Co-op City Times 07/08/17

Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. © Copyright 2017 Co-op City Times

Vol. 52 No. 27

Saturday, July 8, 2017

DHCR Approves Carrying Charge Increases For Next Two Years

BY JIM ROBERTS

The state Department of Homes and Community Renewal (DHCR) has approved a 1.9% carrying charge increase beginning on Aug. 1 of this year to be followed by another 1.9% increase on Aug. 1, 2018. In addition, all parking fees are being increased by 5% this Aug. 1.

In a letter dated July 6, Mark Colon, president of DHCR Office of Housing Preservation, informed Riverbay that its requested carrying charge increases for the next two fiscal years was justified.

“I find and determine … that the present carrying charges are insufficient … and cannot be corrected by reasonable economies in the management and operation of the development,” the letter states.

A copy of the Commissioner’s Carrying Charge Increase Order will be enclosed with shareholders’ August carrying charge bill. Riverbay’s Finance Department received approval from DHCR to include the Increase Order in the bills instead of sending a separate mailing, saving (Continued on page 2)

Farmer’s Market Returns To Co-op City

25¢

ORDER OF THE COMMISSIONER OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY RENEWAL HCLP-81 RIVERBAY CORPORATION, hereinafter referred to as the "applicant," a limited-profit housing company duly organized and existing under the provisions of Article II of the Private Housing Finance Law, subject to the supervision of the Commissioner of the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal, owns and operates a limited-profit housing development known as Co-op City in the City of New York, County of the Bronx, State of New York.

The said applicant filed an application dated March 17, 2017 in the office of the Commissioner requesting that the present carrying charges be increased, because the present carrying charges, together with all the other income of the said applicant, are insufficient to enable it to meet the payments required to be made by the provisions of the Private Housing Finance Law. Notice and application, together with Division of Housing and Community Renewal financial projections, were given to the cooperators with a notification that written statements in opposition to the proposed carrying charge increase could be sent to the Commissioner not later than June 27, 2017. The purpose of such statements is to afford an opportunity for the cooperators or their representatives to refute, correct, supplement, or otherwise modify the allegations and figures contained in the statement, exhibits, and schedules attached thereto. A meeting was scheduled for June 19, 2017 at Riverbay's Auditorium "A," 177 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, New York at which the cooperators, their representatives, and representatives of the housing company had the opportunity to meet with DHCR staff. All comments and submissions were reviewed by DHCR staff prior to this determination.

NOW, on considering the entire record, from which it appears that owing to causes beyond the control of the applicant, there (Continued on page 2)

SCRIE & DRIE May Help Defray Increased Carrying Charges For Some Co-op City Shareholders

BY ROZAAN BOONE

See page 3 for story.

Photo by Brandon Ortiz

Cary Smith III Brings Two Decades Of Property Management Experience To Co-op City

BY BILL STUTTIG

and put it to use here in a community Riverbay’s New Assistant Executive that is unique in terms of its sheer size General Manager Cary and also in the diverse Smith III, has managed components and amena wide variety of resiities that help define dential developments the community, such as in his nearly two decan independent power ades of experience in plant and its own priproperty management vate police force.” but, he said, Co-op City Mr. Smith worked brings with it an enfor Douglas Elliman hanced level of exciteProperty Management ment and challenge. years prior to this “Co-op City is a assignment, managing o n ce-in-a-lifetime portfolios and several opportunity,” Mr. Smith developments in Manhattan and Brooklyn. told the Co-op City Cary Smith III Earlier this year he was Times earlier this week, chance to utilize “in terms of having the (Continued on page 22) all that I’ve learned over many years

Eligible Co-op City shareholders who are registered with the city’s Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) programs may be able to avoid paying the monthly carrying charge increase which becomes effective on Tuesday, August 1, 2017.

Those shareholders who are eligible but have not yet registered for either of these programs are advised to do so as soon as possible now that Riverbay Corporation has received the carrying charge increase order from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), the (Continued on page 13)

Co-op City Fireworks!

This year’s spectacular Co-op City Fireworks Show was better than ever as the community gathered on the Section 2 Greenway to celebrate America’s 241st birthday with a dazzling pyrotechnical display.

The skies above the Hutchinson River were aglow with the red, white, blue and rainbow of explosive colors for all ages to enjoy. The event was sponsored by the Riverbay Fund.

See page 16 for more photos.

Photo by Elijah Bernard

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Carrying Charge

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017 (Continued from page 1)

approximately $7,000 in processing and mailing costs.

All shareholder comments made at the June 19th carrying charge conference, as well as written comments from cooperators, were taken into consideration by DHCR before making its decision to approve the increases, according to the letter.

The average carrying charge in Co-op City now is $216.43 per room, and the 1.9% increase will add $4.11 to a new average $220.54 per room as of August 1, 2017.

The 1.9% increase effective August 1, 2018 will raise the then-current average carrying charges from $220.54 per room, per month to $224.73 per room, per month.

The 1.9% carrying charge increases will generate $28 million over a five-year period and all those funds will be earmarked for capital projects, along with a 5% increase in parking fees that will generate $3.6 million over the five-year period and $700,000 in transient parking fees.

Riverbay’s five-year, $112 million capital plan was approved by the Board of Directors earlier this year. The major capital projects on the list in the 50-yearold Co-op City complex include balcony and façade work, elevator replacements, waterproofing of porticos, new lobby entrances, storefronts, concrete beams on roofs, power plant heat exchanger, digital control system for the cogeneration plant, building transformers, fire alarm systems in the community centers, basketball courts and coatings in the garages.

Seniors may be eligible for SCRIE (Senior Citizens Rent Increase Exemption) and those who qualify, or are currently on SCRIE or DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption), may be minimally affected by the carrying charge increase on August 1. For more information, call the city’s 3-1-1 hotline. SCRIE applications are also available at the Bartow Administrative office. Applications must be filed with a copy of the HCR Commissioner’s Carrying Charge Increase Order which is enclosed in shareholders’ August carrying charge bill, as well as printed on page 1 of this issue.

A copy of the DHCR two-year budget for Riverbay is also published on page 4 & 5 of this issue of the Co-op City Times.

Commissioner’s Order

(Continued from page 1)

have been and will be substantial increases in the cost of operating the development, including, but not limited to, the increased cost of maintenance and operating expenses; and that the present maximum average carrying charges are insufficient to meet such increases in costs and to make other necessary and authorized expenditures, I FIND AND DETERMINE that, owing to causes beyond the control of the applicant, the present carrying charges are insufficient to enable it to meet, within reasonable limits, all necessary payments required to be made by the provisions of the Private Housing Finance Law and that such insufficiency cannot be corrected by reasonable economies in the management and operation of said development.

I FURTHER FIND AND DETERMINE that the minimum increase in the maximum average monthly room carrying charges necessary to enable the said applicant to make the payments required to be made is one point nine percent (1.9%) per room per month, including utilities, effective August 1, 2017 and one point nine percent (1.9%) per room per month, including utilities, effective August 1, 2018. In addition, an increase in all garage fees of five percent (5%) is required. The increases authorized herein are not in excess of the minimum amount necessary to enable the housing company to make the payments required to be made by the provisions of the Private Housing Finance Law. I, THEREFORE, ORDER AND DIRECT the said applicant to increase the maximum average monthly room carrying charges one point nine percent (1.9%) per room per month, including utilities, effective August 1, 2017 and one point nine percent (1.9%) per room per month, including utilities, effective August 1, 2018.

I ALSO ORDER AND DIRECT a five percent (5%) increase in all garage fees, effective August 1, 2017.

A copy of this order shall be transmitted to each cooperator to be affected at least five (5) days prior to August 1, 2017. Service shall be made in the manner prescribed by the Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law for the service of a notice of petition in summary proceedings, or by first-class mail.

Dated: New York, New York this 6th day of July, 2017

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

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

Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted.

HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted.

We participate in Postal Workers, Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Verizon Workers, 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire Plan, Medicare, Travelers, United Health Care and many other union and major medical plans.

Se Habla Español MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT

Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.

Front Pa ge Retirees Of Dreiser Loop, Inc. Celebrates Their 45th Annual Awards Luncheon Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

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Co-op City Times 2 n d Combing Co-op City Find out what’s going on in Co-op City here...

Summer Fun Day – Part 2 - TODAY Summer Fun Day hosted by Section 2 and Riverbay Community Relations Department will take place TODAY, Saturday, July 8, 2-6 p.m. on the greenway at Carver Loop & Casals Place.

There will be free Summer Fun Day armbands, loads of family fun, a dunk tank and games. Come out and join the fun.

Rivers Run Garden Dedicates King’s Corner Tomorrow The Rivers Run Community Garden will dedicate King’s Corner in the garden in honor of Councilman Andy King tomorrow, Sunday, July 9, 3-6 p.m. at the garden, located on Co-op City Blvd. between Bellamy Loop and Peartree Avenue, and next to the Co-op City Little League field.

Come out and join us.

Free Zumba Classes ShapeUp NYC and Riverbay are co-sponsoring free Zumba classes in Co-op City, Mondays at Bartow, room 31, 7:15 p.m.-8 p.m. with instructor Teneia.

Classes will be held on Monday, July 10, 17 & 31. Dates in August include August 7, 14 & 21.

Free Summer Tennis The Co-op City Tennis Club’s annual free summer tennis program for children from 5 to 18 years old began on July 5th at the Co-op City Tennis Courts behind I.S. 181. The program for 6 to 18 years old will meet each weekday from 9 a.m. to noon through late August. A special program for 5–year-old children will be held from 11 a.m. to noon each Tuesday and Thursday. A parent or guardian of each 5-year-old must be present in order for the child to participate. The program is sponsored by the office of City Councilman Andy King. Registration is on site each day. All participants must wear sneakers. Caps or sun visors are recommended for sunny days. Racquets and coaches will be provided by the program. Instruction will include several water breaks, especially on hot days. Play and instruction will not be offered on rainy days.

Oh what a great day for dinator of the van committee. the Retirees of Dreiser Loop, She is leaving her current posiInc. to celebrate their 45th tion as second vice president.

Annual Awards Luncheon on Special recognition was Wednesday, June 14th at the given to Mrs. Dorothy Cates.

Marina del Rey, Bronx, New She has held the positions of treasurer and financial secreYork. The weather was gortary for more than 15 years. geous and the program conHer recordkeeping skills sisted of scholarship awards have allowed the organizato June graduates and recogtion to financially function nition of four honorable memwith accurate accountability. bers of the organization.

Joined with co-sponsors, Mr. The stunning plaque was just Samuel Granby of Granby Fua small memento of the organeral Services, Inc., and Mr. nization’s thanks and appreJames Alston and Ms. Patricia Pictured above from left to right are the awardees and co- ciation to a woman who has sponsors: Mrs. Toliver (mother of Victoria Pinnock-Toliver who Meyers of McCall’s Bronx- could given time and counsel to not be present), Anastasia Smith, Tamaia Wiltshire, Mr. wood Funeral Home, Inc., the Samuel Granby, Autumn Morris, JoAnn Harris, Scholarship many and now passes the awardees were presented with chairperson; Mr. James Alston and Ms. Patricia Meyers. records book to someone else.

Certificates of Merit from AsThank you, Mrs. Cates. sembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie, and a with the Man of the Year Award.

Ms. Patricia Cobb, member of the Claudette E. Davis, recipient of the Scholarship Award Certificate from the Humanitarian Committee that is alRetirees.

Woman of the Year Award, was unable ways in the spirit of giving, presented After a most delicious meal and sento attend. She has served on the execua $500 check to two groups, North sational tones by D.J. Baker, our men, tive board for several years in positions Bronx Sports Association and Co-op Mr. Charles E. Polite and Mr. Ronald that included correspondence secretary, City Tennis Club, to help support the Waller, Sr., were both proudly presented first and second vice president and coorwork they are doing.

Harvest Home Farmers Market Returns To Co-op City

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Every Wednesday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., now until late November, Riverbay is excited to bring back the Farmer’s Market to Co-op City for a tenth consecutive year.

Located at Aldrich Street Park, next to the fire house, the Farmer’s Market offers everything from produce to fresh baked goods.

The Farmer’s Market is made possible through the efforts of Harvest Home, a non-profit organization that was started

by East Harlem native Maritza Owens. When asked about Owens’ mission, Tiffany Virulent, a Harvest Home representative, said last year, “Living in the city, she saw that a lot of communities didn’t have access to freshly grown produce that was affordable.” Having started small, Harvest Home now provides farmer’s markets in every borough throughout New York City except for Staten Island.

Photos by Brandon Ortiz

able to use it as many days as they choose to. In addition, Harvest Home Farmer’s Markets accept cash, electronic benefit transfers (EBTs), Women Infant and Children and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers (WICFMNP), and New York City subsidy coupons for low-income residents.

“I love the freshness and convenience of the market,” a shopper said. The location was moved from the Greenway to the Aldrich Street Park next to the firehouse six years ago, and the change has done a lot to improve the market’s visibility and popularity amongst residents.

Harvest Home has seven locations in the Bronx, including the one in Co-op City. The other 12 locations are spread throughout Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn. The organi“We really want to promote healthy eating and living,” zation has been around since 1993 helping to provide afBell Yisrael, a representative from Harvest Home assisting fordable and fresh produce to more than 250,000 New York City residents each year. Supplies depend on seasonal availCo-op City residents at last Wednesday’s market, said. ability as all produce sold at Harvest Home Farmer’s MarIn the spirit of helping to make fresh produce available to kets must have been harvested within two days of going to as many people as possible, Harvest Home offers a program the market.

A chart with details about the availability of all that gives seniors aged 60 years or older, who have SNAP produce sold at the farmer’s market can be found online at benefits, a $4 coupon towards any fresh produce or baked their website at: www.harvesthomefm.org/crop-schedule. goods. The coupon is redeemable once a day and a senior is

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

DHCR Final Budget For Co-op City For The Budget Periods Ended 9/30/2018 And 9/30/2019 Total Dwelling Units Including Staff Apartments : 15,372 Total Rental Rooms Including Staff Apartments : 72,666.000

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

DHCR Final Budget For Co-op City For The Budget Periods Ended 9/30/2018 And 9/30/2019 (cont’d)

Congratulations, Venehisa!

Congratulations to my daughter, Venehisa Ayala, for graduating from Pace University. I am so proud that she completed her studies with a master’s degree in telecommunications.

God bless you always!

—Love Mom and family

Support for caregivers of the mentally ill The monthly meetings of the Co-op City chapter of NAMI, (National Alliance Mental Illness) will continue through the summer on the second Thursday of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. in room 35 of Einstein Community Center. The next meeting is scheduled for July 13th. The program provides support and advice for family and caregivers of the mentally ill.

It’s Graduation Time!

Congratulations, Jorge!

Congratulations to our son, Jorge, on your graduation from NYC Museum HS – job well done! Wishing you a bright future as you attend Fordham University in the fall.

—Mom and Dad, Mildred and George Martinez

Shareholders, if you have a graduate or a student who excelled this past school year, let us know so their accomplishments can be shared with your neighbors. Send your submissions to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or call us at 718-320-3300, x3375/6.

Co-op City Shareholders — Working together for a better community!

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Letters to the Editor

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor – can•verify the• authors. or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

– •the– authenticity • – • – of•– – • Anonymous – – • – Letters • – •cannot – •exceed – •–350•words.

– • –Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

Board Director Responds To Election Committee Report On Voting Irregularities On July 1, 2017, Election Chairperson Claudia Sampson wrote a 2-page report in the Co-op City Times entitled, “Election Committee Decision Denying Johnson Challenge to the 2017 Riverbay Board Election.” In her report, I noticed that she made some inaccurate statements. For instance, she wrote: "After perusing all 3,840 ballots Mr. Johnson was only able to identify seven (7) ballots that, in his opinion, were questionable."

That statement is not true. What happened is that there were problems with a lot of the ballots that I checked.

But, to save time, I chose seven ballots as samples to represent the other questionable ballots. And, with those seven ballots, I asked the Election Committee to ask the company that conducted this election how they handled the ballots that had those problems.

There were some other inaccurate statements that were made. But, fighting over those statements is not going to reveal what really happened with this election.

So, here is the statement that does reveal the truth.

"Mr. Johnson further demanded that the Election Committee physically count each of the 5,175 ballots. The

Committee finds no basis for any request made by Mr. Johnson."

Now, I want you to be the judge and look at the belowcited election rule to determine who is right and who is wrong on this matter.

Section F, paragraph 12 of the election rules state that the Election Committee shall, "review and certify the final count of the election ballots." Thereafter, "the meeting shall continue from day to day until such time as a final count is completed."

Now, using their rules, you can clearly see that this Election Committee was supposed to count all of the ballots. However, Ms. Claudia Sampson has refused to follow the rules that governed this election. So, this is why I challenged the fairness of this election.

Five candidates that ran as a slate were members of the Coalition to Save Affordable Housing group. Several of our board directors are also members of this group.

And, interestingly, the Election Chairperson, Claudia Sampson, is a member of this group. Amazing, huh?

—Daryl Johnson

Getting More Shareholders To Vote

Time to Replace Our Dumpster Trucks

To the Editor: It appears that members of the Riverbay Board of Directors believe that Co-op City is to be run like a third world country. The latest example of this is the resolutions submitted by two directors that seek to punish residents for not doing what the directors want. It seeks to take away parking privileges if residents fail to vote in two consecutive Board of Directors elections.

This was offered as a solution to the low voter turnout in the last Board of Directors’ election. What will they do to people who don’t park in one of the garages – tar and feather them?

I think it would be better if the directors who submitted and seconded the resolution lose their parking privileges for failing to run the election in such a way that it was easier for residents to vote and that they had a proper set of candidates to vote for.

In my opinion, it is clear that the last Board of Directors election was not conducted properly. It appears there wasn’t even a means of making sure that only qualified residents cast their ballots. It seems anyone who could get their hands on someone else’s ballot could cast it. No signature was required.

(Contrary to what one director published in the paper, Bronx County requires a signature – either at the polling place or on an envelope used to submit an absentee ballot – to vote.)

Maybe if the Board of Directors concentrated on running a proper election more people would vote.

—Stewart Berman

To the Editor: Now that carrying charges are due to increase next month, how about using some of those funds towards the purchase of new garbage trucks, you know, the ones that carry our dumpster containers. These trucks look and sound like they are on their last legs. The trucks that we see on the road are, I’ve been told, the same trucks that have been in service since Riverbay started picking up its own waste, some time around the year 2006. The people who drive these trucks, and the community at large, deserve better than this.

—John A. Hunter

We Need A Doggie Park

To the Editor: I read the Riverbay dog policy and actually laughed. Look, you know and I know these rules are broken all the time.

1. Dogs must be on a leash?

2. Dogs cannot urinate or defecate on grass 3. Dogs must comply with NYC municipal & NYC State laws, in other words “CURB YOUR DOG.” I do not get the impression that CCPD enforces any of these laws so why waste the ink?

For this reason, I believe we need a doggie park where we are giving away precious land! In my opinion, this is a very cheap solution to the dog problem and all fines collected can be provided to maintain the park. I’d LETTERS TO THE EDITOR rather have dogs crapping up the area than the human We welcome your letters to the editor, however, if you would like element of criminals, drug deals, loud noise, being your letter to be considered for publication, it must be signed, and include your address and telephone number – which will be kept thought up with this land giveaway. We all know how confidential – so the authenticity of the writer can be verified. The the 45th feels about coming to Co-op City.

Co-op City Times does not print anonymous or unsigned letters.

—Nick Liberati

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 35 Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period.

If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

Building 35

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

Building 35 100 Elgar Place

Aug. 31, 2017

Aug. 31, 2020

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

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

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Bill Stuttig Associate Editor

Jim Roberts Business Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

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

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic.

Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication.

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

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

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

All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times.

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

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

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Public Safety Report

Co-op City Department Of Public Safety Offers Burglary Prevention Tips For Residents

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Burglary is a crime that tends to occur in patterns from time to time.

There are currently no specific patterns, but it is still a good idea to be alert. Advanced surveillance systems and improved technology have greatly reduced the occurrence of burglaries within Co-op City. It is still a good idea to be aware of steps that can be taken to further decrease your odds of being a burglary victim. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety offers these tips to decrease your chance of being burglarized.

Never welcome burglars by telephone. Burglars have been known to try to find out if anyone is home by phoning. If you get a pattern of several suspicious wrong numbers or hang up calls, notify 9-1-1 or the Co-op City Department of Public Safety at 1 (718) 671-3050. Warn family members, children included, not to give out information by telephone. It is particularly important not to tell callers who is out or how long they are expected to be out. Also, do not put this information on your answering machine. A standard greeting, “There is no one available to come to the phone right now, please leave a message” does not divulge extended absences to potential burglars.

It is always nice to post vacation pictures on Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites.

Just remember not everyone who can view your information is truly your friend. Use caution when posting pictures. You can always wait until you get home to post photos. Also make sure your privacy settings exclude anyone other than your friends from viewing your photographs. This holds true for the social media sites of everyone in your household.

This is good practice for a variety of safety reasons.

Never open your door to anyone you do not know.

Ask repair persons or delivery persons to show identification. All Riverbay employees and utility providers, such as Cablevision, are required to carry identification while on duty. There are several different contractors working within Co-op City. Riverbay attempts to notify cooperators in advance when contractors will be working in a particular building.

Never open your door until you are sure the person on the other side is legitimate. Even if you are expecting someone, ask who it is before opening your door. Solicitors of any type are not permitted within the buildings of Co-op City. If you have any doubt, call 9-1-1 or the Department of Public Safety at 1 (718) 671-3050.

Always make your home look and sound occupied. Consider purchasing a timer with a random setting to turn on a radio and lights at different times every day while on vacation. Lights that are left on for long periods of time can also signal that no one is home. Never advertise your vacation plans.

Inform a trusted neighbor who can collect newspapers, mail or other deliveries. The postal service will suspend mail service for vacation periods. Notify the Public Safety Department if you are a member of the “Are you Okay?” program.

Install good pick-proof locks and use them every time you leave the house or go to sleep. Riverbay Corporation provides only bottom lock access. A good quality top lock with a safety plate is highly recommended. Always change your locks if you lose your keys. Never leave keys under the mat, on top of the door frame or in any other “hiding” spot.

Always keep house keys separate from car keys when utilizing valet service. Never place identifying (Continued on page 30)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbay corp.com; and Barbara Penn at Bpenn@riverbaycorp.com.

Please note that emails should be sent to both parties.

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails.

For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see bottom of the employment listings for specific directions.

CONTRACT SUMMARY

Contract P978, Garage Access & Revenue Controls (Rebid) Bids Due: July 13, 2017 at 2 p.m.

Insurance: Insurance is required of the winning bidder.

If interested, please contact bpenn@riverbaycorp.com or lgarcia@riverbycorp.com.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Inspiring Co-op City Students to Strive For Excellence

Director’s Viewpoint

Rod Saunders Secretary

The Education Committee, with Board of Directors approval, agreed last year (and has allowed the committee this year) to enhance the Best and Brightest awards program because we are in agreement that our high achieving students must be assured that the Co-op City community is committed to support their academic success; that our unique brand of acknowledgement of their academic accomplishments will help to inspire other Co-op City youngsters to “up their game” and strive for the highest grades possible so that they too can be recognized and rewarded for their excellence.

With that in mind and as promised, the final reward to this year’s Best and Brightest awards recipients, was a day trip to Washington, D.C. on Friday morning, June 30th (4:45 a.m.). The youngsters, their parents and an assemblage of chaperones waited for the charter bus which arrived more than a half hour late. Kudos to our punctual group, we’ll use a different company next year.

Upon arrival in the nation’s capital, we went to the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum for a guided tour.

The tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, however, I do believe that next year, should the sponsorship be available, we would forego the aided tour and just explore the museum on our own. Inside of the museum is an awesome display of aircrafts and flight-related artifacts, including the Wright Brother’s aircraft they flew at Kitty Hawk, to the first Mercury space capsules. The building is enormous and the aircrafts and missiles that are on display are either the original or exact replicas.

The museum tour was capped off by an incredible movie theater experience which featured a film that focused on our sun, the stars, and the Big Bang Theory on the formulation of our vast universe of stars.

From the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum, we

went to the building where our senators and congress members meet to debate and pass laws that govern our democracy – the Capitol.

Far in advance of the trip, our Board liaison, Sharan White, had arranged for tickets enabling our tour of the Smithsonian, and had been in touch with our Congressman Eliot Engel’s office to arrange for a tour of the Capitol building. Working in harmony with Ms. White was Tamira King, who provided the logistical help and coordinated the operations on the bus during the trip; and Tyreck Green, our intern liaison, and a recent Honors graduate of Lehman College where he received his bachelor’s degree in political science. They all pitched in as both chaperones and bus activity coordinators.

Our Capitol tour guide was great as he gave the youngsters a fascinating historical accounting of the many events that have happened within the building since its erection, and was quick to point out that slaves were an integral part of building the Capitol building.

Most impressive are the large painting on the walls and the statues within the Capitol’s Rotunda. Along with the statues of Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, and many other famous Americans, there were statues of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Rosa Parks. A lot of the youngsters had photographs taken alongside of those two likenesses. We’ll try to arrange for a website where all of our pictures can be viewed.

The tour of the Capitol building was a long one, and came to an end as we walked into the south wing of the Rotunda to the Congressional Chambers. Congress had been adjourned and so we simply sat up in the visitor seats for a while taking in the moment.

There was a lot more to see, but time was not on our side because we had arranged to have dinner in Maryland before heading home. That too was prepaid, and everyone clearly enjoyed themselves.

Every youngster that I spoke with said that they enjoyed the experience.

The college-bound students clearly want to go back to see more and that’s a very good thing!

I asked all the partici-

The Best & Brightest Essays “How Can I Best Serve My Community?”

Change

BY KEMI OLORUNFEMI

(Kemi is a freshman enrolled at Alfred State College.)

I never thought that a simple thirteen-hour flight would change everything I know, my whole life. Being ten and having the whole world splayed out in front of me left me feeling overwhelmed and limitless. The plane soared and along with it was my perspective in life. I had a lot of time to think about limitations and barriers, how to break them and challenge myself.

I was born in the Bronx, New York but I grew up in Abeokuta, Nigeria to stay in touch with my culture which was very important to my family. Living in Nigeria left me without my blood parents and in the company of family friends to watch over me. I often found myself taking care of them in return. They became my source of happiness and belonging as I grew to love them much more than my blood family. I finally understood how to love and nurture people and that blood is not always thicker. I was not spiteful that my family left me behind as I understood that their intentions were to make my life better.

Growing up in Africa, I learned to take care of myself and others. This all happened when I was about eight years old, and my friend got sick. I was very interested in taking care of her, and making sure she was well. My mother and her side of the family are either nurses or doctors which greatly influenced my life as my interests were peaked because I was always surrounded by medical equipment. On a day that started like all the others, I was dragged to my aunt’s office.

I didn't expect anything spectacular to happen when I stepped into the nurse’s office, but I was greatly mistaken. Looking at her maneuver around equipment with confidence as she helped and tended to the patients filled me with happiness and opened my eyes to what I really wanted to do as a career.

With all my acquired medical “skills,” I was super happy to go to America and learn more. One July of 2010, my mother told me that it was time to move to America and I didn’t know how to feel. I didn’t want to leave my friends and the people I had considered to be family. When I was on that plane so many thoughts invaded my head. Feelings of worry about whether I'd fit in and how to cope with this great loss of the life I had built in Nigeria were my greatest concerns.

Moving to America left me exposed to all these high advanced equipment and a big culture shock. People are more open to compassion and helping others.

This influenced me to strengthen my people and (Continued on page 9)

pants to write an essay entitled, “How Could I Better Serve My Community.” I want to commend everyone who complied, however, I wanted to highlight the commitment to the essays of Kemi Olorunfemi, Stephanie Ogunbiyi, and Jorge A. Martinez, each for their outstanding essays and for making excellent suggestions.

Accompanying and acting as chaperones on the trip were Education Committee member and Riverbay Board Director Andrea Leslie, Director Junius Williams, Director Jerome Rice, Committee members Christine Adderly, Josephine Ferguson and Shirley Saunders.

It gives me added pleasure to remark about the behavior and attitudes of all of the youngsters who were on the trip. I can say with all honesty that everyone's behavior on the long bus trip was great (a couple of minor addresses), and their attention span on the tours was outstanding. I was really impressed with their dining room etiquette at the restaurant. Our group was arguably the quietest guests in the place!

Apart from the little league field, Co-op City does not have a facility or community backed program that is designed to engage our youngsters, which leaves parents to account for afterschool activities or leave our youngsters to their own devices.

This Board is, and has been working towards addressing our youngsters on several levels designed around their needs and aspirations. The Renaissance program that comes here to Co-op City has been highly successful and is an outstanding example of the very positive programming that can be brought here for our youngsters.

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and State Senator Jamaal Bailey are currently assisting us with a proposal for the funding of a Community School program, designed to take advantage of the Education Park (Truman H.S. and facilities).

It’s been a long time in coming, but I truly believe that we’re on the right track now, and with the entire community’s support, we can, and will be successful.

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

The Best & Brightest Essays (Continued) “How Can I Best Serve My Community?”

Change

(Continued from page 8)

BY STEPHANIE OGUNBIYI

(Stephanie is a 5th grader at PS 41 Gun Hill Road School, Bronx, NY.) My name is Stephanie Ogunbiyi and how I can best serve my community is to be helpful to my elders and respect other people in Co-op City. For example, when I see an elderly person, I will ask if they need help with bags. If they say, “yes,” I will take their bags and help him or her across the street. Also, I can be very responsible in my community. For instance, when my mother, father, or brothers tell me to do something, I will do it. In addition, if they tell me to hold their items, I will not leave it on the floor and forget about it.

I can also best serve my community by picking up trash along the roads, parks, rivers, streams, and lakes because people do not care about their environment. This is because if they did care, they will not litter. People litter when they say DO NOT LITTER!!! So, I can serve my community by keeping it clean and picking up trash all over Co-op City.

To continue, I can serve my community by volunteering at a local animal or rescue group. This can help my community because if I see animals hurt, I will take them to an animal shelter. This can help the animal because if the animal is hurt, I will take it to the veterinarian. Also, it will help people buy/adopt the

BY JORGE A. MARTINEZ animals and take care of it. The animals are part of our community too so we (Jorge graduated from New York City Museum High School should care for them, too. and will be enrolled at Fordham University in the Fall.)

I can also serve my community by working at community events. For examBeing a newcomer to New York City of sorts, I see the city through a different perple, I will help set up for concerts, community theatres or youth sporting events. spective. Coming from a rural area in the southwest of Puerto Rico, I was not entirely Though people usually hire professionals to handle the sound and heavy equipaware of the societal ills that contaminate urban life. Poverty, crime and racial barriers were concepts that my pre-teen self knew of, but I did not feel personally responment, volunteers could run cables, set up folding chairs or operate the concessible for. Those were just things that were happening over there and I did not need to sion stands and also Triathlons and 5k or 10k races need extra hands to track worry myself over such things. time, hand out water, or direct competitors, without having to be paid.

This changed when I moved to the Bronx. A microcosm of the injustice I see is how In conclusion, I can best serve my community in many fun and helpful ways. in the 5 train, going from the Bronx to downtown Manhattan, all of the black and brown As I stated above, you can help, be responsible and caring in different ways. I commuters who listen to music or are on their phones gradually become replaced by can clean my environment and by volunteering at local animal shelters and comparatively better dressed Caucasian commuters who read books. In this example, I community sponsored events. One quote I heard from my parents was, “If you do not mean to antagonize any race, but only to relate how I see the community I live in.

Fighting against social injustices is something I felt that New Yorkers were proud help people, people will help you in your times of need just like how you helped of. I would see some in Union Square and admire the bravery and nobility of those them in their times of need.” That is how I can best serve my environment and that would step up for the less fortunate. Especially during the election year was this my community. (CO-OP CITY IS THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE.) sensation felt with almost the whole of the city shouting that the issues that really mattered were not being talked about at all. I remembered when hate crimes increased and I thought then that it was amazing how in 2016, people could still hold biases we supposedly eliminated decades ago. Being a dark-skinned Puerto Rican, I have felt racial bias in this city. The subliminal message always seems to be the Latinos and the African-Americans look like “this,” “talk” like that, and live in communities where its inhabitants dream of living in “better places.” Although I feel passionate about matters of race relations in this city, matters concerning injustices over sexual orientation and gender have not escaped my gaze. I am aware that being openly transgender in many parts of the city is incredibly dangerous.

My previous thoughts were meant to shed light on my motivations for my previous actions, my current endeavors, and my future ambitions. Even when I was in Puerto Rico, I was a member of the youth group of my church. In it, we did outreach while also doing community service activities. In addition to this, I am a volunteer at the LGBTQ inclusive senior center SAGE in the Fordham Area. I especially like how I am helping an historically ostracized group while providing companionship to seniors who oftentimes do not have as many loved ones in their lives as they once did.

Once, I accidentally assumed the sexual orientation of a senior in the center and he told me he felt offended because he spent most of his life closeted. Only recently did he start to live as who he truly is without shame. This experience is seared into my mind because it showed me that there are things that are fundamentally wrong in the world and that I need to do something to fix them. One way in which I am doing this is my volunteer service at SAGE. Another is when I walked in the NYC AIDS Walk in 2015. Nevertheless, I resolve not to stop here. As an incoming freshman of Fordham University, I intend to use all of their resources to research social justice movements, humanitarian leaders, analysis of cultural trends, and so much more to become one of the educated and responsible citizens the world needs.

While I am currently resolved to go in undecided to Fordham, I have certain guidelines that will help me choose a major that will help me serve my community.

The major will involve studying to a certain extent, how human beings interact and how society affects the individual. It should also allow me to travel extensively so that I can broaden my world view and gain experiences that can help me learn new ways to help my community. It would also be to my liking if there were a certain sense of altruism to the work I am doing. Not only do I understand that my work would help my community, but that it would also grant me peace of mind.

In college and beyond, I intend to continue my community service endeavors with some changes. I intend to experiment by participating in new groups and continuing to learn about new causes that may have been overlooked by the mainstream population. This is not to say that I consider the causes I worked for trivial, but that I should open my eyes to new ideas, move outside of my comfort zone. There are several groups in Fordham that operate within the community and help with numerous issues. While I will look into them, I will also continue my research into how I can best integrate social justice into my adult life.

To answer the aim question, I am still learning how I will best serve my community. However, this does not mean that I will not be trying my best with what I do know. There is a world of information about the causes I am passionate about. It is because of this that I am studying these causes and determining how they will be reflected in my future adult life. Although I do not completely know how that will be, I simply know I will be helping my community. leadership skills as I helped others as well. I was also surprised with this unsaid relationship between doctor and patient.

It is important to have a voice and the ability to work under stress. Growing up in Africa, I believe, has helped me in building these qualities. Even after a great loss that was leaving everything I knew behind to chase prosperity, I was able to look at the bright side of things and count everything as an experience that would help me in life. I am humble that I have the opportunity to be in many clubs in my school that are putting me one step towards my goals. It has made me become a better person and a stronger leader. Being a leader is what I aspire to be and moving gave me the push I needed.

My background story and my journey shows how I can best represent my community. I used my struggles to make a pathway for myself and others. Going to college and becoming a nurse is how I can best give back to my community. I can use this gift to help others physically and mentally. I can take care of patients and expand my career. My story can also show people in my community that they can't let any brick wall stop them. You have to keep fighting and break those walls down. I aspire to make my community proud.

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Board Resolutions

never give away land.” The ownership of land has made some folks “rich.”

On the other hand, this is a piece of land in the Francine Reva Jones Co-op City community which has remained undevelAssistant Secretary oped for nearly 50 years. It could be developed to include some of the facilities that our community is I have received comments on Resolutions #17-37 lacking. When I walk across the Section 1 greenway, I and #17-39. Resolution #17-37 proposes to increase the often see young people using the stage steps for skatevoter turnout for the Riverbay Board of Directors elec- board activities. Building something for them could be tions by incorporating and emphasizing voting into the considered. There are many complaints about the dogs New Cooperators Orientation Meetings. The annual in our community. Perhaps a doggie park could be creBoard of Directors elections have had to be extended in ated. It would take hundreds of thousands of dollars for recent years, including this year, due to what appears to Riverbay to produce them. Other shareholders probabe cooperator apathy. This resolution directs Manage- bly have other ideas. In my opinion, there should be a ment to create a plan to increase voter turnout, which community survey to determine what the majority should include discussing voting at the New Cooperator wants. We must remember that the Memorandum of Orientation Meetings, including voting information in Donation is the document that opened the door for disthe New Cooperator Orientation pamphlets, encourag- cussion. If Resolution 17-39 passes, the shareholders’ ing new cooperators to attend at least one Open Board opinions will not be heard. I believe that this issue is for meeting, one Town Hall meeting and one Election the community to decide.

Health Presentation Forum during their first year of residency.

Last week, I discussed the Health Presentation It also calls for revoking the parking and storage privileges after two consecutive years of failing to vote. I hosted by the National Association for the Advancehave received objections from some Board directors ment of Colored People, Co-op City Branch. Ms. Laand some cooperators. However, I have also asked for Verne Wooley, head of the Health Committee, organtheir input. We are all in this together. If we fail to get ized the discussion on “Healthy Drinking & Eating” two-thirds of the community to vote, it will go into over- with guest speaker, Toni Marinucci, MS, RDN. Ms. time and cost the shareholders extra money. Since there Marinucci explained how the food plate is a newer are vigorous objections to wasting money, it behooves method used as a health guide over the food pyramid, all of us to participate in offering solutions. I realize that showing that the largest quantity of food we should conthere are religious objectors. Perhaps they should con- sume is vegetables. Season them to your taste and, sider surrendering their voting rights and the quorum either fresh, frozen or canned, raw or cooked, they are number could be reduced. What are your thoughts? colorful and very healthy for you. She discussed grains, Thanks to the constructive criticisms from two share- stating that brown rice is better than white rice because holders. Your voices have been heard and your sugges- it has not been stripped of its fiber. On the topic of proteins, she stated that, aside from meat and fish, you may tions given serious consideration.

Resolution 17-39 will decide if Resolution #17-33, consume beans, nuts, seeds and tofu. She cautioned us regarding the Memorandum of Donation for waterfront to be mindful of the sugar development of a public park, should be rescinded. In content in fruit juices, so my opinion, there is much to consider in this resolution. they don’t spike the blood In the history of this country, there have been cases of sugar. The least of our land agreements, land grabs, land takeovers, folks being diet should be dairy. The swindled out of their land, etc. Consider the develop- discussion on hydration ment of the U.S.A. and where the Native Americans are appeared to be most now. If the former enslaved African-Americans had important. The amount of been granted the 40 acres and a mule they were prom- water we drink per day ised, I believe they would be in a better position today. should be half of our Reparations Now! It has been said that “you should body weight in ounces,

i.e., a 160 lb. person should drink 80 ounces of water per day. The meeting ended with everyone enjoying a dish of healthy food prepared by the Committee and some of the Co-op City NAACP members.

Affordable Care Act The Republican administration is attempting to pass amendments to the Affordable Care Act. From what I understand, their revisions would make the Affordable Care Act unaffordable for low and middle income Americans and will cause many Americans their lives. Most Democratic senators are against the proposed amendments and have offered to work with Republicans on this. Americans are encouraged to contact Republican senators and demand that they work with the Democrats in arriving at a reasonable solution.

Now, more than ever, is the time to take charge of your health. By eating a sensible diet, watching your weight, getting regular exercise, and appropriate rest, you may be able to limit your doctor visits and medication. Remember that vegetables, fruits, nuts and grains are God’s foods made for the body that God created. Try to purchase fresh foods. You should refrain from putting man-made grub into your bodies.

Read the package labels. Many packages contain ingredients and chemicals that you have never heard of. It seems logical that by consuming them over many years, that you could become sick with cancer, heart disease, diabetes, etc. Eat right and live longer.

Building Association Meetings Please attend your building association meeting in September. You will meet new friends and obtain relevant information about your building and your community.

If you wish to share your ideas with me, I can be reached at 718-671-5957. Please enjoy this beautiful summer.

DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist — Foot Specialist • Practicing in Co-op City since 1975 • Board Certified in Foot Surgery • ALL conditions of the foot treated • We

accept most health insurance plans

• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program • Evening and Saturday appointments

Dr. Lewis Wolstein

Call:

“Se Habla Español”

718.671.7226 100 DeKruif Place

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

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Jerome L. Rice Assistant Treasurer My first meeting as a Board director on Wednesday, June 28, I was chosen by Board President Linda Berk to serve as parliamentarian for the Board. The meeting was smooth, many resolutions and concerns were addressed in both a timely and respectful manner. Breaking News: We ended the meeting on time by simply staying on the topic. Thanks, fellow Board members.

Your Right To Vote Many of you have reached out to me regarding Resolution #17-39, which covers voting participation; keep in mind both your civil and human rights are in good hands. Resolution #17-39 is currently at the first reading stage, nothing has been finalized.

Many on the Board, like myself, have voiced our concerns. While the resolution was done with good intentions, the language of the resolution needs to be changed. I will continue to do what is best for the

Let’s Get To Work cooperators. Staying in sequence with the Voting Rights Act of 1965, I suggested that the language be changed to protect one’s race, gender or religion.

What really causes cooperators to not partake in elections is, in my opinion, because they are both tired and turned off with the negative behavior of the past.

We are elected to work on behalf of the cooperators, not ourselves.

Happy Retirement I want to wish Bishop Nancy Rosario a Happy Retirement. There will never be another like you at the Legal Department. The services you have provided have both changed and helped so many lives.

Bishop Nancy Rosario always displayed a “Can-DoAttitude,” toward any task placed before her; she is spiritually-driven and simply the best. Again, you will be missed.

Safety Concerns I call on everyone to keep an extra eye on both our seniors and children while they are out in the sun.

Please make sure that they are drinking a reasonable amount of room temperature water to keep them hydrated. Check the temperature at the playground

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 pattern of these animals as they end up not flying south for the winter. This was the case last winter in the New York area where many geese were found starved to death when they did not fly south for the winter and their normal food source was covered by deep snow. 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.

before any child gets on a sliding board, swing or bare footed on a rubber mat. Let’s take care of each other.

Waterfront deal Some have rushed to the news to sell a false narrative that property was given away to the city. That narrative was later proven to be false. At some point, the cooperators will make that decision. I thank President Berk for getting us to the table to address some of our concerns.

The Best & Brightest Go To Washington I, along with Directors J. Williams, R. Saunders and liaisons Tamira and Sharan White have taken the Best & Brightest students on a trip to the U.S. Capitol, Space Museum. The trip was very informative.

Some students were accompanied by their parents and stated that they had a great time and were amazed by American history.

What’s Going On? I can’t see or hear everything that is going on in our community, so I ask that you share your concerns with me via email at jrice@riverbayboard.com because your concerns are my priority.

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

—Riverbay Management

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

SCRIE and DRIE

(Continued from page 1)

supervisory agency for Co-op City. This increase order comes from the commissioner of HCR and is printed on page 1 of this issue of the Co-op City Times.

Since Co-op City is a state Mitchell-Lama Housing Development, senior citizens who live in the development must only apply for SCRIE with the NYC Department of Housing, Preservation and Development (HPD). Cooperators can call HPD at (212) 863-8494 for more information. Through SCRIE, people 62 years or older with an entire household yearly income of $50,000 or less may be eligible for exemption from all or some increases in carrying charges, The 1.9% increase in carrying charges raises the average carrying charge from $216.43 per room to $220.54 per room in Co-op City apartments as of August 1, 2017, a difference of approximately $4.11 per room on average.

On August 1, 2018 the second 1.9% carrying charge increase will raise the then-current average carrying charge from $220.54 per room, per month, to $224.73 per room, per month, an increase of $4.19 per room on average.

SCRIE and DRIE make up New York City’s Rent Freeze Program which “freezes” the rent of eligible senior citizens and those with qualifying disabilities by granting an exemption from paying the “increase” portion of their rent or, in the case of Co-op City, maintenance or carrying charges, thereby helping them to remain in affordable housing.

To be eligible for the SCRIE program, applicants must satisfy all of the following requirements: • They must be 62 years and over; • Have an annual household income not in excess of $50,000; • Have a valid one or two-year lease for an apartment that is regulated by the Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), for example, a rent controlled, rent stabilized or hotel stabilized apartment; and • They must pay more than one-third of their household’s monthly income for rent, or in the case of Co-op City shareholders, carrying charges.

Landlords and management agents receive tax abatement credits in lieu of cash for any rent increase, and, under Local Law 75 which was signed by Mayor Michael Bloomberg in 2005, the income eligibility threshold of the SCRIE program has been increasing annually by $1,000 until it reached $29,000 in the year 2009. On July 1, 2014, that threshold was increased to $50,000 or less.

According to Riverbay’s Director of Finance, Peter Merola, there are currently 1,316 seniors on SCRIE in Co-op City, and 148 households receiving DRIE benefits.

“It is good to see that the city has continued these much needed subsidy programs to help those qualifying cooperators with their monthly living expenses,” said Merola. “It should be pointed out, however, that both SCRIE and DRIE help cooperators who are 62 years of age and older to pay for the ‘increase’ in carrying charges, not their entire carrying charge. Shareholders should also be aware that each case is different, so because your neighbor qualifies for ‘X’ amount does not mean that you will also. Some may be eligible for a lot of help, while others may be eligible for some help.”

Mr. Merola explained that the SCRIE and DRIE programs work by the city notifying Riverbay how much assistance each qualifying cooperator is to receive and Riverbay posts this credit to the shareholder’s account. In turn, the city "pays" Riverbay by applying an abatement for this same amount to Riverbay’s real estate taxes.

On the other hand, the DRIE law, which was enacted on October 10, 2005, has five criteria and, like SCRIE, applicants must satisfy all of them to be eligible: • The applicant must rent an eligible apartment.

An eligible apartment is defined by the DRIE law as those regulated by the state Division of Housing and Community Renewal, for instance, rent-controlled or rent stabilized apartments; those in the Mitchell-Lama program; those owned by a limited dividend housing company, redevelopment company, or housing development fund company incorporated under the private housing finance law; or those in a building where the mortgage was federally insured under Section 213 of the National Housing Act, and the applicant was a tenant of record at the time of the mortgage termination.

• The applicant must be the head of household (18 years of age or older) and named on the lease or rent order, be the tenant of record, or be the spouse or registered domestic partner with a disability; or either of the above. The tenant of record may be a spouse, domestic partner, or child who has attained the right of succession to the apartment upon the death of the leaseholder.

MTA Real-Time Service Updates The most up-to-date information on MTA service status is always available at www.mta.info. For immediate notice of service changes, sign up for email or text alerts at www.mymtaalerts.com. For weekend subway service changes, visit web.mta.info/weekender.

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• Applicants of DRIE must receive eligible state or federal disability-related financial assistance.

Only those currently receiving Federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI); Federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI); US Department of Veterans Affairs disability pension or compensation (Must be Military service-related disability pension or compensation); or Disability-related Medicaid (if the applicant has received either SSI or SSDI in the past) to qualify to receive DRIE. • The applicant must have an annual household income of $50,000 or less.

Income eligibility is established by using the applicant’s income from the previous calendar year.

• DRIE applicants must pay more than one-third of their household’s aggregate disposable income for rent, which is the total countable wages and other sources of income, minus allowable deductions for all members of the household.

“For those qualifying households, this will be a great benefit in that the applicant will not have to pay future carrying charge increases,” said Mr. Merola. “All cooperators who think they may qualify should file their applications with New York City as soon as possible to avoid future carrying charge increases.”

Essentially, once the DRIE application is filed and approved, the city will notify Riverbay which residents were approved and at the time of the next carrying charge increase, the resident’s carrying charge should remain at its current level. In turn, the DOF will send Riverbay Corporation a credit towards its property taxes which will compensate the housing development for the carrying charge increase it would have received from the DRIE participant.

“The cooperator must fill out an application which will be evaluated by the New York City Department of Finance,” said Lou Salegna, Riverbay’s Controller.

“The agency will then make a determination as to eligibility and the amount of carrying charges they will absorb.”

For assistance in completing the application, please call 3-1-1- or contact the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities.

Mr. Merola emphasizes that since SCRIE and DRIE are New York City programs, shareholders must file their applications as instructed on the application forms, not with Riverbay Corporation.

Co-op City shareholders are advised NOT TO apply for SCRIE or DRIE online via the NYC Department of Finance website. Completed applications should be mailed to the address provided on the applications.

For the convenience of Riverbay shareholders, the applications for both SCRIE and DRIE are available at the reception desk at the Riverbay administrative office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, N.Y. JASA Senior Services, located at 2049 Bartow Avenue, normally provides assistance to shareholders who need help completing their SCRIE and DRIE applications. This service is provided through the LiveOn NY program. Appointments are required, so please call JASA at (929) 399-1394 to make an appointment prior to going to the office to meet with the LiveOn NY representative for help filling out the SCRIE or DRIE application.

It should be noted that, by law, households can only receive either SCRIE or DRIE, not both of these rent increase exemptions.

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

One Of The Worst Resolutions In The History Of Co-op City Director’s Viewpoint

vote? What about forcing shareholders to give up their storage units? Ridiculous!

Question: Would you agree some candidates that run for our board are beyond horrible? If yes, then why should anyone be forced to vote for them? For the record, there is no way that I will ever vote for Did you see the resolution about voting in last some people that have run for this board before. So, week's paper? According to this resolution, Co-op what's going to happen to me?

City shareholders that don't vote in two elections will What about people that cannot vote because of not be able to park in our garages or use our storage religious, spiritual, or personal beliefs? Should they facilities for 6 months. violate their beliefs to vote in a board election?

Voting Outrage Should they be kicked out of the garages and not be Board Directors Francine Reva Jones and Claudia allowed to use our storage facilities? Never!

Sampson are sponsoring resolution #17-37, about Yes, I want shareholders to vote for good candivoting in this community. Additionally, both of these dates that are going to benefit this community. Howdirectors are members of the Coalition to Save ever, as a community, we should never create a class Affordable Housing group. As mentioned before, sev- of voters that get privileges and a class of non-voters eral directors from this group voted for the carrying that cannot get those same privileges. This is horrible. charge increases that we're going to receive in August And, there is no way that any housing company 2017, August 2018, and more than likely in 2019. should try to use these evil tactics to force their shareThis controversial resolution starts off by listing holders to violate their beliefs to engage in any politsome negative things that have occurred in our previ- ical activity. ous board elections. Then, this resolution issues a Bottom line: If approved, this disgraceful resoludemand for our management to develop a compre- tion that is sponsored by Francine Reva Jones and hensive voter turnout plan for our board elections.

Claudia Sampson is going to cause a lot of anger, But, think, management is not supposed to inter- hostility, and controversy here. So, we must make fere or have anything to do with our board elections. sure, in a peaceful way, that this board does not So, how is it possible for management to create a approve this resolution. voter plan for the directors that hired them?

Elevator Consultant - $1 Million This plan gets worse when it requires, "new shareAll of our elevators were replaced in 2002. Then, holders to sign a statement that they will make their after those elevators were installed, management disbest effort to vote." However, if you check, you'll see covered that smaller than normal motors were that there are no regulations within the Mitchell- allegedly installed in them. And, after a court battle, Lama program that require shareholders to sign a we're now using a 25-year warranty to get these small statement that they will vote in a board election. motors replaced when they go bad. So, now, manYou don't vote? Well, this resolution calls for agement wants to spend $40 million to install new penalties to be administered to shareholders that elevators. don't vote in our board elections. "Failure to vote in And, on June 28, 2017, the board approved a restwo consecutive elections will result in a six (6) olution that goes up to $1 million for one elevator month revocation of their parking license agreement consultant to work on this project. Amazing, huh? and their storage license agreement."

New Basketball Courts Now, yes or no, do you think that it is right to force Bellamy Loop is going to be jumping next month, shareholders to vote in a board election? What about August. According to management, three new full-size kicking people out of our garages because they don't basketball courts will probably be ready for action at

Daryl Johnson

Throwing garbage/objects from apartment windows is UNLAWFUL, DANGEROUS and could cause you to receive a community complaint and fine.

that time. Currently, they have bleachers for 75 people.

Fall 2017 - Free Tuition At All CUNY AND SUNY Schools in NYS Starting in the fall of this year, eligible students will be able to go to any CUNY or SUNY school in NYS and receive free tuition. That's right! Under the Excelsior Scholarship program, your tuition will be free.

There are several requirements that the state has listed on their website to enroll into this scholarship program. So, please go to this website to get the requirements: hesc.ny.gov/excelsior/ Applications will be accepted until July 21, 2017.

So, before you forget, please cut this viewpoint out and go online right now and look up this program.

Thereafter, please tell your family and friends that might be interested in this program to go online today and register as soon as possible.

Close Cooperator A: "Why can't you park in our garages?" Cooperator B: "My family and I were just kicked out of the garages and we can't use the storage facilities because we refused to violate our beliefs to vote in two board elections."

Again, I want to respectfully encourage our shareholders to vote for good candidates that will benefit this community. However, I do not want anyone to force our cooperators to violate their beliefs to vote.

Thank you.

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

Or, please send a message to me at darylhjohnson@optonline.net (There are absolutely no problems with this email address. So, please doublecheck the spelling of this address if your message bounces back to you.) Also, please call me at 718671-4544 if you don't receive a response from your message. You can also join me on Facebook by typing in: Daryl H. Johnson.

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

Thank you.

15

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

It’s

HAPPENING in Co-op City!

Best & Brightest Trip To Washington, DC Co-op City students who were honored as Best and Brightest award recipients this year took part in a trip to Washington, D.C. on June 30 sponsored by the Education Committee of the Riverbay Board of Directors.

The day-long trip included a visit to the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum, as well as a guided tour of the Capitol Building arranged by Congressman Eliot Engel’s office.

Chaperoning the students on the trip were Riverbay Fund President Rod Saunders, Education Committee member and Riverbay Board Director Andrea Leslie, Director Junius Williams, Director Jerome Rice and Committee members Christine Adderly, Josephine Ferguson and Shirley Saunders.

Photos by Rod Saunders, Jerome Rice and Sharan White

16

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Co-op City 4th of July Fireworks!

Thousands of Co-op City neighbors came together Monday evening to watch one of the region’s most spectacular 4th of July holiday fireworks shows produced on the Section 2 Greenway each year by the Riverbay Community Relations Office in association with the Riverbay Fund. Capturing the spectacular display for our readers were photographers Tamira King, Elijah Barnard, Richard Harris and Anthony Warner.

17

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Building 32 Association We, the officers, friends and members of Building 32 Association, are mourning the loss of our executive vice president, Ms. Dolores Rankin. She peacefully passed on Sunday, June 25, 2017. Whenever we receive information from the family, we shall share it with the Co-op City community.

The Haight-Brown Winery and Foxwood Casino for Saturday, September 23rd is still a Go. There will be pick-ups and drop-offs at Asch Loop, Dreiser and Building 32. There will be a tour and wine tasting. Then, we shall go to Foxwood Casino where you will receive $10 for gambling and a free buffet.

The TOTAL cost for this fun full day is $55. You may still make payment of $30 and $25, but the final total payment date is still July 15th. There will NOT be REFUNDS because we have to fulfill our money obligations to our vendors.

Funds are to be sent to Ms. Sonja Brown-Clark, at 4160 Hutch. Rvr. Pkwy. E. #9A, Bronx, N.Y. 10475, with checks or money orders made out to Building 32 Association. Her number is 718-671-1685.

—Eleanor G. Bailey

Co-op City Public Safety Dept.

Emergency: 718-651-3050 Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us

@CCPDnyc

Let us know…If you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, please give us a call at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375/6; email: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or fax (718) 320-2595.

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18

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Director’s Viewpoint

Evelyn Turner A snapshot of the first Riverbay Corporation Board Meeting after the last extended election is a follows: The reports from the top leadership, Board President and Executive General Manager remains the same; a verbal written report. The Executive General Manager’s verbal reports continue to be very brief, however, he allows questions.

Paying a consultant, Bill Warr up to a million dollars for consulting during the elevator modernization and maintenance was explained by the Executive GM Bob Klehammer as necessary IF we want to install new elevators. Reportedly, we are not ordering parts, but the entire elevator. From my standpoint, in essence, he stated that we either hire Bill Warr or no elevators.

Reportedly, no Riverbay employee has the expertise to supervise such a job. Interesting enough, it was suggested by Counsel that this is an expertise, elevator engineer, which few have mastery. Interestingly enough, this is one union (elevator) that never attends Co-op City’s College, Career and Resource Fair even after consistent invitations. In my opinion, this is a great trade and expertise our youth should consider.

Charging up to a million dollars for a consulting job for a corporation to oversee installation of elevators is not bad.

Modernization of Store Fronts Executive GM Bob Klehammer reported that three (3) architects have been paid $10,000 each ($30,000) for designs to upgrade our store fronts. A selection has been made and will be shared with shareholders in the near future. All designs will remain with the corporation. A concern about ensuring diversity in hiring was discussed in an earlier meeting. However, we are not aware of who was selected.

We were pleased to get an update on the basketball courts in Bellamy Loop that should be completed by early August.

First Reading Resolution # 17-37 What is being proposed by Directors Francine

This Or That 2017 Reva Jones and Claudia Sampson is that for the first time in Co-op City’s history, we penalize new cooperators who don’t vote by “revoking of their parking license agreement and their storage license agreement.” They are also suggesting new shareholders sign a statement that they will make their best effort to vote, etc.

A response from an irate cooperator who says she reads the paper cover to cover is that “it sounds like these directors are proposing ‘Socialism and Dictatorship’.” What about those who don’t vote for religious reasons?

Please know that the purpose of First Readings is to elicit feedback and this resolution requires six (6) more votes from Board members to become the law.

My suggestion is that Management and the Board do a better job in sparking interest in voter participation. Another suggestion is to consider revamping the Community Relations Department with staff who can better communicate with all cooperators in a positive manner.

The Land Issue Conflict will forever exist until the truth is told about this headline: City Hall in Your Borough: Mayor de Blasio Announces New 1.4 Acre Waterfront Site for Parkland in Co-op City: Bronx, NY. Written on May 26, 2017 the official article at http://www1.nyc.gov/mayor (click on “News”) says “New Park will serve 45,000 residents in and around Co-op City.” All powerful politicians’ names are listed and Riverbay Corporation President Linda Berk to announce the City will develop 1.4 acres of new parkland, “donated” by (8 Board Members–The Riverbay Corporation).

The Board meeting was on a Wednesday, the meeting was held with the Mayor on a Thursday.

Also, there is a picture of the proposed park on the Mayor’s website. So how did this happen so fast?

• What role did Douglas Elliman staff play in this deal?

• What role did Counsel Jeff Buss play in this deal? Has Counsel and the Chief Executive Manager already contacted the city, state and federal government for their stamp of approval?

• Who told the Mayor that a “Public Park” was a priority?

• Is the Mayor misleading the public? If not, why would he go public?

• Has the deal been sealed?

• Why is the president, Linda Berk, waiting so long to call a meeting with shareholders who are paying for the land?

• Are we waiting to see who gets the bid to run for Mayor and City Council?

Please note that this idea started at the Board level as a vision of the Board president and was a budget item before it was voted down. After it was removed from the budget, the idea was evidently shared with the Mayor. In my opinion, when Board members dared put this project on the back burner pending elevator completion, it was then proposed to give land away, without shareholders’ prior approval. Reportedly, in time, a survey will occur, etc.

So why has Management refused to clean up this area as we have staff in place? How much would it cost to hire a truck to “clear cut” the entire area, install benches, plant flowers and make it our OWN? We cannot call the shots or get protection from Public Safety if the park is PUBLIC. Will shareholders be expected to foot the bill?

Again, who gives up land? Why is land so precious? According to many of you – WE DO NOT NEED A PUBLIC PARK IN OUR BACK YARD! Continue to pay attention as we are dealing with powerful people with connections. Continue to be pro-active and share your concerns in writing to: Evelyn M. Turner, LCSW, Riverbay Board, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; eturner@riverbayboard.com; 917-324-1033.

This land is your land from Building 01 to 46!

This director will, at your pleasure, go that extra mile.

This is a time of conflict, challenge and controversy.

Our quality of life MAY change with a Public Park on our waterfront.

Kudos to Director Rod Saunders and Sharan White for providing such an academic enrichment opportunity to Washington, D.C. for our youth and their families We salute Katherine Johnson, now 97 years old, of “Hidden Figures” and the naming of the Katherine G. Johnson Research Center at NASA’s Langley Research Center in her honor.

Building 27 Association

Building 21 Association

Greetings, neighbor, summer is here. Make sure to keep cool and drink plenty of water. Enjoy and stay safe.

Building 27 Association…will be on summer break and will see you in September. Any apartment issues, contact (CSO) your Cooperators Service Office. Always get the name, date and time you spoke to someone concerning any problems. Also, the building association’s contact phone number is posted on your bulletin board.

The Fundraising Committee will be working on a fall entertainment and will love for our neighbors to join us. More information to follow over the summer.

Riverbay Dog Policy – Please, neighbors, follow the rules to avoid penalties of a fine. The fines amount and codes are listed in the Co-op Times and there are cameras everywhere.

We extend our condolences and prayers to the family of Delores Rankins and to those who have lost a loved one.

Happy birthday to all celebrating this month.

Please share with the Sunshine Committee, Ms. Lydia Rondon, by calling her at (718) 583-3040. If a neighbor in our building is ill, homebound, celebrating birthdays or experiencing bereavement, Ms. Rondon will respond on behalf of the association.

Please keep our Board and community in prayer.

We wish the new directors and the Board well as they continue to move forward to protect the interest of the people and their homes. Pray for leaders in the world for peace and stability.

—H. Overman

21 Association Update…We had a record turn-out at our last meeting Think Tank gathering. The next general gathering of the 21 Association will be July 11th at Tunes on Tuesday. Do you have questions regarding The 21 Association? Here are some ways of gaining information. EMAIL your building association at 21association@gmail.com. CALL your association at 347.504.1821.

THINK TANK at Building 21 is in session every Friday at 8:30 p.m. THINK TANK at Building 21 is where we develop your ideas and turn your dreams into reality. We meet in the “Gathering Room” in the rear of the B Section. Your community, this community, our community, needs your ideas, your strength and your perseverance.

ALL are welcome. Come and bring a friend with you. Be a part of something to change your life and the lives of the people you care about for the better.

BE THE CHANGE you want to see!

“We” have chosen to live here in a cooperative community. Remember that we are shareholders and business partners. We are not tenants. We must co-exist and cooperate with each other in order make and keep our community rated as among the best places to live in New York for its current residents and for generations to come.

Floor Captains are an ABSOLUTE NECESSITY IN EVERY BUILDING All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows: 1. CONTACT NUMBERS (FOR YOUR FLOOR ONLY) • LIST ALL EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS AND DISTRIBUTE TO EACH NEIGHBOR 2. CO-OP CITY TIMES • PLACE THEM AT EACH APARTMENT DOOR (Delivered on Saturdays) 3. ELEVATOR NOTICES • READ THEM AND TALK TO YOUR NEIGHBORS ABOUT THEM 4. PROMOTE: • MEETINGS, CLUBS AND GATHERINGS 5. ENCOURAGE YOUR NEIGHBORS TO: • VOTE – VOTE – VOTE! IN THE RIVERBAY ELECTION • MAKE CALLS TO THE RIVERBAY OFFICES SECURITY 718-671-3050 CSO OFFICES 718-320-3300 We are dedicated to the self-development and empowerment of every shareholder in CO-OP City. We are passionate about our community. Come join us at Building 21 some time. Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals A FORCE FOR GOOD. See you around the neighborhood!

—Michelle Marbury

19

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Blood Bank Coming July 20 Blood Shortage Declared In NYC - Donate & Receive 2 Free Tickets to the Mets A blood drive will be held on Thursday, July 20, in room 31 of the Bartow Center, 3:00 p.m. till 7:30 p.m.

There is a severe shortage of blood for the New York City area. The Hudson Valley Blood Services is appealing to all to please donate. Those who respond will receive two (2) free tickets to a Mets game, as enticement to donate. Those who are rejected for one reason or another will also be given tickets.

This year’s donors who receive free tickets to the Mets will be able to choose the date, game and their seats through a website and will also be able to print out their voucher. Available dates are determined by the Mets organization.

The Riverbay Community Blood Bank will be hosting this blood drive in two weeks in the Bartow Community Center with the assistance of Riverbay Corporation.

Anyone in good health between the ages of 17 and 75, a minimum of 110 lbs. and who has not donated within the last 56 days is an eligible blood donor. Those above the age of 75 may donate provide they have a note from their doctor stating they may do so. Individuals 16 years of age may donate providing they have a consent form completed by a parent or legal guardian. Consent forms are available at the donation site, or online at www.nybloodcenter.org.

Also available will be the use of the Alyx System should you choose to use it.

The Alyx System allows a donor to donate the same one (1) pint of blood; the

difference being that as you donate, the Alyx System will separate your blood components into two, allowing two persons the opportunity to receive a complete blood transfusion from your one donation. The Alyx System only takes a few minutes longer and the collection syringe is smaller than that used in the conventional method. You will be asked at the time of registration which type donation you wish to make, the conventional method or by using the Alyx System. The blood center staff will be glad to answer any questions.

All donors must show picture ID and provide their Social Security number.

Donating blood is relatively quick and easy. Most persons who are in reasonably good health are eligible to donate, even those on medications. Should you have any questions regarding medical eligibility you may contact the Hudson Valley, NY Blood Center at 1-800-688-0900. Please be sure to eat prior to donating.

Light refreshments will be available upon completion of your donation.

Close to 2,000 men, women and children, including cancer, transplant and surgery patients, trauma victims, newborn babies and many more in our community need blood transfusions each day.

Please be a caring person and donate the life you help to save may be that of a family member, friend or neighbor. For additional information, please contact; Joe Boiko at 718-320-3300, ext. 3409.

—Joe Boiko

Building 13 Association Reminder: Help our community Anthony Wright, Men’s Warehouse Recycle, Reduce and Re-Use. Earth and Advanced Auto.

Day is every day!

Additionally, we want to thank the Annual Summer Fun Day… many volunteers in Section 2 and the TODAY! Saturday, July 8, from Co-op City Community Relations 2:00-6:00 p.m. located at Carver Department, Riverbay Fund, AmeriLoop and Casals Place across from can Legion Post 1871, Cardinal MCU. We were rained out, but we Hayes High School, CCPD, 45th are back for part two of our day. Precinct, Community Board 10, Department of Sanitation and the NY Watch your favorites get dunked in Fire Department. the Dunk Tank, MOM Jacqueline Bring your family and friends and Mason, Director Daryl Johnson, just join the Rivers Run Community Garto name a few. Take a photo booth den for the naming of the Gazebo, picture, enjoy the free franks, cotton candy and popcorn. Show your “King’s Corner” on July 9, from 3:00Salsa dancing skills and win a prize. 6:00 p.m. at the garden located near the Little League Baseball field on Listen to DJ Val spin songs and play Name That Tune for a special prize. Co-op City Blvd. near Bellamy Place.

The music will soothe you while the There will be carnival games and breeze embraces you. Light refreshother free giveaways. Get your Summents will be served. mer Fun Day bracelet. Plan to join Next week – Those of you travelthe fun as we enjoy the summer ing with us to the Nordic Lodge and together.

Foxwoods Casino. please remember Without these sponsors Summer the date, Saturday, July 15. We will Fun Day would not be possible, so leave from 100 Casals Place at 7:30 thank you to: State Senator Jamaal a.m. and depart for home at 6:30 p.m.

Bailey, Councilman Andy King, ConPlease be prompt. gressman Eliot Engel, Assemblyman Join us on our next adventure to Michael Benedetto, Rosenshein Realty-Peartree Mall, Stop and Shop, WARMDADDY’S DINNER, JAZZ Fairway Foods, Restaurant Depot, and BLUES and time also at the McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, SUGAR HOUSE CASINO – Philadelphia, Pa. Bus will leave from Attorney Stephen Kaufman, Bob’s Discount Furniture, Stop and Shop, Casals Place at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, October 21, and departing from WarmAmalgamated Bank and Allstate via

Building 10 Association Happy Saturday, neighbors.

Just a reminder, today is SUMMER FUN DAY so come out and enjoy the festivities which will take place in the area between Carver Loop and Casals Place from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Our next bus trip to the TROPICANA CASINO in ATLANTIC CITY seems to have generated lots of excitement, but a couple of seats remain available. The bus will leave on Saturday, July 29th from 140 Debs Place at 8 a.m. sharp. The cost of the trip is $45 per person (non-refundable) including driver gratuity.

Casino bonus is $15. For information, please call (718) 320-2366, (718) 6715475 or (646) 334-3739. Members of the Fundraising Team will also be available to accept reservations/payment on Thursday, July 13th from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Building 10 association room (rear lobby of Bldg. 10B). If you’re interested in enjoying the day with some really nice people, reserve your seat now.

Have a great week.

—Carol Campbell

Daddys at 9:00 p.m. Cost: $105 and can be paid in two installments, $55 due July 30/$50 due August 30. Book early, seats go fast.

Have a tremendous summer and stay safe and healthy. Enjoy all that Co-op City has to offer and as the song goes, “See You In September.”

Checks for Building 13 events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to 100 Casals

Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. For information contact Sherrie Hernandez at 914-837-5970, Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801 or Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370. Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at bthirteen.assoc@yahoo .com.

Again, thanks for making our team work.

—Leslie Peterson

20

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Thanking Leading Organizations, TGIF and upcoming votes...

Director’s Viewpoint

Deborah Jenkins Gap Week Summer Camp I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following Riverbay-approved organizations for providing outstanding service to cooperator-families during what I termed "Gap Week" Summer Camp.

Because of the efforts of these organizations, nearly 100 families were able to participate in free camp services during the period between the end of the school year and when summer camps officially begin.

The Riverbay Fund provided funding for these organizations to serve these families when they wouldn't have ordinarily been open. The five (5) organizations are: The Church of God's Children, The Garvey School, The Section Five Teen Center, Martial Way Karate School and Faith @ Work Christian Church. Each of these organizations will begin their regularly scheduled summer camps on July 5, and may still have available slots.

TGIF Fundraiser For The Riverbay Fund I would like to thank cooperator TerriAnn Garcia for connecting the Riverbay Fund with TGIF on Gunhill Road and Ms. Tollyne Dickerson. They

generously donated 20% of their June 26, 2017 proceeds to the fund to support our graduating high school seniors. Thanks to Director Williams for attending and supporting their efforts.

Resolution 17-39 This resolution is up for a second reading on July 12. It has been presented as a resolution to rescind Emergency Resolution 17-33 which is the Donation of Land to the City of New York. I can appreciate the hindsight in there being a desire to hear from the community. However, I still contend that the consideration of the community should have proceeded the Emergency Resolution which has the discussion on the table at all.

I will vote to rescind the donation. However, if seven other directors do not believe that the order in which this came about giving before discussing with you, fellow cooperators, then it will not pass. I believe a monumental decision such as this should have been brought to the community prior to having a resolution presented to the Board of Directors. The pulse of the community should have been taken before proceeding. If, after having discussions with all of you, the consensus was to proceed with a donation, it wouldn't have been under an emergency banner, but one behind which the community could stand, over and against any Board Directors who thought it was a bad idea.

There remain critical questions not answered, primarily how did Management arrive at the $7M tag placed on developing it ourselves when it was initially presented in one of the preliminary budgets? What land use studies were conducted, if any?

The bottom line is what brought us to the conclusion that we couldn't develop the waterfront property ourselves? While I categorically disagree with giving away any land ever (unless it's familial transfer of property, my personal feelings), if these questions were answered, there would at least be some business relativity to support making such a decision.

My intention remains to vote in favor of Resolution 17-39.

Community Support Third Sundays (July 16, 2017), Faith @ Work Christian Church provides a FREE hot meal to the community; come one, come all, and two (2) pantry bags of groceries. We operate from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Faith @ Work Christian Church partners with Common Pantry, on the 4th Thursday (July 27, 2017) of each month to deliver three bags of groceries to those age 62+ and are SNAP (Food Stamp) eligible.

We operate from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. New applicants, please come only at 12 p.m.

Contact: Please feel free to continue to contact me via email at djenkins@boarddirector.com or by telephone at (718) 644-0951.

National Council Of Negro Women

Donizetti Building 4 Association

Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Day – The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) continues the J.O.I.N. (Join, Organize and Implement Now) membership campaign by honoring Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s 142nd birthday on July 10. The goal of this birthday celebration is to raise awareness of Dr. Bethune’s legacy and the work of NCNW. Dr. Bethune was born in Mayesville, South Carolina. This celebration was initiated by NCNW of South Carolina, which owns and operates Bethune Park that contains a historically significant replica of Dr. Bethune’s family home.

On Monday, July 10th, each member of NCNW will wear yellow to honor Dr. Bethune. Each member will encourage at least one friend, family member, co-worker or neighbor to J.O.I.N. NCNW during the month of July.

NCNW was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, who was a policy advisor to President and Mrs. Roosevelt, founder of Bethune-Cookman University, the United Negro College Fund and the Association for African American Life and History (ASALH). The USPS issued a postage stamp in 1985 featuring Dr. Bethune to commemorate the 50th anniversary of NCNW. The new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture features an exhibit of NCNW artifacts and a recording by Dr. Bethune.

Today, NCNW continues its mission to lead, develop, empower and advocate for women of African descent, their families and communities. Ms. Ingrid Saunders Jones, National Chair of NCNW, is excited that “NCNW is alive, well, solvent and ready for the future.”

NCNW is a coalition of national women’s groups and is open to all persons without regard for race, ethnicity or gender. See more about us on Facebook.com at Ncnwcoopcity Bethune.

Health Fair – Save the date, Saturday, September 23, for our annual Health Fair. We are looking forward to once again bringing to our community health information, health testing and healthy snacks.

—Joyce Howard

Congratulations to our new and reelected Board members, and to all our graduates.

Our last meeting until September was held on June 8. But, in the meantime, we will have our ice cream social on Saturday, August 1.

Also on August 1, we will have our scholarship presentation for our high school graduate winners, $500 each for two winners.

Our fundraiser trip is fast approaching so come join us on August 19 as we travel by coach bus to Perth Amboy, NJ to board the Cornucopia Princess cruise ship for a four-hour cruise down the New Jersey coastline with all-you-can-eat buffet luncheon, good music, dancing and loads of fun for only $125. The bus will leave from 120 Donizetti Place (Building 4) at 9 a.m. sharp. Trip payments are due by July 22. For more information, contact Yvonne at 718-671-6922, Mary at 718-671-0425 or Diane at 347275-7565.

We will continue to have game day every Thursday from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.; all are welcome. Section 1 Association is having a fundraiser trip to the Foxwood Casino on July 29. Thanks to your support, we have two buses. All the tickets are sold, but we have a waiting list.

Have an enjoyable summer. Remember, this is our home; if you see something, say something.

—Yvonne Burrus

Fireworks Preparation A deserted stretch along Co-op City Boulevard from Bellamy Loop to Peartree Avenue on Monday, July 3 as the community prepared for the fireworks celebration held on Greenway 3 between Buildings 10 and 25 that evening. From 8 a.m. until midnight, there was “No Parking” in effect in the area to ensure the safety of pedestrians and to prevent damage to parked vehicles.

Photo by John Hunter

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21

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Building 9 Association

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Greetings. the price of only $99 per person. $50 Safety first! If you hear people hangdeposit payable on or before July ing out in the stairwells of our buildings, 21st and $49 balance payable on or please call Public Safety with the locabefore August 21st. Cash or money tion. If you know it happens regularly orders only. Seats are going fast. See at a specific time or on a specific day, our flyers posted in the building lobnotify Public Safety so they can set up a bies. Contact Linda, Gwen or Shirley sweep of the location. They can deter for details and payment. dangerous activity only if we provide Our social events are planned with the information. Call or email. Keep a our members in mind. It is our goal to record of your communications.

The annual Co-op City Fireworks Display on July 3rd, on the Section Two greenway was great. Thank you for coming out.

Reminder: Today is our Section Two Summer Family Fun Day Part 2 event from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. between Carver Loop and Casals Place. Please come Brotherhood Wine Cellar Tour. out and join us!

Also, on Sunday, July provide our members with opportuni9th, at the Rivers Run Community Garties for communal experiences to enjoy den (between Co-op City Blvd. & Bellamy Loop), the King’s Corner Gazebo with your neighbors and friends.

Dedication will begin at 3 p.m.

Somos unidos!

Thank you to all our friends who Our stated mission is inclusion, sent thank you messages and photos re: diversity, engagement and transthe June 24th Brotherhood Winery and parency. It is our expectation that we Woodbury Commons Shopping trip. have created such an environment and We are so pleased you had an enjoyable that our members appreciate our vision experience with us. We appreciate your and our efforts. When we know each support. other better, we treat each other betPlease contact us if you are going ter. Somos unidos!! with us to Foxwoods Casino on SatThe Building 9 Association does to see Patti not convene in July and August. See urday, October 21st, you in September.

LaBelle. Showtime is 8 p.m. Buses The Co-op City Times is available will depart Dreiser Loop at 2 online.

Read and follow us at www. p.m. Our estimated time of return is issuu.com/cctimes. midnight. There will be a $10 meal If you want to go swiftly, go alone. If credit or free buffet and a $10 casino playback bonus, as well as onsite you want to go far, go together. designer outlet shopping, included in —Linda Collins

From Broun Place Townhouse Association: Happy July first week.

Did you see the Riverbay Co-op City version of Macy’s Fireworks?

The priority this week is to recommend that each of us pays attention to what goes on here. Read the Co-op City Times, especially read the Board of Directors resolutions. And cooperators should understand their role and their democratic responsibility to VOTE. If we participate and then are ready to compromise, there are no losers.

Last week, Dolores Rankin joined the angels in heaven. Dolores was a community activist, participant and involved wonderful human being.

Broun Place president knew her from working with her in the Co-op City Branch of the NAACP. Ms. Rankin was inspirational for her quiet strength and confidence. It wasn’t that long ago we had conversation, passing the time by the bank. Ms. Rankin is missed for sure.

Neighbors, please report to Public Safety or get a photo when you see stuff, i.e. dogs without leashes, fights going on, litter not disposed of correctly, etc. You don’t have to accept this behavior. Use the system and make it work.

Last week, there was an error we need to correct. The press release should have said, If Election rules allowed the Co-op Times to publish viewpoints and candidate articles for individuals running again, there would be an unfair advantage. Let’s celebrate our system as it is and its democratic fairness. Next year, please let’s get out the vote.

Our Groundskeeper Martin has done a great job by redoing a number

of green spaces in Broun Place.

Thank you for going above and beyond. We will be meeting outside in late July keep an eye out for the flyer.

Bring your problems, knit while you share.

Thanks to the Co-op Times for the information and drawing of the new basketball courts. Work is continuing, progressing nicely.

Broun Place supports Ms. Michelle Marbury, president of Building 21 Association, to remove the word “tenant” from all Riverbay documents.

This is with particular reference to work-order signature documents.

Residents are not tenants. We are cooperators, residents and neighbors.

As you plan your vacation, be careful how you research your hotel sites.

Make sure you verify the phone numbers so that you are not using a hotel central site that charges for making your reservations. You will save money calling the hotel directly.

Special Projects Director Joe Boiko and I visited townhouse clusters reviewing all signage. Broun Place’s is the most deteriorated. Our townhouse ID signs will be repainted or replaced. High rise building representatives reported their sidewalk signage issues too at the Building and Grounds Committee Meeting. We wonder, WHEN IS THIS WORK STARTING? “If you see something, say something;” call Public Safety: 718-6713050. Thank you, Public Safety, for after-school patrols. Time to clean your convectors! Contact us with your tidings and issues!

—Eva Lazaar

Family Owned and Operated

Laundry Service

• Fast, Free Pickup and Delivery • 24-Hour Turn-Around Time • Let Us Sweat & Do the Work for You! • Only 95 Cents/Pound • 20 Pound Minimum • Comforters & Large Quilts - $10 ea.

Monday-Friday: 8AM – 7PM Saturday: 8AM – 2PM

For pickup or more info. call:

(347) 701-2934 (646) 500-4628

• Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

• Casket Showroom on premises

• Cremations

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

All areas are handicapped accessible

Personalized & Professional Care • 50 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665 NOW WEBCASTING TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABROAD

www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.

Serving all cultures & faiths

22

Black Forum

Defensive Driving On Hiatus The Black Forum defensive driving course will be on hiatus until Saturday, September 17, 8:50 a.m. – 3 p.m., Dreiser Center, rm. 1. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% and remove up to 4 points from your driver’s license. Please make your check in the amount of $35, payable to “the Black Forum of Co-op City,” and mail to P.O. Box 563, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least 1½ weeks before the class, or you can walk in on the day of the class, but you must have $35 in cash to pay for the course.

Please also bring your current driver’s license and a pen. Call (718) 320-8035.

Black Forum Aerobics and Zumba Get in shape, get healthy and feel healthy. Body

by Andrea’s aerobics classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays, and Zumba on Thursday. Classes are in the Dreiser Aud., 7:30 p.m. To register, please call (718) 320-8035. Nominal fee for each class.

Sound Off Sound Off is temporarily suspended. A new schedule is being planned.

Food Pantry Volunteers Needed Volunteers are needed for Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. -12 p.m. Please call (718) 320-8035. A planning meeting will be held soon.

Please call for more information.

Smith

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

hired specifically to take on the role of assisting in the executive management of Co-op City.

“I was managing a large development of garden style apartments in Queens, but I was keeping my eye on what was happening here in Co-op City and the changes that were happening over the last few years. When Douglas Elliman Property Management was contracted to manage Co-op City last year and Bob (Klehammer) was given the assignment, I knew that Co-op City had a great manager. Bob and I had worked together in the past and when I received the call and the offer to work with him again in Co-op City, I saw it as an offer I could not pass up.”

Mr. Klehammer, Co-op’s City Executive General Manager, added: “I met Cary several years ago when we worked at the same company. While I was not his supervisor, he would occasionally come to me to get my take on how to handle a problem or issue he was having at one of his buildings. I was impressed that he sought to increase his knowledge from a more experienced team member, but also that he was usually on the right track in how he wanted to move forward. I am very happy that he agreed to join me at Co-op City.”

Mr. Smith said that he knew and heard a lot about Co-op City and had visited here several times over the years prior, but he did not fully comprehend the scope of this community until he came here to work this past April.

“In other developments, you get involved with everything on a basic level but you just can’t do that here,” he explained. “You have to rely on your managers and directors. You have to give them the right amount of guidance so they can report back to you and, in turn, give you the information that you need.”

Mr. Smith added: “My main role, as I see it, is to positively impact the lives of the residents by working with the directors and employees at providing an atmosphere of good quality living on several levels, both in the homes and in the community.”

He said that since coming to Co-op City, he has attended all the Board meetings. “I am very impressed with the way the Board runs meetings with a strict set of policies and procedures that are adhered to consistently,” he said. “It has not been that way with other Boards that I have dealt with at other developments.

They were good, but they didn’t operate with this type of disciplined structure. Nothing here is a minor matter. When you are talking about door knobs, you

Food distribution sites On Thursdays, residents of Buildings 27, 28, 29, 32 and 33 must pick up food at the New Vision Church, 115 Einstein Loop, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Likewise, residents of Buildings 26, 30, 31, 34 and 35 must go to the Evangelical Church, 2350 Palmer Avenue, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursdays to pick up food. Residents of all other buildings and townhouses can pick-up at Dreiser Center, room 20. For information, please call (718) 320-8035.

Emergency Food Program We are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., rm. 20 in Dreiser Center. Also, due to budget constraints and shortage of available food, you must live within zip code 10475 to participate in this program. You must also have your card with you and bring two clean plastic shopping bags. Please also have your current photo ID, such as a non- or driver’s license or any photo ID card with proof of address. You will then be issued a card in order to pick up food in the future.

We Need You - Join Us Today Membership is $5 per year/person. Call (718) 3208035 or write to Black Forum, P.O. Box 563, Bronx, NY 10475; email: coopcityblackforum @gmail.com or tonyshome10475@gmail.com. Call or visit us, room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center.

—Tony Illis

(Continued from page 1)

have to think about 50,000 door knobs. Everything is escalated. Other property managers that we know talk about the challenges of operating one building with 500 units, but here we have 35 of those buildings. When you think about that, it just puts everything into perspective. You can’t compare it.”

Mr. Smith continued: “There is no question that this is a massive, but impressive community. After my first weeks on the job, my overall impression was a good one. I saw an active community and a corporation that took pride in their work by keeping the grounds neat and the hallways and lobbies clean.”

But in any development – certainly a development the size and scope of Co-op City – there is always room for improvement and working with Mr. Klehammer, General Manager Noel Ellison and other upper management, Mr. Smith said his focus has been on improved efficiency in terms of technology, operations, training and communication.

“The first order of business is to improve in the area of technology, upgrading the equipment and the software to make certain that jobs are performed as efficiently as possible and the flow of information is quicker and easier for the benefit of the workers and the residents. One example is using tablets on the job site, whether it is in an apartment or on the grounds, so that the information and the work and supply orders can be processed and acted upon almost instantaneously.”

Mr. Smith added that improving technology is also key to managing inventory more precisely which will help monitor purchasing more efficiently.

On the operations side, he noted: “We are tightening up to stop departments from operating as islands and instead as part of a team effort. We are improving communication and cohesion daily so that we don’t have situations, such as electrical work being done in a hallway scheduled on the same day they are stripping the floors.”

He added that another of Management’s goals is to increase the level of training for all employees so everyone has the knowledge they need to do their job more effectively and safely.

Mr. Smith said, “There is room for growth in every department and every employee and I am happy to see the entire staff willing to do whatever it takes to improve.”

Mr. Smith lives in Westchester, NY with his wife and their three children.

High-Rise Apartment & Condominium Safety

People living in a high-rise apartment or condominium need to think ahead and be prepared in the event of a fire. It is important to know the fire safety features in your building and work together with neighbors to help keep the building as firesafe as possible.

Be Prepared!

Here are some additional fire safety tips for high-rise apartment dwellers: • If a fire occurs, do not panic. Staying calm will increase chances of survival.

• Remember that smoke rises. It also kills.

• Even if you can tolerate the smoke while standing, it is safer to crawl to the door.

• Do not open the door until you have checked to be sure there isn't fire on the other side. Feel the door knob. If it is hot, the fire may be just outside your door.

• Brace your shoulder or foot against the door and open with extreme caution. Should you be confronted with a high concentration of superheated air or smoke, close the door immediately.

• If the hall is passable, use one of your pre-designated escape routes.

• Do not waste time gathering personal belongings, but shut the door and take your key.

• Do not use the elevator. It may stall due to heat or loss of power.

• If you must use an inside stairwell, check for smoke before entering the stairwell.

• If the stairwell is safe to enter, WALK downward, do not run. Hold onto wall or handrail to prevent falling.

• If your escape route is blocked, it may be safer to return to your apartment.

• If you must return to your apartment or remain in your apartment because escape routes are blocked, open a window slightly to let smoke escape. Do not break the window because you may need to close it if there is smoke on the outside.

• Do not jump. You may not survive the fall.

• If you must remain in the apartment, close all vents and air ducts. Wet towels and sheets and stuff them around the doors.

The best thing an alert apartment dweller can do is to practice safety at all times; never block windows or doors with heavy furniture; eliminate potential fire hazards by not allowing trash to accumulate in the apartment or around the building; keep kitchen air ducts free of grease; don't store flammable materials in the apartment.

ESCAPE 101 GO to your outside meeting place and stay there. Call the fire department. If someone is trapped in the building, notify the fire department.

If you can't get out of your apartment because of fire, smoke or a disability, • STUFF wet towels or sheets around the door and vents to keep smoke out.

• CALL the fire department and tell them where you are.

• OPEN a window slightly and wave a bright cloth to signal your location. Be prepared to close the window if it makes the smoke condition worse.

Fire department evacuation of a high-rise building can take a long time. Communicate with the fire department to monitor evacuation status.

—Riverbay Safety Department

23

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Velocity Track Club New York

Co-op City Sports

Happy 4th of July to all from Velocity Track Club New York!!! We would like to thank all who came out and supported us at the Riverbay Fund 4th of July Fireworks activities. I’m sure you’re had a great time, as every year, it gets better and better! On June 30th – July 2, Velocity Track Club competed in the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) 2017 Region 1 Junior Olympic Championship at Hub Stine Sports Complex in Plainfield, NJ. In order to qualify for the Region 1 Championship, athletes had to compete at their district championship, then the best from the district, which consists of Adirondack/ Connecticut/New England/New Jersey and New York Metropolitan, advanced to the Region 1 Championship.

There were over 1000 athletes competing for the opportunity to advance to the 2017 AAU NATIONAL JUNIOR OLYMPICS at Eastern Michigan University, Rynearson Stadium in Ypsilanti, MI from July 29th to August 5th.

Awards were given to the top three finishers in each individual event and top three relays will receive medals.

I’m so proud to note that we had 17 athletes advance to the 2017 AAU NATIONAL JUNIOR OLYMPICS and won 24 medals (8 Gold, 11 Silver & 5 Bronze)! The following athletes who advanced and the number of events they advance in are: Brianna Burrell (3 events), Shyenne Blake (3 events), Hannah Gadpaille (3 events), Pierce Parker (2 events), Aysya Brown (2 events), Dontae Lindo (2 events), Tiarra Jackson (2 events), Adonijah Washington (1 event), Jada Clarke (3 events), Olyvia Burrell (1 event), Jaelah Eargle (1 event), Dakota Hickman (1 event), Matthiaus Love-Anderson (3 events), Treynece Davis (2 events), Kassir Gayle (2 events), Saniah Caldwell (1 event) and Kabir Gaydarik (1 event).

This is a great feat! To be considered

Baby Driver

Edgar Wright really outdid himself with BABY DRIVER. His best film yet by miles. BABY DRIVER is probably one of the most energetic films I’ve ever seen. Really, from the get-go it starts and it doesn’t stop. With such an incredible soundtrack, song after song, it is hard not to love this film. Whether you are tapping your feet to the soundtrack or just completely immerse yourself in the film in the intense and chaotic chase scenes, the sound was literally popping off the screen!

Some exceptional sound editing in this film. It was amazing. But yes, Edgar Wright is a genius and very methodical in the audio tracks he chose.

Some songs are actually even used as dialogue for the scene and explanation of what’s going on. It was so damn cool.

What an amazing cast! My favorite of the film is Jon Hamm. He is completely ruthless in this film. The twists and turns that take place in the film are incredible and he was definitely the highlight of the film in my opinion. Jamie Foxx was amazing as well as the career criminal; he had some of the film’s most hilarious lines. Kevin Spacey was so damn good, too – a mob boss with a conscience. He also elevated his character a bit when you realize how layered his role actually is.

Ansel Elgort, I really didn’t like him much before this film, but in BABY DRIVER, he owns his role and is really good in it! The long and extended action sequence at the end of the film was extraordinary and he did some cool stuff! I was surprised by him and actually liked the film even more knowing he did as good as he did. It would have been pretty bad if he didn’t succeed. In my opinion, I think this Baby character will stand the test of time and will be a cult classic for sure.

The women in this film were beautiful. The innocent and kind Debora played

by Lily James, vs. the ruthless and dangerous, Eiza González, both were superb.

Especially Eiza, so good. She and Hamm had amazing chemistry. BABY DRIVER was incredible and mesmerizing because it was made by a filmmaker who loves making films. Edgar Wright is probably the film-buff in all of us. I am getting all giddy writing this because I absolutely love seeing films like this.

Knowing good films are still out there feels pretty good to me. Sometimes there is hope for Hollywood. Maybe.

VTC athletes at the AAU Region 1 Championship.

the best at what you do in the Region and still be able to manage school work will help these young athletes in life.

But, they are not finished; they are going for the big prize, a 2017 AAU NATIONAL JUNIOR OLYMPICS MEDALS!!Our next meet is on Sunday, July 16th at the Jersey City Recreation Youth Invitational at Lincoln Park in Jersey City, NJ. Velocity Track Club

New York is a 501(c)3 not for profit.

One hundred percent of your donation will go towards helping our children.

Support our youth, so they can continue to do great things! For additional information, you can go to our website Velocitytrack.org or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins at 914-441-6196 or email me at watclt@aol.com.

—Winston Dinkins

Send us your photos!

If you are attending a community event, send us your photos!

BY ANATOLIY BUDNITSKIY

BABY DRIVER, 2017, Rated R, 112 minutes Edgar Wright – Director, Writer Ansel Elgort – Baby; Jon Hamm – Buddy; Eiza González – Darling; Lily James – Debora; Kevin Spacey – Doc; Jamie Foxx- Bats

Submissions can be sent to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

24

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

MENU

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Alternate Kosher Meals are also available

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

Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Line Dancing 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Around The Lunch Table 11:30 a.m.

Word Search 11 a.m. -12 p.m.

Bingo 1:00-3:00 p.m., Rm. 35 Diabetes Support Group 2nd Monday, 1:00 p.m.

Pokeno 3:00-4:00 p.m.

Crochet & Knitting 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:3010:30 a.m.

Stay Well Exercise ON VAC. until Sept. 11 Color Your Stress Away 11 a.m., Rm. 4 Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Diabetes Support Group 1 p.m. – Last Monday of the month Bereavement Counseling Rm. 13, 1 p.m.

Mon., July 10 Tues., July 11

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

Walking Club 10:30 a.m.

Bingo 12:30-2:00 p.m.

Caregiver Support Group 1:00 p.m.

1st & 3rd Tues Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Wed., July 12

Blood Pressure Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday, 9-10 a.m.

Games 9:30-11 a.m.

Stay Well Exercise 10 - 11 a.m.

Line Dancing ON VAC. until Sept. 6th Bingo 1-2 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Smartphone Class Bartow Main office Beginner – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Intermediate 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Walk Group 9:30 a.m., Rm. 40 Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 10 a.m.

Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Computer Lab Zumba 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

(New) Computer Class – Rm. 13; Beginner 10-11 a.m.; Intermediate – 11 a.m. - Orange pineapple juice Beef moussaka 12 p.m. Only 7 seats available.

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

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

Fresh fruit Tai Chi ON VAC. until Sept 6 Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Whole wheat bread African Brazilian Dance 1 p.m., Rm. 2 Alt: Grilled chicken Art Class 1-3 p.m. breast Yoga 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Turkey meatballs California blend vegetables Ziti

Thurs., July 13

Non-Kosher

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

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

Crocheting & Knitting: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Chat Session: 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Bingo: 1- 2 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Grandparent Connection: 1st Thursday, Rm. 35, 10:30 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise: 11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee: 11 a.m.

Word Search: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Karaoke by Steven: 1 p.m., Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30 - Orange juice, Salmon 10:30 a.m. cakes w/dill lemon Blood Pressure: 10-11:30 a.m., 1st & 3rd sauce, Spaghetti w/ Thursday, Rm. 8 tomato sauce, Winter Line Dancing: 10-11 a.m., Aud. A blend vegetables, Piano Sing Along: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Whole wheat bread, Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Healthy strawberry & (New) Purple Life Trail Fitness w/Damion applesauce 1 – 2 p.m., Section 1 Greenway Alt: Curry chicken salad Drama Club: ON VAC. until Sept. 7th

BBQ Pork chops Roasted potatoes Steamed kale

Fri., July 14

Kosher

Word Games 9:30-11 a.m.

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

Weight Management Bartow Center – 10 a.m.

Arthritis Exercises 11 a.m.-noon Bingo 1-2 p.m.

Card Games 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes 2:30 p.m.

Men’s/Women’s Line Dancing ON VAC. until Sept 6th Word Games: 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Chat Session: 10 a.m.

Bingo: 1 -2 p.m.

Piano Sing-along: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Dominoes: 2:30 p.m.

Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Art: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Bingo: 1–2 p.m.

Card Games: 2-4 p.m.

Pokeno: 2-4 p.m., Rm. 35 Blood Pressure: 2nd & 4th Friday, 10-11:30 a.m., Rm. 45

Crochet & Knitting: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session: 9:30-10; 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Meditative Moments: ON VAC. until Sept. 8th Mind Teasers: 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Bingo: 1-3 p.m.

Card Games, Dominoes: 2-4 p.m.

Chicken salad Classic macaroni Tossed salad w/dressing

Dominoes 10 a.m.

Matinee Movie 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Karaoke by Steven 1-2 p.m., Rm. 45

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

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

Apple juice Breaded southern steak, Garlic mashed potatoes, Steamed kale, Fresh fruit Gentle Yoga 1:15-2 p.m., Rm. 2. Call site for dates Whole wheat bread Basic Cell Phone/iPad 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Alt: Egg salad Intermediate Yoga 2-3 p.m.

Beef & broccoli Perfect white rice Baby carrots w/ parsley

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

Barbecue chicken Alert & Alive ON VAC. until Sept. 5th breasts Cultural Dance 10:30–11:30 a.m., Aud. B Baked brown rice pilaf Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Mixed vegetables Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Whole wheat bread Alt: Tuna salad Afternoon Movie 1 p.m.

Curry chicken Rice & beans Steamed cabbage mix

Apple juice Roasted chicken Potato kugel Carrot tzimmes Challah bread Fresh fruit Alt: Gelfite fish

Fee for lunch is $2.00 & $5.00 for guest

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

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

Upcoming Events/Trips JASA WELCOMES EVERYONE AGE 60 AND OLDER! Trip registration policy: Payments for trips can be made at all three centers. There will be no refunds for all trips. All trips include roundtrip transportation! All trips must be paid in advance – JASA will not accept checks under $5.

(FREE) LiveOn NY - SNAP (Food Stamps) Assistance, Friday, July 14th & 21st, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. First come, first served! JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Ave. FDNY Fire Safety – Mon., July 17th at 10:30 a.m. in the JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. Medicare Presentation – Thurs., July 20th at 1 p.m. in the JASA main office, 2049 Bartow Ave. New Smartphone/Tablet class at the JASA main office starting Mondays - 2049 Bartow Ave. at 1 p.m. Call the JASA office to register, (718) 320-2066.

Next Smartphone/Tablet Class at the JASA Bartow main office will begin Wed., July 12th, 12:30 p.m. Call the JASA office to register, 718320-2066.

Dreiser’s Summer Wednesdays, Lunch and dance w/DJ Woody, $2 – Kickoff, Wed., July 12th, Dreiser Center, rm. 4, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Please call 718-320-1345 a week in advance to sign up for lunch.

St. Mary’s Pool – Fri., July 14th & 21st; $3.

Pool aerobics for seniors, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Bartow, 8:30 a.m.; Einstein, 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 9 a.m.

Empire Casino – Tues., July 11th, $5. Bartow, 9:30

a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Wait list.

Louis Armstrong Home Museum – Wed., July 12th; $10. Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. and Dreiser, 9 a.m. (Lunch included).

Ridgehill – Wed., July 12th; $7. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein - 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Central Avenue – Mon., July 17th; $13. Xmas Tree Store, Trader Joe’s & Amazing Savings. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m., Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Empire Casino – Wed., July 19th; $5. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m. Wait list.

IKEA/Bed Bath & Beyond & Christmas Tree Store, NJ – Wed., July 19th, $15. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Fairway/BJ’s – Thurs., July 20th, $3. Bartow, 9:30 a.m.; Einstein, 9:45 a.m. & Dreiser, 10 a.m.

Orchard Beach – Fri., July 21st; $3. Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:30 a.m. Arrive at beach, 10 a.m. Leaving beach at 1:30 p.m. Lunch included. Bring your own beach/picnic chairs.

El Museo del Barrio – Wed., July 26th; $3. (Art Museum) 5th Ave. Self-guided tour; 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Bartow, 9 a.m.; Einstein, 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:30 a.m. (Lunch included).

Spirit Cruise – Statue of Liberty Lunch Cruise, Thurs., July 27th; $70. Boarding Time: 11:30 a.m. at Chelsea Piers, Pier 62. Cruise time: 12-2 p.m.

Pick-ups: Bartow, 9:15 a.m.; Einstein, 9:30 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:45 a.m. (34 seats available). No refunds!

Intrepid Museum – Tues., July 25th; $45. Visit

includes general admission, the Space Shuttle Pavilion, Submarine Growler & topping off with lunch. Arrival time is 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. lunch in mess deck. Bartow, 9:15 a.m.; Einstein, 9:30 a.m. & Dreiser, 9:45 a.m. (34 seats available). When you call to register, you will have a choice of a sandwich to select. Wear comfortable shoes (sneakers/rubber soled shoes are suggested). Some areas are not accessible for visitors with limited mobility. No refunds!

Dreiser’s Summer Wednesdays, Lunch and dance w/DJ Ang – Wed., July 26th; $2 contribution can be given at the door; Dreiser Center, rm. 4, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Please call 718-320-1345 a week in advance to sign up for lunch. (Deadline to sign up for lunch will be July 20).

JASA Notary Hours JASA’s Notary Hours are as follows: • 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 34, every Tuesday and first, second and third Wednesday of the month, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

• JASA Main Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, 4th Wednesday of the month, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 13, 4th Thursday of the month, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

For additional information, please contact JASA at 929-399-1394.

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Scheduling Activities Calendar

Goose Island Seniors

Bingo — Wednesday, July 12th, at 1:30 p.m. with Stephen in our club room #39. Members only.

Admission, $5 for 3 cards, 12 games and Jackpot.

Extra cards are 25¢ each. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Come and join us.

Resorts Casino — Tuesday, July 25th in Atlantic City, N.J. You may also enjoy the beach and boardwalk or shop in the many stores. Price is $33. Rebate $20 for games and $5 for food. All money is due.

There are some seats left. Pick-up time is 8 a.m. at our three usual bus stops: Einstein Loop - Asch Loop (by library) and Dreiser Loop (by the hardware store). See Ann, Mary or Stephen.

Crab Shanty — Thursday, August 17th in City Island, Bx, NY; time: 12:30 p.m. Price $30. Let’s have a delicious lunch together. See Ann, Mary or Stephen. Come to 361 City Island Ave., Bronx, NY. Directions: Take the BX29 bus to Ditmars St. and continue walking l block to Tier St. to the red awning.

“Come Blow Your Horn”—Thursday, October 12th at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse, Hampton, N.J. It’s a very funny play by Neil Simon. Also, you will enjoy a scrumptious lunch and all the deserts

you can eat. They are de-li-cious. Price is $79 for show, lunch and transportation. All money must be paid by September 21st. See Ann, Mary or Stephen.

To all members: Happy birthday and happy anniversary to all members who celebrate their day in the month of July: Carmen Ponce, Jonathan Felix, Florence Barnes, Regina S. Usher, Ann Perez, Enid Nurse, Rosa Copeland and Richardine Sullivan.

Our Lounge — Come sit and relax, read a book from our large library, play cards every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Play Bingo every Wednesday and last Sunday of each month for only $15 per year. Also, come with us on wonderful trips.

Note: Call Ann, Mary, or Stephen at Goose Island Seniors, 718-379-9613, or visit us MondayThursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39. You can also call Mary at 718-379-4899 and she will return your call. Leave a message and your phone number. To call Stephen, 347-847-1941. Visit Stephen in room 39, every Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Good health to all. —Mary Pilla

AARP Chapter #4997

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FYI: On Saturday, July 1st, President Jean Mickens was the guest on Principle Centered Living Radio with Rev. Dr. Sheldon Williams (Co-op City Baptist Church). To hear the interview – focusing on AARP Peachtree Chapter #4997’s past, present and future activities for this very vital community organization, http://www.redeemradiofm.com.

FYI-2: Caregivers Outreach Ministries Empowerment, Inc. and AARP 4997 are sponsoring an Intergenerational Summer Program. One-on-one basic computer/device sessions – “FREE.” The program is scheduled for July 10-August 16; 5 sessions daily Monday-Wednesday; 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. 10 a.m.

-11 a.m.; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. and 2 p.m.

-3 p.m. Bring your iPhone, iPad, Laptop & other mobile devices. You will be taught/shown how to set-up an email, login to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; save pictures, create a flyer and take Selfies. RSVP: 718-379-3159.

Heartfelt condolences to Evan Mitchell on the loss of her nephew, Dale Nibbs.

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

2017 Tour Activities September 18-21: 4-day/3-night trip to Cape Cod – seats available. Motor coach transportation, 3 full breakfast, 2 dinners, 1 Lobster dinner; Foxwood Casino (w/bonus); guided escort to African American tour of Martha’s Vineyard site; Hyannis, John F. Kennedy Memorial; Provincetown along scenic route 6A; Cape Cod National Seashore Visitors Center; admission to Zion Union Heritage Museum; $599/person – double; $739 – single.

Final payment due 6/30; trip insurance is available.

Contact Hannah, 718-379-7962.

December 29, 2017-January 2, 2018: Swingin’ New Year’s Eve Celebration in Savannah (GA) – Motor coach trip (2-night lodging to & from Savannah); 4 breakfasts; 2 full course dinners including a Riverboat Dinner Cruise; guided tour of Savannah, historic Davenport House, and Savannah’s River Street District; New Year’s Eve Show & Party at the Savannah Theater; New Year’s Day Buffet Lunch; $609/person – double; $798 - single; $50 deposit due with reservation; $150 due 7/30; $150 due 8/30; Balance due 10/31. Trip insurance available. Contact Judith, 718-379-3370.

—Delores Debnam

Einstein Cancer Fund

I want to thank all who made our trip to the Resorts Casino enjoyable despite the heavy rain going and coming home.

Thursday, July 13 – The Sands Casino: The cost for this trip is $35 per person. Casino bonus play: $20 for slot play and a $5 food voucher. Time of pick-up will be 8:30 a.m. starting at Einstein, followed by Asch Loop and then Dreiser Loop. Please bring your casino card or a photo ID for those who do not have a card.

We are returning to the Sands Casino on Thursday, August 10. Hopefully, everyone will be in the best of health for this return trip. Thursday is a day of perks by the casino. Please call Lydia at 718-671-3005 or Annie Eutsey at 718-320-1874.

As always, remember to give a call to those who are homebound or in nursing homes. Your calls will cheer them up and will know that they are in your thoughts and prayers.

Good health and healings are wished to all.

—Lydia Ruas

Read and follow the Co-op City Times online at http://issuu.com/cctimes

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

NAACP Co-op City Branch #2210

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Inc. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 75-3111, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475 President: Jerome L. Rice Office telephone: (718) 320-3210 Address: 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, room 36, 2nd Floor.

Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Theme: Steadfast and Immovable Did you know? The Senate will take up bill to repeal the Affordable Care Act next week! The “Better Care Reconciliation Act” repeals the Affordable Care Act and does not adequately replace health coverage for most low and middle-income Americans, children, people with disabilities, seniors, people of color and others. Information about this issue is at the office. If you choose to oppose the Senate health care bill, the Better Care Reconciliation Act, call Senator Chuck Schumer @ 212-486-4430 or Fax 202-288-2838 and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand @ 212-688-6262 or Fax 202-228-0282, as well as Congressman Eliot Engel @ 718-320-2314 or Fax 202-225-5513. Remember to contact both senators! This requires an URGENT ACTION. Voter registration is an ongoing community activity — Registration forms available in the office. Be prepared to VOTE! IF YOU DON’T VOTE, DON’T COMPLAIN! Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities.

Membership Campaign Is An Ongoing Activity; it is the “Lifeblood of the association.” Your membership dollars help to lead the fight for freedom, justice and equality. The community at-large is invited to join the Co-op City Branch #2210. Become a new member, renew, recruit, gift or sponsor an annual membership for self or another. Adult regular membership is $30 and youth membership is $10. We have some exciting and challenging projects planned and we need your help. We look forward to working with you to go forward and meet the mandates of the NAACP. Your voice is needed NOW more than ever. Join the movement, join the NAACP CO-OP City Branch. Make check/or MO payable to NAACP Co-op City Branch and use the mailing address above.

Save the Date September 23— Third Community Service Awards, 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. The honorees are: Kevin Shaw, Posthumously, President’s Award; Victoria Boddie, Youth Volunteer & NAACP Youth Member; Robert Hedgepeth; Georgette Moye; Nancy Rodriguez and Jacqueline Williams. Come out and celebrate the honorees, your birthday, anniversary or any special occasion with us. For tickets and to reserve a table seating 8, call the office.

—Jerome L. Rice

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

FYI: Our room #19 will be open during the summer. All are Welcome to join us from 12:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. for games of your choice on Mon., Tues., Thurs. or Fri. (Tonk, Bridge, Rummy Que, & Pokeno). Or, just stop by to watch television and socialize with friends in an air conditioned room.

Travel Events: (*price includes transportation via Coach Bus; - located at Dreiser Loop, in front of H&R Block) • Sept. 9-16, (8 days/7 nights), “Canada & New England Cruise on the beautiful Carnival “Sunshine.” NYC departure/return. Cabin/Category prices from $929 to $1399 which includes your cabin, meals, port charges and taxes. FINAL PAYMENT due now.

Travel Insurance (additional cost) encouraged. Contact: Serita G., 347-564-5722.

• Sept. 21st (Thurs.). St. Paul Community Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY. The MAAFA Suite is a stage presentation that takes us on a healing journey commemorating the “Great Disaster” that was slavery. Price: $50. Performance: 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. Traveling by Lorant bus. Meet/depart: 5:15/5:30 p.m. sharp!

Contacts: JoAnn H., 718-710-9082/Sandra H., 646-319-4303.

• Oct. 5-7 (Thurs.-Sat.) “National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC” – Price: double, $385 pp; single, $440. Double, $140 pp/single, $170; 2nd due 7/17 – double $145 pp/single $170. SOLD OUT/WAITLIST. NO RFUNDS. Includes: 1st day - lunch at Phillips (Baltimore Inner Harbor); 2 Continental breakfasts; dinner at Golden Coral; Maryland Live Casino and shopping at Arundel Mill Outlets on 10/7. Contact: Serita G., 347564-5722/Barbara W., 718-320-0500.

Theatre Committee: (*price includes Van transportation, from Dreiser Loop opposite Rehab Center): • July 12th (Wed.): “WICKED,” Gershwin Theater, Manhattan, 2:00 p.m. show.

Meet/depart: 11:45 a.m./12:00 p.m. Contact: Eleanor B., 718-324-7847.

REMEMBER – Your DEPOSIT, along with your name and telephone number, is required to reserve your trip &/or theatre seat. ONLY a check or money order, payable to RETIREES OF DREISER LOOP, will be accepted.

Committee members will be available in Dreiser clubroom #19 (718-3790377) on Mondays and/or Thursdays, 2:30-5:00 pm.

Good And Welfare: To those of you still under the weather, know that you are thought of warmly and wished brighter days. Call Josephine Flowers, 718320-0539, regarding illnesses and bereavements.

If interested in joining us during our next September/October SPA DAY (dates to be determined), call 718-379-4784 (Claudette D) or 718-671-8449 (Hattie L) and leave your name and phone number.

“Keep calm cuz Summer is finally here.” —Author unknown —Claudette Davis

American Legion Post 1871 Post 1871 Is On Break

The American Legion of Co-op City will be officially on recess for the two months of July and August. However, the executive committee reserves the right to convene in case of emergency and if the need arises. So basically, the office will continue to be open for business as usual, but there will be no general meeting for these two months of break. Thus, I am using this medium to wish all our comrades a fun-filled, safe and relaxed summer.

Business will resume as we come back in September for a new fiscal year road map. My CHARGE to every member is to try and reach out to a veteran or veteran family during this summer break, especially those that have not seen the need to join this noble organization.

July Fourth Celebration In an appreciative effort to commemorate the labor of our heroes past, let us continue the same American spirit that led Richard Henry Lee of Virginia to present a resolution on June 7 session in the Pennsylvania State House with the famous words: “Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”

Lee’s words were the impetus for the drafting of a formal Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 when the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Now, each year on July 4th, which is also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event. Let us NOT forget where the journey started.

Department (State) Convention The 99th Annual Department (State) Convention takes place in Syracuse, July 16-22, 2017. At the same time, Syracuse hosts the 97th Annual Auxiliary Convention and the 43rd Annual Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Convention. During these few days, the Legion family to include Legionnaires, the Auxiliaries and the sons across the state will converge in Syracuse, New York for the annual convention. Members of the American Legion, Post 1871 are advised to see the need to attend this annual event. The commander hopes that he will not be by himself in Syracuse. At the convention, resolutions are passed and the leadership for the new calendar year are also elected. It is always a fun time to catch up with new developments in the organization. For further information, interested member can contact the commander.

Congratulations We just want to give a shout-out to Commander TOBA who has been elected as the 1st Vice Commander of the Bronx County. We wish him a successful tenure, even as he continues his assignment to the local post in Co-op City. In the same vein, we want to congratulate Past Commander Jerome Rice for his successful bid to the Riverbay Corporation Board.

—Lsjc Adeyemi LaCrown O’Toba, MSA

Section 5 Association

Mark Your Calendar – The Section Five Association will have its ANNUAL FAMILY FUN DAY on August 19th, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Presidents and representatives from Building 26 thru Building 35 and the Earhart Lane Townhouses will be celebrating with families, neighbors and friends on the greenway in Section Five.

Join us for positive, fun and free activities including Open Mike for all talents, adults and children games and trophies to be won for the best competitive. Grab free hot dogs, icings, popcorn while they last. More information to come, we will keep you posted.

Volunteers – We thank you and look forward to your presence again this year.

New shareholders, this will be an opportunity to meet your neighbors, please join us. Information will be posted on your building bulletin boards and in the Co-op City Times newspaper.

If there are any questions, participation, contributions or ideas, please contact the chairperson, Ms. Linda Werner, at (718) 862-3295 or cell (718) 490-3431.

Also, you may contact Mr. Robert Hedgpeth, president of the Section Five Association, at (718) 320-2656.

Mission Statement – The mission of the Section Five Association is to obtain the maximum quality of life for all shareholders residing in Section 5 to act as a liaison between Management and the building and townhouse associations in all problems areas; to assist maximum participation in each individual association, and to enlighten and educate all shareholders in Section 5.

—H. Overman

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

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Pastors Kenneth Hodge, Deborah Hodge and the New Vision congregation invite you and your family to come and worship the Lord with us.

Church of the New Vision is designed to meet the spiritual needs of God’s people. Serving the community for over 44 years, we offer a warm, friendly, spirit-filled atmosphere of Christian Love where all are welcome.

Order of services: Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Adult and Youth Sunday School: 9:45 - 10:45 a.m.

On behalf of our pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone: (718) 862-9172.

Summer Church Schedule (Dress-Down Attire, July 2 – September 3) Adult Sunday School - 9:00 a.m.

Worship Service - 10:00 a.m.

Communion Service - Every first and third Sundays Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.

The following programs are at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) Morning Prayer Services - Tuesday, 6:00 a.m.

– 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m.

Extension of Prayer and Worship Service – Every first, second and third Fridays at 7:00 p.m.

Church of the New Vision

Mid-day Bible Study: Tuesdays, 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7:009:00 p.m.

Youth Ministry: Fridays, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

1) Friday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m., we invite you and everyone in the community to join us for movie night to see “God’s Not Dead 2.” Come out to enjoy the movie and family time. There will be popcorn, hotdogs and refreshments.

2) Please join us for the Women’s Fellowship Anniversary on July 16 during the 11:00 a.m.

service.

3) Women’s Bible Study: Second Saturday of each month at 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., (cancelled for July) the next scheduled date is August 12th.

Thank you for your support!

Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone, (718) 671-8746 or (203) 374-3020. Mailing address: P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, NY 10475. Visit our Facebook page: Church of the New Vision concerning upcoming events and trips, or call the church.

—Carol Haque

Other Scheduled Events Sunday, July 23rd, 10:00 a.m., FAMILY AND FRIENDS DAY SERVICE at Community Protestant Church. All are welcome.

September 12–15 – The Missionary Ministry sponsors a trip to THE HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA, the only entertainment park that celebrates the Biblical Word of the Christian Faith. Package includes: round trip airfare; round trip airport transportation from Bartow Ave. (Co-op City, Bronx); 4 days/3 nights hotel accommodation; 3 buffet breakfasts; 1 group dinner, 2 day admissions to the Holy Land Experience; Lunch-To-Go at the Holy Land Experience; transportation from the hotel to the Holy Land and travel insurance. $1,013 per person double occupancy; $961 per person triple; $1,253 single. $113 deposit was due December 3, 2016 (nonrefundable after 5/17/17). For reservation and/or additional information, call (718) 671-0425 or (718)

379-8514.

Community Protestant Church

Newsong Church

13 The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus.

-Acts 4:13 NLT Peter & John were arrested and brought before the religious leaders because they were preaching and teaching the people that Jesus had been raised from the dead.

These, in fact, were the same religious leaders who had arrested Jesus and demanded that He be crucified. (See Matthew 26:57).

You can imagine how angry they were that Jesus’ disciples were not only teaching that Jesus was alive, but they were proving it with miraculous signs and wonders being done in Jesus name! The religious leaders were impressed that Peter and John had healed a crippled man (See Acts 3), but they were AMAZED at the boldness of the disciples. These were the same disciples who ran away when Jesus was arrested, and Peter denied even knowing Jesus (See Matthew 25:56; 70). The council was amazed, how could these men be filled with such boldness? They had no special training in the Scriptures. They didn’t go to “Bible School.” They were “ordinary.”

The only thing that made sense to them was that Peter and John had been with Jesus.

When was the last time you did something bold for God? When was the last time you shared your faith in Jesus? When was the last time you prayed for someone to be miraculously healed? When was the last time you held to your God given convictions when everyone else was doing the opposite? When was the last time you were bold? Most followers of Jesus think that God can’t use them in the same way He uses other people. We think we’re not good enough, we’re not smart enough, but nothing can be further from the truth. God desires to use us for His purposes and we limit ourselves, thinking that we don’t have what it takes. So, how can we be bold? Here’s a formula for you to remember…

Time = Faith = Boldness = Results We need to spend time with God. Spend time with Him in prayer, in reading His word, in worshiping Him at church. When we spend time with Him, it produces faith.

As our faith in God grows, we start to see a spiritual boldness develop in our lives.

We begin to pray believing that God will keep His promises, and we start to see results for the glory of God! God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways every day. He’s looking for a generation that’s not afraid to be BOLD. We invite you to join us this Sunday at 10:30 as we continue our teaching series “BOLD.” Need more information about Newsong Church?

Location: 177 Dreiser Auditorium Service Time: 10:30 a.m.

Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org Email: centralteam@newsongchurchnyc.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/newsongchurchbx Against the Flow: www.facebook.com/NewSongYouth/ Twitter: @newsongchurchBX Instagram: @newsongchurchBX —Pastor Mike Tolone

Blessings On The Charitable “Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter – when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say; Here am I, if you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk.” – Isaiah 58:7-9.

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

—Evan G. Mitchell

Open Door Ministries

Be Faithful (Full sermon at opendoorministries.net)

In the book Second Calling, Dale Bourke writes that years ago, she attended a conference. When it was over, her friend Bruce offered her a ride to the airport. As they were leaving, another man asked if he could join them. As they drove away from the hotel, she and Bruce asked the man where he worked, and he mentioned a Christian organization. Bruce said, “I have fond memories of them, because I attended a retreat of theirs one time, and that’s where I became a Christian. It was in 1972 in New Hampshire.” Bruce explained that eventually his whole family became Christians and went into Christian work. His sister was a Wycliffe missionary and Bruce himself became publisher of a major Christian publishing house, which brought many significant Christian books to the public. The man was silent. Dale and Bruce though that maybe they were boring him. Then the stranger quietly said, “I led that retreat. It was my first time as a conference leader, and I felt like a total failure. Until this moment, I have always believed it was one of the biggest failures of my life.”

Dale Bourke wrote, “What had seemed like the simple act of offering a ride to a stranger had turned into a powerful reminder that God uses our efforts whether we realize it or not. I may spend the rest of my life doing things that don’t seem at all successful. Yet only God knows the purpose. I am called simply to be faithful.”

As Mahatma Ghandi famously said: “I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” Here are three things we do that compromise our faithfulness.

1. Judge - It doesn’t take long for non-Christians to tell you how much they hate the way Christians judge other people. I doubt this is what Jesus had in mind when he gave his life in love for the world.

2. Be Hypocritical - It’s far easier to call someone else a hypocrite than it is to admit you’re one. What did Paul say? Romans 7:18 I know I am rotten through and through so far as my old sinful nature is concerned. No matter which way I turn I can’t make myself do right. When you admit your shortcomings, you build a bridge between you and others.

3. Stink at Friendship - Jesus pursued friendships with people who were different than him. Whose lifestyles were far different than anything God had in mind for them. Yet Jesus was their friend. It scandalized the religious leaders of Jesus day, and sadly, when it’s practiced authentically, it still scandalizes most of us today.

Open Door Ministries’ Therapeutic Mentoring Program meets Mondays & Thursdays by appointment in Dreiser Loop, room 9. Sunday services are at 11 a.m. at Bartow Community Center, room 28. Contact Pastor Luis by texting, 917-3344407 or email opendoorministries.net.

Blessings in Christ.

—Pastor Luis Ramos

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of Building 27B. Phone: 718-379-6920.

Note: Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, leave a message and we will get back as soon as possible.

Shabbat ends today, July 8, at 9:19 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, July 14 at 8:08 p.m.

The synagogue has Services Saturday morning at 9 a.m. After Services, we always have a Kiddush. We need few Jewish men…if you can give two hours on Saturday between 10 a.m. and noon, we need your help to make a minyan.

Sometimes, we are short one or two men. The synagogue now has a Facebook page. Look under Facebook Traditional Synagogue.

Good And Welfare: We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15 per tree. Mazel tov to all having Simchas. If you’re ill, wishing all a speedy recovery.

Birthday wishes for the month of July: Eileen Satinoff, Beverly Davidoff, Mike Lubliner and happy 46th anniversary to Martin and Sheila Linder.

Please remember to honor your donations for Yizkor.

Condolence to Rabbi Berl on the death of his granddaughter, Shari, in Israel.

Wishing you and your family no more sorrow.

Bingo: The synagogue will have a Bingo on Sunday, July 9th at 1 p.m. The cost is only $3 admission, which includes refreshments and 10 games of Bingo.

Also, there is a Jackpot game which costs $2. This is a 3-part game in which you have a chance to win $30, if you win all 3 games. Come on down and have an afternoon with your friends and neighbors. The Bingo games is open to all residents in the community.

Your support of the Traditional Synagogue, and Men’s Club is greatly appreciated.

Wishing all our members and friends, peace and good health.

—Gary Schwartz

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

Our next trip is Sunday, July 30th to the Resorts Casino in Atlantic City. Walk the boardwalk, shop at the outlets, enjoy the sights, enjoy the food, have a good time.

Everyone in the community over 21 years old can attend our trips and functions.

The cost of the trip is $35 per person. Receive $25 slot bonus. You need a Resorts Casino card or a government ID, passport, non- or driver’s license to receive the bonus. It’s like costing you only $10 for a round trip to Atlantic City after bonus. On the bus, we provide a drink, snack, play Bingo, 50/50 raffle, and on the way back, show a movie. We keep you entertained; the trip goes fast to Atlantic City.

The bus stops by all there shopping centers going and returning. We leave Einstein Loop at 8 a.m. by the supermarket, Asch Loop at 8:15 a.m. by the library, and Dreiser Loop, 8:25 a.m. by the hardware store.

For a reservation, call Gary at 718-671-8424 or Bruce at 718-320-2234. If no one is home, please leave a message at either number.

Please make out check or money order to Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue and mail it to Men’s Club Traditional Synagogue, 120 Erdman Place, Building 27B Lobby, Bronx, NY 10475. Also check the Men’s Club sign in your LOBBY SHOWCASES. Our next trip is Monday, August 28th to the Tropicana Casino in Atlantic City.

The cost for this trip is $35 per person. Receive $15 slot play bonus and a complimentary show ticket, a $30 value, to “NIK WALLENDA’S CIRCUS SHOW.” This is a thrilling variety show. The show combines suspense, amazement and laughter. Nik is the holder of 10 world records. This trip will sell out fast. For a reservation, call Gary or Bruce at the above phone numbers.

Your support of the Men’s Club is greatly appreciated.

Wishing everyone a happy and enjoyable summer, peace and good health.

—Gary Schwartz

Reflections

by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue Few are aware that the Biblical verse, “Love your neighbor as yourself” is preceded by the solemn injunction: “You shall not take vengeance nor bear any grudge” (Leviticus 19:18) Why are these two important injunctions – one positive and one negative — paired like this? The rabbis have a very perceptive explanation. They tell us to picture a man peeling an apple. He holds the apple in his left hand. It hurts and it bleeds. The man is distressed. What does he do? Does he take the knife in his left hand and plunge it into his right? Of course not, because both hands are part of him.

The Bible tells us not to take revenge or bear a grudge because our neighbors are part of us. We are all children of the living G-d. We are joint heirs to the same rich heritage. We may have reason to be angry or to feel hurt but we must stay on speaking terms.

We are not told to turn the other cheek. Such conduct is unnatural; it could even be considered masochistic. Judaism does require us to forgive and forget. “Vengeance is the Lord’s.” It is not for us.

Young Israel of Co-op City

Young Israel of Co-op City (lower level of the Dreiser Loop shopping center) is a house of worship that opens its doors every morning from 6 a.m. until 7 a.m.

Anyone who wishes to start the daily routine with prayers, during which our spiritual leader Rabbi Solomon I. Berl offers a brief Bible teaching, is welcome.

On Friday evening Sabbath services begin at 10 minutes after, the candlelighting time. Saturday morning services start at 9 a.m. Rabbi Berl delivers his sermon at 10:30 a.m.

The Rabbi’s class on the Torah reading of the week begins one hour before sunset every Saturday afternoon.

For office hours or any information you may seek, feel free to call (718) 671-2300 and leave your name, phone number and a brief message on the synagogue’s answering machine and your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Building 15B Association

We would like to thank Captain Carlos Ghonz of the 45 Precinct and Chief Frank Apollo of Public Safety for attending our meeting on June 29. It was a very informative meeting. The chief also handed out some informational pamphlets.

Thanks to all those cooperators who attended and we wish more would attend.

Our next meeting will be in September.

Have a happy healthy summer.

—Sandy Krasnove

Shareholders, not renters! Take care of your community!!

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

The congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invites you and your family to worship in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level. All are welcome.

Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service.

Choir rehearsal is on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the first Sunday of each month. Membership is open to all women of the church.

The men hold their meeting after service on the 2nd Sunday of each month.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to service at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 9, when we will celebrate The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Our Supply Priest, Father Simeon Johnson, will be the preacher and celebrant Summer Break —Sunday School will be on break for the months of July and August except for one Sunday in each month. These dates will be announced.

—Vestry and Choir will be on break for the month of August.

Fundraising Events —ECW Day Trip on Saturday, July 22, to Pindar Valley Winery in North Fork, Long Island. Deluxe motor coach transportation leaves from Dreiser Loop at 9:00 a.m. Sold Out!!

— Cake Sale at the church on August 19.

— Dinner Sale at the church on September 30.

Outreach Program: We continue to collect non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church in West Farms. Please remember to donate.

For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718320-0844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org.

“The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, * slow to anger and of great kindness.” — Psalm 145:8 —Merville Chambers

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to attend worship service at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A. Tel.718-324-0334 or 718-320-4218.

Sunday School for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship service starts at 11:45 a.m.

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

Bible study and Prayer meeting will be held every Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m.

Fridays: Youth service will start at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: Recruiting Warriors Delivering a soul from Hell causes the greatest damage to the enemy and brings the greatest victory to the church.

St. John 4:7 -19 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water; Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.

For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat. Then saith the women of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? For the Jews have no dealing with the Samaritans. Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knowest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink, thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?

Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drink thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? Jesus answered and said unto

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. for worship service. Sunday School for children and adults is held at 9:15 a.m. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us.

The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, lower level, room 50. Our telephone number is 718-320-3774.

The Wednesday worship service, Wednesday Bible study classes and Prayer Service held on Fridays are on hiatus for the summer and will resume in September.

And be sure to extend your worship with us today and every Saturday, 4 – 5 p.m. on Principle Centered Living Radio, redeemradiofm.com. Also, learn more about our pastor and the principles of our church, while enjoying a laugh or two on Facebook (Principle Centered Living with Rev. Sheldon Williams). Please “Like” the page and share the posts. Only those who “LIKE” the page will qualify for upcoming contests and rewards.

Tomorrow, July 9, the Christian Education Department will celebrate Christian Education Recognition Day at the 11 a.m. service. All are invited to attend.

Next Sunday, July 16, the Pastoral Lay Shepherd Ministry will celebrate their 7th Anniversary at the 11 a.m. service. All are welcome to attend.

On Friday and Saturday, October 27 and 28, the Scholarship Ministry will be going back to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. We will spend two days at the museum which includes motor coach transportation, hotel accommodations, 1 breakfast and 2 dinners at an allyou-can-eat buffet. The price of the trip is double $295 pp; triple $275 pp; single $345; children 12 and under with 2 adults $200. A non-refundable deposit of $100 is due immediately. To make your reservation, you may call 718-379-0541 or 917-612-1245.

On March 6 to March 15, 2018, we will be going to the Holy Land in Israel. Worship sailing on the Sea of Galilee; be baptized in the Jordan River; share in communion in the Garden Tomb; all where Jesus walked. The price per person from JFK is $2,995 for a double room an additional $586 for a single room. A non-refundable deposit of $500 is due immediately. Final payment is due on or before November 12, 2017. For a flyer, along with the itinerary and reservation form, please call 718-6711918, 718-379-0541, 718-379-1776, 718-671-1271 or the church at 718-320-3774.

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

—Hattie L. Lucas

29

her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosever drinketh of that water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

The women saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.

Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither. The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband: for thou had five husband: and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that thou sadist truly. The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

Christ’s Priority For this the son of God was manifested, that he might destroyed the works of the devil (1 John 3:8) Regardless of social conventions, racial prejudice, or religious differences, Jesus needed to go through Samaria. He knew a Woman was there who would respond to the good news He would share with her. Jesus was travelling with his disciples, being hungry and weary the disciples decided to go and buy meat.

So being weary from his journey, he stop to rest at Jacob’s well. Here comes the woman of Samaria and Jesus decided to struck up a conversation with her, and said, “Give me to drink.” The women’s response to Jesus’ request for a drink also shows her surprise that Jesus would speak with her.

—Rev. R. Sibblies

30

Public Safety

Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

information on keys. Consider purchasing a burglar alarm and set it every time you leave the house or when you go to sleep.

Do not reward the burglar who does get in. If, despite your precautions, a burglar does get in, don’t reward him with a large sum of cash and jewelry. Never keep large sums of cash in your home. Keep jewelry not often worn in a safe deposit box.

Consider purchasing a high quality personal safe for short term storage of certain valuables. Inventory valuables and keep receipts in a safe place in the event that you are the victim of a burglary. Never enter your apartment if you believe it has been burglarized. The burglar could still be in the apartment. You also do not want to ruin evidence, such as fingerprints, before they are collected by the police.

As summer is in full swing, there is an increase in vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Always be alert to driving hazards. Summer time means school buses are still on the road, often at less predictable hours. Never pass a stopped school bus with a “STOP” sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must give pedestrians the same level of respect that they expect from motor vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road safely.

Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages.

Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State.

MATTRESS DISPOSAL

Always remember, if you see something, say Co-op City Public Safety Dept. something. If you see suspicious persons or hear susEmergency: picious noise coming from 718-651-3050 your neighbor’s apartment, a burglary could be taking Non-Emergency: place, notify the authorities.

718-320-3330 Townhouse residents should also be vigilant for persons loitering about the town@CCPDnyc house areas. Report any unusual activities as soon as possible. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us.

Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained. Lt. Pam Apollo would also like to thank my loyal readers who stop by to say “hello” or who provide feedback and suggest topics for future articles. Thank you and enjoy your summer.

(Continued from page 7)

The City of New York requires all residents to fully cover all mattresses or box springs in a sealed plastic bag for garbage disposal and collection.

This rule was intended to prevent an increase in bed bug activity.

Under the rule, failure to place a mattress or box spring in a proper bag will result in a $100 fine imposed by the City. In addition, Co-op City residents who violate this rule may be subject to a Community Complaint with related fines and legal fees. (The City of New York and Riverbay do not provide mattress or box spring bags or covers.)

Plastic bags to cover mattresses and box springs are available at department stores, home improvement centers and large moving companies. They can also be purchased online.

Please follow this rule when disposing mattresses and/or box springs.

These covered items are to be brought to the basement or placed on the dumpster pads for proper trash collection.

Thank you for your attention and cooperation in this matter.

—CSO

www.ccpd.us

ELEVATOR SAFETY TIPS

IF YOU ARE STUCK IN AN ELEVATOR: • Stay calm • Press the emergency call button • Wait for pre-recorded message of building and elevator number to complete • Wait for response from Public Safety • Answer questions from the dispatcher • DO NOT leave the elevator car if it is not level with the floor (The safest place is inside the elevator).

• Wait for emergency personnel. Follow their instructions.

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017

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MetroCard Bus

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On the first and third Thursday of each month, the MetroCard bus will be at the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Blvd. (in front of the Bingo Hall and the eyecare center), from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; at Dreiser Loop (Park on Debs Place) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and at Einstein Loop (Elgar Place) from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. enabling customers to sign up for or refill their Reduced-Fare MetroCard, purchase or add money to an existing MetroCard, and purchase E-Z Pass On the Go tags.

The MetroCard Bus does not operate on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY July 8, 1930

Building of Hoover Dam begins On this day in 1930, construction of the Hoover Dam begins. Over the next five years, a total of 21,000 men would work ceaselessly to produce what would be the largest dam of its time, as well as one of the largest manmade structures in the world.

Although the dam would take only five years to build, its construction was nearly 30 years in the making. Arthur Powell Davis, an engineer from the Bureau of Reclamation, originally had his vision for the Hoover Dam back in 1902, and his engineering report on the topic became the guiding document when plans were finally made to begin the dam in 1922.

Herbert Hoover, the 31st president of the United States and a committed conservationist, played a crucial role in making Davis’ vision a reality. As secretary of commerce in 1921, Hoover devoted himself to the erection of a high dam in Boulder Canyon, Colorado. The dam would provide essential flood control, which would prevent damage to downstream farming communities that suffered each year when snow from the Rocky Mountains melted and joined the Colorado River. Further, the dam would allow the expansion of irrigated farming in the desert, and would provide a dependable supply of water for Los Angeles and other southern California communities.

Even with Hoover’s exuberant backing and a regional consensus around the need to build the dam, Congressional approval and individual state cooperation were slow in coming. For many years, water rights had been a source of contention among the western states that had claims on the Colorado River. To address this issue, Hoover negotiated the Colorado River Compact, which broke the river basin into two regions with the water divided between them. Hoover then had to introduce and reintroduce the bill to build the dam several times over the next few years before the House and Senate finally approved the bill in 1928.

In 1929, Hoover, now president, signed the Colorado River Compact into law, claiming it was “the most extensive action ever taken by a group of states under the provisions of the Constitution permitting compacts between states.”

Once preparations were made, the Hoover Dam’s construction sprinted forward: The contractors finished their work two years ahead of schedule and millions of dollars under budget. Today, the Hoover Dam is the second highest dam in the country and the 18th highest in the world. It generates enough energy each year to serve over a million people, and stands, in Hoover Dam artist Oskar Hansen’s words, as “a monument to collective genius exerting itself in community efforts around a common need or ideal.”

Source: History.com

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Co-op City Times / July 8, 2017