Co-op City Times 11/26/2022

HPD’s SCRIE Workshop to be Held Dec. 3 in Bartow Center

BY ROZAAN BOONE

New York City Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), administra tor of the city’s Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) program for shareholders of Mitchell-Lama co-ops, has partnered with the Riverbay Board of Directors and the Riverbay Fund to present a SCRIE workshop on Saturday, December 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Room 31 of the Bartow Center.

Shareholders 62 years of age and older who believe they are eligible for the program are advised to attend the workshop.

To be eligible, shareholders must meet all of the following requirements:

• You (or spouse) live in the apartment

• Your (or spouse) are the head of the household

• You (or spouse) are 62 years of age or older

• Total household income does not exceed $50,000 (household income for all persons living in unit)

• Monthly basic carrying charge is more than or equal to 1/3 of your total annual household income (Any portion of your carrying charge that is for other fees/charges is not considered part of your basic carrying charge)

• You are NOT on any other carrying charge assisted program (i.e., DRIE, Section 8)

Those who qualify for SCRIE receive assistance in paying the “increase” Riverbay how much assistance each qualifying shareholder is to receive, and, in turn, the city “pays” Riverbay by applying an abatement for the same amount to Riverbay’s real estate taxes.

Supporting documents for SCRIE applicants must be provided for all per

immediately prior to the year in which the carrying charge increase becomes effective; in this case, January 1, 2023 is the proposed date pending HCR’s approval of Riverbay application for the carrying charge increase. Supporting documents include: (Continued on page 2)

OMNY Available for Reduced-Fare Customers

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

OMNY’s tap and go pay service is available for reduced-fare customers.

The MTA announced the upgrade to their online payment service late last month. Now, over a million reduced-fare customers have access to OMNY, as highlighted in the MTA’s press release.

OMNY is a contactless fare payment system that is available at all subway stations and buses across New York City. Riders pay for their fare using a smartphone, wearable device, contactless credit or debit card, or an OMNY card.

Free transfers are still available with OMNY by using the same card for both trips.

OMNY users also get unlimited free rides auto matically for the remainder of the week after 12 ing an OMNY user can ride the subway or local bus for free until the following Monday after using their OMNY card 12 times. OMNY users do not need to purchase a $33 weekly unlimited card upfront before a week starts since they would not be charged more than $33 in one week auto matically by the new fare capping system.

Individuals interested in taking advantage of OMNY’s reduced-fare options should begin by going online to omny.info/register and creating an OMNY account. The account allows users to switch from their reduced-fare MetroCard to OMNY, view their trip history, view their charge activity as well as change the card attached to their account.

For those who prefer to speak to a

(Continued on page 4)

HCR Carrying Charge Increase Comment Deadline is Thursday, Dec. 1

Virtual Carrying Charge Conference to be held at 7 p.m., Dec. 1

BY ROZAAN BOONE

This coming Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022 is the deadline for written comments on Riverbay Corporation’s application for a 7.5% carrying charge increase to be sub mitted to NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR).

Comments submitted by mail/email must be postmarked/dated by Dec. 1, 2022, and addressed to:

George Simon (email address: George.simon@hcr.ny.gov)

New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal 641 Lexington Ave., 4th Floor East New York, NY 10022

In conjunction with written comments, which the state supervisory agency has been accepting since the October 29, 2022 publication of the HCR Notice in the Co-op City Times, a virtual carrying charge conference will also be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 1 via Webex. Shareholders may also call-in to the conference.

To join the video conference from your desktop or mobile devices:

1. Go to https://riverbay.webex.com/riverbaycorp/onstage/g.php?M TID=ed270215f4ddae748011bce5029eaa5, or use https://tinyurl.com/ 4mat5chb

2. If requested, enter your name and email address

3. If a password is required, enter the meeting password: Aki3Rx5ngm8

4. Click “Join”

5. Follow the instructions that appear on your screen

To call in to the conference, dial 1-415-655-0001, Access Code: 2488 474 0542.

(Continued on page 2)

MTA Activates Bus Lane Enforcement Cameras

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

cameras in the Bronx on Monday, Nov. 21, 2022.

These automated bus lane enforcement (ABLE) cameras are designed to catch drivers who are violating the busway and bus lane rules. Overall, the measure aims to improve bus service and reduce the frequency of cars blocking bus lanes.

eras in the Bronx are the Bx12 and Bx41 bus lines, then the Bx19 line.

Drivers who violate the bus lane rules will implementation of the ABLE cameras on a bus be enforced.

Violators caught by the ABLE cameras are sub offenses.

Bus lane corridors will have signage indicating the hours that the busway rules are camera enforced.

New York City Transit Department of Buses Senior Vice President Frank Annicaro explained the reason for the implementation of ABLE cameras with (Continued on page 4)

Shareholders with hearing impairment who require interpreter services must submit a request to the Riverbay Finance Department at RiverbayFinance@riv erbaycorp.com immediately so arrangements can be made.

Shareholders who would like to ask questions at the virtual HCR carrying charge conference must email them prior to December 1 to hearing@riverbay board.com

If approved by the HCR Commissioner, a 7.5% carrying charge increase would bring the current maximum monthly charges per room, including utilities, up from $238.02 to $255.87 – a difference of $17.85 – if approved by HCR.

HCR has been reviewing Riverbay Corporation’s application for a carrying charge increase to maintain the current level of services to shareholders and pro vide funding for the Five-Year Capital Plan of necessary infrastructure repairs to gets, approved by the Riverbay Board of Directors on April 5, 2021, and approved by HCR on November 4, 2021. tained in the application. The directive states that cooperator representatives may rying charges, appliances and parking charges so as to secure, together with all

Following the virtual carrying charge conference on December 1, according to the HCR notice, “Comments will be reviewed by DHCR accounts, attorneys and housing management representatives. After receipt of comments, additional

HCR staff will then make a carrying charge increase recommendation to the an increase is necessary and, if so, in what amount. In making the decision, the Commissioner will consider the extent to which the present carrying charges are size of the waiting list, economic impact the increase would have on sharehold ers and market demand for apartments in Co-op City. Once the Commissioner amount of the carrying charge increase, if approved, and the Commissioner’s ba sis for the decision. The Commissioner’s Order will also include any miscella neous charges, for example, for parking, the commissioner deems necessary. The order will also state the effective date of the increase.

Senior and disabled shareholders who qualify for the NYC Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) or Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) and have not yet applied are encouraged to do so for assistance in paying the upcom ing and future carrying charge increases.

New York City Housing Preservation & Development (HPD) will conduct a SCRIE Informational Workshop in Co-op City next Saturday, December 3, 2022 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Room 31 of the Bartow Center. Shareholders who believe they qualify for the program are urged to attend for information and directions on how to apply. This presentation is a partnership among HPD, Riverbay Board of Directors and Riverbay Fund.

should only be submitted when all documents are available. For pertinent information on completing a SCRIE application, attend the De cember 3rd Workshop. Information and applications can also be obtained by calling 3-1-1 or HPD’s SCRIE Unit at (212) 863-8494.

In addition, for shareholders’ convenience, initial applications are available

COMBING

Co-op City Times

BY ANTHONY BARZELATTO

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

Holiday Tree Lighting

The annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony, sponsored by Councilman Kevin Riley and Riverbay, will take place on Thursday, December 8, 7-8:30 p.m. in front of the bagel store in Bartow Mall. All are invited.

Baychester Library closed for renovations

Baychester Library is currently closed for renovations.

“Holds” can be picked up at the Eastchester Library, 1385 E. Gun Hill Rd., Bronx, N.Y. The library is expected to reopen early next year. To locate other NYPL branches, visit: nypl.org/locations.

Bartow Mall Parking Alert

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

Vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Test & Treat Mobile Van in Co-op City

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

Mon./Tues.: 135 Einstein Loop

Wed./Thurs.: 2049 Bartow Ave.

Fri./ Sat./Sun.: 177 Dreiser Loop.

Locations are approximate depending on parking availability.

The mobile Test to Treat Rapid Testing van does not offer PCR testing. Anyone who tests positive at the Test to Treat mobile van can speak with an onsite clinician, and, if eligible, receive free Paxlovid anti-viral medication.

The mobile van now also offers

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

Get Involved!

Co-op City shareholders are homeowners, not tenants.

Responding to Phony Bank Texts Could Cost You Thousands

One of scammers’ favorite tactics is impersonating a person or organization you know and trust. That’s the premise of a new text message scam, which has been popping up in recent BBB Scam Tracker reports. This time, con artists are impersonating your bank.

How this Scam Works

You receive a text message that looks like a fraud alert from your bank. It claims there is some unusual activity in your account. It may read: “Bank Fraud Alert – Did you approve a transaction for $1,000? Reply YES or NO.” If you reply to the text, the scammer now knows they have an active number – and a person to scam.

The scam doesn’t end there. The scammer will call you to follow up, and the number will appear in the caller ID as coming from your bank. When you answer, the caller claims to be a bank representative who can help stop the fraudulent charges. To do so, you need to send money to yourself using Zelle or another digital wallet app. The caller walks you through the process of connecting the app to your bank account. Then, they ask you to verify the connection by sharing the code your bank sent.

can set up an account with your phone number and email – but their bank account information. If that happens, when you send money to “yourself,” you’re

because the scammer has tricked you into approving the transaction. Sending money through a digital wallet app is like using cash, making it very hard to get your money back.

How to Spot this Scam

• Don’t reply to suspicious texts. Ignore any instructions to reply yes or no if you receive an unsolicited, suspicious text message. If you reply to a scammer, they could save your number as “active” and target you with future scams.

• Watch out for fake caller IDs. Scammers can spoof caller ID names and numbers to make you think you are receiving a call from a reputable source. If you weren’t expecting to be contacted by your bank, it’s best to avoid answerthere is an issue.

• Never share one-time passcodes. Scammers can use one-time passcodes from your bank or any other company to access your accounts and change information. Don’t share them with anyone, no exceptions.

MTA ––––––– (Continued from page 1)

press release.

“We are on track to install these automated enforcement cameras across 300 buses, covering nine additional routes by the end of the year,” Annicaro said in the statement. “When buses navigate city streets more easily, all our customers win. Automated camera enforcement is among the best ways to make that happen. These onboard cameras enable the MTA to enforce our bus lanes and is a proven and effective tool to increase compliance of the bus lanes.”

When a driver is caught violating the bus lane rules, ABLE cameras capture that vehicle’s license plate number along with video, location and timestamp information. The violator’s information is then sent to the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) for processing.

Currently, 243 buses are equipped with ABLE cameras across 11 popular bus routes. The MTA also plans to equip the following buses with ABLE cameras by the end of the year: Q43, B62, B25, and B42.

This latest wave of ABLE cameras moves the MTA closer to their goal of having cameras enforce 85% of existing bus lanes by the end of 2023.

OMNY ––––––– (Continued from page 1)

customer service representative, the OMNY customer service number is 877789-6669. The customer service center is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Reduced-fare customers can also go online to YouTube and watch a short two-minute video explaining how to switch to OMNY; link: youtube.com/ watch?v=yvzgt9eGMiE.

grade to the system in a press release statement last month.

“Every day, the MTA is proud to help over one million seniors, disabled riders, and other Reduced-Fare customers get around New York City,” Lieber said in the statement. “As we continue to see more and more customers use OMNY, today is a major milestone towards a full transition to the easy, contactless system. I encourage everyone who is eligible to take advantage of the simple online process to switch over to OMNY and start tapping today.”

The MTA completed installation of the contactless system late in 2020. In total 15,000 OMNY readers were installed at all 472 subway stations, on all 5,800 buses and at Staten Island Railway stations.

In 2023, the MTA plans to open locations for customers to make the switch from a reduced-fare MetroCard to OMNY in-person. Equally important, the MTA plans to offer physical reduced-fare OMNY cards for eligible customers starting in 2023.

Expanded fare options represent stage three of the MTA’s four-stage implementation plan for OMNY. In addition to reduced-fare option, stage three includes expanding OMNY card for students, paratransit riders and commuter railroad riders. Stage three also includes making OMNY cards available at more retail locations and installing OMNY card vending machines throughout the city.

the MTA plans to launch for Android and iOS. can be answered at omny.info/faq. until the OMNY system replaces them entirely.

Last week, subway ridership hovered around 65.6% of its pre-pandemic levels, while bus ridership averaged roughly 63.2% of its pre-pandemic levels, according to data collected by the MTA.

Turkey Giveaway

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Released on November 11, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever stands on the shoulders of 2018’s Black Panther. Continuing the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) tradition of breaking records, it Wakanda Forever is an emotional, anti-impe

well as introducing a civilization that can stand toe-to-toe with them: Talokan. The acting, music, and production design are interwoven to create a

Fresh Produce for the Community

shocked the world. In a 2018 interview with Variety, Marvel CEO

Wakanda Forever its protector. It introduces Namor, the king of the undersea nation of Talokan, character prevents him from being written off as a villain.

Wakanda Forever

Black Panther 2018’s and 2019’s and Endgame, Black Panther

Let us know… If you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, please email: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

T’challa got his grace. First introduced in 1931’s Marvel Comics #1, Namor, the Sub-Mariner, is at once among Marvel’s oldest and the MCU’s newest char who would see them harmed. Giving him the title of K’uk’ulkan, the feathered people reconsider going for a late night swim. sible through the costumes who won Black Panther (2018) an Oscar for best their local theaters dressed Ludwig Göransson is also the composer behind Black Panther ’s (2018)

Wakanda Forever other popular artists like Tobe & Fat Nwigwe also contributed original releases offers various different perspectives, as well as nuance in almost all of them.

Black Panther

Kevin Feige

Wakanda Forever acting, music, spectacle, and their various intersections, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever of Black Panther future for the franchise.

Co-op’s Alicia Wilson and her family dressed up on opening day of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Photo by.P.M. Campbell

On Monday, November 21, Co-op City held a Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway in Dreiser Loop. This event was made possible by Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, Coun cilmember Kevin Riley, Borough President Vanessa Gibson and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Photo by P.M. Campbell

Community Fridge volunteers on Saturday, Nov. 12, during Section 5’s commu nity pantry/fridge produce distribution.

Photos by Linda Brown

The Co-op City Times

be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op

in that week’s edition.

Letters to the Editor

Tougher Enforcement Needed to Lower Crime Rate

I agree with Nick Liberati’s letter in this week’s Co-op Times. many crimes.

I believe the other shareholder who compared the crime rate today to the rate in the1980’s has it all wrong. We could also compare our current crime rate to the crimes occur-

We have videos today of crimes in progress that we did not have years ago. I rarely travel by train because it seems more dangerous now. We would need tougher enforcement

response was less than acceptable.

Support for Community Newspaper

This community paper is the heartbeat of our community. I appreciate this paper for all that it offers our community. Newspapers are losing their luster and slowly being replaced by social media platforms. I like information entertainment.

Reputable news outlets verify information prior to printing/reporting the information and if the information is not

organizations work. We are fortunate in our community to have this reliable source of information; how many communities in this city have their own community paper?

It would be ideal for many more community members

The community is waiting to hear from you on the sidelines when we can all get in the game and have our voices heard.

Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times

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

If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the

scroll down to the bottom and click on the “Comments & Suggestions” link.

This service has been added at the request of Riverbay Board President Sonia Feliciano to engage with shareholders.

nor effort. I can tell you that school of thought limits your view of yourself and our community. If you have ideas to vision for our community. If you experienced a positive or story in our community paper.

Co-op City Times

commitment to be a better person. A positive attitude will blow open many doors and change your life. Being present and engaged will improve your quality of life. Be thankful for any and all achievements and disappointments; life is a

Co-op City Times

The deadline for submission of editorial content to the Co-op City Times is by 3 p.m. Articles re-

inclusion in the Co-op City Times Submission may be sent to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com; faxed to (718) 320-2595 or hand delivered to Rm. 21 in the Bartow Center. Thank you for your cooperation.

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

LETTERS TO

We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

Co-op City Times

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which ity and residency of the writer can be Thank you for your cooperation.

City Times

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

CCPD Offers Holiday Robbery Prevention and Scam Alerts

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Public Safety Report

As the 2022 holiday shopping season gets into gear, it is important that smart shoppers remain vigilant. Criminals study human behavior and always find new ways to steal from the public. You have to take steps to prevent thefts from your person, thefts from your vehicle, package thefts and electronic thefts. This may seem like many things to think about, but once you establish the “I will not be a victim” mindset, it applies to all situations you may encounter. As shoppers are anxious to get their holiday shopping underway, criminals are out trying to shop for their next victim. These criminals take advantage of frenzied shoppers in a distracted state. By following these tips, you can avoid being a victim or minimize injury if you become a victim.

Pick pocketing is a crime that tends to increase during the holiday season. The pickpocket is a criminal who would like to have his crime go undetected. Pickpockets often practice their skills and take pride in their ability to remove your property unnoticed. Some of these skills may be practiced in prisons or with other pickpockets. Fortunately, the pickpocket is not a violent criminal. If you are ever bumped into in a public place, it could be a sign that you were pickpocketed – immediately assess your surroundings.

Pickpockets may work alone or can work in groups of two or more. One may serve as a look-out, while another serves as a decoy and a third grabs your property. While shopping in crowded stores, be alert to any person who jostles into you or enters your personal space comfort zone. Pickpocket teams can of-

Public Safety Blotter

November 13 – November 19, 2022

November 14, 2022 –

120 DeKruif Place

CCPD responded to a call of shots fired. A canvas was conducted by CCPD with negative results. NYPD was also present on scene.

2049 Asch Loop

A cooperator reported having a vehicle rear end his vehicle. The driver of the other vehicle exited his vehicle, looked at the damage to the vehicles, returned to his vehicle and sped off in an unknown direction. NYPD was notified and present on scene for reporting purposes.

November 15, 2022 –

17A

notify NYPD for reporting purposes.

November 16, 2022 –

500 Baychester Avenue

While on routine patrol, CCPD observed a parked vehicle sitting on milk crates with all four wheels removed and the rear passenger window smashed with the interior rummaged through by an unknown individual. The owner and NYPD were notified with both present on scene. A canvas of the area by CCPD yielded negative results.

November 17, 2022 –

140 Benchley Place

ten include one or more women. Never let your guard down. Women are not automatically not criminals.

Be alert to any persons loitering near banks or cash machines. Be alert to persons who follow you from a bank or cash machine. Avoid using cash machines at night. If you must use a cash machine at night, choose a well-lit location, in an area you know. Also use caution when using a drive up cash machine, be sure your car doors are locked. Consider doing banking errands with a friend or family member. Try to avoid days such as the first or the fifteenth of the month when many people receive checks.

Always walk confidently and with a purpose. Maintain situational awareness at all times. Speaking on a cell phone, text messaging or wearing headphones with the volume turned up high makes it difficult for you to stay in touch with your surroundings.

Avoid placing packages in your vehicle, if possible. If you must place packages in your vehicle, place them in your trunk or covered if your trunk is unavailable. If feasible, place items in your trunk before you arrive at your destination. Always choose a well-lit, busy area to park your vehicle. Always be sure to lock your car and take your keys with you. Never leave your car running with the keys inside, no matter how short of a time you are stepping out the vehicle.

As unusual as it may sound, before you enter your vehicle, be sure no one is in or under your vehicle. Also, be wary of anyone lurking around your building or the garage as you prepare to enter. If someone suspicious is observed, do not enter, call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Do not permit strangers to enter your building behind you. Not holding the door may seem rude but can keep a criminal from entering your building.

To minimize the impact of all crimes involving theft of property from your person, keep your keys, money, identification and cell phone in your front pocket, separate from your non-valuables. Also consider an inside-the-clothing, travel-type wallet for your personal items and valuables. A pocket with a zipper, button or Velcro is ideal for this purpose. If carrying valuables and personal documents in your purse, place them inside of a plastic or metal container such as a mint case, which does not look like a wallet. Keep less important items with a token amount of cash in your pocket. This way, the criminal will think he scored big. Take only the cash and credit cards you will need. Distribute cash between different pockets, wallet and purse. Record the account numbers of all of your credit cards and leave that information at home.

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

Adler Place

A cooperator reported an unknown individual attempting to open her apartment door twice by turning the door knob but was unsuccessful. Both incidents were captured on the cooperator’s Ring camera. CCPD is investigating.

100 Benchley Place

CCPD observed two motorized scooters underneath the portico of the building and was able to ascertain the owner of the scooters. The owner, a cooperator, was issued two Community Complaints for having parked the scooters illegally on Riverbay property.

120 Elgar Place

A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package removed from in front of his apartment door by an unknown individual.

167 Dreiser Loop

A cooperator reported returning to her parked vehicle and observing a male standing next to her vehicle and a second male underneath the vehicle. Once observed by the cooperator, both males jumped into a black Jeep and fled the area towards Co-op City Blvd. The cooperator inspected her vehicle and observed partial cuts to the catalytic converter. The cooperator will

A cooperator reported having her cell phone removed by an unknown individual without her permission. The individual was in the cooperator’s apartment to clean the rugs and a disagreement over the fee for the service ensued.

179 Dreiser Loop

CCPD Emergency Service Unit responded to a call of a runaway 12year old male. CCPD Emergency Service Unit canvassed the schools, parking lots and the Dreiser Loop area and located the 12-year old male at the Dreiser Mall where he was reunited with his mother without injuries.

November 18, 2022 –

99 Carver Loop

A cooperator reported two unknown individuals came up behind him as he stood by his ZipCar rental vehicle while it was running and entered the vehicle and fled in an unknown direction. A canvas of the area by CCPD yielded negative results. NYPD and ZipCar were notified for reporting purposes.

141 Dreiser Loop

An employee reported three unknown individuals attempting to pay for their food walked out of the store without paying after the credit card was denied.

BLOTTER BONUS: To all shareholders, guests, and fellow employees, have a great and safe Thanksgiving. We have a great community here and we are thankful to be a part of it. Enjoy!

Online shopping can be a safer option to in-person shopping but it is not without risk of theft. There has been a significant increase in reports of stolen packages in Co-op City, New York City, and, in fact, it is an expanding national issue. Public Safety patrols the buildings but Co-op City is a large complex with many buildings with many floors and hallways. It is best if you can minimize the amount of time your package spends in the hallway. You can request delivery with a signature from certain delivery methods.

Director’s Viewpoint – Daryl Johnson

We Can’t Keep Going Down This Road

Some co-op board directors in some housing companies may have placed their full trust in a management company and other so-called professionals. Then, over a period of time, those board directors may have slowly come to realize that those so-called professionals could care less about them or their housing companies.

Some Changes Need To Be Made

The NYS Homes & Community Renewal (HCR) agency’s regulations mandate that Mitchell-Lama co-op housing developments employ a management company to oversee their operations. Now, in a bestcase scenario, this mandate makes sense because an excellent management company can deliver outstanding results to a housing development. For instance, an excellent management company can handle their administrative, legal, maintenance, safety, and other operational functions. Thereafter, with persistence, that housing development can thrive.

On the other hand, some management companies or even some managers within that company might have their own agenda. So, they will make a lot of initial promises. However, as time goes on, you’ll see their true personality unfold. In other words, everything is done with a negative attitude. Respect? They’ll remind the board members that they were hired to run their housing development. Moreover, the managers will tell the board that they should not get involved in day-to-day operations. So, the managers will assume that they’re the bosses of that community.

A few years ago, the NYS inspector general’s

you could read a lot of nonsense that used to go on with housing developments and their management

Riverbay Corporation and a former management company were previously documented online. Then, the audit report raised concerns about HCR’s ability to oversee these housing companies and some management companies.

So, it’s very easy for a state agency to mandate that housing companies must hire a management company. However, in some cases, some housing

companies can have a tremendous amount of problems after they hire that management company. For instance, how can a housing development know what’s actually going on with a management company and some of their vendors?

the overall nature of a board. For instance, they can tell which board members are not concerned about

can tell which board members are going to follow everything that they say.

So, will there ever be a need to educate a board

some managers will never analyze the issues that are

without a care in the world, they will spend almost everything within a housing company’s bank account. Thereafter, they will request carrying charge increases on an annual basis.

Next, some board members will support everything that they heard from their managers. Then, they will tell everyone that “everything goes up. So, expect to receive an increase on an annual basis.” And, this is exactly what some managers want to see

co-op housing developments. But, read on and see what our board is proposing for our community.

Budget Reduction Resolution

On Wednesday, November 30, 2022, our board is going to consider a resolution that calls for a hiring freeze. Next, there will be a freeze on non-discretionary spending and non-essential contracts. Thereafter, this resolution calls for a 1-year, 10% expense decrease in every department.

Now, do you actually think that we need to have 28 departments here? Do you actually think that we need to have over 800 employees here? What about spending $100 million a year to support these concepts? What about spending millions of dollars on outside contractors to restore our apartments? Look, in my opinion, we’re just wasting our money.

Bottom line: We make about $250 million a year. So, this resolution can possibly help us to save about $20-25 million. But, we need another resolution so that we can reduce our $100 million payroll in a

NAACP

responsible manner. A future viewpoint will point out what happened during that board meeting.

Blackout Wednesday – Just Before Thanksgiving Day

Have you ever heard of Blackout Wednesday? Blackout Wednesday occurs on the night just before Thanksgiving. So, some folks will consume an outrageous amount of alcohol during this entire holiday weekend. Furthermore, some of these folks will even encourage other folks to follow their crazy conduct. Then, they will get so drunk that they will black out.

cials have stated that Blackout Wednesday is the ofyou believe that this insane drunk driving holiday season runs from Blackout Wednesday until the end of the year? Also, can you believe that there are more drunk driving fatalities during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend than during the Christmas holiday?

ing drunk driving during a Thanksgiving holiday. A mother, a daughter, and four other passengers were in a vehicle in Ocala, Florida going to a Thanksgiving dinner. Then, an alleged drunk driver crashed into the rear of their vehicle. Thereafter, this crash was so bad that the mother and daughter were instantly killed. Then, the other four passengers were ejected from their vehicle. The vehicle? The vehicle was horribly destroyed.

Bottom line: Please do not drink and drive. Thanks.

Close

I hope that everyone will have a safe and enjoyable holiday season.

Thank you. Contact Information

Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@riverbayboard.com

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week and a wonderful holiday season. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. Known as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), it profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and the course of 20th Century American History.

Happy Thanksgiving Season

Thanksgiving Holiday Meet and Greet on November

Alex at Food Universe for the generous donations. Steve from Goose Island, we appreciate and thank you for your assistance helping to make this possible. Thank you to our cooks for the delicious food.

Notice of Branch Election – The Branch candidate slate was submitted to National and NYS

for two years, from January 1, 2023-December 31, Branch elections.

Co-op City Branch #2210 Branch Election has been rescheduled for Tuesday, December 6, from ing is online.

new election process using the Election Buddy System for members to cast their vote by e-mail or smart phone/text with internet connection. Each

member will receive their own unique voting link/ code, which cannot be shared/transferred to another. Ballots will be sent by National to members in good standing. If you do not receive a ballot at 2:00 p.m., please contact the Branch Secretary, Brenda Brown. Please update your email or smart phone informa-

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

––Brenda Brown

Section Five Association

The Section 5 Association met on Thursday, November 17. As we are trying to regroup and organize with plans to move forward, there is a suggested plan to have a grand opening of the waterside park located here in Section 5 upon the approval of Riverbay Management. There is a gated fence with a sign read ing: “Please Enjoy! Help keep our park Clean and Green.” This was at the sug gestion of Mary Pearson, vice president of SFA. However, she did note that the youths have climbed over the fence and damaged it.

On behalf of the SFA, the Co-op City community will be kept abreast of what is happening with the ramp, the Metro-North Station’s progress, etc. Ms. Pearson, SFA vice president, will continue writing articles to keep all informed and updated as the late Ms. Eleanor Bailey and the late former president of the SFA, Mr. Hedgepeth, were involved from the beginning. The SFA met at least twice with Assemblyman Benedetto regarding the ramp.

The Objective of the SFA shall be:

To obtain the maximum quality of life for all shareholders residing in Sec tion 5.

To act as a liaison between Management and the building associations and townhouse associations in all problem areas.

We thank all who volunteered as an officer to keep the Section 5 Association a strong and vibrant organization representing the ten high-rises plus a cluster of townhouses in Section 5 within our beautiful community. We will strive to make all those who started this organization for the betterment of our commu nity very proud.

––H. Overman

Building 8 Association

Hoping everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving Day!

The Building 8 Association is collecting holiday donations for the building porters.

The tentative dates are December 2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., December 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and December 16 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Collection dates are posted on the bulletin board located in the lobby. Also look out for the pop-up dates flyers for holiday collections near the elevators.

Updates on things happening in the building in the past 24 months:

1. Staircases are being painted.

2. Walls in the hallways, which became a quality of life concern, will be painted or have been painted a lighter color.

3. Due to a concern of a shareholder who spoke up about the poor condition of the flooring on his floor on our Building 8 Facebook page, the flooring was immediately addressed by Riverbay and we thank them.

4. Currently, our association is addressing the security issue in the building with the Public Safety department with more cameras in the building as a de terrent. As per the Riverbay Department of Public Safety, it is always a posi tive security step. We were also informed building inspections are conducted as required and contingent on available staffing.

During the week of November 13, a shareholder’s door was damaged by a group of big kids after school. The matter was reported to Public Safety.

FYI: On Saturday, December 3, the New York City Department of Hous ing Preservation and Development (HPD) will be conducting a SCRIE infor mative workshop at Bartow Center, located at 2049 Bartow Avenue in Room 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season!

––Azalea McDavid

Building 10 Association

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

Annual Holiday Toy Drive – We will begin accepting Holiday Shelter Gift donations on Wed., Nov. 30, for newborns to 18 years old. Donations will be accepted from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. in the Building 10 Association room located in the rear of Building 10B every Wednesday until December 21. We will also accept donations on Saturday, December 17, from 11 a. m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Please see the flyer posted in your building lobby.

Holiday Gift Collection for Building 10 Workers: The Holiday Gift Collection for the Building 10 workers will be held from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. in the Building 10 Association room located in the rear of Build ing 10B on Wednesday, December 7, 14 and 21. We will also be collecting on Saturday, December 17, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Please see the flyer posted in your building lobby

Lobby Decorations – We are looking for volunteers from each building to decorate the lobbies for the upcoming holiday season. If you are interested, please slip a note under the association room door with your name and phone number.

Holiday Safety – The holiday season has begun. Here are a few reminders to ensure a joyous holiday. Please be aware of your surroundings. Do not leave anything visible in your car. Have your packages delivered to a locker or a neighbor who is home. Be safe and enjoy the holiday season.

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

Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help in NYC is 1-888-NYCWELL (1-888-692-9355). The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number is 988; you can call or text.

Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Face book, “Building 10 “ABC” Association.” Like our page and get notified of all the happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born in November/December an incred ibly happy birthday.

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

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

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

BY FRANK MAYES

The Dawning

I thought of you and our affair and how much they are the same. Its beauty blends with its smell within, exemplify its charms,

The sun will feed its infancy and the rain will lend a hand, Until it blossoms like our affair, its beauty then begins.

Building 31 A/B Association

The Building 31 A/B Association would like to thank everyone who came out to the November 15th election meeting. At this meeting, nominations were

Hi, neighbors.

Building 18 Association

Our next General Meeting is scheduled for Tues., Nov. 29, at 7 p.m. in the Association room. Our guest Speaker is Ms. Sonia Feliciano, President of Riverbay Board of Directors. Please come with your complaints, ideas, questions and compliments. This meeting is very important. Be an informed cooperator. There will be a 50/50 drawing and refreshments served. All are welcome, new move-ins are

Holiday Gift Collection for Our Porters

We will be in the lobby collecting monetary gifts for our porters between December 7-10.

We will be decorating the Christmas tree and lobby. Date and time will be

To the sick and homebound, we wish you a speedy recovery. To the bereaved families, we give you our sincere sympathies.

We hope your Thanksgiving was all you wanted it to be.

Happy Birthday to all with that special day this month.

––Gertie Brown

We are still looking for volunteers to be Floor Captains. Meetings for Floor has already signed up.

A question was asked regarding the new Metro-North stop in Section Five. Erskine Place when no work is being done. If anyone has a contact for someone who may be able to provide an answer, contact me at 718-379-3341. Thank you.

Building 31 A/B has joined the Section Five Association.

I wish to thank everyone on the team who accepted their position.

Enjoy a Blessed, Safe, Healthy and Happy Thanksgiving.

—Sharon Clarke

Building 27 Association

Greetings to our neighbors, building association families and friends. It was a pleasure seeing all who attended your building association meeting on Thursday, November 17. We thank you for coming to meet and greet your neighbors. To our faithful neighbors who always support their association, thank you!

Remember – This is your building, your apartment and community. The Association welcomes you to come and share the good as well as any concerns, and we can work together to solve issues.

The president of the Association, Ms. Thalia Roach, expresses her thanks to all who volunteered and enjoyed handing out candy treats on Halloween to the kids in the lobby.

Collection for our Building Staff – Our porters are the best; they keep our building clean and this means a lot and we want to show them how we appreciate their work week after week in maintaining our Triple Core/three buildings. The dates of collection by the cooperators will be in Building AB and C lobby on Thursday, December 1, and Friday, December 2, from 4 to 8 p.m., both evenings. Also the Holiday Decorations for your respective building will be on the same day at the time of your choosing.

– What could be better than three cash prizes? Kudos to 1st prize winner, Margie Delgado, $50.00; well deserved, she is our volunteered baker and she always surprises us. Second prize winner, Ardell Frank, $25.00; 3rd prize winner, $15.00, Mary Pearson – all happy campers! The 50/50

themselves. We actually left some there in the room enjoying and chatting away. There will be no Christmas party this year. Too many issues and problems due to the pandemic. Please take care of yourselves and those you come in contact with; wear your mask if you feel comfortable in doing so.

Have a Blessed Holiday, stay safe and well.

—H. Overman

RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous

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

Building 13 Association

Hope you had a happy and memorable Thanksgiving! celebration proclaimed in 1998. The celebration acknowledges Puerto Rican

November is an important month for Puerto Ricans because it is also National Native American Heritage Month. Puerto Ricans are mixed Indigenous, European and African, but cherish their Indigenous Taíno heritage. The tribe was assimilated by Spanish colonizers but the Taíno spirit lives on in the hearts of Puerto Ricans.

Building 13 Association Meeting: The Association meeting was held virtually via Zoom on director of Restoration, Mr. Edgar Perez. Sign-on information was forwarded to members via email and voicemail and posted in the lobby bulletin board.

Our collection dates are tentatively scheduled for Monday, December 5, through Friday, December 9. Additional volunteers were requested. Please contact Vice President Wendell Mattison, who will be putting the dates and times together. Once dates and times are established for the holiday collection, we will post it in the bulletin board located in the lobby. We thank volunteers but we can always use more assistance. If you can spare some time, let us know.

All new members to our Building 13 family are always welcome to join us and meet the members of our team. We are here to help you and assist you with your concerns. Check the lobby bulletin board for additional information. If there is someone you feel we should invite to our meetings, feel free to contact Association members (numbers below) and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

In the spirit of getting back to normal, we will consider having the annual “After Christmas but before New Year’s” celebration. With so many events mitments, so keep your eyes peeled to the bulletin board and continue reading the Co-op City Times, your key to knowing what is going on in our community.

Reminders:

• Those who have not received their fob, please contact the Parking and that you have your fob. Going forward, cylinders will be removed from doors Tower buildings and, currently, Triple Core buildings are being completed.

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

• Observe your surroundings, and if you see something say something!

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

Wendell Mattison, V.P., at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Leslie Peterson

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – Members and Associates, have you paid your dues? It is not too late to pay your annual National dues of $50 that must be paid by all except Life Members or Legacy Life Members. These national org. Our local section dues are $25 per year. These section dues may be paid

Christmas Party –

To purchase tickets, make checks payable

ditional information, contact ity@gmail.com, Youth Section –us at Health Committee –

about the health concerns in our community. Most pharmacies in our neighbor November is Diabetes Awareness Month –

you that you have diabetes, there are things you can do to live a long, healthy

––Joyce Howard

tionately refer to themselves, said goodbye to one of their favorite Co-op City spots—the NYPL Baychester Branch, on Saturday, November 19, the last day be fore the library closed for renovations. Avid users of the branch are saddened by the announced closing of this branch, albeit temporary. “We have made wonderful friendships here and will miss Ms. Brown and her helpful team during this renovation period,” the Ladies all agreed, adding, “The NYPL programs and instructors have a very warm spot in our hearts. Hurry back, Ms. Brown, with lots of books for our youth and seniors as well.” Back row (L-R) Chris Mooreland, Eileen Liebowitz, Ms. Brown, Library Mgr.; Lauretta Jaysura. Front row: (L-R) Linda Morris and Denise Shields.

Photo courtesy Lauretta Jaysura

son and if this is a sign of what to expect for the season, we will have an aweand Field Meet at the Ocean Breeze recreational Facility in Staten Island. A team traveled as far as from the Bahamas to participate in the meet! Medals

Velocity was blessed with 17 medals (seven gold, four silver, two bronze, letes break their Indoor PR (personal record). The following athletes received medals: in the 8 and under age division:

According to Athletic.net, the following athletes broke their Indoor PR: Ma-

Velocity Track Club Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 family and friends. Happy post-Thanksgiving Saturday to you all. I trust your Turkey Day was complete with loved ones, memoach as well as the soul.

For any who experience isolation, loneliness, or feelings of hopelessness or despair during this time of year, please reach out to 311. There are people and resources available to assist you.

loe, Shyenne, Madison T., Savannah B. and Lyon. Great job to all who participated!

your future Olympians.

Last weekend, our lobbies were decorated with Thanksgiving holiday-related scenes much to the delight of our young ones.

Thank you to our “Volunteers at Lunch” ladies. What a lovely time was had by all at our November 18th get-together. We look forward to gathering again.

Our next Building 9 Association General Membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 1, at 7 p.m. in the Association room located in Building 9B, lobby rear. Please join us.

Valerie and Darlene picked up our order. I was not available to receive it. We will arrange distribution at our December 1st meeting.

We expect to decorate our lobbies for the upcoming holiday season. We expect to collect for building staff for the holidays. We will begin canvassing our volunteers for availability to participate in the decorating and collection activities.

Our 5th Annual Membership Year-end Celebration was canceled this year. We look forward to reinstating the event next year.

Key cylinders will systematically be removed from the lobby entry doors of Chevron-style high rise buildings. This is being done to better secure entry to our buildings and to help ensure that only authorized persons gain access to our buildings with

Coalition of AfricanAmerican Churches & Community Organizations

Annual Kwanzaa Celebration sponsored by the Coalition of African- American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. The guest philosopher at Temple University. He has also authored several books.

We are pleased to have Ms. Ebony Rae Lambright as our MC and Michelle Marbury will perform the Libation Ceremony. This year, we will honor three elders from our community, Stuart Edwards, Virginia Stewart and Norman M. Thomas. A poem will be rendered by young brother Malcolm Nembhard.

Cooperative Economics, we encourage attendees to support the vendors. Those who attend should also bring an offering of store purchased dessert or juice to share with others at the Karamu (feast). No soda, please. There will be activities for young people and we encourage you to invite them.

The Coalition President, Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba, looks forward to seeing you as well as Coalition members, including the African-American Association, Co-op City Baptist Church, Coalition to Save Affordable Housing, Faith at Work seph’s Episcopal Church.

––Francine Jones

––Coach Winston Dinkins

the use of properly issued key fobs. If you have not done so, please contact the Parking and Leasing department as soon as possible to arrange to have your key fobs issued to your household. Extra key fobs may be issued to care providers and family members, if needed, to ensure your safety and wellbeing. We will receive advanced notice from the Parking and Leasing department before the cylinders are removed from our lobby doors. If your fob does not work, please return it for a new fob. If your fob is lost or stolen, please notify Parking & Leasing so your old fob can be deactivated and a new fob can be issued to you.

As you travel, shop, dine out and visit friends and family during the holiday season, please be diligent about your personal safety and be aware of your surroundings. Please do not leave valuables visible to opportunists. If possible, please use inner pockets to secure your cellphone, wallet, cash, etc.

If you notice anyone loitering in our building lobbies, vestibules, or stairwells you must notify Public Safety immediately for your own safety as well as the safety of your neighbors.

“It does not matter how strong your opinions are. If you don’t use your power for positive change, you are indeed part of the problem.” –Coretta Scott King

––Linda Collins

Building 20 Association

tin board. Congratulations!

Photo courtesy

Let us know…

If you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, please email us: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Barbara Cloud, Shirley McCann, Linda Holley and Janet Yarrell.

Velocity Track Club athletes at the C2C2 Track and Field Fiesta.

Francine Jones

RIVERBAY CORPORATION Frequently Asked Questions

RESIDENTIAL SALES DEPARTMENT

Q. HOW LONG IS THE WAIT FOR AN APARTMENT IN CO-OP CITY?

A. Currently, there is a 3-5 year wait for most apartments except for 2-bedroom units with a balwait is approximately 5-7 years.

Q. CAN SECTION 8 BENEFITS BE APPLIED TO CO-OP CITY APARTMENTS?

A. Yes, however, incoming shareholders must be able to meet minimum income requirements for the unit/apartment offered. The applicant must be month’s carrying charges at the closing appointment. Once moved in, the new shareholder should ask their respective caseworker to submit a Landlord package to Riverbay Corporation. Approval is not guaranteed. However, if approved, the shareunit’s monthly carrying charges.

Note: A new shareholder using the Deferred Equity Payment option to pay their equity is not rying charges.

Q. ARE THERE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR DISABLED SHAREHOLDERS?

A.

side of Riverbay’s offerings, this will be an out-ofpocket expense to the shareholder.

Note: Outgoing shareholders are responsible for restoring their unit to its original standard or else Riverbay will deduct the cost to complete the restoration from their equity.

Q. HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR DOOR MEASUREMENTS IN PREPARATION FOR PURCHASING APPLIANCES FOR MY NEWLY ACCEPTED UNIT?

A. your viewing, and an appointment will be set up for you to take the necessary measurements.

NOTE: take their own measurements as different-sized units have unique measurements.

Q. WHAT IS THE SQUARE FOOTAGE OF CO-OP CITY RESIDENTIAL UNITS?

A. Visit us online at coopcity.com. Scroll across

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Sunday move-ins and Holiday move-ins are not permitted.

*A move-in at any other time subjects the shareholder to a $300.00 Community Fine.

Delivery Permits

Furniture and appliance deliveries require permits. Delivery permits are issued Monday –Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. only.

their respective CSO.

Saturday deliveries are permissible from 9:00 are closed on weekends. Saturday permits must be picked up prior to close of business on the Friday before your delivery date.

* Moving and Delivery permits must be requested at least 24 hours in advance of the date it is needed. Delivery without a permit subjects the shareholder to a $300.00 Community Fine.

Q. WHY ARE PERMITS REQUIRED?

A. A permit demonstrates to Co-op City Public

rized. The permit must be prominently displayed in the windshield of your parked vehicle. For permits issued for moving/delivery of items bigger than a shopping cart, residential building elevators are padded to protect them from damage during the move/delivery.

Q. WHAT IS THE MOVE-OUT PROCEDURE?

A. When moving out, notify the Residential Sales department and request Withdrawal docugenerate. Complete and notarize the paperwork, can request move-out permits if you know the dates you intend to move out.

turned in/surrendered to the Residential Sales ofkeys are surrendered.

• Vacating shareholders are also responsible for remedying alterations or damages caused to the unit during their occupancy. These are determined by an apartment inspection when the unit is vacated.

Once the apartment has been emptied, you can schedule an inspection appointment through the

the apartment only begins once it is accepted by a prospective shareholder. The process of restoration can be anywhere between 2-3 months depending on the condition of the apartment, and other variables. When your former apartment is sold, you are

Approximately 6-8 weeks after a new shareholder moves into your former apartment, the Finance department mails your equity refund check, and a breakdown of the charges deducted, to your forwarding address.

Q. HOW DO I OBTAIN A COPY OF MY LEASE?

A. A copy of your lease can be requested through your CSO. There is a $5 charge per copy.

Q. CAN SOMEONE BE ADDED TO AN EXISTING OCCUPANCY AGREEMENT/ LEASE?

A. Mitchell-Lama policy only allows for signatories/shareholders on occupancy agreements to be holder resident can remain in the apartment through if the existing shareholder either passes away or moves out of the unit completely.

Q. CAN SHAREHOLDERS OFFICIALLY ADD/REMOVE AN OCCUPANT FROM\ THEIR HOUSEHOLD?

A. However, if there is a change in the occupancy of turned to your CSO.

To remove a shareholder from the household occupancy record due to move out or death, in addition to omitting their name from the annual income

maining household occupant/s advised of their op-

Q. WHO CAN APPLY FOR SUCCESSION?

A. A household occupant who has been living for at least two years with a shareholder who has passed on, or one who has permanently vacated the unit can apply for succession. The occupant requesting succession must be able to prove they resided in the apartment with the shareholder for

Q. WHAT SHOULD MY FAMILY/ADMINISTRATOR/EXECUTOR DO WHEN I PASS AWAY?

Q. HOW DO I SECURE MOVING AND/OR DELIVERY PERMITS?

A. New shareholders living in Co-op City for less than a month should request permits from the

Existing shareholders who expect furniture or appliance deliveries should request a delivery permit from their respective CSO.

Shareholders moving out of Co-op City should request their move-out permits from the Residential Sales department after submitting their completed withdrawal paperwork.

Moving Permits

Moving permits for new and outgoing shareholders are issued by the Residential Sales department, based on scheduling availability.

Monday – Friday: Moving is permitted between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Permits are only valid for the time period and date they are issued.

Saturday move-ins: A permit can be issued for 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., or

nal inspection, you will receive a breakdown of charges deducted from your equity, if any, along with your equity refund check, mailed by the Riverbay Finance department to the forwarding address indicated on your withdrawal paperwork.

Q. WHAT IS THE TIMELINE FOR AN EQUITY REFUND?

A. After keys are turned in to the Residential Sales department, they are then handed over to the Restoration department for an initial inspection to other inspection to determine if there is any damage beyond normal wear and tear within the apartfrom the equity are determined, in addition to the responsibility of three months of carrying charges. The locks of the apartment are changed and soon after, it is shown to prospective shareholders whose preferences match the apartment. The average wait time between showing the apartment and its acceptance can be up to several months. Restoration of

A. cession wants to become the new shareholder, your family/administrator/executor should submit Sales department. An estate withdrawal package documents needed to complete the process of refor them.

Q. WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED TO FINALIZE AN ESTATE WITHDRAWAL?

A. The following documents will be required to complete the estate withdrawal process:

• Letters of Administration/Letters Testamenta-

• Withdrawal Papers from Riverbay Corporation that have been signed and notarized by the Administrator or Executor. Executor.

FAQs –––– (Continued from page 15)

deceased or a notarized Letter stating the stock cer

Q. HOW TO CONTACT THE RIVERBAY LEGAL DEPARTMENT?

A.

COOPERATOR SERVICES OFFICE (CSO) Q. WHERE IS MY BUILDING CSO LO CATED?

A.

Q. WHO TO CONTACT FOR NOISE COM PLAINTS?

A.

Q. CAN I MAKE ALTERATIONS TO MY APARTMENT?

A.

Q. ARE DISHWASHERS ALLOWED IN CO-OP CITY APARTMENT?

A.

Q. ARE WASHERS AND/OR DRYERS AL LOWED IN CO-OP CITY APARTMENTS?

A.

Q. ARE DOOR CAMERAS ALLOWED IN CO-OP CITY?

A.

Q. ARE LAUNDRY ROOM DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE?

A.

Q. IS IT NECESSARY TO FILL OUT THE WINDOW GUARD FORM EVERY YEAR?

A.

PARKING & LEASING DEPARTMENT

Q. WHAT ARE THE HOURS OF OPERA TION FOR THE PARKING & LEASING DE PARTMENT?

A.

Q. HOW DO I CONTACT THE PARKING & LEASING DEPARTMENT?

Q. IS PARKING AVAILABLE FOR MY GUESTS? A. Rates for Guest Parking:

NOTES:

Q. WHAT DOCUMENTATION IS NEEDED TO OBTAIN A PARKING SPACE IN THE GA RAGE?

A.

Q. ARE GRILLS ALLOWED ON TER RACES OR IN TOWNHOUSE BACKYARDS?

A.

Q. CAN I HIRE AN OUTSIDE COMPANY TO CONNECT OR DISCONNECT MY STOVE?

A.

Q. HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR EMERGENCY AND/OR SERVICE INTERRUPTION ALERTS IN MY BUILDNG/COMMUNITY?

A.

Q. ARE CO-OP CITY EXTERMINATION SERVICES FREE OF CHARGE?

A.

Q. WHICH CABLE PROVIDERS OPERATE IN CO-OP CITY?

A.

Monthly Rates for Parking Leases:

Q. HOW DO I ADDRESS GARAGE-RE LATED ISSUES AFTER HOURS? A.

Q. ARE STORAGE UNITS AVAILABLE IN MY BUILDING?

Parking Notes:

NOTE:

Q. HOW DO I REPLACE A LOST KEY FOB? A.

Q. HOW DO I RENT A COMMUNITY CEN TER ROOM FOR A FUNCTION? A.

CALL CENTER/EMERGENCY DESK

Q. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORK ORDERS ACCEPTED BY THE NIGHT AND DAY SHIFTS OF THE MAINTANCE DE PARTMENT? A.

Q. SINCE I PAY MONTHLY MAINTE NANCE, WHY IS THERE A FEE TO REPAIR CERTAIN ITEMS IN MY APARTMENT? A.

Q. WHEN DOES RIVERBAY TURN ON THE HEAT/AC?

A.

Q. WHAT IS THE CALL CENTER RE SPONSIBLE FOR? A.

• Plastering

• Painting

• Flooring

• Tiling

• Inspections

• Finance

Q. DOES RIVERBAY PROVIDE APPLIANCES FOR NEW SHAREHOLDERS?

A. No. Shareholders are responsible for purchasing and maintaining their own appliances.

RESTORATION DEPARTMENT

Q. ARE VENETIAN BLINDS STANDARD IN CO-OP CITY APARTMENTS?

A. No, cooperators are responsible for window dressing and cleaning. (An instructional video on how to clean your Co-op City windows is available at the corporation’s YouTube channel, tinyurl. com/24mazme7, and on the Riverbay in-house channel, channel 591 (Altice subscribers) and channel 12 (MATV). The YouTube channel can also be accity.com.)

Q. DO APARTMENTS HAVE “POPCORN” CEILINGS?

A. No, all popcorn ceilings are removed during the restoration process.

Q. WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED WAY TO CLEAN MY WOOD FLOORS?

A. It is not advisable to use heavy water during ural wood and may absorb moisture. The use of Swifter mop pads is recommended. Cooperators may also use products to enhance or preserve the not be so dramatic as to change the original look of sult in a charge-back to the outgoing cooperator for such replacement.

Q. IS RIVERBAY RESPONSIBLE FOR MAINTAINING CLOSET DOORS AND KITCHEN CABINETS ONCE A COOPERATOR TAKES OCCUPANCY OF AN APARTMENT?

A. Once a cooperator moves in, the cooperator is responsible for making sure closet doors and kitchen cabinets remain in working order.

Q. WHAT HAPPENS IF THE ENTRANCE DOOR TO MY APARTMENT IS SCRATCHED DURING THE MOVE-OUT PROCESS?

A. The entrance door is painted prior to a new cooperator moving in. New shareholders are cautioned to make every effort to ensure the apartment door is not scratched or damaged during the move-in process. However, if the door does get scratched, it is the shareholder’s responsibility to have the door re-painted through their respective Maintenance department.

Q. ARE THERE WOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE APARTMENT?

A. No, only the living room, hall and foyer wood can be used for standard carpeting at no extra charge. pocket charge for the difference in cost, paid directly to the vendor. This voucher is good for 30days from the date it is issued.

Q. IS TOUCH-UP PAINT PROVIDED UPON

MOVE IN?

A. No. Riverbay does not currently provide paint. NOTE: The following items are functional items and cannot be removed:

1. Cables in the closets – These cables are riser cables used for telephone service and cannot be removed.

2. Tubs – NOT ALL tubs are resurfaced. Tubs are checked during the inspection process and resurfaced only if necessary. Non-abrasive cleaners are recommended.

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

Q. HOW DO I PAY MY CARRYING CHARGES ONLINE?

A. To pay your monthly carrying charge online, visit gozego.com. You may download the Zego Resident mobile app to your smart device and register your account. You can also use the link at the botwebsite, coopcity.com.

Q. HOW DO I CHECK MY ACCOUNT BALANCE?

A. By downloading the Zego Resident mobile app, you can keep up with your account balance and any changes in real time. Alternatively, you can contact the Finance department by dialing 718-3203300 and follow the prompts.

Q. WHY DID I GET A LATE CHARGE?

A. ery month. Riverbay gives a 10-day grace period after which payments not received are subject to a $50 late fee.

Q. WHY AM I BEING CHARGED WITH A LEGAL FEE?

A. Amounts due must be paid in full by the last business day of the current month, or be subject to legal action and a $200 legal fee, in addition to the carrying charge.

Q. HOW DO I FILL OUT THE INCOME AFFIDAVIT?

A. ers annually around April, with instructions on how

The Riverbay Finance Department also holds anThe dates and locations for different sections are posted in the Co-op City Times just after new In-

Q. WHERE CAN I GET COPIES OF PREVIOUSLY SUBMITTED INCOME AFFIDAVITS?

A.

Q. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF AN INTERIM AFFIDAVIT AND WHERE CAN I GET ONE?

A. erbay of any changes in your apartment occupancy

Q. WHERE CAN I GET SCRIE, STAR AND DRIE FORMS?

A. SCRIE and DRIE forms can be accessed at coopcity.com. Select “Resources” and then scroll to “Finance” in the drop-down menu. Copies can also be picked up from the Finance department at the Bartow Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue. For STAR application, you can call 311 for guidance on accessing the form, and to set up a phone/virtual assistance

Q. WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBLITIES WITH RESPECT TO REPORTING MY INCOME?

A. As a shareholder in a State supervised Mitchell

income, and the income of all household members,

Q. CAN I STILL CLAIM MEDICAL AND DENTAL EXPENSES ON LINE B4 OF MY INCOME AFFIDAVIT IF I DID NOT ITEMIZE THEM AS DEDUCTIONS ON MY TAXES?

A. No. To claim medical and dental expenses on

itemized them as deductions on your NYS IT-196 New York Resident, Non-resident, and Part-Year Resident itemized deductions, line 1.

Q. I HAD INCOME, BUT I AM NOT REQUIRED TO FILE A TAX RETURN. DO I STILL NEED TO REPORT MY INCOME ON MY AFFIDAVIT?

A. Yes. If you or a household member were not still be reported in the household composition porthe box indicating “None” under “Type of NYS Tax Return Filed.”

Q. AFTER FILING MY INCOME AFFIDAVIT LATE, RIVERBAY AGREES TO REMOVE THE 50% SURCHARGE GOING FORWARD, BUT CANNOT REMOVE THE SURCHARGE ALREADY BILLED. IS THIS ACCURATE?

A. Yes. When a shareholder who is subject to DHCR’s annual income review procedure fails to

shareholder one month’s notice that a 50% surcharge davit or documentation is submitted, Management submission, and the effective date of any resulting to waive a surcharge that has already been assessed due to a shareholder’s failure to submit the income

Q. THE SHAREHOLDER OF RECORD HAS PERMANENTLY VACATED. WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?

A. First, you must inform the managing agent that the resident of record has vacated the apartment. You must also complete and submit a Succession Rights application to the Residential Sales com-pleted and submitted to the Riverbay Finance department.

Q. WHY DOES MY CARRYING CHARGES KEEP GOING UP?

A. Shareholders are co-owners whose monthly carrying charges contribute to the maintenance of the property. As the costs of utilities and services go up, the corporation needs to increase carrying ating expenses. The housing company’s applica-tion by the New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) after HCR receives comment from shareholders.

NOTE:

To review the Riverbay Corporation’s FAQ, you may visit the official website at coopcity.com, click on “Resources” and scroll down to “General Information.”

We hope that everyone had a happy and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.

Entertainment Committee – Tickets are still on sale for our annual holiday luncheon at the fabticket is $110, which includes transportation on Committee members will be available in Room 19 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. range to purchase tickets, please contact Daisy at 201-310-2972.

Membership – We continue to collect the 2022 membership dues from members who have not yet paid their dues for the 2022 calendar year. We are also currently collecting the dues for the 2023 calen

AARP Chapter #4997

We hope that everyone enjoyed their Thanks giving weekend with the people that they desired to have in their presence. Winter is here! The tem perature and rise in illnesses prove that the season is going to be brutal for us all, not just in New York. We send prayers to the Hudson County region who of 2022.

AARP Chapter #4997 is looking forward to new changes with our election of the entire Executive Board and new/returning members. There is always room for new ideas and we also welcome the younger individuals who really need to become involved with the decision-making process in all walks of life. Our country is at a pivotal stage after the elections and outcomes of the mid-term elec tions, and this is where the National organization will come into focus. Their agenda with political leaders new and old will have to change since some how your service to the AARP organization can be useful even if you do not think you have much to offer. Every helper is an asset and a blessing to the day, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 177 Dreiser Loop, Room “0,” ago and would now like to congratulate them and 19, they held a virtual gala presentation, honoring 10 outstanding “Caregivers” for their dedication to assisting others. We praise your organization and

Our Tour Committee is currently taking reser vations for our June 19-23, 2023 trip to Niagara Falls, USA. There is a deposit of $100 due when you reserve your space and trip insurance is available at an additional cost if you wish to cover your costs in case of emergency.

activities, get more information or reserve your spot

ship meeting on November 14 and information is

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

check payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and write “2022 and/or 2023 membership dues” in the memo section of your check and mail it to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19,

been members of the RoDL for 10 years and are in

to apply for “honorary membership.” If you would

Dorothy Chambers- Byrd, president of the RoDL Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our Novem ber birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year.

Condolences – Please continue to keep those who have recently lost loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.

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

General Meeting – Our next general meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 14, at 1:00 p.m. in Room 19. Since our holiday luncheon will this meeting to December 14. We ask that every one wear a face mask when we meet. Please save December 14 on your calendars and plan to attend this meeting.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Goose Island Seniors

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Amish Country trip – A day with the Amish on Saturday, December 3. Price: $140. Continental

Restaurant. Shopping: Kitchen Kettle Village, Bird

Resort World Casino

Holiday Party

Cover-dish, bring something or pay $10 at door. No gifts just enjoy each other’s presence. Resort World Casino – Thursday, December Carnival Cruise 2023 – Departing from NY.

Notary

bership list daily. Our dues are $20 annually, cash is continuing her road to recovery and sends love and prayers for all the love she has received during her illness. Our members are moving forward with health issues, and we encourage all to check with their own providers for the best health plan for each one.

Be well. Be aware. Be focused. Be involved.

––Ann Purnell

Bingo

each. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination. Tempera ture taken at entrance. There will be no more Sunday Bingo.

To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of Novem

Seidl, Barbara Kapin, Stephen Werner, Veronica and Yvonne Jenkins. December 2nd, Nellie Rivera. Sick and Shut-in

Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net

––Stephen Roberts Sr.

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED ON MONDAYS ONLY

Walk w/Odessa, 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Meet: Asch Loop by Library

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

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

Smartphone and Tablet Class w/Julesa, 2-3 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Always Grand Line Dancing, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45 Books & Tea Book Club 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 49 Ageless Facials & Self Care 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 35

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smart Phones & Tablets 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 49

Indoor Walk Club 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 35

Go Easy On Us Computers, 2-3 p.m., Room 40

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

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

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 (Schedule subject to change without notice)

Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m., & 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Dreiser

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler, 10-11 a.m. Zoom only for now. 1-646-8769923, Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173, Passcode: 855423 Stay Well Exercise w/Denise, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., Room 2 Piano Sing Along Class (In-person) 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Smartphone and tablet literacy w/ Julesa, In-person, 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Room 2. Computer Learning w/Ralph, Zoom only: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dial-in #: 347893-2966, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554.

Blood Pressure, 1st & 3rd Tues., 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2 Art, In-person, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Tai-Chi, In-person, 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2

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

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

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

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

Self Defense Class, in person, 2 p.m., Rm. 2

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

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

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

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

MENU

Alternate Kosher Meals are available Kosher Non-Kosher

Tofu, Pasta Tomato Sauce

Tossed Salad w/ Dressing Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit and Juice

Baked Salmon Baked Sweet Potato Normandy Blend Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Pork Spare Ribs Baked Macaroni and Cheese Normandy Blend

Brown Stew Chicken Yellow Rice Sauteed Spinach Chicken Cacciatore Pasta Italian Blend Vegetables Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Beef Pot Roast Brown Gravy Mashed Potatoes Steamed Green Beans

Baked Fish w/Sweet and Sour Sauce Pasta Steamed Carrots

Baked Vegetable Alfredo Pasta Sauteed String Beans

Roasted Chicken Sweet Noodle Kugel Roasted Zucchini Challah Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Spanish Style Baked Chicken Yellow Rice Cabbage w/ Green Peas

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

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

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

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

Costco

Shoprite and BJ’s

Einstein Center ONLY, please call 718-671-5161

Walmart and Woodbury Commons, Nov. 30, Harriman, NY

Mt. Airy Casino Motown Christmas Show, Dec. 6

Are you interested in learning

JASA Bartow Older Adult Intergenerational Arts and Crafts classes

and teenagers. To register, email . Would you like to be part of a vocal program that will culminate in a concert for the community?

Concerts in Motion –

Bereavement Support Group w/Dr. Smith –

Painting Class w/Dmitriy

Crochet Class w/Sandra Ramirez – In-person,

Virtual,

Notary, Appointment ONLY , Tues. Ein

stein Center, Room 34, Thurs., 10 a.m.-noon. Painting Classes Zoom

Meditation Class, GPC (Grandparents) – 11

Technology class w/Ralph Lucenti – (Smart de

Line Dancing with Bartow Swingers – Mon.,

Bartow

Einstein Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

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

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

In the meantime, Father Simeon Johnson will continue to conduct worship ser vices via teleconference on Sundays at 9 a.m., and prayers on weekdays at noon.

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

Grace and Peace!

––M. Chambers

American Legion Post 1871

Post Veterans Day Commemoration – A Partnership Success!

On November 19, 2022, 12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m., with sponsorship from Coun

Greet” community awareness of “What We Do” was held in the Section 5 Commu nity Center, Room 38. Councilmember Kevin Riley, the principal speaker, on be half of veterans, provided tangible and well-received legislative work being spear headed with his active involvement in the City Council. Of mention, the following “to-be” local laws were explained by the Councilmember:

• Int. 0385-2022 – Amend the administrative code of the city of New York to re

ans entering and exiting shelters;

• Int. 0394-2022 – Amend the New York City Charter in relation to requiring each community board to establish a veterans committee;

• Int. 0476-2022 – Amend the administrative code of the city of New York to fa cilitate pro-curement opportunities for veteran-owned business enterprises;

• Int. 0502-2022 – Amend the administrative code of the city of New York to require

jected legislations and welcomes the strengthening of the Councilmember’s partner ship, and the other veteran organi-zations, in supporting the initiatives.

After waiting in line for the enjoyment of succulent Jamaican cuisine and assorted refreshments, compliments of Councilmember Kevin Riley and staff, the “Meet and Greet” recruited two new members and one transfer to join the Post 1871 family. Wel

We acknowledge the following community leaders and organizations who took

ber Michael Benedetto; William Rivera, Community, JASA, and more.

During the lighting of candles for each branch of service in the Armed Forces, Le gionnaires with 25+ years of continuous service to the American Legion were award ed with City Council Citations as well as American Legion Commendation Med als. Legionnaires present to receive their honors, from left of Councilmember Riley and right of Commander Codrington, are Israel Perez (28 years, Panama, USMC),

Contact Us

American Legion Post 1871, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 41, Bronx, NY 10475; (718) 320-8165; email: post1871@oponline.net; website: https:www.legion.org

—Antonio Codrington

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry (Free) – 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pick up or after. It is a 30-31-day rotation, on aver age. Black Forum will text registered guests if items outside of regular distribu tion become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Re member to bring at least four clean shopping bags with a handle and a shopping cart. Please do not bring black shopping bags, since they pose a health hazard. We require masks and physical distancing. New registrants can receive food the same day they register. Please show a valid ID NYC card, a non-driver’s, or driv er’s license with a 10475 address to register.

Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 this location for Section 5 residents. The next date for new client registration will be January 3, 2023. Required documen tation is as follows: NY State Driver’s license, NY State Non-Driver’s or NYC I.D. (zip code 10475). Passports, Medicaid cards, Medicare cards, Job I.D.s and Access-A-Ride I.D.s are not acceptable registered guests wanting to continue visiting the pantry in 2023. These guests

January 3 and goes only through the end of April 2023. Guests should apply by the end of April 2023 even if they do not plan to pick up food until later.

All occupants within a household must be present at the time of registration/

Farmers Market Coupons & Pictures – Recipients received $25 worth of vouchers towards the purchase of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Please use the vouchers before the November 30 deadline. Also, please consider emailing us photos of your excursion, produce you purchased or even a healthy dish you created using what you bought with the coupons. The Department of Agriculture is considering publishing these photos for a marketing campaign. We’ve already sent some photos with permission from the owners. Please email your photo sub missions to coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

After Thanksgiving Monthly Pick-Up – Black Forum was closed on Thurs day, November 24, and Friday, November 25, in observance of Thanksgiving. We reopen on Tuesday, November 29. Guests who would have picked up the or ange bags (monthly) on 11/24 or 11/25 can come on November 29.

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

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Good day, neighbors. Last weekend’s Co-op City Times portant local news. Current Board Resolutions, and where they are in their pro cess, were published. Photos of local organizations’ events brought us up to date on their activities. Coming up is a December 1st virtual hearing set to feature the upcoming “carrying charge increase” discussion. Don’t miss it.

fully, your celebration and the Thanksgiving Day Parade were a great success.

Another hint or two for supermarket shoppers, in addition to using shopping

Welcome home Ann. So glad to learn you are back in Broun Place. Keep up the good work. Good luck and success to all recovering from illness or surgery.

The holiday collection for our groundsperson has begun. Donations are re ceived by me, and will be gifted to Mr. Walker before the holiday.

We were so happy to get a new bathroom heater. We called CSO, had the in spection and a few days later a new heater was installed.

Association rooms are open again but the one we borrow, Building 21’s meet

A monthly newsletter for Broun Place residents is in the works. It will welcome, give tidings and dues info, celebrate holidays as they happen, give some news, alerts, etc. Please share your news and tidings with me. Bring important mail to

The September 10, issue, Co-op Times, Page 5, listed contact information http://issuu.com/cctimes.

Reviewing garbage procedures: The white bin is for paper, green and blue are for all other house garbage. Bag old mattresses when discarding and please don’t throw your masks on the street, use bins and pails. I continue to pick up gutter garbage littered by locals between Broun Place and Garage 6, do you? Uncovered mattresses shouldn’t be left on the dumpster pad. That is a cooper

new blue bins are at the doors/gates of Garage 6.

bay RUOK, Emergency contact programs. This is critical for those living alone or with a chronic sickness. Seniors get involved with JASA. Don’t waste water, prepare full washing machine loads and full dish loads too.

the end of November, 2021.

Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever!

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Principal Ceremony – Armed Forces: Lighting of Candles

Photos by Seitu Oronde

Newsong Church

He Will Take You Back!

The religious leaders were upset because Jesus was spending time with people who were far away from God. To illustrate why He was spending time with sinners, Jesus tells three parables (stories with a spiritual truth) that all deal with someone or some thing that was lost and then found again. The sheep, the coin and the son represent you and me.

The truth is, we are all spiritually lost without God, and if we die apart from His grace, we will be lost for all of eternity. You need to know that you matter to God! God loves you, He wants you to love Him. He is chasing after you like the shepherd who lost one sheep. He is looking for you like the woman who lost one coin. He is running towards you like the father who sees his son returning home. God will always take you back!

You are not so lost that you cannot be found by Jesus! You are not so bad that you cannot be for

ready to forgive you of your sin, and welcome you into His family!

Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We love God, we love people, and we love demonstrating that love through serving others! No matter what you have been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary fam

Sunday Worship Experience

Our Sunday worship experience starts with

celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. (Colossians 3:16) says “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thank ful hearts.” For us, that is what making music is all about. We sing to bring glory and honor to God, and celebrate who He is and what He is doing in our church! Our Adult Worship Experience starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. in room 45.

Newsong Deaf Church

That is right. We are happy to announce that we now have an adult ASL worship experience for the deaf and hearing impaired in our community! The singing, the message and the fellowship are all in American Sign Language and designed to help you connect with God in your own language! Our Adult Deaf Worship Experience starts every Sunday morn ing at 11 a.m. in room 38.

Kidsong

Kids are important to us, so we have created a place where they can learn about Jesus on their level. Every Sunday, pre-k through sixth-grade chil dren experience safe, age-appropriate environments where the Bible is taught in a creative and relevant way. Kidsong starts every Sunday morning at 11 a.m. in room 49.

Contact Us:

CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org www.newsongchurchnyc.org

Social Media: Instagram Facebook Twitter: @new YouTube: Newsong Church NYC ––Pastor Mike Tolone

Church of New Vision

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

In this season of Thanksgiving, we take time to thank God and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for supplying all of our needs, and we, the Church of the New Vision, take time out to thank and bless you, the community of Co-op City, for your gener osity and supporting the endeavors of the Church of the New Vision for the past 50 years. It is our and strengthen us. Happy Thanksgiving.

There is one service at 11:00 a.m. and Sunday School will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Masks are required and temperatures will be taken. Services can also be viewed on YouTube after 1 p.m.

Our verse for 2022 is (Isaiah 54:17): “ No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and ev ery tongue which rises against you in judgement you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants

of the Lord, and their righteousness is from, Me, say the Lord.”

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

Sunday, Nov. 20th Worship Service Theme: “Let’s Be Thankful for it All.”

Scripture: (Psalm 103:1 – 5): “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not like the eagle’s.”

Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 753037, Einstein Station, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Thank you.

––Brenda Brown

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

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

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

Saturday Morning Services will start at 10 a.m. General Information

The Traditional Synagogue, located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B, is on cessible, no steps. Our phone number is 718-379noon to 2 p.m.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morn ing starting at 10:00 a.m. After services, we always have a Kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional

Synagogue.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, Nov. 26, at 5:23 p.m. Candle Lighting for Friday, Dec. 2, at 4:09 p.m. Good and Welfare

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

To all Members: Happy birthday to Hillary

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo De Cristo

147 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 (lower level). Come As You Are…

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

If you are looking for a place of worship in the local area aimed at teaching the transforming word of God, Circle of Christ Church invites you to fel lowship with us. We are a non-denominational, mul ticultural, and loving church that accepts you just the way you are. Our Senior Pastor Elisamuel Colón and the body of Christ are committed to loving peo ple into a life-changing-liberating relationship with God. The English service has a Bible-centered chil dren’s church for ages 5 to 12. We have a food pan fer family counseling based on need. If interested, please contact us at (347) 945-1992 or on face book@Circle of Christ Church. See the schedule below and follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and on our website circleofchristchurch.com.

Monday-Friday: Devotionals on Facebook Live at 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday: Bible Study on Facebook Live, 7:008:30 p.m.

Thursday: Women Prayer Group (in-person) at 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Spanish Bible Study on Facebook Live from 1:00-2:30 p.m.

Friday: Youth Service (Operation Grace), 7:008:30 p.m.

Saturday: F.A.I.T.H. Outreach for the homeless,

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

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

Men’s Fellowship, every other month

Couples Fellowship, every other month

Sunday Services: Spanish, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m., & English Service, 11:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Please ar rive 15 minutes earlier for screening at the door. To register for the English Services, call or text 929-599-5488.

Servicios en Español Servicios: en persona, en YouTube y Facebook Live

Servicios dominicales : Español, 9:00-10:30 a.m., & Servicio en Inglés, 11:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

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

Martes: Estudio Bíblico en Facebook Live, 7:008:30 p.m.

Jueves: Grupo de oración de mujeres (en per sona) de 10:00-11:30 a.m.

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

Viernes: Operation Grace Youth Service, 7:009:00 p.m. (en persona)

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

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

Cada tercer sábado del mes: Adultos jóvenes, 12:00-2:00 p.m. (en persona). Para registrarse para los servicios en español, comuníquese al 347-773-2809.

We Invite You to our Women’s Ministry Christmas Party ... December 10, 2022, from 12-4 p.m. at the address above. To register for this free event, text or call 929-599-5488.

—Pastor Elisamuel Colon

Weber and happy anniversary to Edith and Bruce Gitelson and all of our other members who will be celebrating their birthday or anniversary in Novem ber. Please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and Games

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

––Bruce Gitelson

“Then Jesus told them this parable.” – (Luke 15:3) (NIV)

Toastmasters Club

Want to develop your leadership skills? If so, visit your local Toastmasters Club. Co-op City Toastmasters is not just for public speaking. Members get a will have a chance to take on a variety of leadership roles. You can select a role within the club as in the wider, local Toastmaster community or even the international community. If this sounds like you, then join us here at our club right here in Co-op City. As a guest or potential member, join us and see what bene

the Bartow Center, Room 28. Meetings on the third Thursday are hybrid (in-per son and Zoom). Our next meeting, December 1st, will be exclusively on Zoom, ID is 478 703 0148; Passcode: yuja1g.

Our holiday celebration will be the third Thursday, hybrid, on December 15th in Room 28 in the lower level of the Bartow Mall. Light refreshments will be served. Feel free to bring your snack of choice.

All are welcome to celebrate—post-COVID—being back among the com munity to continue our 20-yr. legacy of helping neighbors hone their communi cation and leadership skills.

To learn more about Toastmasters Intl. visit http://www toasmasters.org/ or 3824.toastmastersclubs.org; or contact VP of Membership, K. Blount at Kathy. Blount.tm@gmail.com. All are welcome!

––Marietta

Phoenix

CCPD –––– (Continued

from page 7)

Requiring identification be shown upon delivery can also be part of delivery in structions. Give a delivery address of a person who will be home. Ask a trust ed neighbor to be on the look-out for your packages and do the same for them. Try to order items to arrive at a time when someone will be home. You can also place insurance on high-value packages.

Both Amazon and UPS have secure drop boxes in Co-op City and the sur rounding areas. Amazon is one company that allows its subscription members to select one day of the week to receive all of their deliveries. If you are arranging a meet-up to conduct a transaction with an online individual you do not know, always arrange a neutral location such as a Police Precinct. That is another time to observe situational awareness.

Anytime a phone call, email message or text message requests that you pur chase a gift card, debit card, money order, Green Dot card or crypto-currency and send it as payment, do not be fooled. The same rule applies to anyone ask ing you to conduct an electronic transfer from your bank or Western Union – do not proceed with the transaction. These means of transferring funds have almost no way of getting your money back if fraud is involved.

For more information about crime prevention, contact the National Crime Prevention Council at 1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 13th floor, Washington, DC 20036; (202) 466-6267, or on their website, www.ncpc.org

School is open; DRIVE CAREFULLY. Never pass a stopped school bus with

or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor ve hicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must respect pedestrians. This includes the rental electric bicycles and scooters available in the community. Always park the rental scoot ers in a location that does not block walkways or streets.

If consuming alcoholic beverages is part of your seasonal activities, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink. Call a taxi, if necessary. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. The consequences of drunk driving are extremely severe. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driv ing; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State. Always remember, if you see something, say something. If you see suspicious persons in the garage or lurking near parked vehicles on the street, an auto crime could be taking place, notify the authorities. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Callers may remain anonymous when giv ing information.

Thefts of catalytic convertors have been increasing nationwide. The Public Safety Department has taken reports of these thefts from vehicles most often when parked on the street and occasionally in the garages. Thieves must cut the device, which is part of the exhaust system, out from underneath the car. If you observe this type of activity, call 9-1-1 and Public Safety immediately at (718) 671-3050. Please be vigilant and look out for your neighbors. Observant coop erators can help us to catch these criminals.

Enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. Observant cooperators are an important part

On September 15, 2022, Riverbay Corporation lifted the mask mandate throughout the community. It is still important to be proactive in preventing the use of hand sanitizer and not touching your face are other strategies to help pre vent the spread of a wide variety of illnesses. Please follow the latest guidance illness trends and recommended vaccinations. Also, remember that Co-op City has people with many different types of health conditions, spanning a large spec trum of age ranges. These people may continue to wear masks. Please respect their choice and do your best to maintain social distance, especially indoors. Do not forget to stay home if you are sick. Stay safe and stay healthy. Be a good co operator and be Co-op City Strong.

Co-op City Baptist Church

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

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

The Scholarship Ministry invites all to join them on a trip on June 26, 2023

Mountains, eight meals, Soul of Motown show, and guided tour of the Smoky Mountain National Park and much more. The cost of the trip is $765 per person based on double occupancy. A $100 deposit is due by November 20. Final pay ment is due March 5, 2023. To make your reservation or for additional infor mation, call Sis. Brenda Robinson at 718-671-1271 or Sister Claudette CutlarDay at 718-379-0541.

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

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

Mid-Week Bible Study is held on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. us ing Zoom information shown above.

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

Friday Evening Prayer service is held at 7:30. Please note that it is not held

All Prayer services can be joined using the Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number, 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

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

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

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

––Hattie L. Lucas