Co-op City Times 01/04/2025 by Co-op City Times

Several Arrests Made in Holiday Incidents in Co-op City

CCPD personnel responded to three incidents involving frearms during the Holiday season in Co-op City. The frst occurred on Monday December 23, 2024, when CCPD and NYPD received a call for service regarding shots fred in front of Building 26B in Section 5. This resulted in more than one location being cordoned off as a crime scene during the investigation. The initial shots fred were at Erdman and Einstein, leading to Erskine Pl./ Earhart Townhouses, and ultimately ending at Boller Avenue. Two weapons were recovered and three individuals arrested. This case remains open as both CCPD and NYPD continue investigating what led to the incident. Fortunately, no one was injured. In the second incident, which occurred on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, a non-resident was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Weapon (Firearm). At approximately 10:30 p.m. on Christmas evening, CCPD

units responded to Building 13 at 100 Casals Pl. for an unconscious male in the lobby. Upon arrival, a male was awakened and became combative. He was handcuffed for his and Offcers’ safety. The male was questioned and could not give a valid reason or verifable information for being in the building. The individual was searched incidental to lawful arrest, and the search produced a frearm. The male was then removed and processed for Criminal Possession of a Weapon. The following day, Thursday, December 26, 2024, at approximately 7:35 p.m., CCPD and the NYPD received calls for service and responded to the rear of Building 21. Offcers found multiple shell casings and cash scattered on the ground. Outer glass on a double-paned window was also shattered. There were no reports of injuries to any persons. This is an open and active investigation being conducted by CCPD and NYPD detectives.

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NY Strengthens Data Protection Laws

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a legislation package on December 21, 2024 designed to strengthen data protection laws for New Yorkers.

In total, the Governor signed six pieces of legislation, and below is a description of each law according to the Governor’s Offce.

Legislation S895B/A6789B – This law requires social media companies to disclose their terms of service “in a manner reasonably designed to inform all users of the social media platform of the existence and contents of the terms of service.” Social media companies must also submit reports on their terms of service to the NYS Attorney General’s offce and remedy any violations.

Legislation S2376B/A4737B – Amends the legal parameters of identity theft to also include stolen medical or insurance information.

Legislation S5615/A2833 – Requires that any “security features in devices procured by the government” must meet the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework.

Legislation S2659B/A8872A – For any business that is the victim of a data breach, they must notify affected New Yorkers within 30 days of the recorded breach. The business must also notify the NYS Attorney General’s Offce, the NY Department of State, the appropriate division of State Police, and the NYS Department of Financial Services.

Legislation S5703B/A1035B – Prohibits social media platforms from being used for debt collection.

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Monday, January 6, 2025

2024 Year in Review – July-December, 2024

BY DANIELLE CRUZ & ROZAAN BOONE

(The following is an account of the major events occurring in or affecting Co-op City during the last six months of 2024 as reported by the Co-op City Times. Last week’s issue highlighted the frst half of 2024.)

JULY

During July 2024, the second extension deadline for Co-op City shareholders to return their 2024 Riverbay Board of Directors election ballot was set for Friday, July 12. By July 5, 2024, approximately 91% of the required 5,035 ballots had been returned to YesElections, the independent election vendor.

After pausing congestion pricing in early June 2024, New York Governor Kathy Hochul released a statement reiterating her commitment to supporting the MTA, emphasizing that her team will continue working with the State Legislature and MTA offcials to deliver consistent funding for the MTA to carry out capital projects. Gov. Hochul also indicated that the MTA is currently in a “strong fnancial standing” and in a position to “continue to meet its responsibilities to its millions of riders to provide safe and timely transport.”

New York City Council members voted to approve the Fiscal Year 2025 budget on June 30, 2024. The $112.4 billion budget prioritized several areas of investment, such as: housing affordability, early childhood education, public schools, student support programs, CUNY programming, public safety, community institutions and essential city services.

On Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at approximately 6:38 p.m., a vehicle crashed into a wall in Garage 8. According to the Riverbay Parking and Leasing department, the accident occurred in Section 4D of the garage. No injuries from the crash were reported, but the driver was transported to the hospital for medical attention. A tow truck removed the vehicle from the crash site and emergency Maintenance worked quickly to cover the hole with plywood and a metal barricade.

The Harvest Home Farmers Market also returned to Co-op City in July. The market was open every Wednesday and Saturday, from 7 a.m.-3 p.m., in the park between Asch Loop and Aldrich Avenue (adjacent to the frehouse).

On July 10, 2024 senior offcials from the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) met with Riverbay’s executive management team for a tour of Co-op City. Before the tour, Management sat down with the DHCR representatives to give a brief overview of how Co-op City and Riverbay are structured.

The 2024 Riverbay Election Committee extended the voting period for the 2024 Board election a third time after more than 230 ballots were still needed to make the quorum and validate the election. The new voting period was set to end on July 26 at 9 p.m.

On July 6, 2024 shareholders from Co-op City and individuals from across New York gathered at the Section 2 Greenway to watch the annual Co-op City

The Co-op City Times sat down with Grounds department director, Mike Ambo, to talk about upcoming projects and work that will be happening in Co-op City during the summer to maintain the grounds and fowers planted across the community. Mr. Ambo also shared that in the fall, the Black Pine trees located in the back of the Asch Loop Townhouses and the rear of Buildings 15, 16 and 17 were going to be removed.

Riverbay’s independent election vendor, YesElections, reported that the quorum for the 2024 Riverbay Board of Directors election had been obtained on Tuesday night, July 23, 2024. This year’s quorum was realized after approximately 10 weeks of voting and necessitated three extensions before the number of ballots to validate the election – 5,035 – were received. The Election Committee was then set to review and certify the fnal count of ballots cast at an open meeting on July 31, 2024.

A notice to shareholders was published explaining that Riverbay Corporation is monitored by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) when conducting removal of wood fooring and that every building is registered and a permit (ACP 7’S) is required when doing this work. The notice also informed shareholders that at that point in time, due to adjustments being made to

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Firework Show & Concert.

processes by DEP, Riverbay was unable to schedule any fooring work and was currently working with the DEP and an environmental company to remedy the situation and resume service as soon as possible.

On July 31, 2024 long-time Co-op City shareholder Ms. Louise Signore celebrated her 112th birthday. She was born in Harlem in 1912, was an MTA employee for 39 years, and is said to credit her longevity to never having married or having children, staying active and having fun.

Chief Joseph Riley, Commander of Co-op City’s Public Safety Department, retired on August 3, 2024 after nearly six years of serving Co-op City and 44 years in law enforcement. Chief Riley, who joined CCPD in September of 2018, started his law enforcement career with the NYPD as an offcer in the 77th Precinct in Brooklyn, NY before being promoted to Sergeant in 1985, Lieutenant in 1989, Captain in 1992, Deputy Inspector in 1998, and ultimately, Deputy Chief in 2010, before joining CCPD. Captain Frankie Torres was named CCPD’s interim chief.

AUGUST

After reviewing and certifying all of the ballots received, the 2024 Election Committee announced the six candidates who successfully competed in the 2024 Riverbay Board of Directors election. All three incumbents who sought reelection were voted in, as well as two former directors and one newcomer. This year’s top voter getters were Leah Graham, a former director who previously served two terms on the Riverbay Board. She won 2,832 votes. Mary Pearson, an incumbent director, placed second, garnering 2,761 votes. Bernard Cylich, also an incumbent director, scored 2,521 votes for third place. Jacqueline Smith, another former Board director, and Kyshwan White, a new shareholder who has not previously run for the Board, placed fourth and ffth, respectively. Ms. Smith received 2,417 votes and Mr. White, 2,304 votes. Incumbent director Andrea Leslie fnished in sixth place with 2,293 votes.

cation Project in Co-op City. The frst phase of the project, which included upgrades to the front elevators in Garages 3, 7, and 8, as well as the rear elevator in Garage 6, had been successfully completed. The next phase of the project began on Aug. 21, 2024. This phase focused on the front elevator in Garage 6, as well as the rear elevators in Garages 3, 7, and 8. These upgrades were expected to be completed by mid-December 2024. Inspections for elevators in Garages 1, 2, 4, and 5 were also being scheduled with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) and expected to be completed by Sept. 23, 2024.

An Open Board meeting and Gallery Session was held on Aug. 28, 2024. During the Gallery Session, shareholders congratulated the new Board directors and asked questions ranging from Riverbay’s upcoming Home Improvement Fair, the $51M that was allocated to Co-op City by the State Legislature, updates on the Youth Center and noise concerns. During the Board business meeting, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton presented his Management Report, and Board Directors voted to approve Resolution 2442, which pertained to the procurement of 15,707 natural gas detecting devices for Co-op City.

Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton’s published his monthly Management Report and provided updates on the ongoing progress for staffng the Public Safety Department, Local Law 126, Garage Elevator Modernization Project, Flooring work in apartments, Mitchell-Lama Preservation Program ($50 Million Allocation), Budget Planning Calendar for the 2-year budget cycle, and the ongoing convector initiatives.

Riverbay Board President Sonia Feliciano published her fnal report as president of the Board. She thanked the community and the Board and spoke about the changes that the Board made during her tenure as Board president.

Riverbay Safety director, Anthony Barzelatto, discussed fre safety and reminded shareholders what they should do if their smoke or carbon monoxide detector goes off.

Bronx Community Board 10 (CB#10) voted no on Mayor Eric Adams’ City of Yes housing initiative during a June 20, 2024 meeting. The plan, called the City of Yes For Housing Opportunity (COYFHO), has eight components and aims to address New York City’s housing shortage by amending existing zoning laws to allow for more housing across the fve boroughs, as explained by the New York City Department of City Planning (DCP).

Members of the U.S. Senate voted nearly unanimously to approve two pieces of legislation aimed at protecting children on the internet. The two bills, the Children’s and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0) and the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), passed with a vote of 91-3.

Shareholders were notifed that on Friday, July 26, 2024 one of the chillers used to cool the water that fows through the coils located inside the convectors that supply air conditioning to Co-op City apartments had to be taken offine temporarily for maintenance repair. Following the repair, when Power Plant personnel attempted to return the chiller to service on Saturday, July 27, it did not turn on for issues unrelated to the repair. Staff immediately began troubleshooting the unit to determine the cause.

The Co-op City Times sat down with Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto to discuss Riverbay’s mold remediation program and what shareholders can do to help prevent the growth of mold in their apartments.

On August 14, 2024 the Riverbay Board of Directors held an Open Board meeting to swear in the newly elected Board directors and elect the offcers for the 2024-2025 year. After a vote by the new Board, Director Rod Saunders was elected president of the Board; Director Leslie Peterson was elected frst vice president, and Director Leah Graham, second vice president; Director Kyshawn White was elected treasurer, and Director Jacqueline Smith as assistant treasurer; Director Bernard Cylich was elected secretary and Director Mary Pearson, assistant secretary.

In early August 2024, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine released a report detailing the city’s growing problem with ghost plates. Unreadable plates, also called ghost plates, allow individuals to evade tolls and disregard traffc laws that are enforced via cameras. Levine’s report highlighted that every month, approximately 5% of vehicles citywide passing through red light cameras, speed cameras and toll stations have plates that are unreadable.

Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders published his frst report as the president of the 2024-2025 Board, thanking the community and the Board. He also discussed the quality-of-life issues he plans on addressing during his tenure.

The MTA announced that they will begin issuing violations for drivers who obstruct bus stops and bus lanes on August 19, 2024. Drivers who block or double park by a bus stop would be issued a $50 summons that can climb to $250 per infraction for repeat violators.

Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton provided shareholders with the Budget Planning Calendar for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 and 2026/2027. He also explained that internally, Management is implementing a zero-based budgeting (ZBB) process for Riverbay departments.

Riverbay Management provided an update on the ongoing Garage Modif-

On Aug. 26, 2024 Mayor Eric Adams announced a new initiative aimed at connecting more New Yorkers with helpful resources. The initiative, called “Money In Your Pocket,” is designed to help New Yorkers learn about what resources they are eligible for as part of an overarching effort to improve affordability citywide.

SEPTEMBER

Shareholders were notifed that in the fall, Riverbay would begin installing natural gas detectors throughout the community in compliance with Local Law 157, which requires the mandatory installation of natural gas detecting devices in residential buildings on or before May 1, 2025. Local Law 157 was passed back in 2016, in response to a number of deadly gas explosions in New York City in 2014 and 2015. The device being installed in Co-op City is the Denoa Detect 10-Year Battery Operated Natural Gas Detector with voice alert.

Newly elected Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders published his second President’s Report to the community, in which he outlined several forthcoming issues that would impact Co-op City.

The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) amended Local Law 126 in 2023 requiring all parking garage owners to have an initial one-time inspection conducted by a Qualifed Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI) completed by Aug. 1, 2024. Prior to this amendment, DOB required parking garage owners to hire a QPSI “at least once every six years and fle a report with the Department of Buildings documenting the results of the inspection.” To comply with the regulation, Riverbay hired O&S Associates to inspect each of the eight parking garages and fle the necessary reports with DOB.

Riverbay Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto sat down with the Co-op City Times to discuss safety within apartments. Among the topics discussed were the importance of shareholders reading the labels on cleaning products to avoid reactions that may release vapors that could be harmful to their health; fall prevention, changing light bulbs and appliance safety.

Shareholders were informed about the Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade Showcase that was set to be held by Riverbay Management in the Dreiser Auditorium on Sept. 23, 2024 for those interested in updating the look of their kitchen. The project, spearheaded by Riverbay Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III, is an offshoot of the TurnKey program, and seeks to allow shareholders who have lived in their apartments for some years the opportunity to upgrade to the new Riverbay standard – white Shaker cabinets with soft closing doors and brush nickel hardware, beautiful quartz-look countertops and a stainless-steel sink.

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CO - OP CITY TIMES

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Package Deliveries

Shareholders making online purchases are strongly encouraged to utilize alternate delivery locations supplied by online services. Direct delivery to lockers, hubs, and secure alternate delivery locations will decrease inconvenience, reduce crimes of opportunity and provide a reliable method of securing items.

Shareholder Orientation Video

Whether you are a new or a long-time shareholder, the Riverbay Shareholder Orientation video is available on our website! Explore helpful tips and resources to make the most of living in our community. Check it out today! Visit coopcity.com and click on the Apply page or scan the QR code below.

BY DANIELLE CRUZ

Gov. Says MTA Cannot Raise CBD Tolls by 25% During Gridlock Alert Days

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Drivers will not have to pay 25% more for their Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP) fares during gridlock alert days, Governor Kathy Hochul clariﬁed on December 26, 2024.

With the CBDTP set to begin this Sunday, January 5, the Governor clariﬁed a stipulation that would have otherwise allowed the MTA to raise the congestion pricing fare by 25% on days deemed by the New York City Department of Transit as gridlock alert days.

“Hardworking New Yorkers deserve a break, which is why I fought to cut the congestion pricing toll by 40%,” said Governor Hochul. “This will reduce trafﬁc in Manhattan and fund long-overdue investments in public transit, while keeping costs lower for New Yorkers who drive into the city. We have spoken to the MTA and made it clear: under no circumstances will I allow this discretionary 25% surcharge on gridlock days to be used.”

Notably, the latest MTA CBDTP toll schedule did point out that the MTA “reserves the right to charge a 25% higher CBD charge during Gridlock Alert Days.”

This surcharge rule states that, “each year, the NYCDOT identiﬁes Gridlock Alert Days during the UN General Assembly and throughout the holiday season when heavy trafﬁc is expected in Manhattan. On Gridlock Alert Days, consider walking, biking, or taking mass transit for any trips in Manhattan.”

An MTA source told the New York Post on December 25, 2024 that the agency would most likely not have gridlock alert day surcharges in 2025. However, the MTA source also highlighted that the gridlock alert day surcharge was always going to be part of the congestion pricing fare structure.

As a recap, the following is a breakdown of the fares for both E-ZPass users and all other customers, according to the MTA:

Daytime Tolls:

• Passenger vehicles (once per day) – $9 for E-ZPass users and $13.50 for others

• Motorcycles (once per day) – $4.50 for E-ZPass users and $6.75 for others

• Small Trucks and non-commuter buses – $14.40 for E-ZPass users and $21.60 for others

• Large trucks and tour buses – $21.60 for E-ZPass users and $32.40 for others

Nighttime Tolls:

• All vehicles get a 75% discount on their daytime toll rate.

Tunnel Crossing Credits:

• Drivers with a valid EZPass who utilize either the Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, Queens-Midtown Tunnel, or Hugh L. Carey Tunnel to enter the city during peak hours can receive a crossing credit to reduce their toll upon entering the central business district. With the latest update to toll rates in November, tunnel crossing credits are also 40% lower to keep in line with the decreased toll rates.

Per-Ride Fees for all trips to, from or within the Central Business District:

• Taxis and black cars – $0.75 per trip

• App-based for-hire vehicles – $1.50 per trip

While the new congestion fare will start at $9 for E-ZPass users and is locked in for the duration of 2025 through 2027, as stipulated in the toll schedule, the fare is expected to increase to no more than $12 for the duration of 2028 through 2030. Ultimately, the original $15 toll is expected to begin in 2031 as opposed to 2025.

Congestion pricing faced steep legal opposition leading up to January 5. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber discussed the latest ruling by U.S. Senior Judge Leo Gordon on December 30, 2024.

“We’re gratified that on virtually every issue, Judge Gordon agreed with the New York federal court and rejected New Jersey’s claim that the Environmental Assessment approved 18 months ago was deficient,” Lieber said. “Most important, the decision does not interfere with the program’s scheduled implementation this coming Sunday, January 5. On the two remaining issues where the Judge requested that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provide additional data – information that was not yet before the Court in this proceeding – we’re confident that the subsequent Federal actions, including the approval of the revised, reduced toll rates, did put those issues to rest.”

Holiday Charity Scams

As the holiday season wraps up, many individuals may feel inspired to give back and support various charities. Unfortunately, this time of year also brings out scammers eager to exploit that generosity.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, in 2023 there were 9,809 reports of charity fraud nationwide, but the number may be much higher due to many of these scams going unreported. Many charity scam victims never know that they gave money to a fake organization. Many of the scam charities, at ﬁrst glance, look legitimate as scammers will pretend to be afﬁliated with wellknown organizations or even the government.

However, while charity scams have become more sophisticated and harder to spot over the years, there are still ways for consumers to protect themselves and their donations by learning how to spot red ﬂags and verify charities. Verify Charities Before Donating

One way to check the legitimacy of a charity is to check the NYS Attorney General’s database of registered charities. The database can be found at https:// bit.ly/4fyyOCd. In New York, charities operating within the state are required by law to register and file annual financial reports with the Attorney General’s office. However, some organizations, such as religious organizations, are exempt from registering, and may not appear in the database.

The Better Business Bureau also has their own database of regional and local charities as part of their Charity Accountability Program. The database can be found at https://give.org/

If the organization does not appear on any of the databases, that does not necessarily mean they are not a real charity, but it may be a sign that you should

investigate more before donating.

Scammers will also often create fake websites and imitate legitimate charities in order to trick individuals into donating. So, while the website address might look legitimate at ﬁrst glance, it is always a good idea to look up the charity yourself through a search engine, especially if you were redirected from a link. If the domain name doesn’t match the ofﬁcial name or website, it could be a scam site. Also, be on the lookout for any misspelled words, poor grammar, or a website that has an inconsistent design. Legitimate charity organization websites also typically use .org, not .com.

Also be on the lookout for charities that try to pressure you into donating right away. Instead ask for the charity name and contact information so you can do your own research. Scammers will also often try to use fake, heart-wrenching stories in order to guilt people into donating immediately. They are counting on you to be emotionally moved by the story and wanting to donate without stopping to verify the information they provided.

The NYS Division of Consumer Protection also warns that charity fraud scams can come in many forms, whether by email, social media, crowdfunding platforms or cold calls. They also warn that online crowdfunding websites, like GoFundMe, make it easy for people to solicit donations for causes that are harder to vet and recommend only giving donations to people you know.

Protect

Your Personal Information

A charity will never need personal information like your Social Security number in order for you to make a donation.

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The Riverbay Power Plant reported that AC would be taken ofﬂine on Monday, Sept. 23, 2024 and heat changeover work and maintenance would begin to prepare the plant to transition to heating operations.

The Riverbay Grounds department started a landscaping project at Buildings 16, 1, 4, 5 and the Asch Loop Townhouses to remove diseased and infested trees and prepare the area for reseeding and replanting of new trees in Spring 2025.

Shareholders were notiﬁed that long-time Co-op City shareholder and former president of the Building 25 Association, Dock Harvey, lost his son, Eric, to cancer at the age of 55. Eric grew up in Co-op City and retired from the NYPD Housing Bureau in 2008. In 2011, he was diagnosed with cancer. Eric was a ﬁrst responder who worked at the recovery site after the World Trade Center was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001.

Co-op City shareholders were also informed about the passing of Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr., a long-standing Co-op City shareholder and pastor of the Church of the Savior which operated in Co-op City several years ago. Dr. Smith also facilitated the weekly JASA Bereavement support group, was an accomplished author and motivational speaker.

The Riverbay Board of Directors held a Gallery Session on Sept. 25, 2024 where shareholders were able to speak to the Board about a range of topics, such as cleanliness of the basements, sanitation, employment and business practices and change orders.

The Board of Directors also held their Board meeting after the Gallery Session. At the start of the meeting, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton presented the Management Report and there was also a presentation from the corporation’s auditors, PFK O’Connor Davies, on the results of their audit of Riverbay’s ﬁnancial year, April 2023 to March 31, 2024. The Board then discussed and voted on several resolutions.

Co-chair of the Riverbay Board Committee on Committees, Director Anika Green-Watson, issued a notice to shareholders explaining what committees are, their function and responsibility to the Riverbay Board. The notice invited shareholders to stay tuned to the next issue of the newspaper for the list of 2024-2025 committees along with information on how cooperators can sign up to serve.

Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton’s Management Report pro-

vided updates to shareholders about Public Safety stafﬁng, Local Law 126, bike racks to be installed strategically around the community, planned 8-hour hot water outage, 32BJ Training Fund Partnership, 2-year budget planning and convector initiatives.

The Kitchen Cabinet Upgrade Showcase was held on Sept. 23, 2024. At the showcase, shareholders were able to see a model of the new Riverbay kitchen standards being installed in renovated apartments and ask questions about the program. Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III, Interim Deputy General Manager Joshua Blake, Restorations Director Edgar Perez and Restorations Project Manager Tony Oh were on hand to answer questions from shareholders about the process, vendors and materials used.

OCTOBER

New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced that the Delaware Aqueduct, which supplies about 600 gallons of water a day to New York City, is being shut down. This project is part of a $2 billion repair initiative to address massive leaks in the aqueduct system that results in nearly 35 million gallons of drinking water leaking into the ground daily under the Hudson River. To ﬁx this leak, for nearly a decade, the DEP has been constructing a 2.5-mile bypass tunnel around the large leak.

The Riverbay Board Committee on Committees (“COC”), co-chaired by Board Directors Anika Green-Watson and Leah Richardson, recommended eight committees to Board President Rod Saunders for the 2024-25 year. Chairpersons of each committee were to be appointed by the president at a future date, with the consent of the Board of Directors. The list of Board committees for 2024-25 was also posted in the Co-op City Times.

Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron ruled in favor of two lawsuits seeking to force NY Governor Kathy Hochul to lift the current pause on the Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP), also known as congestion pricing. Judge Engoron ruled that the two lawsuits could proceed and denied the motion from Governor Hochul’s legal team to dismiss both cases.

Eligible New Yorkers who were not registered to vote in the 2024 General Elections were encouraged to do so before the voter registration deadline on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024.

Ofﬁcials from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

Data Protection ––– (Continued from page 1)

Legislation S1759B/A1057C – This law protects New Yorkers who use online dating platforms from falling victim to fraud by requiring online dating platforms to notify a user “in a timely manner” if they are engaging with or have previously engaged with another user on the platform who was banned or violated the platform’s terms of service.

During her press conference, Governor Hochul discussed the importance of protecting New Yorkers’ online data and holding social media companies more accountable for the content on their platforms after signing the legislation package.

“New Yorkers should never have to worry about their personal information being misused or falling into the wrong hands. With this legislative package, we are taking bold action to hold companies accountable, strengthen protections, and give consumers the transparency and security they need and deserve,” the Governor said.

2023 data from the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) showed that approximately one million Americans fled a report about identity theft. Of the million reported identity theft claims, roughly 42% of the reports were fled by “people who said their information was misused with an existing credit card or when applying for a new credit card,” according to the FTC. The data also highlighted that individuals between the ages of 30-39 fled the highest number of identity theft reports with the 40-49 age range coming in second. New York ranked 17 out of all the states for most identity theft reports with 51,484 reports in 2023.

Arrests

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“I would like to express appreciation to CCPD members of service who perform outstanding work every day to maintain the safety and quality-of-life of resident shareholders and their guests in Co-op City,” said Interim Chief Frank Torres of the Co-op City Public Safety Department. “All of the incidents described above were handled professionally with the help of the community – shareholders who heard something and said something – as well as joint support from the NYPD. The totality of these efforts is what keeps the community stable and safe.”

Submit Your Art to Co-op City Creatives

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

The column, “Co-op City Creatives,” debuted in January 2022 in the Co-op City Times and has served as an outlet for a diverse set of artists in this community. Publishing the narratives of both novice and seasoned creatives has helped to underscore the culture of Co-op City. All mediums are welcome, including prose, verse, performance, visual, digital, and plastic arts. As lifelong learners using their art to inform audiences, interviewees emphasize their formative experiences as well as advice for new artists.

Email your work to cctimes@riverbaycorp. com with the subject “Co-op Creatives,” a short bio and your phone number. Resubmissions are encouraged if you have not yet been featured. Local artists can make the fourth year of Co-op City Creatives the most innovative to date.

The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be

not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writers and include their

verify the

All

– • Letters to the Editor • –

Hello, 2025!

To the Editor:

Happy New Year to everyone! I hope the New Year brings a positive attitude, healthy lifestyle, spiritual renewal and the mental fortitude to deal with life’s challenges. Please pack your patience when time gets away from you. Pack your kindness, when you recognize or become aware, kindness will turn the tide. So long 2024, hello 2025.

—Ruth Sharma

Be sure to subscribe to the ofﬁcial Co-op City YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/ 3h6CrF7. Stay informed!

Keeping our Community Safe

To the Editor:

It’s ofﬁcial! We had shots ﬁred, this time in Section 4, resulting in the outer glass of a window pane in Building 21C, Bellamy Loop, being shattered. I hate to say this and some may not like it, but if we don’t protect what we have, it will have the same reputation as some projects, not all. Now, I don’t want to hear stuff happens everywhere which is true but too much stuff/shootings are happening in our beloved community which I truly love! The police found several bullet casings and cash on the ground. My fellow shareholders, once the genie is out of the bottle, he’s almost impossible to put back in! This happened about 7:40 p.m. on Thursday evening, 12/26/2024, and it was cold out…SMH

We also had shots ﬁred in Section 5 a few days ago during the afternoon and no one was hurt; more importantly, the kids weren’t in school! I hope the NYPD cameras I was instrumental in having installed with the help of Assemblyman Michael Benedetto throughout our community caught something. Plus, I hope the cameras I requested to be installed behind Building 21 and 20 a few years ago caught something!

P.S. I would like to express my thanks to CCPD for keeping us safe, especially considering the manpower challenges they’ve had!

God, please keep my beloved community safe!

—Junius Williams

Share Your Comments & Suggestions with Riverbay

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

If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the Riverbay Board and/or Management, visit the Home page of the ofﬁcial Co-op City website, coopcity.com, or scan the QR Code here to be connected. Scroll down to “Useful Links” and click on “Send Comments & Suggestions.” Be an engaged shareholder. Help improve quality of life in Co-op City.

(Continued from page 3)

Never click on any links, text messages, or pop-ups that are asking for donations. Clicking on those links can allow the scammers access to your personal information or allow them access to download malware onto your device. Also, if you click on a social media link for a charity and are redirected to another website, check the site’s URL. If it doesn’t begin with https://, that is a red ﬂag. Rather than clicking on a link, search up the website and ﬁnd the charity’s legitimate website before donating.

Use Safe Payment Methods

When sending money to a charity, the NYS Division of Consumer Protection also advises that you use a check or credit card to ensure that you have a record of the donation. The checks should also be made out to the charity, not to an individual. If you do suspect that you sent money to a fake charity, contact your bank immediately to dispute the charges.

If you choose to donate via the charity’s website, check for the padlock icon on the left side of the URL search bar to ensure that the site is secure.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also cautions

Co-op City Times

Co-op City’s ofﬁcial newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. (718) 320-3300, ext. 3375 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Danielle Cruz

Managing Editor

Brandi Simpson

Junior Associate Editor

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti

Operations Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer

Sheldon Green

Multi-Media Advertising Manager

Brandon Ortiz Media Assistant

P.M. Campbell

Media Assistant

against paying with cryptocurrency, a wire transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram, a payment app, or a gift card, as these payments typically have no protections against fraud.

When mailing a check, it is also advisable that you go directly to the post ofﬁce to mail it. If you need to use a public collection mailbox, try to do so before the last pickup of the day to minimize the amount of time the check spends in the box.

If you are the victim of a charity scam, you can report it to the New York Attorney General’s Charities Bureau by visiting https://bit.ly/4fyyOCd or by calling 212-4168401. You can also report scams to the FTC by visiting ReportFraud.ftc.gov or by calling the FTC’s Consumer Response Center at 877-382-4357. You can also contact the New York State Department of Consumer Protection at www.dos.ny.gov to report a scam.

To help ﬁlter out unwanted scam phone calls, you can place your personal phone number on the Do Not Call Registry by calling 888-382-1222 or visiting www.donotcall.gov.

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 30

Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Ofﬁce, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

Building 30 A & B

4120 & 4100 Hutchinson River Parkway

Current Lease

Expiration Date: March 31, 2025

New 3-Year Expiration Date: March 31, 2028

Send Us Your Letters: The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be signed by the writer and include their address and phone number, which will be kept conﬁdential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the author.

Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be submitted to the Co-op City Times by 3 p.m. Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Email cctimes@riverbaycorp.com or mail to 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 21, Bronx, NY 10475. Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp.

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

The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

Scams –––

Cannabis Use

was Public Safety Report

BY SGT. JOSEPH VARGAS

On March 31, 2021, under Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act was enacted, legalizing adult use of recreational marijuana and the new Ofﬁce of Cannabis Management (OCM), governed by a Cannabis Control Board, was created to oversee and moderate use. The law is speciﬁc in its guidance of where, when and how much an adult can use and carry.

Co-op City Department of Public Safety: (718) 671-3050

Tips/Concerns/Comments: info@ccpd.us

Follow on X: @CCPDnyc

Visit us at: www.ccpd.us

Recreational use of marijuana is legal in New York City for adults 21 years of age and older, anywhere that tobacco smoking is permitted. This includes in Co-op City. An adult can possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana on their person or up to 24 grams of

Public Safety Blotter

December 22 – December 28, 2024

December 22, 2024

99 Asch Loop – A cooperator reported returning to his parked vehicle in Garage 5 and discovering that the front license plate had been removed by an unknown individual without his permission.

140 Benchley Place – A cooperator reported that a conﬁrmed delivered package was removed from in front of his apartment door by an unknown individual without his permission.

100 Bellamy Loop – A cooperator reported that a conﬁrmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission.

140 DeKruif Place – A cooperator reported purchasing a vehicle from a seller via Facebook Marketplace. After driving the vehicle home and double-parking it in front of his building for 30 minutes, he returned to ﬁnd the vehicle missing. Attempts to contact the seller were unsuccessful. NYPD was notiﬁed.

December 23, 2024

100 DeKruif Place – A cooperator reported that a conﬁrmed delivered package was removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without her permission.

165 Einstein Loop – CCPD and NYPD responded to reports of shots ﬁred near 100 Erdman Place. Upon arrival, multiple witnesses provided information regarding the incident. Following a canvass of the area, three males were apprehended. CCPD recovered a ﬁrearm, and NYPD recovered a knife. No injuries were reported. The investigation is ongoing jointly with NYPD and CCPD.

December 24, 2024

120 Erskine Place – A cooperator reported that two conﬁrmed delivered packages were removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without her permission.

140 Bellamy Loop – CCPD responded to reports of two individuals loitering in the fifth-floor stairwell. Upon arrival, officers observed a cooperator and her friend loitering and smoking cigarettes. The cooperator was issued two Community

Complaints: one for loitering and another for smoking in the building.

December 25, 2024

100 Benchley Place – CCPD responded to a report of a male knocking on an apartment door. Upon arrival, the male was found on the fourth ﬂoor with his girlfriend, who did not give him permission to visit. After being escorted out of the building, the male returned and was arrested for trespassing. He was issued a Criminal Court summons and released.

100 Casals Place – CCPD responded to a call regarding an unconscious male in the lobby near the stairs. Upon arrival, ofﬁcers found the male sleeping. When asked to leave, the male became combative. Following a brief struggle, he was arrested and found to be in possession of a ﬁrearm. No injuries were reported. The male, a non-resident, was transferred to the 45th Precinct for further processing.

December 26, 2024

140 Bellamy Loop – CCPD and NYPD responded to reports of shots ﬁred. Upon arrival, ofﬁcers found multiple shell casings and money scattered on the ground. No injuries were reported, and the investigation is ongoing jointly with CCPD and NYPD detectives.

December 27, 2024

99 Erskine Place – A cooperator reported returning to his parked vehicle in Garage 8 and discovering that the driver’s side keyhole guard had been removed, and his E-Z Pass tag was found on the ground outside the vehicle.

920 Baychester Avenue – A cooperator reported that a conﬁrmed delivered package was removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without her permission.

December 28, 2024

99 Erskine Place – A cooperator reported returning to his parked vehicle in Garage 8 to ﬁnd that it had been removed by an unknown individual without his permission.

120 Aldrich Street – A cooperator reported that a conﬁrmed delivered package was removed from the lobby area by an unknown individual without her permission.

cannabis in the form of oil for vapes or edibles. People can not only possess but can purchase cannabis products at licensed dispensaries.

Cannabis use is still monitored and regulated. Law enforcement, including Co-op City Public Safety Department (CCPD), may take action when it is suspected that minors are using marijuana. Appropriate action may include, but is not limited to, contacting legal guardians, imposing ﬁnes and contacting resources for determent. Locally, New York State Law also prohibits the use of cannabis within 100 feet of Co-op City schools, playgrounds, or the Bartow library.

NYS Law declares that a person cannot be denied by private housing due to personal cannabis use. However, private housing can prohibit or limit marijuana use within homes. Repeat offenses will result in the ﬁne being doubled for each offense. The law additionally states that simply the smell of marijuana is not enough to ﬁne an apartment or individual in the immediate area for smoking marijuana in a prohibited area.

It is absolutely against the law to operate a motor vehicle in Co-op City or New York while using cannabis. Law enforcement observation of reckless driving or suspicious activity may initiate an investigation for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The new cannabis law enforcement limits search of a vehicle based on the smell of cannabis to only areas a driver can easily reach. A driver can be arrested for operating a vehicle while under the influence even while sitting in a parked vehicle. The penalty for operating a motor vehicle while impaired can range from a $1,000 fine to a year in imprisonment.

The Co-op City Police Department is dedicated to improving the quality of life and the safety of all members of the Riverbay Community. We respect a person’s rights to recreational and medical marijuana use and will promptly investigate and take appropriate action when use is reported or observed in unlawful circumstances.

SCAM ALERT: Remember not to divulge personal identiﬁcation, including date of birth, address, Social Security number, bank accounts, bank or credit cards to anyone who you do not know and trust.

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, please see below for instructions.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunities, please visit the following sites:

www.Indeed.com https://indeedhi.re/

www.Glassdoor.com https://bit.ly/3SgI9Go

www.ZipRecruiter.com https://bit.ly/3Se8bdw

Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply at any 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

Director’s Viewpoint Mary Pearson, Assistant Secretary

Jimmy Carter’s Legacy

President Jimmy Carter passed away last Sunday.

After an industrious childhood in rural Georgia, Jimmy Carter attended the U.S. Naval Academy, studied nuclear physics, graduated in 1946, married his bride of 77 years in 1947, worked on atomic submarine development, and at one point was tasked with leading a crew of 23 in shutting down and cleaning up a highly radioactive damaged reactor core in 90-second, nearly lethal, increments. Just like in the movies. Or as the drama-less naval report sums it up: “The core was shut down, rebuilt and put back into operation without further incident.”

When his father died, Carter left the Navy to run the family farm, which literally earned peanuts until he could set it on a productive path. (The farm’s net proﬁt, thanks to a 1954 drought, totaled $187 that year.)

Carter started his political career in the 60’s serving two terms as a Georgia state senator where he accomplished overturning “laws designed to discourage African Americans from voting.”

Afterward, having lost his ﬁrst run for governor of Georgia in 1966 to a white supremacist, Carter changed strategies for the 1970 race by predominantly courting white voters. His segregationist deception lost the leading local paper’s endorsement but won the “ignorant, racist, backward, ultra-conservative, red-necked South Georgia peanut farmer” the governorship.

At the inaugural speech, his constituents soon learned they had inadvertently elected a progressive reformer. Carter told those gathered: “The time for racial discrimination is over… No poor, rural, weak, or Black person should ever have to bear the addi-

tional burden of being deprived of the opportunity of an education, a job, or simple justice.”

Surprise!

During his 1971-1975 gubernatorial term, he emphasized “ecology, efﬁciency in government, and the removal of racial barriers.” Before his term ended, he campaigned to take those goals to the federal level.

Once in the White House, Carter brokered a lasting peace treaty between Egypt and Israel, expanded and protected our national park system, increased social services, created the Department of Education and the Department of Energy, bolstered the Social Security system, put solar panels on the roof, and “appointed record numbers of women, Blacks, and Hispanics to Government jobs.” One source did the arithmetic. The number of non-white appointees exceeded the total appointed by Carter’s 38 predecessors – combined.

The Iran hostage crisis, a failed rescue mission, and subterfuge by his opponent’s party lost Jimmy Carter a second term – by a landslide.

The subterfuge? A deal allegedly made by Ronald Reagan’s campaign manager William J. Casey that promised to ship arms to Iran in exchange for keeping the hostages captive until after the 1980 election, though suspected and investigated, was unproven at the time. But 40-odd years later, damning details of the arrangement were told to Peter Baker of the New York Times by one of the players in the plot: Ben Barnes.

Barnes had been on the overseas trip to send Iran the message and decided to reveal what he had witnessed, 43 years later. Why? Eighty-ﬁve-year-old Mr. Barnes is quoted in the Times’ piece as saying, “History needs to know this happened… I guess knowing that the end is near for President Carter put it on my mind more and more and more.”

they were going to vote on whether or not to release the hostages just before the votes were cast in this country,” Carter said about his 1980 defeat. “I have always been convinced that this was a major factor.”

After leaving the White House, Jimmy Carter built houses for the poor, battled six “Neglected Tropical Diseases,” wrote dozens of books, had a nuclear submarine named for him, won a Nobel Peace Prize and continued teaching Sunday School into his 90s.

“We kept the peace. Never went to war. Never lied to the American people. Never misled the American people. So, in general terms, I feel perfectly at ease with my term.”

Instead of a two-term environmentalist, we elected a man who moved into the White House and took down the solar panels.

What happened to the scrapped panels? According to an August 6, 2010, Scientiﬁc American article, one panel, “landed this week at a science museum in China.”

Another is in the Smithsonian. Another in the Carter Library. Sixteen wound up on the cafeteria roof at Unity College in Maine.

At the June 20, 1979, dedication, Carter wrongly predicted, “In the year 2000, this solar water heater behind me, which is being dedicated today, will still be here supplying cheap, efﬁcient energy.” That was the wishful-thinking part of his speech.

The next, more realistic part, proved to be more accurate, “A generation from now, this solar heater can either be a curiosity, a museum piece, an example of a road not taken, or it can be just a small part of one of the greatest and most exciting adventures ever undertaken by the American people.”

In hospice, at the age of 99, although virtually every publication ran with the story, no further comment from the former president about his sabotaged second presidential run emerged. But he’d surely known all about the deal, at least according to a 1989 interview with PBS. “There was a ﬂurry of activity in their Iranian parliament that

The panels had been President Carter’s second introduction of solar power into the White House. His inaugurations’ reviewing stand symbolically warmed the participants more than two years earlier. Symbolically because it was a very cold, cloudy day and the solar panels didn’t offer much actual protective warmth. The structure’s recycled bits were transformed into a bandstand that hosts free concerts in Georgia.

In a 1980 presidential debate, Reagan slammed the Department of Energy’s 10 billion dollar budget for failing to produce “a quart of oil or a lump of coal or anything else in the line of energy,” foreshadowing the slamming-on-of-the-brakes for renewable energy funding for decades.

Next week: Restart Carter’s legacy, Co-op City. Happy New Year, everybody. MPearson@RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators. Happy New Year!

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

General Membership Meeting – Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 16, at 7 p.m. in the Association Room located in the rear of Building 10B. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. Our guest speaker will be Ms. Sheena McNeill, director of Residential Sales for the Riverbay Corporation. We are looking forward to seeing everyone. Light refreshments will be served.

Tip of the Week – If you see any evidence of vermin such as roaches or mice, please contact the Call Center so they can schedule the exterminator.

If You See Something, Say Something – For emergencies, call Co-op City Public Safety 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 is 988. You can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day.

Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com or drop a note in the suggestion box in the laundry. We are also on Facebook, “Building 10 ABC Association.” Like our page and get notiﬁed of all the happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born this month an incredibly happy birthday. Celebrating an anniversary this month? Happy anniversary! 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. Smile…it is contagious. Have a great week.

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Year in Review ––– (Continued from page 4)

(HUD), Wells Fargo bank, and New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (DHCR) met with Riverbay Management and the Riverbay Board of Directors’ president and first vice president on Tuesday, Oct. 8, in the Dreiser Center. During the meeting, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton discussed Co-op City’s history, and Riverbay’s day-to-day operations as well as various accomplishments and progress in the community over the last few years. Management also presented a summary of Riverbay’s finances, an overview of the mortgage refinancing and various capital improvements.

Shareholders were notiﬁed about the October Open Board meeting to be held at Einstein Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m. The meeting’s agenda was printed in the Co-op City Times

The New York City Department of Health (DOH) held a community meeting with Building 17 shareholders on Monday evening, Oct. 7, 2024 in Dreiser Auditorium to discuss reports of two residents of the building contracting Legionnaires’ Disease in the last 12 months – one in October of 2023 and the second in September of 2024. DOH issued a notice from Deputy Commissioner of the Division of Disease Control Celia Quinn to inform building residents that the NYC DOH issues notiﬁcation when there are two or more people diagnosed with Legionnaire’s Disease among residents of a building in a 12-month period.

DOH and Riverbay Management worked collaboratively in the following days and weeks to test the water in the building to help determine the source. Riverbay engaged Special Pathogens Laboratory (SPL) to submit a water safety plan to DOH.

In preparation for early voting in the 2024 General Election from Saturday, October 26, until Sunday, Nov. 3, Co-op City’s shareholders were informed that their early voting poll site is the Dreiser Community Center. In the 2024 General Election, Bronx voters were voting for the ofﬁces of US President and Vice President, United States Senator, and US Congressional Representative as well as New York State Senator, NY State Assembly Member, a Justice of the New York Supreme Court and six Bronx County Civil Court judges. In addition, there were six proposals on the ballot.

Board Directors Anika Green-Watson and Leah Richardson, co-chairs of the Riverbay Board’s Committee on Committees, published a notice inviting shareholders to join the 2024-2025 Board Committees. In total, there are eight committees that shareholders could join: Budget and Finance Committee, Construction, Power Plant & Restoration Committee, Disabilities and Accommodations Committee, Election Committee, Legislative Committee, Parking and Leasing Committee, Residential Sales Committee, and the Safety and Quality of Life Committee.

A summary of the Open Board meeting held on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024 in the Einstein Community Center was published in the Co-op City Times During the meeting, Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton presented his monthly Management Report to the community, providing updates on stafﬁng for the Public Safety department, heat change-over, post-earthquake assessments, shareholder orientation, 2-year budget planning and convector initiatives.

During the Oct. 16th Gallery Session, shareholders discussed the Riverbay Fund, subletting, personal responsibility and many more topics.

Bronx Supreme Court Justice Bianka Perez dismissed a lawsuit brought against Riverbay by a Building 21 shareholder. Although the Plaintiff had been diagnosed with legionella, the Court dismissed her case, ﬁnding that she failed to establish that she was exposed to, or contracted legionella, at Riverbay, or that Riverbay was negligent.

The MTA invited New Yorkers to attend an open house on Oct. 21, 2024 at Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall to learn more and provide feedback on the 2025-2029 MTA Capital Plan. Informational handouts, posters and videos explained key aspects of the plan during the session.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson and other Bronx elected ofﬁcials and agency representatives held a town hall on Oct. 22, 2024 at the Dreiser Auditorium to discuss a variety of issues with Bronx residents. In attendance from Co-op City were Riverbay Board members, executive management personnel, and shareholders. Among the issues raised by Co-op City shareholders were clean-up of litter and overgrown grass in the community and at Edson Avenue along the I-95 and Tillotson Avenue, bus scheduling for Bx28 and others, funding of a recreational center for youth, job training, building an overpass across Baychester Avenue to Education Park by the footbridge, dedicated bus service from Co-op City to LaGuardia airport, and MTA warnings for double parked vehicles in bus lanes, among other topics. Following the meeting, Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders encouraged shareholders to vote in the 2024 General Election.

The Riverbay Mold Assessment & Remediation Team, overseen by the Riverbay Safety department, was introduced to shareholders.

The Co-op City Times reported that more than 1,000 buses and over 20 bus routes have been equipped with automated cameras, after the MTA announced in September the upcoming expansion of automated bus lane enforcement system. Following installation of the cameras, a 60-day warning period ofﬁcially began on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024 for 10 new bus routes that were to begin using the Automated Camera Enforcement (ACE) system. During the warning period, which was set to expire in mid-November, the MTA would not issue summonses for drivers caught on camera blocking or obstructing a bus lane but would instead mail warnings. Once the warning period concluded, the MTA

would then begin issuing $50 summonses for ﬁrst-time offenders and up to $250 summonses for repeat offenders.

New York City high school seniors applying to college were encouraged by NY Governor Kathy Hochul to take advantage of a new initiative that waives their application fee when applying to a CUNY or SUNY school. In making the announcement, Gov. Hochul conﬁrmed that in addition to SUNY and CUNY schools, 50 additional private colleges and universities had also agreed to waive their application fee for public school seniors.

NOVEMBER

Special Pathogens Laboratory (SPF), an independent laboratory retained by Riverbay Corporation to test the water in Building 17, reported to Riverbay General Counsel Jeff Buss on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024 that no legionella was detected in any of the 75 samples collected in the building. This announcement was followed on Nov. 4, 2024 by the DOH Deputy Commissioner lifting the water usage guidance previously provided to Building 17 residents.

Mayor Eric Adams announced the final set of rules for the city’s new tradein program for unsafe electric mobility devices on October 23, 2024. First announced in July of this year, the $2 million program allows delivery workers to trade in their unsafe micro-mobility device for one with a certified lithium-ion battery. Eligible individuals also have the option of trading in unsafe lithium-ion batteries individually for a certified one.

Co-op City shareholders were notified that Riverbay will soon begin mailing letters to shareholders whose 2020 income affidavits contained discrepancies and were therefore flagged by NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR).

At a meeting of the 45th Pct. Community Council held on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 in the Bartow Center, Co-op City shareholders raised concerns about illegal parking, car thefts, ghost plates, and holiday trafﬁc in Co-op City.

The Co-op City Times reported on the ﬁve ballot measures approved by New Yorkers on General Election Day, Nov. 5, 2024, and the voting results for federal, state and local ofﬁces on the 2024 ballot.

In response to calls from shareholders for assistance completing the DTF-505 form to verify incomes, the Riverbay Finance department provided a sample of how the form should be ﬁlled out, and the return mailing address for the competed form.

Shareholders received notice that an Open Board meeting was scheduled by Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders for Wednesday, Nov. 20, starting at 7 p.m. Those who wished to address the Board and Management were advised to arrive early and sign up to speak at the Gallery Session.

The Riverbay Grounds department began installing festive lights and decorations around the Bartow Mall and other areas of the development for the upcoming Holiday season.

As New York City continued to experience an historically dry fall, the FDNY urged New Yorkers to exercise caution following an unprecedented spike in brush fires throughout the five boroughs. According to the FDNY, from October 29 to November 12, 2024 firefighters responded to 229 brush fires across the city, the highest number of brush fires recorded within a two-week period in New York City history. Out of those 229 fires, 67 occurred in the Bronx, 56 in Queens, 51 in Brooklyn, 24 in Manhattan and 17 in Staten Island. Later in the month, NYC Mayor Eric Adams issued a drought warning, encouraging New Yorkers to conserve their use of water – the first such warning in over 20 years.

A recap of the Gallery Session held before the Riverbay Board Meeting on Nov. 20, 2024 included a summary of the topics raised by shareholders, such as, the Riverbay Fund, convectors, students from a local school damaging property in a residential building, Verizon phone service, dogs, laundry room etiquette, increased ﬁnes for anti-social behaviors among cooperators, prohibited use of Lysol in the gas dryers, among others.

In the Management Report presented at the Nov. 20th Board meeting, Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton provided an update for the period ending Oct. 31, 2024. The report consisted of ongoing progress with stafﬁng for the Public Safety Department, a vacant apartment summary, the 2-year budget planning progress, and the ongoing convector initiatives.

The MTA announced a series of webinars to be held in December 2024 to provide New Yorkers with information and details about the Central Business District Tolling Program, including how the program works, how it would beneﬁt the region, discounts and exemptions, and what people need to know before tolling begins on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

The Puppy Mill Pipeline Act, a law that ofﬁcially bans licensed pet dealers from selling dogs, cats or rabbits in pet stores, was scheduled for implementation on Dec. 15, 2024. The legislation was ﬁrst signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2022 but provided New York pet stores a two-year grace period to begin modifying their operations in accordance with the new law

Gov. Kathy Hochul un-paused the Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP) on Nov. 14, 2024, clearing the way for congestion pricing to go into effect.

DECEMBER

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety (CCPD) graduated 15 new Ofﬁcers from the class of 2024 on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. Among the graduates are two former Riverbay employees and two Co-op City shareholders. Class Valedictorian, Ofﬁcer Darelle Quinones, said, “I am happy to be here working at home, working in this borough, working with this department and working with this community.”

Riverbay Corporation began installing natural gas

in Co-op

(Continued on page 22)

Last week, I published a viewpoint about some resolutions that were presented and approved at a recent board meeting. The information that I published clearly proved that business is not being conducted in a proper manner in our community.

We Can Make 2025 Better

Let’s brieﬂy review some of the resolutions that showed how business was being conducted here. The ﬁrst resolution was about using a broker to purchase workers’ compensation insurance from the NYS Insurance Fund, NYSIF. However, can you believe that we have a department that handles our insurance? Also, can you believe that the NYSIF was created so that other insurance companies cannot beat their prices?

On a prior occasion, I pointed out that this same department would bring insurance resolutions to our board near the end of their policy period. This way, our board had to approve that resolution to avoid a lapse in coverage. Nevertheless, a large commission to a broker was a big part of that resolution.

For instance, this same department stated that they had to use a broker last year to purchase workers’ compensation insurance from the NYSIF. Then, the majority of board simply approved the resolution. Thereafter, management had to pay that broker $82,500. And, just recently, management had a similar resolution approved by our board. So, can you believe that this same broker will make a $95,000 commission?

Another resolution improperly stated that a $500,000 contract was only issued to TF Andrew Carpet One on September 14, 2022. And, apparently, our management didn’t think that some board directors would review that resolution. Wrong! It was revealed that this previous resolution was actually issued to TF Andrew Carpet One and Home Depot. Nevertheless, this new resolution stated that: “management requested for a six-month extension of time with no additional cost being requested.” Really? No, this extension was created so that management could remove Home Depot from this con-

Johnson

Big Changes are Needed in 2025

tract. Then, the rest of the $500,000 could only go to TF Andrew Carpet One.

The next resolution was about the distribution of the Co-op City Times. Now, let’s look at how complicated it is to distribute the Co-op City Times First, a vendor has to go to a printing company and bring bundles of this newspaper here. Second, they have to place those bundles into bins in our buildings and commercial centers. Third, they have to go to our townhomes and place individual copies of this newspaper into door slots.

Regardless, management had a resolution that stated: “the Procurement Department solicited eight qualiﬁed vendors to submit bids for the distribution of the Co-op City Times.” Then, only “one proposal was received and reviewed. …”

Complete nonsense! Look, these vendors read the preliminary bid sheet and noticed that the requirements were geared towards a vendor that previously worked here for an extended period of time. Therefore, that previous vendor won this contract for $145,000 plus tax over a two-year period.

Bottom line: Can you see what’s going on here? Can you see that our money is being wasted? Can you see that management is bringing outrageous resolutions to our board?

As an elected board director, I feel that my duty is to always conduct business in a proper manner. Therefore, I do not “follow the crowd” and just vote in accordance with management’s wishes. Furthermore, I will not tolerate this type of nonsense to go on here. And, that is why you see strong viewpoints placed into this newspaper.

To resolve these problems, I personally think that we need to make a management change in 2025. So, I will write a viewpoint about this matter in the near future.

Crime in Co-op City

Recently, some criminal activity occurred here. The first incident happened in section 5 on December 23, 2024, at approximately 3:40 p.m. Shots were fired in front of building 27. Then, our officers “recovered” a firearm, and the NYPD recovered a knife. Three individuals were arrested.

Hello, neighbors. Winter is here. We are thankful for the much-needed rain. The bitter cold hit us for a couple of days and the wind was strong. Since the mall was built, it appears a wind tunnel has surrounded our buildings more than usual.

Wishing all a happy new year 2025 and may your new year be a year full of peace and joy.

Building 27 Association – Due to the unexpected bitter cold, please keep in mind Aaron, the president of the Building 27 Association, has also made Management aware of the heating situation and heat has been restored in our building. However, if you are still having heating issues, please call Maintenance at the Call Center and they will come to your apartment.

The second incident happened on Christmas day at approximately 10:30 p.m. at 100 Casals Place (near the Peartree Mall). A man was allegedly unconscious in the lobby. Then, he allegedly “became combative” when he was awakened. Next, he allegedly couldn’t give a reason for being in this building. So, our ofﬁcers found a “ﬁrearm” on him as he was being arrested.

The third incident occurred on December 26, 2024, at approximately 7:35 p.m. in building 21 (not too far from the baseball fields). Our officers and the NYPD responded to several calls of shots fired. The officers, then, found several bullet shells and cash on the ground.

Bottom line: I want to thank our ofﬁcers and the NYPD for helping our community.

I hope that everyone will have a Happy New Year. And, please know that we will not let Co-op City go down. So, we must work together and make some positive changes here so that our community can function in a far better manner. Thank you.

Contact Information

Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Currently, here is my ONLY email account: djohnson@riverbayboard. com.

I will never ask for or accept money from anyone. Therefore, please do not respond to any message with my name on it that requests money, money transfers, gift cards, personal information, or anything from you. And, please do not ever send money or anything to anyone because you saw my name on a false message.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. And, please hang up your phone immediately if someone calls you and says that they’re Daryl Johnson or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else.

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

OMNY Card – My OMNY card came in the mail, however it is recommended to use up any remaining value on your MetroCard before adding on to the OMNY account. The MTA included instructions in a letter form, and if there are any questions, call 877-789-6669 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays or 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Congratulations to Joshua Blake on the promotion to Riverbay Deputy General Manager. Hard work and getting the job done in the interest of the shareholders means a lot and is quite effective and recognized. We wish him the best in striving for excellence in the Riverbay Corporation.

Parking Enforcement – Sgt. Joseph Vargas has provided information in the Co-op City Times as to parking within the perimeter of Co-op City and why it is important to obey the parking rules of Co-op City. Be mindful of parking in the building’s circles and double parking, which can prevent CCPD, NYPD, FDNY and emergency services from reaching those in need of immediate assistance. Remind your family, friends and neighbors as well.

Co-op City Emergency Alert System – Phone Tree form is printed preiodically in the Co-op City Times. Fill out this important form wherein shareholders will receive robo calls to notiﬁed you in the event of important information or an emergency that affect your building or community.

Our holiday day party will be on January 11, where we will welcome our neighbors into the new year. If you are a baker, feel free to share a homemade cake or pastry with your neighbors.

Happy birthday to all celebrating this month. To those in bereavement, you have our sympathy. We wish all the best of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card, she is excellent in sharing good will. Also, notify her of any illness, or if a neighbor has deceased or transferred to a nursing home.

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be change until it is faced.” –James

Baldwin

––H. Overman

National Council of Negro Women

NCNW Co-op City Section – Our frst membership meeting of 2025 will be on Sunday, January 12. The meeting will offer in-person attendance or Zoom access. We will be meeting in Room 11, Dreiser Community Center, at 3 p.m. If you would like to Zoom our meeting for the frst time, to check us out, contact our membership chairperson at ncnwcoopcitymembership@gmail.com

Remember that at our 61st National Convention, our delegates voted to increase various dues and fees of our organization. If you have not yet paid your national dues, as of January 1, 2025, you will owe $75. If you plan to become a Life Member at our BHR Program on May 17, 2025, starting January 1st, the Life Membership fee will be $1,000. Similarly, if you plan to become a Legacy Life Member at our BHR Program, you will pay $1,500 after January 1st. We encourage you to become a Life or Legacy Life member with the New York State Bethune Height Recognition Program in May rather than directly through the NCNW Membership Offce in Washington, because at our May 17th celebration, you will be feted and honored at a celebration of all New York State NCNW sections! If you have any questions, you can contact the above membership email address.

Youth Committee – Calling all talented youth! On February 22nd, the Youth Committee will be having our annual Black History Program in the Dreiser Auditorium. This year, our theme is “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now.” We are looking for singers, dancers, poets and instrumentalists. Please submit a video of your performance to ncnwcoopcityyouth@gmail.com no later than January 31, 2025. For more information on the Black History Program, contact the above email address or call (917) 826-5544.

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month – Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States. It is a condition in which elevated eye pressure may damage the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. But half of people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. Glaucoma has no early symptoms. The only way to check for it is to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam. There’s no cure for glaucoma but starting treatment as early as possible can help stop vision loss. Some people who are at higher risk for glaucoma are: people with a family history of glaucoma; people over the age of 60; African American, Asian American or Hispanic Americans over the age of 40.

Social Media – Remember you can fnd us on our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com; on Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco. opcity@gmail.com

—Joyce Howard

Building 25 Association

Happy New Year, Building 25 cooperators! We hope everyone had a safe and fun-filled time with family and friends over the 2024 end of year holidays. We extend our best wishes to our fellow cooperators for serenity, new beginnings, adventure, good health and prosperity in 2025.

Happy birthday to those who will celebrate their birthday in January, and congratulations to families who will be celebrating other extraordinary events. Our regular building association meetings will resume shortly. Until then, please share your ideas, concerns and accomplishments by using the association’s email: bldg25association@gmail.com, or the suggestion box, in our laundry room. We will acknowledge and respond to your messages and notes as quickly as possible. We welcome your participation and input in the operations of our building association. Building 25 Cooperator’s Association welcomes new members. The yearly building association dues are $5 per family.

Sick and Shut-ins: We wish you comfort and healing every day.

Condolences: We wish you strength, hope and peace of mind as you remember and grieve the passing of your loved one.

Good vibes to all!

—Evelyn Herbert

Building 13 Association

Looking at some positive quotes for the New Year and I came across this, “Every year is a chance to begin again. Don’t focus on the failures of 2024, start 2025 with positive thoughts and expectations.” It made me think of the various conversations I hear made from people and the statements I read on social media sites. I want all of us to realize that we make the difference in our lives, in our living conditions and how we seek solutions. Look at the community atlarge and the world at-large and count your blessings. To all, be safe and have a happy New Year.

Holiday Party: Last Saturday, we ate, drank and were merry at our holiday party. As usual, our folks and friends came to have a good time and they did just that. As our neighbor Nelly said in her speech that evening, “I have lived in this Building for 55 years and I love it. I want everyone to come to meetings, participate and volunteer, get to know one another in the building.” The music by DJ VAL (Valerie Gunn) had everyone on the foor dancing. It was great seeing the smooth moves of Miguel dancing with Nancy. Our DJ had both the young and older on the foor showing their moves. The event was catered, but Miguel made his pernil for us and Virginia made arroz con gandules, and both were delicious. We thank all who donated desserts, especially Terry and Brenda who traveled from Section 5 to join the fun. Thank you also to Denise, Elena, Wendell, Annice and others who helped getting it together and breaking it down.

Reminder

The FDNY fre safety education unit reminds us that the winter holidays are a time for everyone to be aware and take precautions to protect yourselves and your loved ones from fres. Make sure to keep burning candles away from curtains, lampshades, blankets and other fammable objects. Space heaters must be kept no less than three feet away from bedding, drapes and Christmas trees. If you are using a space heater or air conditioner, make sure to never use extension cords for large appliances. Candles should always be kept away from the reach of children. Stay safe!

Per the NYC Department of Sanitation: All stands and decorations should be removed before putting trees out for collection. Trees should not be wrapped in plastic bags. Once collected, trees are chipped, mixed with leaves and recycled into compost for the city. Riverbay Corporation will also give additional information on disposal locations.

“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community.” –Cesar Chavez

Visit our Facebook page at: Building 13 Association Inc.–Co-op City. Our website is bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13assoc@yahoo.com. Contacts: Leslie Peterson, president, at 718-320-1370, or Wendell Mattison, V.P. at 917-330-1380. Thank you for supporting our team.

––Leslie Peterson

Photos from Leslie Peterson

•PEPPER

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

Take a moment to refect on the past year. Your role as a family caregiver may have entailed making choices and decisions regarding caring for your loved one and adjusting your lifestyle to ensure your loved one received quality care. Some of you have had to make diffcult decisions to quit your job, take early retirement, decrease your work schedule to part-time, put your degree on hold, move your loved one into your home, or place them into a skilled nursing facility. Some of you had to take time off from work secondary to your loved ones’ multiple hospitalizations, falls in or outside of their home, and unsafe wandering behaviors. You may have experienced an illness or disability yourself. Ultimately, the decisions and choices you had to make were not easy and were made with intense thought and consideration. With the help of God, answered prayers, and the support of family and friends, you did it! You are more than a conqueror; you are a survivor and God’s gift to this world.

Begin 2025 with an attitude of preparation, empowerment, and an expectation of victory. You will ask, seek, and accept help. Keep on asking until you are comfortable with the answer. You will take on the role of a caregiver as an advocate, educating and supporting family caregivers you may come in contact with. Be open to telling your story. You will inform your doctor, pastor, employer, and healthcare policymakers of your family caregiver role and clarify the support needed to assist you with your daily challenges and caregivers’ journey. You will be good to yourself and include self-care in your daily routine. Trust your instincts and that inner voice. Let 2025 be a year of empowerment and getting the job done. A sound foundation of knowledge will help you make wiser, guilt-free choices and decisions that will bring forth a sense of balance in your life.

No more procrastinating. The new year stands before you, like a chapter in a book waiting to be written. You can help write that story by setting goals. The book is called opportunity, and its frst chapter begins in this new year. Just as a new bloom spreads fragrance and freshness, may the new year add beauty and freshness to your life. Go forth wholeheartedly with no fear and with lots of aspirations and dreams. Be encouraged to dream a new and big vision.

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment looks forward to walking with you through this journey. We will try our best to inform you of available resources and relevant information that may beneft you and your loved one.

Join us on January 23 at 7 p.m. for our monthly 45-minute support group and information session on Zoom. “Let’s talk” about estate planning, advance directives, power of attorney, health care proxy, Medicaid, and supplemental pooled trust. The guest speaker will be Alyssa Maria Monteleon, Esq., an Elder Law Attorney.

Just a click away: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4316069253

––Diane Cooper

Photos by Yolanda Ramirez

Building 6 Association

Happy New Year, neighbors, and Three Kings Day. I hope when you read this, it fnds you in great standing. Now, we welcome the new year, full of things that have never been. “Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” Let us all be optimistic for the wonderful things ahead. Please remember our frst Building 6 Association general meeting is Wednesday, January 8, in Dreiser, Room 1, from 7-9 p.m. with special guest speaker, CCPD’s own Interim Chief Frankie Torres, who will be taking all quality-of-life safety and security questions. I ask all neighbors to submit their complaints, questions or concerns in advance so everyone gets a fair chance to be heard. Also, annual association dues of $20 are now being collected between January through March as stated in our bylaws.

Family Game Night is Saturday, January 18, from 5:30-9:30 p.m. inside the Building 6 Association room, located under the rear portico. We will have a pot luck, so bring your favorite snacks to enjoy. Several neigh-

bors have informed the association on how great the foors are looking with stripping and waxing of the foors and hallways. Kudos to Mr. Brandon Rosario and the Janitorial team for keeping on top of the building’s appearance. If any neighbor, especially our younger neighbors, want to join the Social Committee in assisting to take down the holiday décor, or help set up and decorate for special events, please contact president Lassiter at 347-366-7690. If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.

Neighbors, our safety and security are essential to our quality of life. If you see something, say something. Call CCPD at 718-320-3300 press #1, or dial 911. We live in an electronic age in which everyone has a mobile device. There is no sense in discussing something in the laundry room or with a neighbor when it could have been prevented when you frst saw it. If you are apprehensive due to keeping your anonymity, CCPD accepts anonymous calls. For neighbors experiencing mental health issues, dial 988. The line is open 24/7. As always, I pray for safety over all. Godspeed.

“I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.”

Save the dates:

2/12/25 – Building 6 Association Election in Dreiser, Room 1, 7-9 p.m.

2/15/25 – Valentine’s Night Mixer in the Association room, 5:30-10 p.m.

TBA – NY Cares Winter Gear

––Lauren Lassiter

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle, 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A, Bronx, NY 10475.

Sundays: Sunday School starts at 10:30 a.m. Worship service starts at 11:45 a.m.

Wednesday: Prayer and fasting service every Wednesday morning, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Bible Study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m. Effective Fervent Prayers change things. You will experience the power of Biblical prayer. God’s power is released through His Word. Study the word of God; it can change your life.

Friday: Praise and worship service will start at 7:30 p.m.

All night services will be on Zoom Call 646-932-3860, Meeting ID: 85748454513, Code: 850684#

Focus: Micah Prophet of Right Living: Micah 6:1-9 Hear ye now what the Lord saith; Arise, contend thou before the mountains; and let the hills hear thy voice. Hear ye, O mountains, the Lord’s controversy, and ye strong foundations of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with his people, and he will plead with Israel. O my people, what have I done unto thee? And wherein have I wearied thee? Testify against me. For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt and redeemed thee out of the house of servants; and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.

O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may

know the righteousness of the Lord, wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?

Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I give my frstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He hath shown thee O man, what is good; and what doeth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

The Lord’s voice crieth unto the city, and the man of wisdom shall see thy name; hear he the rod, and who hath appointed it.

The Requirements: The prophet questioned, in Micah 6;6-7, “Wherewith shall I come before the Lord and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I give my frstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? The answer is no. God does not want mere outward signs of contrition or a mere show of repentance. The Lord requires us to do justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God. (Micah 6:8)

In the New Testament, Jesus simplifed the Law into two commandments. First, we must love the Lord with all our hearts. Second, we are to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Matthew 22:37-39

Rev. R. Sibblies

Co-op City Toastmasters

Greetings and Happy New Year to all; 2025 promises to be a wonderful year for our Toastmasters Club (CCTM) as we start the new year with a new club president.

We meet at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 5. All are welcome.

Meet new president TM Kim M. Sudderth, AAS (pictured below). Kim brings a wealth of business and entrepreneurial expertise to share, stemming back to family ties in Nassau, Bahamas to the city streets of NYC. “I joined Toastmasters to grow in my personal development and they have been around for many years,” she said. She also added that when a nephew did an internship at the Georgia Coca Cola Company, he was told to join Toastmasters to improve his self-development and that was enough for her.

President-elect Kim joined the organization back in 2010. However, she came to CCTM recently in 2023 and has been working hard as the VP of Public Relations and flling in as needed.

She currently owns and operates a thriving photography and gaming company that some of you might have had the pleasure of enjoying at

our community events and she promises to bring more fun stuff during her presidency.

Kim has already achieved remarkable success as frst time contestant in our annual Club and Area Speech Contests last year with her speech entitled, “Lens,” an inspiring story about not giving up. Her manual speeches continue to demonstrate master class storytelling. On the non-Toastmaster side, you will fnd her supporting the Morning Glory International CDC, a nonproft “close to her heart.”

So come out and help welcome this committed and selfess new club president. See if you can beneft from Toastmaster’s Communication Program under the leadership of TM Kim M. Sudderth.

Meeting Schedule

CCTM: First Thursday of month at 6 p.m. for networking; Toastmaster’s meeting starts at 7 p.m. Third Thursday of the month, 7 p.m. BAS (Advanced Toastmasters): All are welcome. Second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.

Announcements

January Defensive Driving Education: Sat., Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Note: For pre-registration, call 347-927-1069. Walk-ins not permitted. Limited seating.

For more Toastmaster information, call 718-379-8435 and leave a message or go to 3824.toastmastersclubs. org or toastmasters.org.

––Lauretta Jaysura

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15

135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 33, Bronx, NY 10475.

Mateo 11:28: “Venid a mí todos los que estáis cansados... y te daré descanso.”

Paz de Dios sea con ustedes.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 les hace una cordial invitación a la comunidad hispana a congregarse con nosotros.

Si usted está buscando una iglesia para adorar a nuestro Señor Jesucristo, si se siente solo, herido, deprimido o si necesita liberación nuestras puertas están abiertas para recibirlos. Cristo está dispuesto y es capaz de liberarte y sanarte.

Él nos ama tanto que dejo su Trono de Gloria para salvarnos.

Juan 14:2: “En la casa de mi Padre muchas moradas hay; si así no fuera, yo os lo hubiera dicho; voy, pues, a preparar lugar para vosotros.”

Nuestra iglesia se encuentra en el centro comunitario de 135 Einstein Loop, Salón #33. Servicios Ofrecidos

Lunes – Servicio de Oración por teléfono, 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; Código: 696248)

Martes – Estudios Bíblico por Zoom, 8 p.m. (3447367643; Código: 3jEJ2W)

Jueves – Servicio de Oración por teléfono, 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; código: 696248)

Viernes – Estudio Bíblico por Zoom, 8 p.m. (3447367643; Código: 3jEJ2W)

Domingos – Servicio de Adoración, 11:30 a.m. La Santa Cena es el 1er Domingo del mes.

Que Dios le bendiga y recuerda que Cristo te ama.

Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all who are weary... and I will give you rest.”

May the peace of the Lord be with you.

Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 cordially invites the Hispanic community to come gather and worship with us.

If you are looking for a church to worship our Lord and Savior, if you feel alone, wounded, depressed, if you need liberation, our doors are open to receive you. Jesus is willing and able to free you and heal you. He loves us so much that he left his Throne of Glory to save us.

John 14:2: “In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.”

Our church is located at 135 Einstein Loop Community Center, Rm. #33.

Services Offered

Monday – Prayer Service by phone, 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

Tuesday – Zoom Bible Study, 8 p.m. (3447367643; Code: 3jEJ2W) Thursday – Prayer Service by phone, 9 p.m. (564-888-5521; Code: 696248)

Friday – Zoom Bible Study, 8 p.m. (3447367643; Code: 3jEJ2W)

Sundays – Worship Service, 11:30 a.m.

Holy Communion is the frst Sunday of the month.

God bless you and remember, Jesus loves you.

––Blanca Santana

Cooperators United

Greetings, fellow Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents. Happy New Year. Best wishes for 2025.

It is our goal to inform and engage our members. We send monthly meeting notices to all Building Association and Townhouse Association presidents on record. We invite relevant guest speakers to keep you abreast of matters of importance to the community. There is an exchange of information between Association presidents to assist you with ideas or questions for Association best practices. We are here to advise and to advocate for you and your shareholders, wherever possible.

There have been several requests for information about the shots ﬁred incidents during the ﬁnal weeks of December 2024. Reportedly, there were a couple of incidents. One incident was in Section 4 at Bellamy Loop and two were in Section 5, one involving the barber shop in Einstein Mall.

Three suspects were apprehended, and one weapon was recovered in the Section 5 barber shop incident. Shell casings were recovered in the Bellamy Loop incident. At the time of this writing, it is unclear if any of the incidents are gang or drug related.

Our December 16, 2024 general membership meeting featured Matthew Cruz, Community Board #10 district manager.

He reported that there has been no further appeal/communication from the Mellow Tymes cannabis group since their application to conduct business at the Chase Bank location was denied.

There were nine members at our December 16th meeting. That is our lowest attendance to date. It is our desire to have more members join us at future meetings. Our next meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 27, at 7 p.m., in the Bartow Center, Rm. 31.

Remember, if someone says, “You don’t know what you’re doing,” perhaps it’s because you won’t do what they want you to do.

––Linda Collins

Stay Vigilant

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

Donizetti Building 4 Association

On December 21, 2024 the Building 4 Association hosted an afternoon with Santa event. Santa and his helpers were able to service approximately ﬁfty children from our community. The youngsters were treated to an afternoon of sweet treats and a toy selection from his sack.

This event was made possible due to the donations from our New York City Councilman Kevin C. Riley. Also, a generous donation was made by Sonia Feliciano, president of the Riverbay Fund. Without these acts of kindness, this event would not have been possible.

Our association looks forward to future collaborations with our local politicians and community leaders. These partnerships allow us to provide services for a greater number of our young people, seniors and all other members of our Riverbay community.

It is important that we remember that our ability to accomplish our goals depends heavily on all of us effectively working together.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy holiday.

––Dawn L. Mitchell

Building 22AB Association

Happy New Year. Choose a new year’s resolution that is reachable and good luck. Our ﬁrst Association meeting will be January 27 at 7 p.m. in the association room on the “B” side. Please come with ideas for our new year activities. We want to thank everyone for making this holiday season very merry. Please continue to read the Co-op City Times It is the lifeline to our community. This year, be a good neighbor and cooperator; help make Co-op City thrive because it is our home.

Compactor Room: Please take a good look at the room, read the instructions and follow them. Keep it clean as you would your apartment.

The NAACP marches to defend democracy and combat racism and discrimination in communities across the country. We meet on the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 p.m. The NAACP Co-op City Branch ofﬁce will be closed for the holiday from December 23, 2024 – January 3, 2025. Ofﬁce hours: 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, effective January 6, 2025.

NAACP New York State Conference’s 1st Quarterly Meeting is Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 10 a.m., at City College of NY. Any member interested in attending can call the ofﬁce or send email. More information will be forthcoming.

The next membership meeting will be held on Sunday, January 26. If an emergency arises, a meeting will be held via Zoom

This holiday season, we celebrate the spirit of unity, hope and resilience. Let’s take this moment

Laundry Room Etiquette: Stop being inconsiderate. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Come back on time for your clothes. Read the laundry room etiquette board on the wall. Pick up the fabric softener sheets. Clean the dryer lint tray, as it helps your clothes dry faster. Keep our laundry room clean.

Happy birthday to all.

Prayers to all who lost loved ones. Please check on the sick and shut-ins.

If you see something, say something. Have a blessed weekend.

––Betty Leak

to honor the power of collective action and renew our commitment to building a world where equity and justice prevail. From our NAACP family to yours, we wish you peace, love, and joy this holiday season and into the New Year. Thank you for being an essential part of our work.

PS: Looking to make an even greater impact? Become a champion for change and join us to keep advancing, for community. –NAACP Help Us Protect Nonproﬁts – Tell the Senate to Reject H.R.9495

Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 9495 (aka the “Kill Nonproﬁts Bill”), a bill that the incoming administration could use to undermine and dismantle nonproﬁt organizations it disagrees with – including the NAACP. This legislation would give the government unchecked power to revoke the tax-exempt status of groups that challenge its policies or interests. Any tax-exempt organization could be unfairly labeled as “terrorist supporting,” silencing their advocacy and crippling their ability to serve communities. We cannot allow this assault on democracy to move forward.

“We need your help, contact your senator today and demand they oppose H.R. 9495 or any version of the bill – both now and in the future. Our ability to advocate, organize, and ﬁght for justice is on the line.” –P. Willoughby, Chief of Policy and Legislative Affairs NAACP

Contacts: The Honorable Mike Johnson, Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives H-232, and the Honorable Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Leader, U.S. House of Representatives H-204, the Capitol Washington, DC 20515.

We want to extend our condolences to all who have lost a loved one and wish a speedy recovery for those who are on the mend.

Follow us on Facebook: “Co-op City NAACP.” Our Membership Campaign is ongoing. Become a member, gift a membership or upgrade your membership. Take your advocacy further by joining in the ﬁght for our sacred right to vote. Annual membership: Adult, $30; Youth, $10; or Silver Life, $750. Make check/mo. payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mail to: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 36, Bronx, NY 10475. To leave a message, call the ofﬁce phone at: 718-3203210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com —Leslie Peterson

Building 23 Association

Happy New Year to all and welcome to our new shareholders. We wish to thank everyone for contributing to our Building 23 staff/porters holiday collection. We also thank those who continue to support and assist in keeping our building/community safe. Please plan to attend our next Building 23 Association meeting this month. Check our association’s bulletin board in our lobby near the elevators for the posted date. We welcome your suggestions and participation.

Things to Know:

• Our membership dues are $5. We welcome new members and our renewed members as well. We use our dues to sponsor back-toschool supplies for children, holiday activities and basic expenses that require funding. Please contact our Building 23 Association president to pick up your membership card (929-732-4123).

• Thanks to those who have volunteered to become foor captains. We will have a general introduction with you shortly to review the duties of a foor captain. Floor captains help maintain quality of life within our building. Sign up anytime or contact the Building 23 Association message line. Some of the responsibilities include periodic check of your foor, closing of your stairwell doors, hall plastering, painting, proper lighting, missing or broken hall tiles, missing bricks, unlevel sidewalks, laundry-room and compactor room concerns. Please continue to share foor captain concerns with Building 23 president Leah Graham. Please continue to call CSO regarding concerns within your respective apartments.

When we see something, please say something. Again, we wish all a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! Happy birthday wishes to those born in January. Well wishes to the sick and shutin. Stay safe and alert!

––Betty Smith

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

120 Erdman Place (back of 27B’s lobby), Bronx, NY 10475.

Chanukah Party – We would like to thank all our members and friends who attended our Chanukah Party and made it a great success.

The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Co-op-City to donate, or mail to the Traditional Synagogue, located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place, in the rear lobby of 27B.

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After service, we serve a hot/ cold kiddush meal. Entrance to our synagogue for services is on the side door of Building 27B. General Information

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the ground foor of Building 27B and is handicap accessible with no steps. Phone #: 718379-6920. Offce hours are Thursday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Please call the offce before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the offce, please leave a message.

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, Jan. 4, at 5:34 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, Jan. 10, at 4:28 p.m. Good and Welfare

The congregation welcomes donations in honor or memory of a loved one. Any amount is greatly appreciated. For information about the congregation and its services, please call 646-285-1206.

To All Members – Happy birthday to Saul Weber and all who will be celebrating their birthday in January. Please send me your name and I will add it 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

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 family and friends. We remain thankful, grateful, and blessed as we enter 2025 together.

Update on Building 9B elevator service: Management advises that they are waiting for parts to repair the damaged elevator. It should be repaired and running on or before January 7. On Sunday, December 29, 2024 two people were stuck in the one working elevator. FDNY was called. During holidays, weekends, and night hours, please contact CCPD for elevator emergencies. Advise CCPD dispatch that Champion Elevator Company should be called for emergency repair service. Champion is contracted to respond to the emergency within an hour of receiving the call from CCPD.

We continue to receive complaints about roaches and mice. Please call for exterminating services upon frst sighting a problem. You may request public space exterminating services, as well as personal residences. It has been suggested that poor housekeeping and/or hoarding conditions are the main drivers of roach and mice conditions in our buildings. It has also been suggested that Riverbay Corporation’s Legal department should take a more aggressive stance, along with CSO and the Court system, in order to protect and preserve the quality of life and standard of living for the shareholders being held hostage to these conditions.

Our holiday volunteers’ luncheon is scheduled for Saturday, January 4, at 1 p.m.

Our Members-Only New Year Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 18, 6:30 p.m. Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 30, at 7 p.m. Our guest speaker will be Mr. Mark Gordon, Director of Extermination Services. Please join us.

There have been various social media posts, word of mouth reports, and other accounts about “shots fred” during the fnal weeks of December. CCPD and the NYPD are investigating the incidents. CCPD apprehended three suspects and one frearm involved in the Section 5 barber shop incident. NYPD is investigating the Section 4 incident, as well as a separate incident in Section 5. So far, there has been no verifcation of gang-related activity. Remember, when people say, “You don’t know what you’re doing,” perhaps it is because you won’t do what they want you to do.

—Linda Collins

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 at 8 a.m., in-person only, and at 11 a.m., in-person and on Zoom. Sunday School classes for all ages will be held at 9:30 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone: 718-320-3774. Email: ccbc135@optimum.net or coopcitybc@ gmail.com. Website: www.coopcitybaptistchurch. org. Masks are required.

The 11 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line, 646-568-7788; Meeting ID: 962 343 0102#; Password: 788175#. You can also go to YouTube, search for “Co-op City Baptist Church,” and watch us there.

The church’s free conference call line dial in number is 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

Rev. Williams asks everyone who calls into the Sunday Worship service to use Zoom through their computer or dial-in using the Zoom information shown above.

This Week’s Events: Wednesday Bible Study Classes at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Zoom. Prayer Warriors Prayer Service on Thursday at 12 p.m., on the church conference call line. On Thursday at 2 p.m., the Circle of Grace Knit and Crochet Group will

meet in-person at the church, in Rm. 51. The Friday Mid-Morning Prayer Service is at 10 a.m. and the Friday Evening Prayer Service is at 7:30 p.m. Both services are on the church conference call line.

The next CCBC Food Giveaway will be distributed on Friday, January 10, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., in front of the Einstein Community Center. Please remember to bring your own bag and perhaps a cart. Some products can be heavy.

The Gospel Line Dance Class will meet on Saturday, Jan. 11, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m., in the Einstein Community Center, Rm. 35. There is no fee for this class. Come pray, dance and worship the Lord.

The church has a free app available on your app store by putting in “Co Op CBC.” This app is open to all.

We want to wish everyone a happy, healthy and blessed new year!

“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.

—Marilyn C. Williams

African American Association of Co-op City

Our message for 2025 and beyond: we have a new President with a new agenda. We must begin anew as well. We must unite through all of our events, clubs, organizations and associations. Let us unite on purpose! If we do not unite now, when?

Happy New Year … To all members, friends and neighbors. We, the African-American Association of Co-op City, begin this year by keeping you informed and involved in meaningful activities. These activities will be meaningless without one important ingredient – you. So, save these dates and let us make this entire year truly meaningful.

On January 20, 2025, we will celebrate the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There will be a gathering at the Metropolitan Church in Washington, DC. Will you attend in order to support and continue the progress made by Dr. King? For information about a bus near you, call 212-690-3070. The annual Black History Month Film Festival will take place on Saturday, February 1, at 3:00 p.m. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend. On Saturday, February 15, at 4 p.m., join us at the Open

Mic Fundraiser in Dreiser Center, Room 15. Take your Place – As we embark on a new year, we honor the lessons of the past and welcome innovation, progress and unity. You can obtain a membership application for the African-American Association of Co-op City by requesting it be sent to you via email. Use the information below. Get prepared to take your place and be in the number for 2025. AAACC Membership – $25/year single membership and $35/year for a family/household. Zelle us your payment using our email address. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com. Call: 646-883-9095. The African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. AAACC Programs

Belly Dance Classes – Contact Xonia Wilson at 646-301-9438

Evening Line Dance Classes – Contact Cynthia Dixon at 917-903-7073

Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” – Contact Joyce Smith at 718-320-0714

May 2025 bring us joy, success and endless possibilities.

––Michelle Marbury

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Happy New Year to all. May the new year be joyous for all. This is the frst issue of 2025 and Broun Place Townhouse Association wishes all the best and healthiest of all years. Have you noticed the Broun Place holiday lights are shining brightly? It is lovely to walk amongst them. They glow throughout our Broun Place townhouse cluster.

Thank you, Mr. Marvin Walton, executive general manager, for so frequently going above and beyond in the name of improving Co-op City services and operations. We also offer congratulations to the new businesses opened in our community. We wish them success and hope residents will patronize each and try them out. We hope for more new businesses in the coming year.

Thank you again to our executive committee, Treasurer Lillian Richardson and Vice President Vivian Burrus, for helping to keep Broun Place maintained and updated. Your efforts are very much appreciated. We accept new members at any time but $12 is the membership fee and it is not pro-rated. Neighbors, we need your support. Please join the townhouse association.

There are still folks who are not familiar with Broun Place. We had a delivery go to “Brown Place” in the 10451 zip code. Make sure to put the correct zip code on your label.

The association made our holiday collection. It was presented to our grounds man, Daniel. I apologize for not including a closing date. About 10 neighbors donated and they were generous. Others gave directly to our very hardworking Daniel.

Also, especially during this season of giving, do not forget to donate your gently used items using the recycling bins at the front and rear of the garage buildings.

We could not donate to the CCPD toy drive as we usually do. We will be donating to a charity and will post that when we do it.

Even though it has rained and snowed, the drought is not over. There are ways to economize your use of water. For example, match the amount of water to your load of dishes or clothes. Perhaps fushing the toilet should be monitored too.

Thank you to the “powers that be” for the updated repair notices on pipe repairs and leaks. We hope everyone received their issue of the Co-op City Times. Call the following number to report non-delivery, 1-407-666-8317. Call Saturdays only from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Dog owners, please train your dog to be quiet and please clean up behind them. To report a problem, the CCPD phone number is 1-718-671-3050. We urge you to read your Co-op City Times. Have a great week. It is back to school 2025, look out for the school children. And remember to think before you speak.

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Building 33 Association

Happy New Year, shareholders,

The Building 33 Association would like to wish everyone a happy New Year, Happy Hanukkah and happy Three Kings Day. As we enter the new year, we hope that individuals of every race, creed and color will unite to enhance our building and Co-op City. We encourage everyone to take proactive steps by attending building and open Board meetings, motivating others—including your children—to help keep our building clean, being responsible pet owners by curbing your dogs and preventing them from urinating on our pillars, refraining from littering and maintaining cleanliness in the laundry room. Please dispose of fabric softener sheets in the designated receptacles after removing your laundry from the dryer. Let us strive to be better neighbors. We all share this space, and together we can restore its beauty, just as it once was. This message applies to our building and all buildings in the community. Let us make an effort, everyone. We may live in the city, but let us embrace the spirit of suburban living!

The Building 33 Association would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed fnancially to the building dues and the gift for the porters. Without your support, we would not have been able to host the Halloween candy giveaway, pictures with Santa and a gift, and the Christmas gifts for our porters. We sincerely appreciate your generosity and are truly thankful. Thank you once again. Unfortunately, I had a lot going on in September, October and November, which resulted in the collections being completed later in the season. This confused many shareholders, and we sincerely apologize for that. We will strive to improve next time.

We would also like to express our gratitude to our former porter and new CCPD Recruit, Raheem “Radio” McGee (pictured right) for volunteering to be our Santa Claus this year. It was quite challenging to fnd someone for the role, but upon hearing about it, he reached out to offer his services, for which we are extremely thankful. Shareholders were both surprised and delighted to see Radio as Santa, and we all had a wonderful time. We are very grateful for his assistance!

Two of our building association board members have expressed their intention to resign. While these positions are voluntary, they can demand a considerable amount of time, which not everyone may be able to commit. We will hold a meeting on January 9 at 7 p.m. to conduct a special election. If you are interested in contributing to the improvement of our building, please attend so we can discuss our next steps. We need your presence, so please make an effort to attend. This invitation also extends to new shareholders.

Enjoy your week, everyone! If you are experiencing diffculties and believe the building association can assist you, please contact us via email at building33association@gmail.com.

Take care and walk good.

––Andrea D. Mayo

Building 5 Association

Greetings to Building 5 cooperators and neighbors. Welcome to the new year. On behalf of the Building Association offcers, we want to wish everyone a very happy, healthy and joyous New Year’s.

We want to thank all cooperators who generously donated to the Holiday Collection for our porters and mailmen. Our president will discuss the results of this collection at our January Building Association meeting on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

The Building Association hosted its annual holiday celebration on Saturday, December 21, 2024. It was wonderful to see the cooperators who attended. It was a great time of sharing a meal and good conversation.

Starting on January 6, we will dismantle the holiday decorations in each building. We welcome volunteers to come and assist us with this task.

Remember on January 20, 2025, Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. will be celebrated. It’s a day of service and what a great way to begin the new year.

Our next Game Night will be Friday, January 17, 2025, at 7 p.m.

In February 2025, we will begin our Building Association membership drive. The dues will remain the same, $7 per family for the year.

On behalf of the Building Association, have a happy and healthy new year.

—Joyce L. Duncan

Greetings, retirees and friends.

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Out with the old and in with the new. Happy New Year! We hope everyone ushered in the new year celebrating with loved ones and friends. This new year offers all of us an opportunity to refect on the year we just left behind and an opportunity to make new resolutions. Cheers to new beginnings! We wish you all peace, love, and happiness throughout 2025!

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA, Thursday, February 14, 2025. Seats are still available. Tickets are $65 with a $25 slot-play-giveback. Bus pickup in front of H&R Block, leaving promptly at 8:30 a.m. Return drop offs at Einstein, Asch, and Dreiser Loop. Contact Serita at 347-564-5722 for more information.

Tropicana Casino Atlantic City Overnight – May 29-30, 2025. Additional information to be announced soon.

Happy Birthday – We wish all our January celebrants an incredibly happy

birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year.

Condolences – Please keep those who have recently suffered a loss in your thoughts and prayers.

Good and Welfare – Please continue to keep Jay McKenzie in your healing thoughts and prayers along with any others who may be ill and/or shut-in. Please notify Lorraine Parker at 718-671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

Membership Committee – Annual membership dues are $25. Personal checks payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” can be mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-655-9170.

General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held in the new year on Wednesday, January 8, at 1 p.m., in the Dreiser Center, Auditorium C. Please plan to attend; we look forward to seeing you there.

—Georgianna Rodriguez

Goose Island Seniors

The Senior Citizens’ Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. wishes everyone a very happy and healthy New Year.

2025 Resort World Casino – in Monticello, NY; Thurs., Feb. 6, 2025. Price: $70, bonus: $25 slot play and $15 for food. Bus pick-up: Einstein Loop at 8:45 a.m., in front of pizza store, and Dreiser Loop at 9:15 a.m., in front of the hardware store.

2025 Goose Island Seniors Valentine’s Day Party – Feb. 14. Covered dish. Bring something or $20 at door. Members only, 1 p.m., in our club, Rm. 39.

2025 Uptown Motown Show at the Tropicana Casino in AC – Thurs., March 27, 2025. Price: $160. Bonus: $25 slot play and $20 for food; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due Wed., Feb. 26.

Sight and Sound “Noah’s Ark” – Tues., April 15, 2025. Price: $225. Lunch at Miller’s Smorgasbord. Call: 646-579-1701.

2025 Live Casino, No Mall, No Bonus – in Philadelphia, PA.; Thurs., April 24, 2025. Price: $70. No bonus.

2025 Hunterdon Hills Playhouse “Swing” – in Hampton, NJ.; Thurs., May 1, 2025. Price: $180. Includes luncheon and show; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due Wed., March 26, 2025.

2025 Holiday Hills Senior Day – in Prospect, CT.; Tues., Aug. 19, 2025. Price: $150; $50 deposit to hold seat on bus. Balance due Wed., July 2.

2026 Norwegian Greek Isle Cruise – May 18-27, 2026. Price: $3293$3945. Call: 646-579-1701

Notary – with Yvonne Menefee cancelled until further notice. Bingo – Mon., Wed. and Fri., from 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for 3 cards; $0.25 each additional card; 12 games and jackpot. Refreshments.

Game day – Tue. and Thurs., from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, movies, socializing and more. Members only. Refreshments.

To all members: Happy birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of January: Mary Roach, Yolanda Jones, Othelia Jones, Leona Weeden, Delores Shivers, Novella Thomas, Roslyn Jackson, Alma Cruz, Sarah Arteaga, Barbara Richardson, Zulma Medina and Dorthula C. Ahulu. The birthday cake celebration will be Wed., Jan. 15.

We are collecting $30 dues for 2025. Down-payments accepted. Sick and Shut-in – Mary Pilla, our former president, sends her love to everyone. Call her at 718-753-1816.

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475, the Section 5 Community Center. Phone: 718-379-9613. Stephen’s cell: 347-847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net. $StephenCarlSr.

Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts, Sr.

AARP Chapter #4997

From the entire executive board of AARP Chapter #4997, we wish the entire community a blessed and happy new year. We pray that all your holiday events went as hoped for, with family, friends, celebrations and special new memories. Our offce will re-open on Monday, January 6, at 11 a.m. The days of operation are Monday–Thursday, in Rm. “0,” at 177 Dreiser Loop, second foor. Phone: 718-320-1946. Email: aarp4997@gmail.com. Please stop in to see what we are doing for the start of the new year and ask questions or gather information.

The Tour Committee is continuing to fll in the registration sheets for the four trips scheduled so far for 2025. Take note, there is a fnal payment date set for three of the trips. The dates for payment are:

Uptown Motown – 2/20/2025; the trip is on 3/17/2025.

Finger Lakes, NY – 3/14/2025; the trip is from 5/13-5/15/2025.

Canada Cruise – 5/5/2025; the trip is from 10/3-10/10/2025. There are still seats available for the Tomasello Winery and Atlantic City trip, as well as the others. Contact Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962, for exact prices or more information on any of these trips. Deposits can be made in person during our offce hours and fyers will be available. Trip insurance is available for all these events, and we advise you to purchase it for your own protection.

We will begin our 2025 General Membership Meetings on Monday, January 13, at 1 p.m., in the auditorium at Dreiser Loop, second foor. We have updates and a guest speaker who will share valuable information with you.

Please keep in mind that this season the fu, Covid, and respiratory issues are already on the rise and are spreading more rapidly than last year. There

are protections for you to take and vaccines for anyone over 6 months old. All choices are personal, and you should consult your private health care provider to make the best choice for you and the family. At AARP, when there are new guidelines from the Department of Health and Riverbay Corporation, we will be following them completely.

To share items in this article about members and families, please contact Mrs. Wilson at 718-671-5493.

Happy new year to all.

We are here to serve—not to be served.

—Ann Purnell

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry: 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (opposite basketball court). The pantry is open on Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. All guests must present a pantry card, at least four to six clean shopping bags with handles and a shopping cart to receive food. We will not place food in black bags because they pose a safety hazard. Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Ave. to pick up groceries. This distribution site is open Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The groceries are supplied by and distributed by Black Forum. Religious affliation is not required. Masks are a must!

Note: Because of budget limitations, only guests living in zip codes 10475 and 10465 will receive service, although 10465 guests can only get a one-shot package of groceries. Also, new client registration and re-certifcation for returning guests into the pantry program is currently closed.

New Client Registration & Recertifcation for Returners (through March 2025: The Black Forum Food Pantry reopened for registration and re-certifcation for 10475 residents on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025, (Section 5) and Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, (Sections 1-4). The 920 Baychester location opened one hour earlier on Jan. 3 to accommodate registration/re-certifcation and grocery pickup. Please bring a mid-sized to large shopping cart and shopping bags for grocery pickup. All current pantry guests must re-certify to continue receiving food assistance. New guests and those who previously registered but did not re-certify in 2024 are also welcome to register.

To register or re-certify, individuals must be 18 years or older and present a valid IDNYC card (zip code 10475), NY State Driver’s License, or NY State Non-Driver’s License. Passports, Medicaid and Medicare cards, employment identifcation, and Access-A-Ride identifcation are not accepted. All household members must be present with valid identifcation and reside within the 10475 zip code. The intake forms will only include the number of household members who are able to show up in-person at the offce.

Those living in Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4 should register or re-certify at 920 Baychester Avenue. Section 5 residents should go to 2350 Palmer Avenue. Call 311 to apply for a free IDNYC card.

––D. Illis

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

Acupuncture w/Dr. Flora Lyando – Wed., Jan. 8 & Feb. 5. Call JASA NORC for an appointment at 718-320-2066; 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Bereavement Hour w/Chaplain Gladys Baez –Every Friday, starting Jan. 17, at 1 p.m., in the JASA NORC offce. If interested, please call 718-320-2066.

Bartow OAC Dementia Awareness Lunch & Workshop w/Paola – Thurs., Jan. 23, at 1 p.m. Must register to participate, email amoncrieffe@jasa.org.

Dreiser OAC has tickets to the Louis Armstrong Musical, “A Wonderful World,” on Broadway, Thurs., Feb. 20. Tickets: $90; payment due by Feb. 3.

Coping w/Memory & Cognitive Changes – Presented by the Alzheimer’s Assoc., in partnership w/

Room 31 unless otherwise noted

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

(NORC) Line Dancing w/ Bartow Swingers (ONLY) 12-1 p.m., every Monday

Walk w/Odessa

9:30-10:30 a.m.

Blood Pressure, 12-1 p.m. (1st & 3rd Tues.)

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

Adult Coloring, 12-1 p.m.

Smart Phone & Tablet Class w/Julesa, 1:45-2:45 p.m.

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

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

Bereavement Hour w/Dorine (1st Wed./month),12 p.m.-1 p.m.

Line Dancing w/Cynthia, Wed. & Fri., 12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m.

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

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

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

Knitting/Crocheting w/Lynne & Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Card Games w/Frankie, 1-2 p.m.

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

Massage Therapy

10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley 2-4:30 p.m., back of the JASA NORC office

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

Intergenerational Arts & Crafts w/Denise, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Salsa with Rasheed 10 a.m.-11 a.m., will meet in Dreiser, 2nd floor, Rm. 4

Word Games

10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Bingo on Saturdays 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., in the back of JASA NORC of fce

JASA, is meeting weekly on Fridays for nine weeks starting 1/7/25. Education & Orientation: 1/14/253/4/25. Weekly Grp Discussions: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. In the JASA NORC offce. Pre-registration is required by 1/13/25. Call 1-800-272-3900 to request a pre-registration interview scheduling call.

Caringkind – The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving Rep. will be in the Bartow main offce every third Monday of the month, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., for Alzheimer & Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation and other services. Please call 646-744-2921 for an appointment.

Steel Drum Classes – JASA NORC offce, Wed., 1-3 p.m.

Room 49 unless otherwise noted

Mindful Mornings Tai Chi 9 a.m.-10 a.m.

Line Dance w/Sassy 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Book Club, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Movies w/Dennis, 1-3 p.m.

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

Bridge to Care Arthritis Exercise w/Damion, 11 a.m.12 p.m., Rm. 45

Technology Lab w/Steve 1-2 p.m.

Hair Care 4 U 9 a.m.-11 a.m. (appt. only)

Stretch & Tone w/Ola 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Bodies in Motion w/Ola 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Board Games – 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Visual Arts, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Salsa Dance w/George, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Chit & Chat, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Fit for Life Exercise w/Gail, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Notary: Schedule appts. in Rm. 48. Thurs.,11 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-671-5161

Coloring for Calmness, 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Chess Club, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Blood Pressure Screening, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Health & Wellness 2.0 - The Goal Setting, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Let’s Get It On Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

Technology Class – Thurs., 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

Line Dance w/Bartow Swingers – Wed. & Fri., 12-1 p.m. Dreiser Loop, Aud. A.

Notary, JASA NORC offce – Weds. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for an appointment. Notary, Dreiser OAC – Weds., 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Rm. 7. Call 718-320-1345 for an appointment. Please Call Einstein OAC for – Hair Styling: 1st & 3rd Wed. of the month, 9-11 a.m. Braids, haircuts, shape-up, twist, ponytails, curls and more. Facials & Manicure: every Mon., 1-3 p.m. Call 718-671-5161 for appointments.

Room 7 unless otherwise noted

Leisure TV, 9 a.m.-10 a.m.

Stay Well Exercise w/ Denise, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 2

Piano Sing Along Class 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2

Vision Board Party, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

Smartphone & Tablet Literacy class w/Julesa, 1:15-2:15 p.m.

Yoga Class w/Adira 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m., Rm. 2

Current Events, 10-11 a.m. Art w/Gerry, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 6

Leisure Games w/Clara 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

Zumba w/Ola, 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Aud. C

Tai Chi w/Jimmy, 2 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 2

Computer & Tablet class w/ Ralph, (Virtual) 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Leisure TV, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. C

Movie Afternoon – Wicked 1:15 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 4

Walmart, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., (Monroe, NY)

Manicure Services, 10 a.m.11:30 p.m., (Twice a month)

Cardio Exercise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Auditorium A Body in Motion w/Ola, 1 p.m.2 p.m., Aud. A Leisure TV, 2-4 p.m.

Sewing Class w/Joy, 9 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 2

Alert & Alive with Cathy & Essie, 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 4

Knitting & Crocheting w/Loretta, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Line Dance w/Sassy, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Aud. A Bingo, 1:20-2:50 p.m., Rm. 4

Menu fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guests. All meals served w/margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice.

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

Payments for trips can be made where noted, Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m., and 2-4 p.m. only. Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation. Must be 60 or older to become a JASA participant.

LUNCH & DINNER MENUS

Alternate Kosher Meals are available

Menu Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. All meals served with margarine & fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice.

LUNCH: KOSHER: (Plant Based) Eggplant Chick Pea Tagine (Moroccan Stew), Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Vegetable Mix. NON-KOSHER: Baked Asian Style Honey Chicken, Pasta, Steamed Cabbage

NO DINNER SERVED

LUNCH: KOSHER: Turkey Meatloaf w/ Mushroom Gravy, Spaghetti, Sautéed String Beans NON-KOSHER: BBQ Pork Chops, White Rice, California Blend, Vegetables

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Turkey Meatball in Mushroom Gravy, Spaghetti, Sautéed String Beans, Tangerine. NON-KOSHER: Baked Asian Style Honey Chicken, Pasta, Steamed Cabbage, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Fish w/Garlic Sauce, Couscous w/Peas & Lemon, Steamed Carrots. NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish w/ Mushrooms & Peppers, Couscous, Sautéed Green Beans w/Onions

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Baked Fish in Garlic Sauce, Couscous, Garden Salad, Pear NON-KOSHER: BBQ Pork Chops, White Rice, California Blend Vegetables, Orange

LUNCH-KOSHER: Dairy-Free Baked Ziti w/Beef/Capri Blend Vegs., NON-KOSHER: (Plant Based) Lemony Chickpea & Kale, Stir-Fry Brown Rice, Caulifower w/Carrots & Parsley

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY KOSHER: NON-KOSHER:

KOSHER: Vegetarian Three Bean Chili, Cornbread, Prince Edward Vegs., Banana NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish w/ Mushrooms & Peppers, Couscous, Sautéed Green Beans Onions, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Baked Chicken Quarters, Apple Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini NON-KOSHER: Oven Fried Chicken, Baked Macaroni & Cheese Steamed Collard Greens

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: NON-KOSHER:

KOSHER: Baked Chicken Legs, Apple Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini, Kiwi (10 Grab & Go). NON-KOSHER: Chickpea & Kale Stir-Fry, Brown Rice, Steamed Caulifower, Banana

Saturday: Lunch served at 12:30 p.m. until fnished: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Dairy-free Baked Ziti w/Beef, Capri Blend Vegetables, Apple NON-KOSHER: Oven Fried Chicken, Baked Macaroni & Cheese, Steamed, Collard Greens, Orange

Community Protestant Church

Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 2053 Asch Loop, Bronx, NY 10475. You may contact us by phone: 718-8629172, fax: 718-671-4416, or email: Administration@ thecpcchurch.org.

Worship Schedule

In-person Sunday Morning Worship, 11 a.m.; Sunday School, 9:15 a.m.

Every Wednesday – “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer,” 12 p.m., on the conference call line, 712432-3900; Access Code: 343284#.

Every Wednesday – 7 p.m. Bible Study online via Zoom. Log in on Zoom.com or dial One Tap Mobile, 646-931-3860 or 929-205-6099; Meeting ID: 837 7258 6522.

On the last Sunday of 2024, the Praise Team set the tone for worship. They engaged and uplifted the congregation with the selection, “Let’s Have Church.” We then graciously welcomed Deacon Sybil Whinstanley’s family from Maryland and London, as well as Pastor’s grandsons, Evan Owens, Jr. and Eric Owens of Georgia, who were visiting for the holiday.

Before preaching time, Rev. Richardson sang his rendition of “The Center of My Joy,” followed by Pastor’s special request for “The Solid Rock.” Then it was preaching time. The theme, “Soul Searching for the New Year” is taken from Revelations 21:1,5 and 2 Corinthians 5:17

Pastor asked why we make New Year’s resolutions every year, when, as believers, we are renewed and refreshed day by day when the Lord wakes us up. What are we working on that God doesn’t know needs to be corrected? When you know you have accepted Christ and have faith, you are a new person because He continuously works on us. Pastor implored that it’s time to embrace the full meaning of the gospel, break down the walls that separate us from eternal life and walk in the will of God. He asked us to do some soul searching and make the decision to serve and spend more time with Him this New Year. Friends, we invite you to praise the Lord with us beginning with Adult Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. Come experience and explore all the new possibilities at Community Protestant, a church of love and understanding.

To all of our sick and shut in members, please know that we are praying for you and for your speedy recovery. We extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to all who are in a season of mourning. Please pray for nurse and Senior Usher Shelly Washington on the passing of her sister, Ms. Sharon Washington, and Nurse Jeanine Nzameyo as she prepares to bury her brother, Mr. Daniel Mba. We send our very best happy birthday wishes to everyone celebrating their birthday this month and we wish you a very Happy Kwanzaa and very Happy New Year.

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

—Lexa M. Mingo

Co-op City United Methodist Church IEMU de Co-op City

Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds Come and Visit Us – We are a multi-ethnic and bilingual, Bible-centered congregation with spirit-flled worship. Services are held in person at 2350 Palmer Avenue across from Building 30. Parking is available. You can also participate with us via Zoom (904 4685745), or Facebook Live (UMC Coop City). –Pastor, Rev. Sara Girón-Ortiz.

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi[a] from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him’.” –Matthew 2:1-2

This week, Christians around the world celebrate Epiphany. While many know it as the day marking the 12th day after Christmas, often signaling the time to take down Christmas decorations, for Christians it holds signifcant meaning. But what is the true meaning of Epiphany?

The word “Epiphany” comes from the Greek word meaning “manifestation,” which signifes to show or reveal. For Christians, it is a time to commemorate Christ’s manifestation to the Gentiles and, by extension, to all people. This is represented by the visit of the Magi to the child Jesus. In a broader sense, Epiphany provides an opportunity in the life of the Church to begin the new year by celebrating the universality of the Gospel.

The celebration of Epiphany is often associated with gift-giving, due to the gifts presented to Jesus by the wise men. But there are also many lessons to

learn from their actions. Essentially, this is a story of faith in action, as we envision a group of people investing time and resources, leaving behind the familiar, and embarking on a journey to fnd and worship Jesus. Although the Magi were guided by knowledge that led them to follow the star, they also needed God’s word and the help of chief priests and other people who understood God’s prophecies to guide them to the newborn King. For us, this serves as a call to seek Jesus, worship Him, study Scripture, and help each other along the way.

In addition, the Magi offered gifts as an act of worship before the infant King. In a similar way, we are called to offer ourselves to God in worship, becoming His representatives in the world. When we give ourselves in love for the beneft of others, we are manifesting God’s presence in the world, which brings hope to many.

Lord Jesus, just as the wise men followed the star, help us commit to following you. Lead and guide us to serve others with our actions and words. Come and Receive a Blessing: All are welcome!

Tuesday: English Bible Study at 6 p.m. via Zoom (904 4685745).

Thursday: Prayer Service at 10 a.m. Pantry at 11 a.m.

Upcoming Events: Save the Dates Sunday, January 5: Bilingual Service and Communion/ Servicio Bilingüe y Comunión at 11:15 a.m.

—Grace Abadia

Newsong Church

Get closer to God in 2025

“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation, so that you may know Him better.” –Ephesians 1:17

God is always calling us into a deeper relationship with Him. If you’re looking for Him, He’s not hard to fnd. If you come to Him in prayer, He will meet you right where you are in your life’s journey. Christianity isn’t a religion, it’s a personal relationship with the living God.

You’re as close to God as you want to be. If you’re ready to take your next step in your spiritual journey, surrender your heart to Jesus. Ask Him to be your Lord and Savior and then fnd a church where you can learn and grow in your faith with others. (BTW, I know a great church right here in Co-op City!)

Starting on January 5, our church is getting closer to God through the spiritual disciplines of prayer (connecting with God) and fasting (disconnecting from the world). We’ll be gathering every day for 21 days because we all want to get closer to God this year! For more information about how you can start a relationship with Jesus, or about 21 days of prayer and fasting, contact us!

About Us

Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op City! We believe that every person can know God, fnd freedom, discover their purpose and make a difference in this world! Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family. Check us out at 135 Einstein Loop!

Sunday Worship Experience – at 11 a.m. Our Sunday worship experience starts with celebration. We make music to please God and to build others up. Colossians 3:16, “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” We sing to bring glory and honor to God and celebrate who He is and what He’s doing in our church!

Newsong Deaf Church, Rm. 35 – Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language!

Kidsong, Rm. 49 – We’ve created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level!

Against The Flow – Every Friday at 6:30 p.m., in Rm. 42. ATF is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world. Our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus.

So, what are you waiting for? There’s a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5? Remember, a church alive is worth the drive! Come, fnd hope, healing and freedom. Contact Us

Mailing Address: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 42

Phone: 917-342-2559

Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org

Prayer Request Line: Text “Prayer” to 877-899-7323

Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org

Social Media: Facebook/IG/X: @newsongchurchbx; YouTube: Newsong Church NYC

—Pastor Mike Tolone

Building 28 Association

Dearest shareholders,

I hope the New Year has commenced as a fresh start on a new chapter for all. We are initiating the year with a building meeting featuring our guest speaker, Leslie Peterson. We will be reviewing building dues, news, and discussing our future outlook. Small bites and refreshments will be served. We look forward to seeing you on January 14 at 7:30 p.m.

––Idalia Reyes

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. Email: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-3200844. Priest-in-charge: Fr. Simeon Johnson; cell phone: 917-227-4303.

In-person worship service for the Second Sunday after Christmas Day will be conducted by Father Simeon Johnson at the church on Sunday, January 5, at 9 a.m., as well as via teleconference.

Please do not forget to tune in for the usual teleconference weekday prayers at 12 p.m. To participate by teleconference, dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509-898, followed by the # sign. On New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1, the service will be online at the usual time!

Pledge cards for the new year, 2025, are now available. Please collect, complete and return yours to the church as soon as possible. We need them ahead of our Annual General Meeting, which will be held on January 26. These cards refect our fnancial pledge for the year and are used to create our budget as well as refect our offer to volunteer our time and talent where and when possible. We know you want to help your church, so it is on these cards that you tell us about your areas of interest and expertise.

Condolences: Our thoughts and prayers go out to all our bereaved members, families and friends who have recently lost loved ones. Please keep them in your prayers.

Sick and Shut-in: We extend our well wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery. If possible, please visit them, call them on the phone or send them a card.

Birthday Greetings: Best wishes to everyone celebrating a birthday this month.

We are collecting food (cans and dry goods) for the pantry at Grace Episcopal Church, West Farms. If you can, please contribute for those in need.

Grace and peace!

––Merville Chambers

Church of the New Vision

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

We wish you much joy and happiness as you celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Warm wishes for a holiday flled with love, peace, good health and hope. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Happy Kwanzaa, Three Kings Day and a Happy New Year.

Our scripture verse for 2025 is: Hebrews 12:2 NIV, “Let us fx our eyes on Jesus, the Author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the Throne of God.”

Sunday service at 11 a.m. All are welcome. Masks are required.

Noon Day Prayer Line: 12-12:30 p.m., Monday–Friday.

Wednesday Night Prayer and Bible Study: 7-8 p.m., is suspended until January 2025. The conference line number is 646-769-9900, Access Code: 3099388# Please mute your phone.

December 29, 2024 Worship Service Theme: “Do It with A Limp.”

Scripture: Genesis 32:22-25 NKJV: “And he arose that night and took his two wives, his two female servants, and his eleven sons, and crossed over the ford of Jabbok. He took them, sent them over the brook, and sent over what he had. Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. Now when He saw that He did not prevail against him, He touched the socket of his hip; and the socket of Jacob’s hip was out of joint as He wrestled with him.”

Thank you, Elder Michael Adolphus, for part one of the message, “Do It with a Limp.” Part two continued on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2024, during the Watch Night Service. Doors opened at 10:30 p.m. All welcome.

July 6-13, 2025: Celebrity Beyond, an eight-day/seven-night cruise from Miami. Ports of Call: Nassau, Bahamas, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Inside Stateroom, $2656 pp; Ocean View, $2847 pp; Infnite Veranda, $2785 pp. Deposit: $500 per stateroom to reserve your room. Final payment is due March 9, 2025. Package includes cruise, air*, taxes, fees, transfers, Wi-Fi, drink package and gratuities. (*Air rates may differ based on departing airport). Contact: Hermena Smith at 718-708-5035 or email info@churchnewvisionbx.org to request payment link.

We continue to pray for speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, and condolences to families who lost loved ones. Good health and wellness for all. Please mail contributions, tithes and offerings to: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475. Thank you.

—Brenda Brown

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

177 Dreiser Loop, second foor, Rm. 2

Happy New Year! The entire St. Thomas Church family prays that you and your loved ones will have a blessed new year. All are invited to worship with us. Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20)

The Kwanzaa celebration, observed last Sunday, was an uplifting event. Our annual custom of learning about the seven principles and refecting upon how we can apply them to our lives was beautifully presented by the members of our congregation and clergy who participated. A special thank you is extended to Rev. Brewer for organizing this celebration.

This Sunday is Covenant Sunday. This is our annual opportunity to celebrate and affrm that we give our lives and choices to God. The words that we speak are of great importance. Rather than using our words for strife and gossip, let us use them to affrm our love and service for God. “He that shall rule his tongue shall live without strife.” (Ecclesiasticus 19:6)

Congregational Meeting: The annual meeting of the membership of The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle, Inc., will be held this Sunday, January 5, following a brief service for Covenant Sunday beginning at 11 a.m.

Covenant Sunday, January 5, 2025:

● 11 a.m., Communion Service

● Annual Congregational Meeting

● Fellowship with light refreshments following the meeting

Bible Lessons:

● Hebrews 1:1-12

● John 1:1-14

The Covenant: “I am no longer my own, but Thine. Put me to what Thou will. Rank me with whom Thou wilt. Put me to doing; put me to suffering. Let me be employed for Thee or laid aside for Thee, exalted for Thee, or brought low for Thee. Let me be full; let me be empty. Let me have all things; let me have nothing.I freely and heartily yield all things to Thy pleasure and disposal. And now, O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Thou art mine; and I am Thine. So be it. And the Covenant which I have made on earth let it be ratifed in heaven. Amen.”

—Rev. Dorian Miceli

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo De Cristo

Christmas Future – He’s Coming Again

Luke 2:34-35, “Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: ‘This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.’”

Simeon’s words stand true today. Many souls are still being pierced by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. To some, he is a heroic fgure, saving humanity and mediating between God and man. To others, he is a myth, a grandiose fool who wasted his life.

Jesus’ return is promised: Acts 1:11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Four prophecies announced by the angel Gabriel were fulflled with the birth of Jesus:

1. Mary’s pregnancy through miraculous means. 2. She would have a son. 3. He would be great. 4. He would be called “Son of God. Three prophecies have yet to be fulflled.

Luke 1:31-32, “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High.”

If the earlier prophecies were completely fulflled, we can believe that the next prophecies will also come to pass. It is intellectually dishonest to take the frst prophecies literally and spiritualize the next ones.

Luke 1: 32-33, “The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

We are on God’s timetable, and he is putting everything in place for Jesus’ return. Gabriel said: 1. Jesus will continue the dynasty of his ancestor David in Jerusalem. 2. Jesus will reign as king over the land of Israel. 3. Jesus will establish an everlasting kingdom.

Titus 2:11-14, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”

Schedule (147 Dreiser Loop)

In January 2025, all ministries will be engaged in prayer and reorganization. First Sunday of the month, Bilingual Communion Service at 10:30 a.m.

Sunday: Spanish Service at 9 a.m. and English Service at 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday: Nonperishable food distribution, 12-2 p.m.

Thursday: Prayer/Bible Study, 6:30-8 p.m.

Blessings in Christ, —Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

Year in Review ––– (Continued from page 9)

Co-op City Times / January 4, 2025

apartments, in compliance with Local Law 157, which requires mandatory installation of natural gas detecting devices in residential buildings on or before May 1, 2025. Local Law 157 was passed in 2016 in response to a number of deadly gas explosions in New York City in 2014 and 2015, and required the Department of Buildings (DOB) to create specifc regulations based on national standards. Those national standards weren’t fnalized until 2023, when the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) published NFPA 715, which set forth requirements for the installation of gas detectors. The DOB then used those standards to fnalize Local Law 157, which went into effect in February 2024. So, far, natural gas detectors have been installed in Buildings 1, 2 & 3.

NY Governor Kathy Hochul announced statewide changes to Child Health Plus and Medicaid coverage on Nov. 22, 2024 to ensure coverage to more children and prevent healthcare gaps for the state’s youngest demographic. Under the new changes, children under six who are enrolled in Child Health Plus can remain covered by the policy “even if the child’s family circumstances change.” Specifcally, the waiver authorizes “continuous enrollment for Children’s Medicaid and Child Health Plus (New York State’s CHIP program) coverage for children during the frst six years of their lives and federal Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) matching funds without regard to whether a child’s family income exceeds eligibility limits.” Before the amendment could offcially be implemented, the waiver had to frst be approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Gov. Hochul also announced the signing of Melanie’s Law on Nov. 25, 2024. The law allows “courts to issue orders of protection for immediate family members or household members of the named victims, regardless of age.” Melanie’s Law was named in memory of Melanie Chianese, a 29-yearold mother who was murdered by her mother’s ex-boyfriend in 2022. While a court order at that time provided protection for Melanie’s mother, the order could not legally extend to protect Melanie.

Riverbay Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto discussed fre safety with the Co-op City Times and what shareholders should do if the smoke or carbon monoxide detector in their apartment activates.

Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders announced the Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024 Open Board meeting to be held in the Dreiser Auditorium and encouraged shareholders who wish to address the Board and Management to arrive early and sign the list to speak at the Gallery Session.

Gov. Kathy Hochul held a press conference at the Dreiser Auditorium on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024 to unveil a proposal to send “infation refunds” to New York taxpayers. The infation refund would be a one-time check which, for individuals earning up to $150,000 a year, would be in the amount of $300, and for joint flers earning up to $300,000 a year, $500. The refund proposal now has to be approved by the New York State Legislature and, if approved, checks would be mailed next fall.

Shareholders who received income verifcation notifcation letters for tax year 2020 from New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) now have until January 31, 2025 to respond by bringing or mailing proof to the Riverbay Finance department. Failure to respond will be assumed to indicate unreported excess income and will result in a retroactive maximum surcharge of 50% being applied to their monthly maintenance accounts for the period starting July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021. In addition, there is an additional $150 administrative charge.

MTA offcials announced an open house at the Bronx Library Center to educate riders on the agency’s 2025-2029 Capital Plan. At the Dec. 16th open house at the Library Center, the fourth in a series of such events hosted by the MTA, New Yorkers had a chance to learn more about the MTA’s upcoming plans for capital improvements. Participants also had the opportunity to view posters, pamphlets and videos on the 2025-2029 Capital Plan. MTA representatives were on hand to answer questions on the plan, and there was information available on fare discount programs and career opportunities for minority, women, disadvantaged and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.

Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Public Schools (NYCPS) Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos informed New Yorkers that through a new program, FutureReadyNYC, high school students will be provided with a head start on their professional development by being given an opportunity to “learn important job skills, get paid work experience, earn early college credit and get certifcates for jobs that pay well and are in demand.” Truman High School in Co-op City’s Education Park is one of 135 citywide FutureReadyNYC schools. The program also adds two new career pathways in the HVAC and social services professions.

Supported by Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Representative-elect George Latimer, State Senator Jamaal Bailey, State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and City Council Member Kevin C. Riley, Riverbay Corporation held “Holidays Around the World” on Dec. 6 in the Dreiser Auditorium. During the festivities, gifts were distributed to children and a Christmas Tree and Menorah were lit to usher in the 2024 holiday season.

An Emergency Preparedness Workshop – organized by Riverbay Corporation in partnership with the Homeland Security and Emergency Services: Citizens Preparedness Corp. and sponsored by NY Gov. Kathy Hochul – provided shareholders with resources and information about natural and manmade disasters and strategies for responding to them. Preparedness kits were distributed to the attendees.

In his President’s Report presented at the Dec. 18th Open Board meeting, Riverbay Board President Rod Saunders congratulated the 15 new CCPD offcers who graduated on Dec. 16, 2024. from CCPD’s in-house Peace Offcer Training Academy. He also informed shareholders that he invited Gov. Hochul to return to Co-op City in July to attend a presentation about how Co-

op City intends to address climate control and utilize alternative energy. He also thanked Council Members Kevin Riley and Pierina Sanchez, chairs of the Council’s Committee on Housing and Buildings, for supporting the J-51 tax break program which was approved by the City Council. Co-op City will, he said, be able to utilize the J-51 program for building renovations made in compliance with Local Law 97 which requires buildings to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2020. The Board president also encouraged shareholders to read the Co-op City Times not only for up-to-date information about the community, but to see advertisements from local businesses.

Ten shareholders signed up to speak at the Dec. 18th Gallery Session during which they expressed their opinions and concerns about a wide range of topics ranging from upgraded kitchen cabinets, future carrying charge increases, Board committees, smoking in Co-op City, lighting around the community, dog owners not cleaning up after their dogs, the Riverbay Fund, community fnes, apartment equity, commercial leases for supermarkets and healthier diet options, Amazon package deliveries, updates on Rite Aid lease in the Bartow Mall, safety in parking garages, installation of security cameras and cleanliness at the Dreiser Mall.

Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton gave updates at the Dec. 18, 2024 Board meeting on CCPD staffng, heating services in the community, garage elevator modernization, 2-year budget planning and convector initiatives when he presented the Management Report for the period ending Nov. 30, 2024.

The MTA started mailing more than 1.5 million Reduced-Fare OMNY cards to current program participants to replace the former Reduced-Fare MetroCard. With the inclusion of Reduced-Fare customers, the MTA is another step closer to transitioning away from MetroCards. The new Reduced-Fare OMNY cards offer riders tap and go convenience.

Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin Walton announced the selection of Joshua Blake as the new Riverbay Deputy General Manager on Dec. 16, 2024. Mr. Blake had been serving as Interim Deputy General Manager for the last several months. “I am very excited to start this new position as Deputy General Manager,” Mr. Blake said following the announcement. “As a shareholder myself, I am here to represent and support the interests of all the shareholders here in Co-op City. I am willing to strive for excellence and customer service. I think it’s time to raise our customer service to the highest level we can.”

Co-op City parents were advised that their child’s kindergarten or kindergarten gifted and talented applications are due by January 24, 2025.

Thanks to the generosity of Co-op City shareholders and visitors, and Bartow Stationery, CCPD collected approximately 1,030 donations of toys, puzzles, art and sports equipment during this year’s Toy Drive. The donations were then distributed by CCPD to children at three family shelters, Jackson Avenue Family Residence and Willow Avenue Family Residence, both in the Bronx, NY, and one in Manhattan. CCPD thanked all who gave generously to help brighten the spirits of displaced children this Holiday season.

The MTA Board voted to approve the agency’s 2025 budget on Dec. 18, 2024. The 2025-2029 fnancial plan was originally presented by MTA Deputy Chief Financial Offcer Jai Patel at the MTA Board meeting held on Nov. 18, 2024. The budget assumes a 4% fare increase to bus and subway fares in both 2025 and 2027.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024 the fnal set of requirements that food manufacturers must follow in order to label their products as “healthy.” Food products are considered healthy options under the new criteria if they meet current nutrition standards in line with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Depending on the exact food group a product is made from, that item must contain at least a certain amount of the same food group included in the ingredients. The other key aspect of the updated healthy food standards addresses salt, saturated fats and sugar consumption. Looking ahead, the FDA is working on developing a “healthy” symbol that all manufacturers can use on their products that meet the updated requirements.

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Co-op City Times delivery

The Co-op City Times is delivered to building lobbies. We ask that you keep the newspapers neat and tidy. Delivery to townhouses continues as it has to each unit door. Please pick up your paper promptly after delivery to avoid it scattering in high winds or getting soiled in inclement weather.

If you are going to the lobby, please bring newspapers up for your neighbors, especially those who are among our vulnerable population.

If the Co-op City Times is not delivered: call 407-666-8317 on Saturdays only, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Thank you, and stay safe.

RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

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

• Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services.com/riverbaycorp, to complete online disclosure form;

• Call independent third party whistleblower hotline: 1-833-290-0009 (English); 1-800-2161288 (Spanish);

• Email reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject);

• Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).