Section Five Association

The Section 5 Association wishes all a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. We did not get the expected snow. We have been spared a snowy winter for two years now. Please stay vigilant, as there are new variants and Covid-19 is on the rise again. The hospitals and facilities are mandated to wear masks again.

As we began the year 2024, we wish all a blessed, happy, healthy and wonderful new year as we move forward.

Bronx Community Board #10 – A CB #10 public hearing was held in Co-op City at the Bartow Community Center on January 4. The purpose of the hearing was for the community board to vote on approval to open a licensed retail cannabis dispensary at 675 Co-op City Blvd. Mr. Rod Sanders gave his comments in opposition of opening a retail shop to sell cannabis in Co-op City. Many speakers followed in agreement with the opposition. The facts are the same; whether illegal or legal, license or no license, cannabis can and does have various mental and physical effects. There can be addictions as a result of long term use. There are many accessible highways and byways that can atPlease, we do not want to hear in the Association meetings about smoking in our hallways or in the parks. Did you come and tell your story at the public hearing? Through it all, we thank and applaud Community Board #10 for their concern and support of the people and voting no.

Section 5 Mall – Students from I.S. 160 are beginning to hang out in our and the Board of Education to inquire what is being done to monitor these middle grade students. Public Safety is present at the mall site, however the students ignore Public Safety.

Saturday Volunteers – Volunteers are needed for food distribution at 10:30 a.m. at the Co-op City Community Fridge. Interested in volunteering? Contact Coopcitycommunityfridge@gmail.com.

One may reach Nelson Sweeting, president of SFA, at 646-644-4055.

“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” –Henry Ford.

––H. Overman

Co-op City Toastmasters

A Toastmasters Journey for Co-op City

cuses on improving its members’ public speaking, communication, and leadership skills. Through its network of clubs worldwide, Toastmasters provides a supportive and positive environment where individuals can develop these skills through a self-paced, learn-by-doing program. The organization offers opportunities for practicing public speaking, receiving constructive feedback, taking on leadership roles, and engaging in impromptu speaking exercises, all context. We are so fortunate here in Co-op City to not just have one but two Toastmasters Club. The Co-op City Toastmasters Club for those just starting out in their Toastmasters journey and the Bronx Advanced Speakers Club for the more advanced speakers.

What’s In It For Me? Our Toastmaster’s Club is designed to equip you with the abilities and self-assurance necessary for effective self-expression in diverse scenarios. It caters to a wide range of individuals, including experienced managers, students, young professionals, career-focused individuals, and comapproach to enhancing communication skills, Toastmasters helps you articulate and convey your thoughts clearly, unlocking a realm of new opportunities. This experience not only boosts your interpersonal communication skills but also Toastmasters can assist you in various ways, including:

• Enhanced Public Speaking Skills public speaking.

• Improved Communication Abilities : Learn how to communicate your ideas clearly and effectively.

• Leadership Development: Develop and hone your leadership skills through practical experience.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse group of individuals and expand your professional and social network.

• Supportive Environment encourages learning and growth.

• Flexibility in Learning: Tailor your Toastmasters experience to your personal goals and pace.

Upcoming Events & Contest Information

Saturday, Jan. 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. – Toastmasters Leadership Summit, Elevate to Lead, Monroe College (King Hall), 2501 Jerome Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10468.

Sunday, Jan. 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. – Driver Safety Program, 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. #5, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Contact: (347) 927-1069.

Thursday, Jan. 18, 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. – Co-op City Hybrid Meeting, 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. #5, Bx., N.Y. Zoom Link: 955 852 7325, Passcode: x4by9C

Saturday, Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

District Website Registration.

Save The Date: Thurs., Feb. 2 – Co-op City & BAS Hybrid Contest, in person, at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. #5, 7 p.m.

—Lauretta Jaysura