handle and a shopping cart. Please do not bring black shopping bags since they pose a health hazard. We require masks and physical distancing.

Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 -

tions 1-4 guests will register or recertify at the 920 Baychester location, while Section 5 guests go to the Co-op City United Methodist Church.

Required documentation is as follows: NY State Driver’s license, NY State -

is required for all 2022 registered guests wanting to continue visiting the pantry in 2023. These guests must also show the required documentation listed above.

up food until later.

Defensive Driving Class -

site, https://www.empiresafetycouncil.com/. Use the promo code ‘WRIGHT’ to receive a discount.

Contact Us

Reach out to us at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. ––D. Illis

AARP Chapter #4997

Welcome, 2023! The world has been watching and waiting to say bye to 2022 and all the drama that came with it. It is gone. We are better off for the lessons that we learned and ready to start anew in 2023. Here we go!

AARP National and AARP Chapter 4997 have some great plans for our membership and families for the new year. The National has been successful

passed; they have been instrumental in helping to reduce the cost of insulin for members; and they areuary 2023. Our Chapter thanks all who also helped us support and make calls for the issues that were important to our members. We still have more to do.

Meeting of 2023 at 1 p.m., Room 1, 177 Dreiser

the items that we have been working on to start our new year and help us get ready for our own Executive Board Elections. Bring a friend as we are reaching out to add to our membership. Contact Ms. Baker, 718-379-2088, or at the meeting. Our Tour Committee, Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, and Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962, have now planned more trips for us in 2023. The Niagara Falls, USA bus trip in June 2023 has just about sold out. A oneday trip to IPA’S & Poker Chips is scheduled for March 9, cost is $150 per person with many extras (trip insurance is available). Another one-day bus outing is planned for August 8th to the Vynecrest Winery with a stop at the Wind Creek Casino. The trip includes transportation and many extras; cost is $119 per person. Our group also has planned a cruise to Hawaii in 2024. The dates are September 12-24,

Meeting. Our committee has been busy during our holiday break, and we all thank them.

We are sending prayers and condolences to the family of Ms. Karen Nurse. She was a member of more than one association in Co-op City and will be missed. If you wish to share any information on the health and welfare of family or friends, please contact Mrs. Frances Wilson at 718-671-5493.

In closing for this week, health issues are still a major problem for the country and the northeast Bronx! Get in touch with your personal medical practitioner and follow their advice to remain healthy.

––Ann Purnell

Share Your Comments & Suggestions with Riverbay

Shareholders are encouraged to submit input on how to improve services and service delivery as well as other ideas that impact the quality of life of Co-op City residents.

If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the Riverbay Board and/or ManCo-op City website, coopcity.com, scroll down to the bottom and click on the “Comments & Suggestions” link.

Be an engaged shareholder. Share your ideas to improve quality of life in Co-op City.

Greetings, Retirees

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Welcome to 2023. We hope the new year has gotten off to a good start for everyone.

Trip Committee – Our Trip Committee is sponsoring a trip to the Resorts World Casino in the Catskills on Wednesday, June 28. This trip will include “A Musical Tribute to Motown” show, lunch and $25 in slot play. The cost per ticket is $140. To reserve a seat for this trip, a deposit of $50 is required by the end of this month. Please contact Serita at 347-564-5722.

Membership – If you wish to remit your $25 annual dues for 2023, please make your check payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and write “2023 membership dues” in the memo section of your check and mail it to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-655-9170.

Members who are 80-plus years of age and have been members of the RoDL for 10 years and are in good standing with their membership dues (dues paid for the past two consecutive years) are eligible to apply for “honorary membership.” If you would like to apply, please submit your letter of request to

Dorothy Chambers-Byrd, president of the RoDL.

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

Condolences – We are saddened to inform you of the passing of our member, Ernestine Myles (Bridge player extraordinaire). Patricia Cobb also recently suffered the loss of her beloved daughter-in-law. Please keep the Myles and Cobb families in your thoughts and prayers and continue to pray for all those who have recently lost loved ones.

Good and Welfare – We extend get well wishes to all of those who are sick and shut in. We pray that they will all soon see brighter days ahead. Please contact Lorraine at 718-671-6403 or Gay at 718-320-0979 to notify them of members who are hospitalized, in nursing/rehabilitation facilities or recently deceased.

General Meeting – Thank you to all who attended our general membership meeting on January 4. Our next meeting will be held on February 1 at 1 p.m. in Room 19. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend this meeting.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Coalition to Save Affordable Housing

Our best wishes to all our members, friends, neighbors and staff – a happy, healthy, prosperous and peaceful new year, 2023.

The Coalition will inaugurate the new year with a meeting on Monday, January 9, at 7:30 p.m. in our permanent room #13 in Dreiser Center. We will deliberate on fundraising in preparation for the upcoming Riverbay Board elections in May. We will also deliberate on an action that the City Council is considering in the coming days to amend Administrative Code 12-126 which guarantees full Medicare coverage to all retired municipal workers. Our co-op, the largest NORC community in our nation, is the home, we believe, to the largest number of retired municipal workers in our City. Of course, they all depend, as they had been promised by the city, on full Medicare coverage.

In the coming weeks, as claimed by the “Cross-

union Retirees Organizing Committee,” the City Council will be considering the shortfall in the “Stabilization Fund” that funds the 20% Medicare bills of patients, by enrolling all municipal retirees, without their approval, into Medicare Advantage (MA). Many retirees have expressed concern with the Council’s action. We hope our meeting will provide an opportunity for in-depth discussion on this issue on Monday and perhaps give expression to common action.

The City Council plans to hold public hearings regarding the amendment to Administrative Code12126 on January 9 and will vote on the measure on January 19.

Of course, retirees are encouraged to contact our councilman, Kevin Riley, to express their opinion.

Hope to see all on the 9th.

—Bernard Cylich

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED ON MONDAYS ONLY

Walk w/Odessa, On leave until the Spring

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

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

Smartphone and Tablet Class w/Julesa, on break until Jan. 10

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

Stay Well Exercise w/Odessa, 10 a.m.-11:15 a.m.

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

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

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

Dominoes w/José, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, 10 a.m.-11:15 a.m.

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

Beginners Crochet and Knitting w/Lynne, 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

Mindful Mornings Tai-Chi 9 a.m.-10 a.m., Rm. 38

Health & Wellness 10-11 a.m., Rm. 49

Always Grand Line Dancing 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Books & Tea Book Club 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 49

Ageless Facials & Self-Care 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 35

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

Bridge To Care Arthritis Exercise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Creative Arts & Painting, 1-3 p.m., Rm. 35

Go Easy on us Computers 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 40

Spring in Your Step Stretch & Tone, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45

Action Bodies In Motion, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Prize Bingo & Board Games, 1-2 p.m.

Sultry Salsa Dancing, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45

Smart Phones & Tablets 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 49 Indoor Walk Club 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 35

Open Mic Singing and Poetry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Let’s Get It On Zumba, 1-2 p.m., Room 45

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 (Schedule subject to change without notice) Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Dreiser

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler 10-11 a.m., Zoom (Virtual only for now), 1-646-876-9923, Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173, Passcode: 855423 Stay Well Exercise w/Denise 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Room 2 Piano Sing Along Class (in-person) 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Room 7 Smartphone and tablet literacy w/ Julesa, in-person, 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m.

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Rm. 2. Computer Learning w/Ralph, Zoom only: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dial-in #: 347-893-2966, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554. Blood Pressure, 1st & 3rd Tues., 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Art, In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Tai-Chi, In-person, 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Game Time 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Drama Class/Club, In-person, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Rm. 4

Arthritis Exercise, In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2

Tablet Time, In-person, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Alert and Alive, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 4 Knitting & Crochet, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Art Class w/Dmitry, Virtual, 1-3 p.m. Massage Therapy, 1st & 3rd Friday, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., In-person Bingo, 1:15-2:30 p.m., Rm. 4, In-person

MENU

Kosher Non-Kosher

NO KOSHER MENU AVAILABLE

NO

AVAILABLE

NO KOSHER MENU AVAILABLE

NO KOSHER MENU AVAILABLE

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

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

JASA Co-op City NORC Program Invites You for These In-Person & Virtual Activities

Aldi – Wed., Jan. 25, $4. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m.; and Einstein, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered w/JASA.

ShopRite and BJ’s – Fri., Jan. 13, $6. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Einstein, 10:15 a.m. and Dreiser, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered with JASA.

Target – Wed., Jan. 18, $6. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Einstein, 10:15 a.m., and Dreiser, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered w/JASA.

African American Heritage Tour of Philadelphia – Thurs., Feb. 16, $124. Deluxe motor coach transportation. Visit African American Museum. Lunch included at the Golden Corral restaurant. Pick-ups: Bartow, 7:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 7:45 a.m.; Einstein, 8 a.m.

Westchester Mall, White Plains, NY – Wed., Jan. 18, Free; Deluxe motor coach transportation. Pick-ups: Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Dreiser, 9:45 a.m.; Einstein, 10 a.m.

Free Financial Counseling Services starting Jan. 9, and Free Tax Services starting Jan. 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. by appointment only in collaboration with Ariva. Please call 718-320-2066 to make appointment.

New York Common Pantry – Tues., Jan. 24. Please bring ID, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. in Room 31.

Medicare Information – w/Alex Wu from the Dept. of the Aging, every Thursday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., rear of

Are you interested in learning (virtual) how to tailor your own clothes? Would you like to attend virtual crochet classes? Please register at 718-320-2066.

Would you like to be part of a vocal program that will culminate in a concert for the community? Ses-ration with Riverbay and the Onaje Allan Gumbs and Sandra Gumbs Community Jazz Arts Foundation.

Concerts in Motion – Mondays, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Call-in #: 646-558-8656, Meeting: ID 527-067-8391.

Bereavement Support Group w/Dr. Smith – Mon., 1 p.m. Dial-in #: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 839 6918 9974, Passcode: 520396.

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

Crochet Class w/Sandra Ramirez – In rear of JASA 718-320-2066 to register.

Notary – Appointment only. Call 718-320-2066. , Tues., 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.;

Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Einstein Center, Room 34, Thurs., 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Painting Classes – Every Wed., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Zoom; Dial-in #: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057.

Meditation Class – GPC (Grandparents), 11 a.m.-12 p.m.; 3rd Thurs. of every month. Dial in #: 929-2056099, Meeting ID: 991 1390 5105, Passcode: 170462.

Technology class w/Ralph Lucenti – Smart devices and computer, Thurs., 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Dial-in #: 929205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

Line Dancing with Bartow Swingers – Mon., 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Bartow Center, Room 31; Dreiser Center, Room 2, Wed. and Fri., 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

JASA Bartow Black History Month – Arts and Crafts Exhibition, Sat., Feb. 11, Bartow, Room 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

JASA Bartow Black History Month Celebration – Fri., Feb. 24, 1 p.m.-4 p.m., Bartow, Room 31. Light refreshments. Tickets: $3, on sale at Bartow, Room 31.

JASA Bartow Valentine’s Day Party – Tues., Feb. 14, 1:30-4:30 p.m., Bartow, Room 31. Tickets: $5, on sale at Bartow, Room 31. Menu: Oven-roasted rosemary chicken, wild rice, carrots and sweet peas, fresh garden salad, dinner rolls and butter.

Pork Spare Ribs Baked Macaroni and Cheese Normandy Blend NO KOSHER MENU AVAILABLE

Brown Stew Chicken Yellow Rice Sauteed Spinach

KOSHER MENU

Baked Fish w/Sweet and Sour Sauce Pasta Steamed Carrots

Baked Vegetable Alfredo Pasta Sauteed String Beans

Spanish Style Baked Chicken Yellow Rice Cabbage w/Green Peas

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

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

Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic and related repairs to our space, St. Joseph’s Church has made some adjustment to our schedule of services until further notice. Please stay tuned for any information regarding in-person worship.

In the meantime, Father Simeon Johnson will conduct worship services via teleconference on Sundays at 9 a.m. and the usual prayers on weekdays at noon.

To participate by teleconference, please dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

Grace and Peace!

––M. Chambers

Church of the New Vision

Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Church of the New Vision and pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge welcome you to worship with us at 115 Einstein Loop North, Bronx, NY 10475. Church phone: 718671-8746 and pastor’s phone: 914-522-5039.

Our scripture verse for 2023 is: (Luke 10:27) “And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.”

Sunday service will be at 11:00 a.m. Masks are required and temperature will be taken.

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

Sunday, January 1 Worship Service: “Let Him Work.”

Scripture: (Romans 8:28) “And we know that all things work together for good to those that love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

Save the Date: Church of the New Vision and Amen Ministries, Inc. presents “Blueprint for Wellness,” a free Health Event on Saturday, January 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church, 115 Einstein Loop North. Please note that registration is required. To register, scan the QR code at right or contact Church of the New Vision at info@churchnewvisionbx.org, or amenministriesrev314@gmail.com or contact L. Scott at 718-671-2623.

Choose Healthy Life, Quest Diagnostics and United Way of NYC will provide a clinical set of laboratory tests and measurements that are completed to give individuals a clear picture of their overall health so they can -

placement for routine examinations with a primary care provider, they are a convenient way for individuals to keep an eye on their health risks. We look forward to you registering and attending. This is a free health screening to our community. Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you.

––Brenda Brown

Iglesia Evangélica MU de Co-op City Co-op City UMC

Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds

Come and Visit Us – You are always welcome in God’s House, your house! -

riety 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! Services are held at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across from Building 30. Parking is available. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta.

Telephone number: 718-320-3795,

Email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com.

Come and Receive a Blessing:

First Sunday of the Month, Bilingual Service: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

English Service: 10 a.m.

Spanish Service: 11:30 a.m.

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

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

Email: COOPCITYEVANGELICALUMC@GMAIL.COM

Save The Date: Coffee House at UMCC will be on January 27 from 6 p.m.9 p.m. If you would like to share your talent of singing, art or dance, please call Marta for more information.

Blessings, ––Marta Medina Sanchez

Traditional

Synagogue

The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate.

The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services.

Saturday morning services will start at 10 a.m.

General Information

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the -

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

The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, January 7, at 5:37 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, January 13, at 4:30 p.m. Good and Welfare

$15 per tree (if you want to buy a tree, call 347-449-5005). Mazel Tov, to all having simchas. If you are ill, we wish you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To All Members

Happy birthday to all our members who will be celebrating their birthday or anniversary in January. 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

MetroCard Bus

month. The bus only makes one stop in Co-op City: between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. by the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Boulevard.

Some services offered by the bus are:

• Help with reduced-fare applications

• Transfer MetroCard balances (both full fare and reduced-fare)

• Exchange a damaged reduced-fare MetroCard for a temporary replacement

• Report a lost/stolen reduced-fare MetroCard

• Help with any MetroCard-related issues

For more MetroCard information, please visit new.mta.info/fares.

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

147 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 (lower level)

Come as you are…

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

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

Monday-Friday: Devotionals on Facebook Live at 11 a.m.

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

Thursday: Prayer Group from 10:00-11:30 a.m. and from 6:45-8:00 p.m. Spanish Bible Study on Facebook Live from 1:00-2:30 p.m.

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

Saturday:

Women’s Fellowship, every second Sat. of the month, 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.

Young Adults, every third Saturday of the month, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Men’s Fellowship, every other month

Couples Fellowship, every other month

Sunday Services: Spanish, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. & English Service, 11:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier for screening at the door.

To register for the English Services, call or text 929-599-5488.

Servicios en Español

Servicios: En persona, en YouTube y Facebook Live Servicios dominicales: Español, 9:00-10:30 a.m., and Servicio en Inglés, 11:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Devocionales de Lunes a Viernes: En inglés en Facebook Live a las 11:00 a.m.

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

Jueves: Grupo de oración de 10:00-11:30 a.m. y de 6:45-8:00 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Cada tercer sábado del mes: Adultos jóvenes, 12:00-2:00 p.m. (en persona)

Para registrarse para los servicios en español, comuníquese al 347-773-2809.

––Pastor Elisamuel Colón

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow in-person at 8 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Masks are required. The 11:00 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web. zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: 646-568-7788, or Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#.

Rev. Williams asks everyone to call into the Sunday Worship service or Wednesday Bible class using Zoom through your computer or dialing in using the Zoom information shown above.

The Scholarship Ministry invites all to join them on a trip on June 26 for six

nights lodging, eight meals, Soul of Motown show and guided tour of the Smoky Mountain National Park and much more. The cost of the trip is $765 per person based on double occupancy.

A $100 deposit is due by January 28. Final payment is due March 5. To make a reservation or for additional information, call Sis Brenda Robinson at 718-6711271 or Sister Claudette Cutler Day at 718-379-0541.

Adult Sunday School classes are held on Sundays at 9:15 a.m. in-person. Classes are also available on The Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number, 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

Young Teens Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m., call-in number: 701-8025240, Access Code: 2528913. Teens Class is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 702-843-2644, Access Code: 2676710, and Juniors Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m. Call-in number: 737-774-8306, Access Code: Juniors.

Mid-Week Bible Study will be held on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Prayer Warriors Prayer service is held on Thursdays at noon. Prayer Service is also held on Fridays at 10 a.m.

Friday Evening Prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

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

“God will strengthen us as we continue to travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

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

––Hattie Lucas

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Pentecostal Tabernacle located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, N.Y. 10475, invites everyone to join in worship online on the following days. Call: 720-740-9746, Access Code: 8876631, phone: 718-324-0334.

Sundays: Worship Service begins at 11 a.m. Wednesday prayer and fasting service will be held from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Bible study and prayer meeting will be held every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. the Lord forever.

Friday: Worship service begins at 7:30 p.m.

“Focus be privileged to rule and reign with Jesus Christ during one thousand years of peace.

“And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive

must be loosed a little season.” (Revelation 20:1-3 & 6)

death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with him a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:6)

Satan will be bound and cast into the bottomless pit for one thousand years while Jesus Christ rules the world in righteousness.

be absent from the earth. People who sin against God in that day will do so out of the wickedness of their heart. In addition, the knowledge of the Lord will be increased in all the earth. What glorious day that will be for generations who are counted worthy to live in the millennial kingdom of Jesus Christ the son of David! (Matthew 25:31-33) states: “When the son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. All the redeemed, including the tribulation martyrs, shall reign with Christ as kings and priests.” Since we are heirs and joint heirs with Christ, the role of the church in the millennial reign will be to serve as king’s and priests in His kingdom.

(Revelation 1:6 & 5:10) “And hath made us kings and priest unto God and his father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever Amen. And hast made us unto our God kings and priest: and we shall reign on the earth.”

––Rev. R. Sibblies

CCPD –––– (Continued from page 7)

Wearing a mask can be helpful, even if not mandatory. Co-op City has free Covid testing NYC for the exact dates and times. In Co-op City, the locations arecian is on site to prescribe the medication, if needed. Rapid tests and PCR tests are drink is too many if you are going to drive. Also, be sure to buckle your seatbelt,

Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Callers may remain anonymousTwittering here in Co-op City.

Riverbay Corporation has lifted the mask mandate throughout the community.types of health conditions, spanning a large spectrum of age ranges. These peomaintain social distance, especially indoors. Do not forget to stay home if you are sick. Stay safe and stay healthy.

someone from Allstate Insurance to discuss our apartment policies and the best protection.

Please curb your dog... It’s the LAW!

What shareholders need to know about noise complaints

op City property, notify Public Safety immediately at 718671-3050. If your cell phone is handy, snap a photo and send it to Public Safety.

Shareholders experiencing undue and/or incessant noise coming from a neighboring apartment or home, are advised to call Public Safety, (718) 671-3050.patched to the home of the shareholder calling in the complaint. When theboring home that is loud enough to be considered a violation of Co-op City be issued to the shareholder of record of the offending home.