Co-op City Times 12/03/2022

Vol. 57 No. 49

Saturday, December 3, 2022

$1.25

HCR Holds Carrying Charge Conference With Shareholders To Discuss Proposed 7.5% Increase

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Representatives from New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR) hosted twenty-nine Co-op City shareholders who signed in to the agency’s virtual carrying charge conference held on Thursday evening, December 1, 2022 at 7 p.m. on Webex.

Denise Snyder, HCR’s Homes & Community Manager, explained the reason the conference was called – to discuss Riverbay Corporation’s application for a proposed 7.5% carrying charge increase – and noted that the HCR Notice of the meeting and details of Riverbay’s application for the increase were published in the October 29, 2022 issue of the Co-op City Times. ity, must send a budget rent determination application every two years. In compliance with that, the increase request was submitted and we are having this conference,” said Ms. Snyder. “A determination has not been made but will be posted when the [HCR] Commissioner reviews the total application and the comments that were sent in by shareholders.”

In addition to attending the virtual conference, HCR also allowed for a 30-day comment period during which the agency encouraged Co-op City shareholders to write or email in their responses/comments to the housing company’s request for a carrying charge increase. The deadline for written submissions was Thursday, December 1, 2022.

Ms. Snyder also announced that for shareholders currently receiving SCRIE and Section 8, the appropriate administrative agencies would address adjustments once the HCR Commissioner issues the Carrying Charge Increase Order. She noted that SCRIE would be addressed within 90 days of the issuance of the Commissioner’s Order.

Ms. Snyder then introduced Riverbay Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer to present on behalf on the housing corporation.

As he did at the October 26, 2022 Open Board meeting in the Dreiser Auditorium, which was attended by approximately 300 shareholders, Mr. Klehammer related that the purpose of the increase

budget was adopted in April of 2021, and within several months, Mr. Klehammer said that it became

which was for the years 2021/22 and 2022/23. That

(Continued on page 2)

Riverbay Lobby Key Fob Program Co-op City’s renovated lobby entrances require a key fob for easier access via Siemens Sipass Integrated Access Control System. The new access system adds a measure of security in that it is issued only to shareholders and Sipass key fob is not duplicatable.

Lobby key fobs are distributed by the Riverbay Parking & Leasing Department.

Residential lobby and rear door key fobs have been distributed to residents in all Chevron and Tower buildings. Distribution of key fobs to shareholders in the Triple Cores is scheduled to take place in January 2023. to their buildings by using both their old key and the new key fob. However, the lock cylinders in the front and rear door locks are presently being removed in the Chevron and Tower buildings. This work is currently being undertaken in Buildings 15, 16, 1 and 3 – two buildings per week, until all buildings have been addressed. Once the lock cylinders are removed, the buildings will be accessible by key fob only through the front and rear doors.

Shareholders are still able to use the old key to gain access to the stairway door in the front lobby inside their building, and the bathroom inside the laundry room.

Prior to cylinders being removed from each set of buildings, shareholders who encounter technical/operational issues with the key fob issued to them are advised to contact the Parking & Leasing Department to resolve these matters expeditiously for their convenience.

The Parking & Leasing Department is located in the Bartow Center, Room 23; (718) 320-3300, Option #5; or by email: parkingdepartment@riverbaycorp.com.

Hours of Operation: Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday – 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Saturday, Sunday – Closed Outside of normal business hours, should a key fob malfunction, contact Emergency Maintenance, (718) 320-3300, Option #2.

Below are Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Siemens Sipass Integrated Access Control System Q: Can a key fob be issued to a non-resident friend of relative?

A: Key fobs are only issued to shareholders of record and occupants listed Q: Is it possible for me to purchase additional key fobs?

(Continued on page 5) A: No, only one key fob is issued

in natural gas, together with larger than anticipated increases in the corporation’s insurance policy renewalmost every product that the housing company purchases to provide services the community.

Management prepared four budget reforecasts for the Riverbay Board starting in November 2021, followed by another update in July of 2022, in August of hammer said, was used to support the increase that HCR was eliciting comments on at Thursday night’s conference. The Board approved the proposed 7.5% increase in October, and an application was submitted to HCR for approval.

“Part of the price increases we are facing, the largest is the natural gas that we use to fuel the power plant which provides heating, cooling and electricity to the community. We are anticipating that is going

SCRIE Workshop TODAY in Bartow Center Representatives from NYC Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), administrator of the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption program, will be conducting a workshop in Room 31, Bartow Center, TODAY, Saturday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Student Loan Repayment Pause Extended

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

ments on Nov. 22.

Interest and collections are paused as well with this latest announcement by the DOE. The timeline for this pause is not as explicit as previous extensions of the pause were.

This time, the DOE is hoping to clear up the lower court orders preventing the department from implementing their debt relief program before resuming student loan repayments. However, if the lower (Continued on page 4)

Bartow Avenue Animal Care Center Building Application Approved

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The New York City Department of Buildings approved the application for the proposed Bronx Animal Care Center and Vet Clinic at 2060 Bartow Avenue this week.

Implementation of the project can now move ahead, with construction expected to begin soon.

To recap, the animal care center will be a twostory, 50,000 square foot building located in Bay Plaza between Red Lobster and Project Hope Senior Housing. Logistically, the center will be run by the Animal Care Rendering of the Bronx Animal Care Center to Centers of New York.

Once completed, the be built at 2060 Bartow Avenue (Courtesy of NYCDDC) animal care center will have a veterinary clinic, (Continued on page 3)

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HCR –––––––

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022 (Continued from page 1)

to be a $19M increase in our natural gas prices over what we had originally estimated in this budget,” said Mr. Klehammer. “Insurance is estimated now to increase $3.1M over what we had originally estimated in the budget and after the budget was passed, the city of New York actually passed a 4.9% increase in water rates which, for Co-op City, equates to a $1M increase in our water rate which was not budgeted. Then, in addition to those increases, is what we call our bad debt allowance of $750,000 due to the number of delinquencies we incurred during the pandemic.”

Mr. Klehammer added that on the revenue side, because Housing Courts have reopened and the commercial real estate market has improved, the housing corporation is now able to lease more of its vacant spaces. “We did actually pick up $11.1M in additional revenue projections over what we had originally projected,” he said. “So while expenses were going up, we anticipated that our revenue was also going to be increasing. The bottom line is that between the revenue increases

SCRIE, I would urge you to apply and get a reply from HPD, or attend the workshop set up for Saturday morning at 10 a.m.”

A shareholder asked if the increase is a done deal, and if so, what options are available to lower the 7.5% increase? Secondly, the shareholder is currently paying a surcharge, and wanted to know how the increase would impact their monthly maintenance?

little more than $14M,” hence the need for the 7.5% carrying charge increase.

budget, HCR’s projections align with the housing company’s request for 7.5%,

about the carrying charge increase. She also explained that for shareholders currently being surcharged, the surcharge will be reevaluated once the proposed increase becomes effective.

Mr. Klehammer informed attendees that those interested in learning about SCRIE can attend the NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) workshop being presented this Saturday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Room 31 of the Bartow Center. Information was presented in the Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022 issue of the Co-op City Times and also posted on the Crawler.

all comments received by this agency and consider all comments here tonight before going forward, so please bear that in mind.”

Integrated Housing Management. individuals.

Ms. Snyder responded that SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) is for seniors 62 years and older, and DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption) is for those who are disabled. She advised that for the best information for DRIE, call 311 and ask to speak with a DRIE specialist.

The questioner also asked what is available for those who do not fall into either of those two categories and the response was those are the only two categories of assistance available at this time to help make up the difference of a carrying charge increase.

“HCR nor Management has any participation in determining eligibility [for SCRIE and DRIE],” said Ms. Snyder. “If you are not sure if you are eligible for

the percentage surcharge the shareholder is paying now. Those who are currently surchargeable, their income will be reviewed again, she said. In some cases, the increase will absorb the surcharge, and in other cases, they will be reevaluated to see by what percentage the new carrying charges would be in excess of the maximum allowable income to determine what the new surcharge would be.

To respond to the carrying charge increase determination, Ms. Snyder referred the question to Robert Landy, Director/VP of Financial Operations, Of-

anticipated that that decision will then be posted in your newspaper for the weekThe third question asked what the increase would cover and will they stop there or will shareholders face more increases next year? since passage of the 2021/2022 and 2022/23 budget so it is to pay for operating expenses which includes fuel costs to continue to provide heat, cooling and electricity to the residents, pay insurance bills and incurred cost because of increases in the goods the housing company buys to service the community – all operating expenses.

“None of it is going towards any capital improvements, and I should make one comment because this seems to still be an issue of controversy throughout the community about a potential park. None of this money is going to fund any cost for the creation of any park along Co-op City Boulevard,” Mr. Klehammer emphasized. “As I told the open board meeting attended by about 300 residents in October, I told them the same thing, none of this increase is for a park. It’s all for ordiperiencing when we put gas in our cars and buy food for your own table. Co-op (Continued on page 3)

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3

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Co-op City Times 2nd COMBING

HCR –––––––

(Continued from page 1)

City is suffering the same thing right now but, because of our size, it is on a much greater scale.”

Mr. Klehammer announced that an abridged version of his presentation at the October 26th Open Board meeting on Crawler and the corporation’s YouTube channel by early next week for all to refer to.

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.

Bx BP Gospel Concert/ Senior Luncheon On Tuesday, Dec. 13, from 1-4 p.m., Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, in partnership with State Senator Jamaal Bailey and City Councilman Kevin Riley, will sponsor a Gospel Concert/ Senior Luncheon in Dreiser Auditorium. All are invited. Must have a ticket. Contact Larcenia Walton at lwalton@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

Baychester Library to Host Programs at Bay Plaza Mall Baychester Library is partnering with Bay Plaza Mall to present several Adult (18+) and Chil-

how to more fairly cover the shortfall with increased equity and fees for individual parking and storage space?

Mr. Klehammer responded: “The Board voted for a 7.5% carrying charge increase so I would say ‘yes;’ this is the proposal that the Board approved and submitted to HCR but we do have to produce another two-year budget that has to be approved by the end of this coming March, and those kinds of additional revenue enhancements can be considered by the Board at that time.

“I would just say, for the record now, that I don’t believe an additional increase in equity would be productive,” Mr. Klehammer continued. “This budget we’re in now did raise equity $2,000 a room to $7,500 a room and we are having issues with applicants being able to pay that entire equity at their closing and it is having an impact on the revenue we thought we were going to raise through an equity increase and it’s being deferred into later years, so that alone will not produce the amount of revenue that we thought we were going to raise when we did raise equity $2,000 a room.”

Another shareholder observed that the waterfront park will need to be cleaned, opened and closed. Who would be responsible for paying for these expenses?

Mr. Klehammer reemphasized there is no funding for a

Shelter ––––––

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.

waterfront park from the budget. “We are seeking grants from organizations that support park development. We also have already received $.5M from the federal government through our current Congressman Jamaal Bowman. We are looking for other funds that will be used to create the park. No funds of the Riverbay Corporation will create the park that was anticipated to be developed on Co-op City Boulevard.”

A shareholder asked if the Board has to produce a budget every two-years, does it then follow that the next increase will not be for another two years?

“Generally speaking, you are correct, however, in these past two years, we have experienced unusual circumstances, with the price of insurance and price of fuel skyrocketing,” said Ms. Snyder. “We can generally believe the earliest next increase after the current proposed increase will not occur until 2025.”

She went on to point out that Co-op City is not unique in its request for a maintenance increase. “Unfortunately, every Mitchell-Lama that we have is experiencing the need, and in some cases, the urgent need, to implement an increase to keep their heads above water,” said Ms. Snyder. “The houscient income to be able to provide services without a break.”

With that, Ms. Snyder proceeded to close the conference, once again informing shareholders that when the HCR ComCo-op City Times. The agency anticipates the Commissioner’s Order will be ready for publication in the Saturday, Dec. 16, 2022 issue of the CCTimes, and implementation would be no earlier than January 1, 2023.

(Continued from page 1)

public outpatient veterinary clinic, wildlife rehabilitation, room. The site will also include 68 total parking spots divided evenly between the front and back of the animal care center. Additional open green spaces for the animals and the community are included in the project plans too.

Bronx Community Board #10’s Health and Human Services Committee voted unanimously in support of the project in May of 2021.

of the mall in the back area of the served. The dates are as follows: Children’s Storytime and Arts/ Crafts: Dec. 6 and 13; and Jan. 10 and 17, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Adult Book Discussion: Dec. 8, Josh Grisham’s “The Judge’s List;” and Jan. 12, Nicholas Sparks’ “The Wish,” 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Adult Resource Tabling: Dec. 8 and 15; and Jan. 12 and 19, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Note: On December 8, the Mall is hosting a senior breakfast.

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

Front Page

UNTIL DECEMBER 20

City Council passed a local law in 2018 that required the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) “to ensure that full-service animal shelters are operated in all The Bronx Animal Care Center and Vet Clinic would be Individuals interested in looking at the entire collection of project renderings for the animal care center can do so online at marveldesigns.com/work/ddc-bronx-ani-

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Student Loans –––––––

Many Thanks!

(Continued from page 1)

court orders are not resolved by June 30, 2023, then DOE would resume loan repayments 60 days after that June deadline.

President Joe Biden addressed the move on the same day in a video posted to Twitter. The President highlighted his administration’s commitment to resolving the litigation and ultimately providing debt relief to millions of borrowers. give families breathing room. That’s why the Department of Justice is asking the Supreme Court of the United States to rule on the case,” President Biden said in the video. “But it isn’t fair to ask tens of millions of borrowers eligible for relief to resume their student debt payments while the courts consider the lawsuit. For that reason, the Secretary of Education is extending the pause on student loan repayments while we seek relief from the courts.”

Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona echoed the President’s sentiments in a statement included in the DOE press release.

“Callous efforts to block student debt relief in the courts have caused tremenbudgets or even plan for the holidays without a clear picture of their student debt obligations, and it’s just plain wrong,” U.S. Secretary of Education Cardona said in the statement. “I want borrowers to know that the Biden-Harris Administration dent debt relief to tens of millions of Americans. We’re extending the payment pause because it would be deeply unfair to ask borrowers to pay a debt that they wouldn’t have to pay.”

Two cases in particular are preventing the debt relief program from implementation.

In one case, the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals issued an injunction to stop the debt relief program while a lawsuit was processed on behalf of six states: Nebraska, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas and South Carolina. The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the plaintiffs by alleging that the student debt relief plan would have crippling negative consequences for MOHELA, the Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri.

In another case, a Texas Federal Judge ruled that the debt relief program must be vacated and was “an unconstitutional exercise of Congress’s legislative power.”

President Biden’s administration has already asked the 5th District Court of Appeals to block that Federal Judge’s decision.

Both cases are still undecided as the Biden administration asks the Supreme Court to review the matter and ultimately make a decision.

As for the program, the DOE press release from last week highlighted that over

TODAY!

Attention Seniors

Thank you very much, Mr. Hector Algarin and Mr. Warren Mitchell, supervisors with the Parking/Garage Department, for taking the time to personally address many concerns in Garage 8. The professionalism, attitude and honesty really struck a chord with me, and I felt reassured that their efforts are the best they can offer the community. Thank you again for all your efforts; it is greatly appreciated.

––Ruth Sharma 26 million borrowers applied for relief and 16 million of them were approved.

However, current litigation from the lower court orders prevents the department from accepting any more applications.

Individuals who did apply had to meet eligibility requirements for the one-time student debt relief. Those requirements were the following: * Individuals who earned less than $125,000 in 2021 or 2020. * Families who earned less than $250,000 in 2021 or 2020.

Income thresholds were based on an individual or family’s adjusted gross income, which can be found on line 11 of the IRS 1040 form, as explained on the Federal Student Aid website.

While the litigation surrounding the debt relief program continues, the DOE warns borrowers to be aware of possible scams involving federal student debt relief. The agency cautions borrowers to be particularly suspicious of anyone claiming to offer a service that will help a borrower receive their one-time relief.

Additionally, the Department of Education urges borrowers to “make sure you work only with ED and our loan servicers, and never reveal your personal information or account password to anyone.”

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Key Fob –––––––

(Continued from page 1)

Q: Can I request a key fob for a caretaker or medical service provider?

A: Shareholders may apply for a reasonable accommodation in this instance. form. The application will then be reviewed by the Riverbay Legal Department, and, if approved, an additional fob will be provided.

Q: Can I request a key fob for my child?

A: Fobs can be issued to children age 11 or older. Visit the Parking & Leasing Department to request a fob.

Q: How do I obtain a replacement fob?

A: Visit the Parking & Leasing Department to obtain a replacement key fob. There is a $25 replacement charge which is added to the shareholder’s carrying charge account; there is no need to bring payment. The lost fob will be deactivated.

Q: mobility.

A: Contact the Parking & Leasing Department to schedule an appointment to have the fob delivered to your apartment. The shareholder must be present to accept the fob; ID is required.

Q: How do I operate the key fob?

A: Simply scan the key fob in front of the scanner. You will then hear a “click” and a “beep” indicating the door is unlocked and can be opened.

Q: I live in an “A” building and need to get to the “B” building where my

A Co-op Creative: Frank Mayes

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Frank Mayes is a 90-year-old poet who has lived in Co-op for twenty years. While he has been writing poetry for many decades, his primary way of sharing his poetry with his neighbors is through the Co-op City Times.

With works discussing everything from love and adventure to self-help, he said, “I have so much to say to people.”

Mr. Mayes worked with the late Jazz musician Chico Hamilton. He said that in terms of music and poetry, “he was like a guardian angel to me.” One of Mayes’ newer poems, “I WISH,” centers on the idea of self-acceptance.

“Just be who you are,” he said, “there are other things that you might have done, but do the best that you can do.”

I Wish

BY FRANK MAYES

A: All key fobs for Chevron and Triple Core buildings allow access to both the A & B, or A, B & C buildings.

Q: I live in a townhouse. How do I access the laundry room in an adjacent building?

A: Townhouse residents may request a key fob from the Parking & Leasing department. One key fob will be issued per residence.

Q: Who do I call for immediate assistance if the lobby door to my building does not lock properly, beeps continuously, or if the key fob malfunctions?

A: Option #2, and personnel from the Intercom Shop will be dispatched.

I wish I was a lion, the King of the Jungle I would be, or a whale who swims the ocean like the master of the sea.

Or maybe I could be the sun that wakes the early dawn, and acquaints the early soothing breeze with the rush of the early morn.

Although I could be a Christmas tree, but that’s just once a year, but the love it brings, the joys and things, I always could hold dear. and when summer’s done won’t it be fun to turn into winter’s snow.

Oh, I would be amused I guess to walk in other’s shoes, but I’m much too proud just being allowed to be at my Lord God’s side, so here I’ll be eternally, my wings I’ll never hide.

Option #2.

Continue reading the weekly Co-op City Times for developing information on the Riverbay Key Fob program.

30

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6

Co-op City Times /

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor,

Letters to the Editor

verify the authenticity of the authors. Anonymous – Times • or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters • cannot – exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters are solely the writer’s and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times

2022 Loose Ends

Irresponsible, Anti-Social Tendencies of the Few

December hits and tying up loose ends quits. So, here’s a partial “what-are-we-going-to-do-about...?” list for Section What are we going to do about the threatened loss of more Unenforced “no parking” signs have been up for months bridge replacement construction. Will there be some warning as to when the signs will take effect or are they planning an unpleasant and expensive surprise for our neighbors in What are we going to do about opening up our new little waterside park behind the Section 5 basketball and handball courts?

There’s a fence around our lovely little park with the typical Co-op City locked gates and signage that reads something on the order of, “STAY OUT! STAY OUT! STAY OUT!” rather than something more welcoming. We need a latched gate to keep little ones from wandering but a fourfoot-tall fence is no obstacle for teenagers. The fence is already showing some damage, the grass has had quite enough time to get a foothold, and it’s too chilly for an actual grand opening, but it’s time. It’s time to throw open the gates of our little water view gem for the enjoyment of all the peo-

rect road home to Section 5? convenience of the easiest path home to Section 5. And the providing an easier ride home for Connecticut drivers.

What are we going to do about making people realize the new, more protective, bivalent Covid vaccine booster is available and necessary. (The old boosters are monovalent.)

To be continued.

Co-op City Times

I believe the majority of the shareholders share this common view – our community is too dirty. I feel frustrated with shareholders and staff that enough is not being done to keep our common areas cleaner. Truth be told, this is within our control.

The few shareholders with anti-social tendencies seem to be the problem. Why do the few people think it is acceptable behavior to keep our community dirty? The majority of the people understand that we own shares in this community, it is the equivalent of a deed to a property. The few people who may be subletting (illegally), guests of family/friends and others who come on our property, should know this is not a rental, it is a cooperative.

Co-op City is a no dog (pets) community. The only dogs allowed are service and emotional support dogs, and all re-

Co-op City Times

using the ADA to circumvent community rules on having dogs and it is, in my opinion, irresponsible as a shareholder/ owner of this development. It is useless to have rules that are meant to deter anti-social behavior not be adhered to where it makes a noticeable impact. This community is slowly going through a transformation. If we are not careful, we will see an exodus of decent shareholders who are fed up.

I believe the majority of the shareholders embrace the no-pet rule, and those who boldly own unregistered dogs do not believe they are supposed to clean up after their dogs.

Co-op City Times

cleaning up after their dogs. Wrong. It is your responsibility. Shareholders do not pay carrying charges to clean up after your dog. There are solutions if we all work collectively and the minority should not have carte blanche.

Co-op City Times Co-op City Times

Board of Directors’ Meeting - November 30, 2022 First Reading - Amended Resolution #22-55 said austerity operating budget shall contain projections

Co-op City Times

charges Directors with a public duty to provide affordable housing for its shareholders; and , Article III §3 requires Directors to en-

not provided for in the capital plan approved by HUD,

manner to provide essential services and proper maintenance without excessive carrying charges; and the economy is suffering the highest rate

mediately implement an employment hiring and wage

tial materials and services including energy and insur-

or to comply with existing collective bargaining agree-

poration; and

these increased and unanticipated costs

Co-op

City Times

LETTERS TO

period of one year from the date of passage of this res-

, that beginning

to assess upon shareholders a 7.5% increase in monthly carrying charges; and , current projections show that in the absence of budget and expense reductions, the Corporation may have to impose another increase in monthly carrying charges within a one-year period; and

ance between budgeted and actual expenditures, by department on a monthly basis.; and nothing contained

mined that it is in the best interest of the Corporation to implement cost containment measures to mitigate against the possibility of additional carrying charge increases within the next one-year period; , that

manner that violates an existing collective bargaining agreement, endangers the safety and welfare of Co-op City residents or the long-term interests of the Corporation, or impairs the proper care and maintenance of the Corporation and its assets.

an austerity operating budget within thirty (30 business

See page 8 for more Resolutions

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.

Times

Co-op City

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

7

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

December 2022 Scam of the Month – Holiday Shopping Scams

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO As we approach the final weeks of holiday shopping, it is very important to be as cautious as possible to keep scammers from ruining your holiday. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety conducts research in order to provide cooperators with the most up-to-date information on current scams. There are numerous agencies that track and report trends in scams.

Scam artists are a very clever group of people. They take their knowledge of human nature and combine it with current information in an attempt to find new victims. This time of the year, scammers should be viewed as grinches and we cannot let them steal the joy of the holiday season. Smart cooperators are the best defense against scams.

Recent studies have shown that certain types of scams, especially internet scams, increase every year. Since the beginning of the pandemic, people are spending more time at home. By being aware of potential scams, readers can reduce their chances of becoming a victim. The high volume of gift shopping results in an increase in potential scam victims. Unfortunately, it is also a special time of the year for cybercriminals.

Current scams include text messages and emails regarding products the scammers want you to believe you may have ordered. They attempt to get you to click on a link. These links can take you to sites that can contain malware, spyware or attempt to get you to enter your personal information. Please be alert to communications you receive and ensure they are from legitimate sources

Public Safety Report

Public Safety Blotter

November 20 – November 26, 2022 November 21 – 99 Einstein Loop A cooperator reported returning to her parked vehicle in Garage 7 and observing both rear tires deflated by an unknown individual.

100 Alcott Place While performing routine patrol, a CCPD officer heard a dog barking from an apartment. Further investigation revealed the shareholder did not have a permit and was issued a Community Complaint for Harboring an Animal.

4160 Hutchinson River Parkway CCPD responded to a complaint of excessive noise caused by a loud dog emanating from an apartment.

Upon arrival, the complaint was confirmed and a Community Complaint was issued for excessive dog barking/noise.

Opposite 99 Bellamy Loop While on routine patrol, a CCPD officer observed an individual wearing a black ski mask taking photographs of rims of a late model vehicle that was parked and unoccupied.

The individual observed CCPD and jumped into his vehicle and drove off. The owner of the vehicle was notified and the matter is under investigation.

Rear of 120 Benchley Place An anonymous person notified CCPD of a parked vehicle that was on cinder blocks with the driver’s side door unlocked and all four tires missing.

November 25 – 120 Casals Place A cooperator reported that a tall, unknown male wearing a ski mask was under her vehicle and placed a brown paper bag inside one of the rims. Upon the cooperator’s arrival, the male was observed running away from the area.

November 26 – 120 DeKruif Place A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package left near the mailboxes in the lobby was removed by an unknown individual.

100 Casals Place While on routine patrol, CCPD was stopped by a cooperator to report that an unknown individual broke the passenger side window of her parked vehicle and removed the driver’s side airbag. CCPD canvassed the area for the suspect with negative results. NYPD was notified for reporting purposes.

2049 Bartow Avenue An individual was issued a Community Complaint for causing excessive noise and alarming the public for no apparent reason.

Co-op City Blvd./99 Bellamy Loop While on routine patrol, CCPD was stopped by an individual who observed two masked individuals removing tires from a parked vehicle. The two masked individuals fled the scene upon CCPD’s arrival. The owner of the vehicle was contacted

by CCPD and notified of the incident.

BLOTTER BONUS: As the cold weather moves in and daylight hours end at 5:00 p.m., shareholders should be especially careful when crossing the street, walking near our malls, or any location where pedestrians and cars share the same area. With the increase of holiday traffic, holiday shopping, and a night-time rush hour, we should all take safety steps when stepping. Don’t assume drivers can see you. So now you know…be careful when you’re on the go.

before clicking on them. Fake emails, texts and phone calls are on the rise. Do your best to ignore, delete and block them. Also, use caution with anything you click on when surfing the web or when on social media sites.

Never give anyone personal information such as bank account numbers, date of birth or Social Security Number. Never wire money or send a Green Dot card to anyone you do not know and have only met through a dating website. Never send money for plane tickets, bail money, medicine for a sick family member or any other reason to anyone you do not know well. Also, be leery of fake electronics and jewelry websites. Always be sure to enter a website directly into your browser; never click on a link from an email. Sometimes one letter off can take you to a fake website. This is true all year round not just the holiday season.

The holiday season creates a frenzy of shoppers wanting to buy that perfect gift for that special friend or family member. Sometimes shoppers become so engrossed in the desire to get a real bargain that they fail to have their guard up and can fall victim to a shopping scam. Always remember, the deal that seems too good to be true may not be what it seems. Fake websites may offer counterfeit merchandise or even no merchandise at all. The holiday gift buying frenzy puts shoppers in a mindset where they do not see the potential for fraud. Wanting to surprise that special someone with something special can result in shoppers not seeing potential fraud.

Cybercriminals know this and create phishing emails containing popular gifts such as electronics and jewelry. By clicking on links, unsuspecting shoppers may be handing over personal information, triggering a malware download onto their device, or opening a compromised attachment leading to a ransomware infection.

Some people may read about these scams and wonder how anyone could possibly fall for them. Scam artists are very persistent; they blanket a large number of potential victims until they find their prey. The internet has made it extremely easy for scam artists to target millions of potential victims with a single touch of a button. Telephone or regular mail scam artists work a little harder but do eventually find their victim. Bold scammers have approached potential victims in person at their door and in public places.

If you fall victim to a scam, notify the New York State Attorney General at 1 (800) 771-7755 or www.oag.state.ny.us/ and the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-382-4357 or www.ftc.gov/. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has set up an Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) specifically for reporting internet crimes. Their website is www.ic3.gov/.

Schools are open; DRIVE CAREFULLY. Never pass a stopped school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Motor vehicle operators must be extra vigilant. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must be courteous to pedestrians. This includes electric scooters and bicycles, including the for-rent type available in the community.

(Continued on page 23)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties.

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

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES For employment opportunities, please search “Riverbay Corporation” at the following sites: www.Indeed.com www.Glassdoor.com

Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply directly at either site.

Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department.

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Daryl Johnson

Let Them Retire Board directors should be supportive of the good work from their management team. However, what should happen when board directors can see that some business functions and other matters in their cooperative are not going in the right direction?

Open The Door Some managers might make huge promises to a board when they want to get hired. However, as time goes on, some managers might get complacent with their responsibilities. Then, in some cases, that complacent attitude might lead some managers to think that they can do whatever they want.

So, they will have no problem telling their board directors how things will be done in “their” community. Suggestions? No, they might have a multi-year contract. And, with that contract, they might feel that no one can tell them what to do. Furthermore, they might imprudently quote the HCR regulations about how board directors should not get involved in the day-to-day operations of that business.

Contract termination? Not so fast. You see, manulations know that a board cannot easily terminate their services. So, some managers might think that they can arrogantly run that cooperative development without any input from their board.

In our case, the two biggest things that are negaget for 28 departments and our $100 million payroll. However, this information has been published numerous times in the Co-op City Times for many years. But, now, our board has developed a resolution to decrease our budget by 10 percent over the course of a year. Moreover, can you believe that the board is considering a hiring freeze and some payroll reductions at this point in time?

Now, who do you think should have developed these ideas, the board or our paid management team?

From my perspective, our management team should

However, our bank account went from $65 million in 2019 to $900,000 in March 2022. And, more recently, it was projected that we’re going to have $18.6 million shortfall at the end of this year. But, Regardless, we’ve been hit with constant carrying charge increases. And, not surprisingly, we’re going to get hit with a 7.5 percent increase in the next few months. Then, you would think that our unfortunately, there is some serious talk about issuing another increase after that 7.5 percent increase gets approved.

Demand Good Results bers should carefully examine the history and the busiterials? Some real estate managers can develop marketing materials that can possibly impress a lot of people.

However, that’s when board members need to tap the brakes and do some investigating. that they did many good things at several housing developments. Therefore, boards should check out those claims. What did they actually do? Did nancial issues at those housing developments? Did their boards? If yes, then what were some of the goals that they introduced to those board members? they achieved those goals?

More than ever, boards need to thoroughly investhat they want to hire. Yes, marketing materials can be good. However, above all, boards must understand that results matter. Period! Where are the prior results for any corporation listed at in those market-

pects of our corporation a long time ago. Then, they should have helped the board to get a better

Resolutions –––––––

of the money within a corporation’s bank accounts?

Look, without a care in the world, some manageery penny within that corporation. Everything! So, board members need to be prepared to discuss the goals and results that they want for their community. Then, the board should consider a short-term contract to make sure that those managers know that they will be held accountable for their promises.

Don’t Drink and Drive A few years ago, two men went to a bar to drink in San Diego. Meanwhile, a 22-year-old lady went to that same bar to drink with some of her friends.

Then, the two guys left the bar and took a ride in a taxi. The lady, then, wanted to drive her new Lexus vehicle home. But, her two friends tried to stop her from driving her vehicle because she had been drinking. Additionally, her friends offered to take her home. Regardless, she entered her vehicle and started driving—fast.

Then, around 2:30 a.m., the lady’s vehicle had allegedly reached a speed of over 100 miles per hour and crashed into the rear section of the above-cited taxi. Thereafter, one man was killed. And, the other man suffered a severe brain injury. So, the lady was arrested. Then, she pled guilty to gross vehicular manslaughter and DUI. The judge then sentenced her to 13 years and 4 months in prison.

Bottom line: Getting arrested for drunk driving, causing an accident, or injuring someone is a horrible offense. So, I hope that everyone will please consider this information and not drink and drive.

Thank you.

Contact Information Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. You can also 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.

(Continued from page 6)

First Reading - Amended Resolution #22-56 SUBMITTED BY: Claudia Sampson SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: November 30, 2022 WHEREAS, periodic employee performance reviews can be valuable tools to

Second Reading - Resolution #22-62 SUBMITTED BY: Rod Saunders SECONDED BY: Jacqueline Smith, Kevin Lambright, Bernie Cylich, Andrea Leslie, Monique Coleman, Michelle Marbury BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: NOVEMBER 30, 2022

WHEREAS, effective performance evaluations and reviews can reinforce an employer’s business principles and priorities, help foster the skills the employer

WHEREAS, (40) years, with the cost of essential materials and services including energy

WHEREAS, the Board has determined that it is in the best interest of the Corporation to implement a comprehensive performance evaluation policy to help employees understand what is expected regarding their performance accountability, promote fairness, and to mitigate against the risk of employment-related litigation.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Management shall develop and present to the Board for review and consideration a draft employee performance evaluation policy within thirty (30) business days of the passage of this

WHEREAS, these increased and unanticipated costs have created a projected

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the performance evaluation policy shall require that evaluators or reviewers of performance undergo training on how best BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the performance evaluation policy shall BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the performance evaluation policy shall include a component for 360-degree feedback to allow each employee the opportunity to receive performance feedback from their direct supervisors or managBE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the performance evaluation policy shall provide that shareholder feedback, such as from completed work orders, will be considered in evaluating the performance of the leaders of the departments proBE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the performance evaluation policy shall be implemented and performance evaluations completed prior to the close

monthly carrying charges, and current projections show that another increase WHEREAS, Management prepared a Five-Year Capital Plan to fund necessary infrastructure projects at Co-op City, including the development of a waWHEREAS, the Board has determined that the development of a waterfront park is not presently a necessary infrastructure project and that such project should be removed from the Five Year Capital Plan.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board hereby amends the Five-Year Capital Plan by deleting the line item for the development of a BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President is hereby authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Peterson, Rosario, Saunders, Smith, Wright NO: Sampson ABSTAIN: Watson ABSENT FOR VOTE: Johnson ABSENT: Richardson PASSED See page 9 for more Resolutions

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Resolutions –––––––

(Continued from page 8)

Lease Resolution #22-63 SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright & Andrea Leslie BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: November 30, 2022 WHEREAS, Dreiser Discount Inc. has requested a lease from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 105 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, New York, to be used as a discount store; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is five years with two five-year renewal options and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 105 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner, and Dreiser Discount Inc., Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s Management is hereby approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended

by Resolution #95-44; and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President of the Corporation is authorized to sign the lease agreement and related documents on behalf of Riverbay Corporation.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Peterson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

Insurance Resolution #22-64 SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: November 30, 2022 WHEREAS, Riverbay’s Pollution Liability Policy is presently with Ironshore Surplus Lines Insurance Company, for a limit of $25,000,000 per occurrence/$25,000,000 aggregate with a $250,000 deductible, at an expiring annual policy premium of $568,547.56 inclusive of terrorism, surplus lines taxes and fees for the policy period 12/1/21 to 12/1/22; and WHEREAS, the Director of Risk Management, instructed NFP Property & Casualty, Riverbay’s Pollution Liability insurance broker, to conduct a marketing program for the renewal of our Pollution Liability Policy; and WHEREAS, the Director of Risk Management now recommends, at this time, renewing the Pollution Liability Policy with Ironshore Surplus Lines Insurance Company (see attached handouts) for a limit of $25,000,000 per occurrence/$25,000,000 aggregate with a $250,000 deductible, for an annual renewal premium of $545,977.04 (a 3.97% decrease) for the policy period 12/1/22 to 12/1/23.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Pollution Liability Policy with Ironshore Surplus Lines Insurance Company for an annual renewal premium of $545,977.04 (a 3.97% decrease) for the policy period 12/1/22 to 12/1/23.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Peterson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

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Lease Resolution #22-65 SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury SECONDED BY: Kevin Lambright & Andrea Leslie BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: November 30, 2022 WHEREAS, Wise Physical Therapy PC has requested a new lease from Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 140 Alcott Place, Unit B, Bronx, New York, to be used for Physical Therapy and medical services; and WHEREAS, the term of the lease is 5 years with one 5-year renewal option with a 3 month rent concession and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for the premises at 140 Alcott Place, Unit B, Bronx, New York, by and between Riverbay Corporation, Owner and, Wise Physical Therapy PC, Tenant, containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s Management is hereby approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President of the Corporation is authorized to sign the lease agreement and related documents on behalf of Riverbay Corporation.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Peterson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

Emergency Resolution #22-66 SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: November 30, 2022 WHEREAS, Riverbay provides medical insurance pursuant to collective bargaining agreements to Local 153 and PBA employees; and also to non-union employees, and WHEREAS, the present medical insurance for such employees ends December 31, 2022; and WHEREAS, fourteen (14) insurance carriers were solicited for bids of which five, including the incumbent insurer Emblem, submitted bids; and WHEREAS, Management and our broker has reviewed all bids and recommends moving the present medical insurance to Cigna with a 5.4% increase over the current medical plan, and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves the medical insurance coverage with CIGNA from January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023 with a 5.4% increase for Local 153, PBA and non-union employees.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Rosario, Sampson, Smith ABSTAIN: Peterson, Saunders, Watson, Wright ABSENT FOR VOTE: Johnson ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

Emergency Resolution #22-67 SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie & Michelle Marbury BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: November 30, 2022 WHEREAS, Riverbay provides dental insurance pursuant to collective bargaining agreements to Local 153 and PBA employees; and also to non-union employees, and WHEREAS, the present dental insurance coverage is provided by Delta Dental, and WHEREAS, Cigna has offered a reduction on medical insurance rates contingent upon Riverbay bundling the medical and dental coverages together; and WHEREAS, the rate offered by Cigna for the dental insurance is 15% ($24,969) below the current rate and has a two-year guaranteed rate lock effective from January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves the proposal from Cigna to provide dental insurance from January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2024, with a 15% decrease in current rates for Local 153, PBA and non-union employees.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Rosario, Sampson, Smith, Watson ABSTAIN: Peterson, Saunders, Wright ABSENT FOR VOTE: Johnson ABSENT: Richardson PASSED

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022 Director’s Viewpoint –

Leslie Peterson

Looking for Improvements Hope all are enjoying family and friends during this holiday season. As a community, we must continue to challenge ourselves and think outside of the box to continue our many goals, one of which is to remain affordable.

Although we recently requested a change in the carrying charge, make no mistake, the new budget is right around the corner. We should be looking at areas where changes can be made, where we can be more proactive in our collection process and take a deep look into some of the vendors that have been here for years. Are we getting the best productivity for the funds we are spending?

Unfunded mandates established by the City will require us to focus more closely on how we can generate revenue. Going forward, this will be one of the diminishing services. We should all endeavor to be involved in the governance of Co-op City.

For years, I had heard talk of the importance of having an Internal Audit department. We did our due diligence and produced a fantastic department. It is time to utilize their skills and seriously take a look at the many departments we have and determine where and if there are cost savings we have overlooked.

The pandemic caused irreparable harm to many businesses and presented additional challenges. In the FAQ published in last week’s paper, I read about what we do as opposed to what should be done. A person purchasing a unit here in Co-op City should never have to wait several months for their unit.

Poor practices put us in that position and the pandemic affecting supply issues exacerbated the situation. These are the types of issues we need to address more closely. This practice currently costs us about $3 million per year. Our goal should be to have units ready for sale. Make the process more manageable and cost effective. We should not be waiting for a sale to be completed because the unit is not restored. This is just one of several areas I am interested in looking into.

Public Employee Retirees Medicare Update: Advocates with the Organization of Public Service Retirees contend that switching retirees to a proposed Medicare advantage plan would not provide for health care providers.

The initial ruling from March, which was upheld last Tuesday in the Appellate Court, found that

plan to be unlawful, as the city guarantees premium-free health coverage for the entirety of a retired city worker’s life.

“The Appellate Court ruled unanimously in favor of the retirees and we are very grateful for that ruling. We need the City Council to not introduce any legislation or amend the existing Administrative Code as it relates to this, until a meeting with the retirees is conducted,” said the Organization of Public Service Retirees.

The Organization added, “Retirees have been heard by the courts. Retirees’ service to this great City should not be ignored and our healthcare should not be scrutinized or watered down.”

Concerned City retirees should reach out to all Council members addressing this situation. At this writing, the Council is not considering any legislation to amend a portion of the administrative code, especially legislation that would remove the City’s responsibility to provide premium-free healthcare to retirees.

The New York City Organization of Public Service Retirees is asking city retirees to continue emailing their Council member (or all of them) and ask them not to consider proposing a change to the Administrative Code and further if it is proposed vote NO... Do not amend 12-126. Amending this code will also have an effect on the health care of the newly hired going forward because the amendment seeks to bar cost caps. If you go to their page (NYCRetirees.org for your e-mail and a list of all the City Council members.

If you are a city retiree, reach out to your City Council member and tell them to protect hard-working New Yorkers who gave their careers to public service and explore other ways to find health care savings.

FYI to keep you upto-date: On Nov. 29, 2022 the NYC Retiree Organization filed a Class Action Lawsuit contesting the co-pays city retirees are being forced to pay. Updates will be forthcoming or you can follow on their Facebook page.

Building 19 Association Thanksgiving weekend.

First, I want to thank those who attended the Association’s general meeting on November 18, both cooperators from our building and those invited from Riverbay’s Department of Public Safety, who was gracious enough to answer questions from the audience about their concern about crime and safety.

Second, the Association will be doing our holiday lobby decoration on iday spirit, meet us in the lobby at noon today. We can use all the hands we can get, especially with decorating the Christmas Tree. Also, the Association will hold its kick-off of our annual collection for the porters on the same day as the lobby decoration activity. The Association does this yearly collection as a labor of love and to show the porters how much the cooperators appreciate the hard work that they do for our building. The Association will be holding a selisting the dates next week.

Third, the Association will be holding its annual End-of-the-Year dinner on 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Unlike the previous annual dinners, this year we must limit the total number of attendees to 25. Those who plan to attend must RSVP and this event will be open only to members. If you would like Finally, our last committee meeting for this year will be held on Tuesday, I look forward to seeing you either in the lobby today for the lobby activity or next week during our committee meeting. As always, stay safe.

––Leon Tulton

Animal Shelter 401-A Law number -2018/123: The Co-op City community was involved in a heated debate about the property being used for this shelter. This bill, passed by the City Council, would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to ensure that full-service animal shelters proposed legislation would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to ensure the operation of a full-service animal shelter in each of struct an animal shelter and veterinary medical clinic. construction may commence soon now that permits were approved. A memorandum was agreed upon that included Co-op City’s request for a Youth Center. We hope to have updated information about that progress soon.

E-Scooter Program Complaints: Have a complaint about the numerous scooters around and about the community, especially those that lay there for days or are broken and damaged and not picked up?

Contact: NYC 311, https://portal.311.nyc.go BIRD scooters are silver and blue. Call: (866) 205-2442; email: hello@bird.co LIME scooters are white and green. Call: (888) 546-3345; email: support@li.me VEO scooters are black and aqua. Call: (855) 836-2256; email: hello@veoride.com When you have decided what you believe, what you feel must be done, have the courage to standalone and be counted. –Eleanor Roosevelt I am pleased to be of service to the community. I can be reached by email at lpeterson@riverbaycorp.com.

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Velocity Track Club Velocity Track Club’s blessings continued at its Ekaeta, Lotus, Autumn, Serenity, Malia, Savannah, second indoor track meet for the 2022 – 2023 seaKarly, Kaylin, Dakota, Justyce and Savannah B. son! Many athletes are improving, and it is starting Great job to all who participated! to show with the number of medals and personal As our mid-distance and sprinters were at the Armory, we had a few records! athletes at the Champs On November 26, we Sports XC Northeast competed in the Armory Championship at Van Metro Eagles Meet at the Cortland Park. Most of New Balance Armory in the best cross-country Fort Washington, NY. runners from throughMedals were awarded to out the Northeast were the top three athletes in in attendance! The comtheir event/age group and petition was intense, gender. and medals were hard Velocity was blessed to earn. But that did not with 20 medals (10 gold, stop Romel who took 2nd eight silver and two place and Rayne, who is 8 bronze). More imporyears old and medaled in tantly, we had 13 athletes the 10 & Under age divibreak their Indoor PR (persion. Congratulations! sonal record). The following athletes received medOur next meet is on Sunday, December als: in the 55-meter dash: 4, at the AAU XC Bryce (2nd), Serenity (1st) and Malia (3rd); Velocity Track Club athletes at the Metro Eagle Meet National Championship in the 55-meter hur- and the Champs Sports XC Northeast Championship. in Tennessee and the dles: Shyenne (2nd) and Southern Connecticut Savannah (3rd); in the high jump: Dakota (1st); Meet at New Haven, CT. Come out and see our fuin the 200-meter dash: Bryce (2nd), Malia (2nd) ture Olympians. and Lyon (2nd); n the 400-meter: Bryce (1st); In Thank you.

––Coach Winston Dinkins the 800-meter run: Justyce (2nd); in the shot put: Autumn (1st), Ekaete (2nd), Mason (1st), Savannah If you see something, call the Public Safety dispatcher at B. (2nd) and Jacob (1st); the 4x200 meter relay: Serenity, Madison T, Malia and Lyon (1st) place.

(718) 671-3050. Be sure to give as many details as possible.

According to Athletic.net, the following athletes This will help to apprehend the responsible person(s). broke their Indoor PR: Mason, Bryce, Jamari, Dallis,

A booster that targets the COVID-19 variants?

Bullseye.

All New Yorkers 5 years and older should get a new bivalent COVID -19 booster today.

To learn more, visit

or call 877-VAX-4NYC.

Eric Adams Mayor Ashwin Vasan, MD, PhD Commissioner

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

The Wright Agency: We Value Your Business!

We have relocated to Ridgehill Mall and WE ARE STILL SERVING CO-OP CITY as we have for 42 Years!

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New Hours: Mon. – Thurs.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Saturday: By Appointment

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

“When the prize is our future, every day is the match of our lives.

In all my years of playing around the world, I have never seen a brighter soul than Chiara’s. You would never know what it took for her to be here. Together with her world class team, Chiara triumphed over a rare cancer that nearly stole her future as a dancer.” – Pilo Gomez When we unite around one goal, that is when we win.

Play on.

See Chiara’s story at cancer.montefioreeinstein.org/Chiara

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Cohen’s Gentle Dental 100 Alcott Place 718-585-4400 Bronx, NY 10475 COME IN AND EXPERIENCE NATURAL TOOTH RESTORATION & VENEERS PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE. WE SPEAK ENGLISH AND SPANISH. Additional Locations:

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15

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022 Mission Statement

NAACP

December General Meeting:

NAACP Shirts:

Follow us on Facebook:

low: Notice of Branch Election –

––Brenda Brown

Building 13 Association

Donations:

Co-op

City Times Reminders: •

Building 13 Association Meeting:

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

––Leslie Peterson

Co-op City Toastmasters Club all assembled.

her well-wishes.

Zoom

––Marietta Phoenix

DIVORCE - BANKRUPTCY • ABSOLUTE LOWEST FEES • EVENING APPTS. AVAILABLE • IMMEDIATE FILING

• FREE CONSULTATION • FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS

“COURTEOUS AND PROMPT SERVICE AT AN AFFORDABLE FEE” Toastmaster of the Day, Andrea Haye (left), with winner of Best Table Topics,

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

633 Lydig Ave • Bronx, NY

1 block from Pelham Parkway & White Plains Road Accessible by #2 & #5 trains • #12, #22 & #39 buses

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

16

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Building 27 Association Hello, neighbors. We hope all is well and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. We wish all safe travel during the Thanksgiving season and that all reach their destinations. Now we are entering into December, also a month full of holiday celebrations of being grateful and thankful.

Key Fobs – The building is still expecting this situation to be resolved soon.

Saving Energy – With prices rising everywhere, let us do our part and remember to turn off unnecessary lights, TVs, etc. in our apartments.

Grounds – The fall leaves are falling and there is a shortage of raking up the leaves being done.

Maintenance was seen picking up trash around our grounds and walkways; this is what was not being done. So we are glad this has again been implemented to help keep our grounds clean.

Collection for Our Porters – Collection for all

three buildings of Bldg. 27 was done on Thursday, Dec. 1, and Friday, Dec 2. If you missed both days and would love to give to our great porters, please contact the Association. The names and phone numbers are listed on the bulletin board in all three buildings.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. We continue to offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the families that have lost loved ones. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card, as she is excellent in sharing good will. Also notify her of any illness, or of a neighbor who has deceased and if anyone is in a nursing home.

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

Black Forum Emergency Food Pantry (Free) – 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court).

The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution.

Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month.

Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pickup or after. It is a 30/31 day rotation, on average. Black Forum will text registered guests if items outside of regular distribution become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring at least four clean shopping bags with a handle and a shopping cart. 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 driver’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 11:00 a.m. receive food. Registration is open at this location for Section 5 residents.

Returning Guests – The next date for new client registration will be January 3, 2023. Required documentation 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 tion is required for all 2022 registered guests wanting to continue visiting the pantry in 2023. These guests must also show the required documentation listed 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 have the same 10475 address. We include only verFarmers 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 have already sent some photos with permission from the owners. Please email your photo submissions to coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

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

––D. Illis

WHISTLEBLOWER ANONYMOUS 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 hotline by the following methods: 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); Email: reports@lighthouse-services.com; or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (email or fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

Building 10 Association Greetings, fellow cooperators.

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

Annual Holiday Toy Drive – We have begun accepting Holiday Shelter Gift donations 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 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 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 Building 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.

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-NYC-WELL (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 Facebook, “Building 10 “ABC” Association.” Like around Building 10.

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

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

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

Have a great week.

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

17

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment You did it! You are about to enter on this past year. The role of a family

Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City

needed to assist you with your

year you are empowered with a sound foundation

ness to your life. Go forth wholeheartedly with no Walk into 2023 with an attitude of empowerment on an attitude of preparation. Empower yourself ––Diane Cooper

National Council of Negro Women Christmas Party –

Riverbay’s coopcity.com

Broun Place Townhouse Association

NCNW Co-op City Section –

ers and plan ahead.

Pal at

Youth Committee –

it has been posted.

Book Club –

NCNW Youth Section –

Social Media –

Facebook Instagram ––Joyce Howard

––Francine Jones

Twitter ––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

18

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Retirees of Dreiser Loop Season’s Greetings, Retirees and friends. and getting into the holiday spirit. We look forward to celebrating with you at our annual holiday luncheon on December 8.

Entertainment Committee – Tickets are still on sale for our annual holiday luncheon at the fabulous Marina del Rey on December 8. The cost per ticket seated basis). The Entertainment Committee members will be available in Room 19 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. to sell tickets. If you have questions or wish to arrange to purchase tickets, please contact Daisy at 718-671-6122, Beverly at 718-671-2978 or Jay 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 calendar year. The annual dues are $25. Please make your check payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” the memo section of your check and mail it to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-655-9170.

Members who are 80-plus years of age and have been members of the RoDL for 10 years and are in good standing with their membership dues (dues paid for the past two consecutive years) are eligible to apply for “honorary membership.” If you would like to apply, please submit your letter of request to Dorothy Chambers-Byrd, president of the RoDL. Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our December birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness

Washington, DC. We need to maintain the current level of protection that is due to us and continue to achieve improvement whenever possible. The major concerns for the National Organization are health, In order to keep moving forward, we need to be able stand. Changes are possible and we must continue to reach for them.

Our local Chapter #4997 will be working closely with the National organization to reach out to the members of our community when the issues come up Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 718-320-1946.

Please stop by to ask questions, talk or share ideas you may have to help our local chapter expand its positive attitude and enrollment. Enhancing our visibility in the Co-op community is a must!

USA. The trip is from June 19-23, 2023. Cost for double occupancy is $659 and single is $809. There is trip insurance available for those who choose to purchase the coverage. You may contact Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962, for more information or details. There is a deposit of $100 due at the time of your reservation. The committee is planning more trips and would like to have any input from the members.

Ms. Baker, 718-379-2088, our Membership con2023 calendar year. Ms. Polite, 718-320-4278, our Nominating Committee contact is still accepting nominations for all the Executive Board positions as the election draws near. From Mrs. Wilson, 718671-5493, we have some sad news from our membership. Ms. Hattie Robinson lost her cousin, Ms. Susan V. Ingram, recently and we are extending her our condolences and prayers. To the family of Ms. Glenna Wright, we also send prayers in the loss of her sister, Ms. Lorraine Lewis. At times like this, we always try to reach out to the family and friends of our community so that they will know they are not alone or forgotten.

Be Alert-Be Focused-Be Aware-Be Involved.

––Ann Purnell

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 be held on December 8, we have moved the date for this meeting to December 14. We ask that everyone 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

AARP Chapter #4997 Welcome to the holiday season of 2022! The year is coming to a fast close and 2023 is right around the corner. The medical issues are continuing to be a hazard for all Americans. We now have RSV, the Flu and Covid-19. We have three boosters for Covid-19, and they are recommended for all over the age of 13.

Always contact your personal medical advisor for information that is best for you but contact someone to help you stay safe and healthy!

The National Organization is preparing a new

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 shutin. We pray that they will soon see brighter days ahead. Please contact Lorraine at 718-671-6403 or Gay at 718-320-0979 to notify them of members who are hospitalized, in

With a sad heart, we announce the passing of Norman Hairston, a devoted member to Goose Island Seniors. We will miss him dearly. Condolences to his family.

Resort World Casino – In Monticello, NY. December 10. Time: 8:45 a.m. at 575 Castlehill Ave. and 9:30 a.m. at Einstein Loop. Price: $50, bonus: $25 slot play plus $15 food voucher. For more information, call 646-579-1701.

Holiday Party – December 14. Members only at 1 p.m. in our clubroom 39. First 60 members accepted.

Call 718-379-9613 or text 347-847-1941. Cover-dish, bring something or pay $10 at door. No gifts just enjoy each other’s presence.

Resort World Casino – December 29 in Monticello NY. Price: $45, bonus: $25 slot play plus $15 meal voucher. Buses leaving our three usual Loop, 8:45 a.m. and Dreiser Loop at 9 a.m. Money due by December 15. Proof of vaccination and mask required on bus and in casino .

Carnival Cruise 2023 – Departing from NY, July 5 - 13, 2023. For more information, call 646-5791701.

Notary – Notary services with Yvonne Menefee from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Tuesday.

Bingo – Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1:15 p.m. Members only. Admission $5 for three

cards, 12 games and jackpot. Extra cards are $0.25 each. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination. Temperature taken at entrance. There will be no more Sunday bingo.

Game Day – Every Tuesday and Thursday at 1 p.m. Come play dominos, watch movies, read a book and socialize with other members. Members only.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of December: Nellie Rivera, Paquita Myke, Janie Williams, Barbara Hines, Jose Lopez, Brenda Brown, Janet Coles, Louise (Cookie) Hernandez, Mary (Pat) Randolph, Bobbi Chin, Barbara Owens and Gladys Baez. The birthday cake celebration will be at our Holiday party on December 14.

Sick and Shut-in – Zoraida Garcia and Maria misses everyone. She is in Workmen’s Circle. Mary Pilla, former Goose Island president, sends her love to all. You can call her at 718-753-1816.

Our club is located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475 at Section 5 Center, phone number: 718-379-9613. You may call mornings Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (evenings) Mon., Wed. and Fri., 6 p.m.

-9 p.m., Tue. and Thu., 1 p.m.-9 p.m., or call, text or Zelle Stephen at 347-847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net.

––Stephen Roberts Sr.

Family Owned and Operated • Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

• Cremations • Casket Showroom All areas are handicapped accessible on premises Amid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home is closely monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment.

Personalized & Professional Care • 56 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665 LIVE STREAMING WORLDWIDE.

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

Serving all cultures & faiths

19

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Fri., Dec. 9

Thurs., Dec. 8

Wed., Dec. 7

Tues., Dec. 6

Mon., Dec.. 5

Bartow

Einstein

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED ON MONDAYS ONLY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go Easy on us Computers

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

2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 40

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

Beginners Crochet and Indoor Walk Club Knitting w/Lynne, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 35 12:30 p.m.

Go Easy On Us Computers, Dinner Hour, 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 2-3 p.m., Room 40 Massage Therapy, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Open Mic Singing and Manicure, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Poetry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

MENU

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

Kosher

Non-Kosher

Turkey Meatballs Tomato sauce Spaghetti California Blend Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit and Juice

Italian Sausage Penne Sauteed Green Beans

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

Vegetarian Chili Wild Rice Garden Salad Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Lentil Stew w/Carrots and Turnips Yellow Rice Sauteed Spinach

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

Roasted Turkey Breast Mashed Sweet Potatoes Sauteed String Beans Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Smothered Pork Chops Homemade Mashed Potatoes Vegetable Mix

Hungarian Goulash w/Beef Brown Rice Normandy Blend Whole Wheat Bread Fresh Fruit and Juice

Baked Vegetable Alfredo Pasta Sauteed String Beans

Alert and Alive, 10-11 a.m., Rm. 4 Honey-Apricot Knitting & Crochet, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Glazed Chicken Potato Kugel Art Class w/Dmitry, Virtual, 1-3 p.m.

Prince Edward Massage Therapy, 1st & 3rd Friday, Blend Vegetables 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., In-person Challah Bread Fresh Fruit Bingo, 1:15-2:30 p.m., Rm. 4, and Juice In-person

Lemon Pepper Fish Pasta Steamed Broccoli

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.

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.

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 Mount Airy Casino and show, “Merry Motown Christmas” – 10 seats available, Dec. 6, $124. Bonus: $15 slot and $15 food voucher. Pick-ups: Bartow, 7:45 a.m.; Dreiser, 8 a.m.; Einstein, 8:15 a.m.

Einstein OAC Upcoming Outings – Please call 718-671-5161 for information. Dec. 6: Shop Rite; Dec. 13: Walmart; Dec. 15: Target; Dec. 21: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Medicare Information – w/Alex Wufrom from the Dept. of the Aging, every Thursday, 9 a.m.-12 Aldi – Wed., Dec. 7 and 21, $4. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m., and Einstein, 10:30 a.m.

Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered with JASA. Costco – Friday, Dec. 16 and 30, $6. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m., and Einstein, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered with JASA. Shoprite and BJ’s – Wed., Dec. 28; $6. Pick-ups: Bartow, 10 a.m.; Dreiser, 10:15 a.m., and Einstein, 10:30 a.m. Only 10 seats available. Participants must be registered with JASA.

Mt. Airy Casino-Motown Christmas Show, Dec. 6th – Payment due now.

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

JASA Bartow Older Adult Intergenerational Arts and Crafts classes at the Bartow Center every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Recruiting older adults and teenagers. To register, please email amoncrieffe@jasa.org.

Would you like to be part of a vocal program that will culminate in a concert for the community? Sesration with Riverbay and The Onaje Allan Gumbs and Sandra Gumbs Community JazzArts Foundation.

Concerts in Motion – Mondays, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Call-in: 646-558-8656, Meeting ID: 527-067-8391.

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

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

Crochet Class w/Sandra Ramirez – In-per-

son, Sat., 1 p.m.-2 p.m. In rear of JASA main ofVirtual – Sat., 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Dial-in number: 646-558-8656, 81636224412#, Meeting ID: 816 3622 4412.

Notary (Appointment ONLY) – Call 718-320Tues., 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.; Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Not available at Bartow until further notice. Einstein Center, Room 34, Thurs., 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Painting Classes – Every Wed. 9-11 a.m. Zoom meeting. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 920 9563 1147, Passcode: 024057.

Meditation Class, GPC (Grand Parents) – 11 a.m.-12 p.m., 3rd Thurs. of every month. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 991 1390 5105, Passcode: 170462.

Technology class w/Ralph Lucenti – Smart devices and computer, Thurs., 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

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

20

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

Iglesia Evangélica MU de Co-op City – Co-op City UMC Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds Come & Visit Us – You’re always welcome in God’s House, your House! We are a Bible-centered variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowshipand service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and bilingual congregation, all are welcome! Services are held at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across from Building 30. Parking is

available. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta.

Telephone number: (718) 320-3795, email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com.

Come and Receive a Blessing: First Sunday of the month, Bilingual Service: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

English Service: 10 a.m. Spanish Service: 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday Spanish Bible Study (via Zoom): 12:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m.

Rivers Run Community Garden Composting is a way to enrich and amend soil for gardening and farming. If you have started to compost or even considered it, I applaud you! On a larger global scale, soil needs so much more help from us. December 5th was World Soil Day. The Save Soil Movement was started to bring awareness to the depletion of the world’s soil. All efforts are to align human activity to be supportive of nature and all life on our planet. Events from NY to Europe to India have taken place to achieve this mission. Here are some interesting facts: • One teaspoon of healthy soil contains up to 50,000 microbe species, which interact with plants and animals in the nutrient cycles condition linked to hypertension, diabetes and neu-

from various factors, including nutrient depletion in vegetables • A study on nutrients in food concluded that we would have to eat 8 oranges to get the same amount of Vitamin A that our grandparents did with one, because soil depletion has caused massive drops in nutrient levels • Managing and reviving our soil could generate up to $1.4 trillion per year from increased crop production So clearly, my friends, there is much work ahead.

Our very existence depends on it, as we would not eat or even breathe if not for healthy soil. A wise man once said, ‘No matter how much wealth, education or money we have, our children cannot live well unless we restore the soil and water.’ I agree. Let’s leave our future in good hands.

–– Jessie Norment

Church of the New Vision Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The Church of the New Vision and Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge welcome you to worship with us at 115 Einstein Loop, 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 generosity and supporting the endeavors of the Church of the New Vision for the past 50 years. It is our and strengthen us.

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 temperature 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 every tongue

which rises against you in judgment 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, November 27th Worship Service: “But No Weapon. ” Scripture: (Isaiah 54:17) “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.” (Psalms 46:41; Psalms 46:23; 2 Corinthians 10:4; Ephesians 6:10) Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Thank you.

––Brenda Brown

Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow in-person at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Masks are required. The 11 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web.zoom.us/ or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: 646-568-7788; 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 in the Smoky Mountains. Motor coach transportative nights in the Smoky Mountains, eight meals, Soul of Motown show, guided tour of the Smoky Mountain National Park and much more. The cost of the trip is $765 per person based on double occupancy. A $100 deposit is due by January 28, 2023.

Final payment is due March 5, 2023. To make your reservation or for additional information, call Sis. Brenda Robinson at 718- 671-1271 or Sister Claudette Cutlar Day at 718-379-0541.

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

Young Teens Sunday School is held at 9:30 a.m., call-in number: 701-802-5240, 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. using the 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 p.m. the month.

All Prayer services can be joined using the Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number, 857-3570254, the Access Code is 660065#.

The church now has a free app. You can go to the Apple, Android or Google app stores and search “Co Op CBC.” The app is open to all.

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

“God will strengthen us as we continue to travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship.

We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

––Hattie L. Lucas

Tuesday Evening Bible Study via Zoom: 6-7 p.m.

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

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

Email: coopcityevangelicalumc@gmail.com Join us on December 16, from 6-9 p.m. for our for more information. Thank you.

Blessings, —Marta Medina Sanchez

Circle of Christ Church – Iglesia Circulo De Cristo 147 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475 (lower level).

Come As You Are… I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” –Psalm 122:1 If you are looking for a place of worship in the local area aimed at teaching the transforming word of God, Circle of Christ Church invites you to fellowship with us. We are a non-denominational, multicultural, and loving church that accepts you just the way you are. Our Senior Pastor, Elisamuel Colón, and the body of Christ are committed to loving people into a life-changing-liberating relationship with God. The English service has a Bible-centered children’s church for ages 5 to 12. We have a food pantry that serves the community; moreover, we offer family counseling based on need. If interested, please contact us at (347) 945-1992 or on facebook@Circle of Christ Church. See the schedule below and follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and on our website circleofchristchurch.com.

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

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

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

Spanish Bible Study on Facebook Live from 1:002:30 p.m.

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

Saturday: F.A.I.T.H. Outreach for the homeless, Women’s Fellowship, every second Sat. of the month, 12-2 p.m.

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

Men’s Fellowship, every other month Couples Fellowship, every other month Sunday Services: Spanish, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m., & English Service, 11:15 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier for screening at the door. To register for the English Services, call or text 929599-5488.

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 persona) 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 mujeres, 12:00-2:00 p.m.

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

Cada tercer sábado del mes: Adultos jóvenes, 12:00-2:00 p.m. (en persona). Para registrarse para los servicios en español, comuníquese al 347-7732809.

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

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

21

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

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

Saturday morning services will start at 10 a.m.

The requirement for wearing a mask and social distancing will be strictly enforced during all synagogue services.

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

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

The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are

a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

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

Sabbath ends on Saturday, December 3, at 5:21 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, December 9, at 4:08 p.m.

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

To All Members Happy birthday to all of our members who will be celebrating their birthday or anniversary in December. Please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

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

––Bruce Gitelson

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle The Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to worship service at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Bldg. 22A. Phone number: 718-324-0334. All services are held online, call 720-740-9746, Access Code: 8876631.

Sunday worship service starts at 11:00 a.m.

Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Friday evening worship service starts at 7:30 p.m.

Focus: There is only one gospel that can save from sin – the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preaches any other unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet please men, I should not be the servant of Christ, but I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.” (Galatians 1:8-11) Paul’s reprimand of the Galatians was strong and clear: “But though we or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that we have preach unto you let him be accursed.” In this statement, Paul admitted that even he could possibly slip from this wonderful gospel. Regardless, the Galatians should hold

to the truth of the gospel. Not even an angel from heaven is excused to preach any other gospel.

People who choose to depart from the true gospel always give excuses as to why they do not live for God. Some may try to excuse themselves based on the failure of a highly visible minister or another Christian who once was held in high esteem but fell prey to sin. But Paul did not even excuse himself to preach any other gospel message. He admonished the Galatians that even if he were to preach any other, they should not believe him.

The church belongs to God and not man, we preach an everlasting gospel for an everlasting church.

Paul states in (Galatians 1:11-12), “I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

The surety of the next words, “let him be accursed” seals the certainty that God has given this gospel. “Anathema” is the Greek word meaning accursed.

Anyone who preaches any other message is anathema which means they are excommunicated or cut off from God. Paul reiterated the word anathema to add emphasis to the seriousness of the matter, not from anger, he wanted to make sure that he does not leave any room for doubt or misunderstanding.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Newsong Church We saved a seat for you!

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs in to it and is safe.” (Proverbs 18:10) People seek security in all kinds of things … money, health, success, family, any moment they could be taken away from us.

Solomon drops some amazing truth for us in (Proverbs 18): “The name of the Lord is a strong tower!” When the walls of wealth come tumbling down, when sickness threatens our health, when our relationships start to crack and crumble around us, there is a tower that is able to withstand all of life’s uncertainties and keep us safe from the destruction of death itself! This strong tower is a person, and His name is Jesus!

Jesus paid the ultimate price for your salvation, something that your money, success, or friends could never do for you! Peter puts it this way… “knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.” (1 Peter 1:18-19) This weekend, you will be doing a lot of running. Your schedule is full, and you have got a lot going on, I totally get it. But I would like to encourage you to set aside two hours out of your Sunday and run into the house of God! Run into His presence, run into His love, run into His mercy and grace! So what are you waiting for? Register you and your family today, and experience Jesus in a fresh way…

We have saved a seat for you!

Here are some FAQ’s: Where is Newsong Church located? 135 Einstein Loop (upstairs).

Where is Newsong Deaf Church? Our adult worship experience for the deaf and hearing impaired is located in room 38.

Get involved!

Co-op City is your home. If you have talents, knowledge and expertise that can be helpful and improve the quality of life in Co-op City, share your ideas. Join your building association, contact Riverbay Management or pen a letter to the editor.

What time does everything start? 11 a.m.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably and casually.

What about the kids? We have an amazing children’s ministry called Kidsong, where your child will have fun and learn about Jesus! Kidsong is located in room 49.

How long is the service? About 90 minutes.

Can I attend if I am ________________? Fill in the blank with whatever fear you have about not being accepted: divorced, a single parent, broke, an addict, a skeptic, etc. Everyone is welcome at Newsong!

So, what are you waiting for? There is a God in heaven who loves you and freedom, discover your purpose, and make a difference in this life! Take your Contact us: Phone: 917-342-2559; Mailing Address: P.O. Box 100, Bx, NY 10475; Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org; website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org.

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

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, until further notice. Please stay tuned for any information regarding in-person worship.

In the meantime, Father Simeon Johnson will continue to conduct worship services 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

22

Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

CCPD –––– (Continued from page 7) If your December plans include consuming alcoholic beverages, do not operate a motor vehicle. Enforcement of drunk driving has increased nationwide in an attempt to reduce Drunk Driving deaths and injuries. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. Even fruity tasting drinks can contain a large amount of alcohol. It is best to make plans in advance not to drive.

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

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

Be observant and be mindful of your neighbor. Team up and look out for each other’s packages. Volunteer to receive a package or run an errand for a neighbor.

Pay attention to persons lurking near parked cars in the garage or on the street.

These are two crime trends throughout the nation.

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. munity. Wishing a Happy Holiday Season and a Happy New Year to all of my readers.

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 prevent the spread of a wide variety of illnesses. Please follow the latest guidance provided by the CDC and the New York City Department of Health regarding illness trends and recommended vaccinations. Also, remember that Co-op City has people with many different types of health conditions, spanning a large spectrum 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 cooperator and be Co-op City Strong.

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Co-op City Times / December 3, 2022

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