SECTION BUILDING 29C 4240 HUTCH. RIVER PKWY E.

Board Meeting ––––––– (Continued from page 4)

Director Sonia Feliciano asked what age group of children would fobs be issued to in each household, and the response was for 11 and up.

Director Green-Watson asked about key fob distribution for townhouse residents who use the laundry rooms in the neighboring Triple Core buildings and also for access to the garages. As was the case with townhouse residents who use laundry rooms in the Chevron buildings, townhouse residents who use the laundry facility in Triple Cores will likewise be issued fobs. Key fobs for the garages, however, will be addressed in a future budget.

The Board then proceeded to discuss and vote on the second reading of resolutions which are printed on pages 6 and 9 of this issue. ciano asked Management to expand on an alternative encapsulation method that Riverbay has been exploring. Assistant General Manager Warren Mitchell said that the corporation has been looking into other encapsulation methodology in order to save the corporation millions annually in air monitoring and asbestos but if we can get away from this, it will save us millions of dollars every year.”

Although still in the preliminary stages, Mr. Mitchell said a product, the expects to move forward in the next couple of months with the product, although a third is yet to be explored. asbestos abatement, and then if this works, you then encapsulate it,” he reported. “In the future, you won’t need the asbestos contractor or the air testing because step. You’re not going to see huge relief from your budgets immediately but over time as you do more and more of these apartments, it will substantially reduce the cost of both asbestos abatement remediation and air testing that we also have to do in conjunction with it.”

Director Johnson raised a question about whether the responsibility to hire undertaken by Riverbay Corporation and not to individual shareholders who Counsel responded with a resounding, “No! Absolutely not.”

“Anybody who is listening who does that, you are violating the law, you are exposing the corporation to violating the law and you would be breaching your occupancy agreement subjecting yourself to possible eviction. Do not do it, don’t even think about it,” Mr. Buss stressed.

Board President Cylich added: “It’s in your occupancy agreement, by the way, that if you do any kind of construction work in your house, you have to have

Director Leslie Peterson asked if encapsulation is an approved method for asbestos remediation and Mr. Klehammer said the concept of encapsulation is an approved method. However, Management is still doing its due diligence to ensure all necessary approvals are secured before proceeding with the product to avoid violations.

Finally, Board President Cylich focused discussion on dedicating the Dreiser auditorium. He proposed dedicating the venue to Paul Robeson, an American singer, screen and stage actor, athlete and activist. He suggested forming a committee to put together plans for a star-studded event to which entertainers, politicians and notables from around the country would be invited. Some other suggestions were Esther Smith, one of the pioneering leaders of the Co-op City a past President of the Riverbay Board; former President Barak Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama; Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor; Martha Howell, a past director of Riverbay Community Relations department who helped set up the Riverbay Fund.

“My suggestion would be to pick a few names and let the community decide, let the community decide,” emphasized Director Feliciano. “I think that they should be engaged and we need to bring them together to help make a decision. This is their community as well…This should be a community decision.”

Director Feliciano’s sentiment was seconded by Director Claudia Sampson, Director Pearson and Director Peterson who said it was time for a Black woman to be honored in Co-op City.

“I think our community should make this decision and this would be a great way to engage them so we can offer them a couple of options and have them vote on it. I don’t think it should be one person making the nomination, you can nominate somebody but give people a chance to choose. That would make, I think, a lot of people feel like their voice is being heard.”

This concluded the business portion of the meeting. The Board then adjourned

Bus Redesign ––––––– (Continued from page 1)

Below is a rundown of the local buses that service the Co-op City community

Bx12 Local:

The MTA will not modify the routing and will remove only one stop, which

Bx12 Select Bus Service:

The MTA will not alter or eliminate any stops for this line; the current sched

Bx23:

The MTA will not change the routing or remove stops. To offset the loss Co-op City moderately for both directions during “midday and weekends,”

Bx26:

The MTA will not change the routing but will remove 17 stops mainly along Allerton Avenue, two along Bedford Park Boulevard and two along Bartow Avenue stops along Bartow Avenue. The MTA will not remove the Asch Loop

Bx28:

The Mosholu Avenue and Paul Avenue stops along the western end of the route will be discontinued. As a result, service will be moved to Bainbridge Avenue and Bedford Park Boulevard instead. This change in routing aims to speed up bus frequency. Notably, the MTA will not remove the Asch Loop stop Two stops will be removed along Bainbridge Avenue and two will be removed

Bx30:

will now stretch to Connor Street and Pelham Parkway. Commuters will have new routing. Six stops will be removed along Boston Road and replaced with schedule. However, the MTA will closely monitor ridership after implementing the new routing and adjust the schedule, if necessary, in the future. Additional

Bx38

removing the Edson Avenue and Brunner Avenue stops along Bartow Avenue. quency for the morning, evening and late night hours in an effort to offset the

Q50 Limited Service

stops, which are the northbound and southbound stops at Whitestone Expressway

MTA Real-Time Service Updates

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

web.mta.info/weekender.

Board of Directors’ Meeting – February 23, 2022

First Reading - Resolution #22-03

, The Board of Directors is entrusted with the custody of assets and administrative control of expenditures for the Corporation; and , the rental of community center space is , Management recommends that commu non-residents at a higher non-resident rate; and , Management recommends that the rates at which community center space is leased be increased as per the attached chart as new lease agreements are signed

First Reading - Resolution #22-06

submit bids for the insulation repair and/or replacement Riverbay received three (3) proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and sulation Contractor, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder (recommendation attached); and , prior to voting on this Resolution, no Diand thereafter all such rates shall be increased by the rate , that the rates at which space is leased in the community centers be increased as per the attached chart as new lease agreements are signed and thereafter all such rates shall be increased , community center dents at a higher non-resident rate; and , that notice of the increased rates shall be published in three (3) consecutive issues of the Co-op City Times; and , that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

that agement in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

First Reading - Resolution #22-05

for providing 3rd Party Elevator Consulting for Category as owners are now responsible for the required periodic elevator inspections as mandated by the New York City See attached supporting Memo); and prior to voting on this Resolution, no Di that tor for a 3-year period) be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

(See page 9 for more Resolutions)

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Artists of Co-op City, this is your chance to be featured in the Co-op City Times! February’s showcase was a great success in our presentation of the talent that our community holds. We will once again be collecting pieces (Paintings. Poems. Photos.) from artists of all ages in the community for March’s artist presentations. Email some of your best work to PMcCoyCampbell@riverbaycorp.com with “Co-op Creatives” in the subject line. Along with your artwork, please send a picture of yourself, the Co-op City section you reside in, a short personal bio including your pronouns, and an explanation of your piece/pieces.

If you are selected, you will be featured in the Co-op City Times and possibly Riverbay’s other communications outlets. Thank you to Carla M. Cherry and Davida Ladson for being our February presenters! If you are not selected for March, don't worry; there is always next month! We can’t wait to share some of the very talented artists in Co-op City with our readers. can’t wait to share some of the very talented artists in Co-op City with our readers.

Photos by P.M. Campbell

Co-op City Times

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

We welcome letters to the editor only from Co-op City shareholders at .

Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

Only signed letters will be considered for publication. The Co-op City Times does not publish anonymous material.

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number – which ity and residency of the writer can be

Thank you for your cooperation.

Co-op City Times / February 26, 2022 7 CCPD Offers Crime Prevention Tips For Package Deliveries

BY LT. PAM APOLLO

There has been a large increase of package deliveries over the past years. For a variety of reasons, many people opt to replace in-person shopping with delivery from online websites. With this increase in package deliveries, comes an increase in potential for errors to occur and for thieves to take advantage. The Department of Public Safety will provide some steps you can take to keep your packages safe from ordering to delivery. The first step in the actions you can take to increase the likelihood that your package arrives at its destination is to ensure that the address is accurate and complete. Be sure to include the apartment number in the address. Original Co-op City addresses only included the floor and not the apartment. It is always better to include the apartment number on all pieces of mail. During the original days of Co-op City, the post office employee who delivered packages knew every name of every person on their route. All of the names appeared inside of the mailbox when opened by the employee who saw that information daily. Cooperators should ensure that their mailing address always includes the full apartment including the letter of your apartment. Using the “Zip plus 4” is also a good idea. So many different delivery companies and merchants offering their own delivery service can be observed daily in Co-op City.

If you are hand-writing an address on a package, be sure to write clearly, print in all capital letters, if possible. This is true for any packages you may send or receive. If a package from a merchant you use regularly arrives with an error in the address, be sure to notify the merchant for correction. Be sure to share all of

the above information with friends and family members that might be sending Public you mail or packages. When ordering online, pay attention to the expected delivery time. Some Safety Report merchants are better than others at giving a reliable delivery date. Attempt to plan for the delivery window to be for a time you expect to be home. Some merchants provide one or two-day delivery times and are accurate in regards to errors to occur and for thieves to take advantage. The these projections. These projected delivery dates are never 100% accurate but Department of Public Safety will provide some steps can often give an idea of when the package will arrive. you can take to keep your packages safe from ordering Ordering items online can be a convenient option but there have been reports to delivery. of packages being stolen in Co-op City and nationwide. Public Safety patrols The first step in the actions you can take to increase the the buildings but Co-op City is a large complex with many buildings with many likelihood that your package arrives at its destination is to floors and hallways. It is best if you can minimize the amount of time your ensure that the address is accurate and complete. Be sure package spends in the hallway. Ask a trusted neighbor to be on the look-out for to include the apartment number in the address. Original Co-op your packages and do the same for them. Try to order items to arrive at a time when someone will be home. Both Amazon and UPS have secure drop boxes in Co-op City and the surrounding areas. Some companies allow members to select one day of the week to receive all of their deliveries in less packages. Contact the merchant if you learn that your package ended up at an incorrect address. Notify the merchant for resolution. Also, be wary of texts regarding an attempted delivery. Be sure to never click on a text or email about a package delivery, especially if you have not ordered an item from that merchant. Clicking on a text or email can download malware or spyware onto your device. For more information about crime prevention, contact the National Crime Prevention Council, 1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 13th floor, Washington, DC 20036; (202) 466-6267, or on their website, www.ncpc.org. Always remember, if you see something, say something. If you see suspicious persons in the garage or lurking near parked vehicles on the street, an auto crime could be taking place, an auto crime could be ready to happen, notify the authorities. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. Shareholders should be careful on who they let into their building especially when someone tries to piggyback behind you. If you see someone without a key loitering for the purpose of gaining entry through unorthodox means, please call CCPD to determine the person’s legitimacy to his/her presence. The person could be lost, in need of help, but can also be up to objectionable activities. Co-op City is a diverse community with people of all ages, abilities and characteristics. All persons should remember to respect each other and embrace their differences. Do not forget to say hello to your neighbors when you pass each other in the hallway or in the street, while maintaining a six-foot social distance. Co-op City strives to accommodate all persons. It is also important

Public Safety Blotter

February 13 - February 19, 2022

February 14 – 120 Benchley Pl.

A shareholder reported that she was a victim of a telephone scam for money. The shareholder was advised to notify her bank and NYPD. Shareholders are advised to never divulge financial information to unsolicited callers.

140 Asch Loop

CCPD Emergency Service officers responded to a call for an incapacitated shareholder inside their apartment. CCPD Emergency officers conducted a forced entry, assisted and evaluated the shareholder.

2035 Bartow Avenue

While on routine patrol, CCPD observed an unoccupied vehicle with the trunk open. The owner of the vehicle was notified, responded and reported several items missing from the vehicle.

120 Donizetti Pl.

CCPD Emergency Service Officers responded to male down with possible diabetic issues. Upon arrival and evaluation, the officers administered oxygen, stabilized the aided, and ultimately transported the patient to Jacobi Hospital via EMS.

February 15 – 99 Bellamy Loop

CCPD responded to Garage 6 for a vehicle with property damage. The owner of the vehicle was notified and responded to the scene.

120 Alcott Pl.

CCPD officers and detectives responded to a call for loitering. Upon arrival and investigation, a juvenile resident recognized as a suspect on past unlawful activity, was found to be in possession of a weapon and placed under arrest. The juvenile’s parent was issued a Community Complaint for their child’s action.

100 Carver Loop

An illegally parked Toyota was blocking the dumpster pad at said location. The vehicle was summonsed and towed.

February 16 – 120 Alcott Pl.

CCPD officers assisted the NYPD Joint Task Force and the FBI in the apprehension of an individual wanted on robbery charges.

120 Benchley Pl.

CCPD responded to a call of a loud dog. Upon investigation, it was determined that the shareholder was not authorized to have a dog and a Community Complaint was issued.

February 18 – 140 Debs Pl.

A shareholder reported a package as delivered but was taken without her authority or permission from the main lobby area. An investigation is being conducted and the shareholder will notify the carrier and merchant.

February 19 – 120 Elgar Pl.

CCPD received a report of a child wandering alone in front of a building. Upon investigation by CCPD, the child was identified, parents located and reunited.

(Continued on page 23)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@ .com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@ riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties. Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES,

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Co-op City Times / February 26, 2022

Director’s Viewpoint – Michelle Marbury, Second Vice President

Mask Mandates, Our Safety, Our Involvement

A Pandemic Reminder

When you enter the elevators. make sure you and your children make sure you and your children are wearing masks. We still see too many people at all hours of the day and night entering and leaving the elevators unmasked. One or two in an elevator without masks is too many; can affect and infect many. Even if you are alone, molecules are airborne for you or someone else to breathe. Put on your masks properly. Our campus is densely populated. Too many people are entering stores and other common areas with their noses showing. Cover it up… The pandemic is still a clear and present danger. During this pandemic, no one wants to see your nose. With love I say, when your children sit in and leave the basketball courts, be sure they remember to put on their masks. We must remember that there are still many who are not vaccinated. When we think of others’ safety and protection, we, in turn, protect ourselves and each other.

Governor’s Mandate: Our Decisions Moving Forward

Kudos to Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer who stated to all Riverbay staff and Management: “The expiration of the mandate does not prevent employers from continuing with its own requirement. Therefore, all employees of Riverbay will still be expected to continue wearing facemasks while they are within any offices, residences or buildings of the corporation.

Also, until the Board of Directors rescinds Resolution 21-04, all persons will be required to wear a facemask while in the common areas of any apartment building, community center or garage or be sub

I think we can all agree that the pandemic is far ronment, but we cannot let our guard down now. Therefore, I totally agree with Bob’s assessment and our (i.e., the Board’s) own plan of action (i.e., Resolution 21-04) moving forward. I am also happy to report that the precautions will remain in place until we have a sustained reduction in infections and deaths.

Village Team!

We are a huge team. A village. So let’s coin to stay focused on this journey “village team, your community is screaming for your continued renewed and critical involvement. Your building association, the Board committees, clubs and associ here. We have only begun to scratch the surface of our winning!

Ask yourself: What would happen, if…?

What if, more people showed up at the building association meetings? What if, we all inspired our new neighbors and existing shareholders to simply read the Co-op City Times once a week? What if you picked up the Co-op City Times each week and brought one to your neighbor’s door? That’s called encouragement… What if you picked up your phone and dialed your whenever you see or hear ANYTHING that you know is not quite right? That’s called your responsibility… What if “you ” did just a little something more, than you do now? Now multiply that by every shareholder… That’s called POWER... What if you stopped making excuses and showed up, so that this community can show off, just – how – special – we really are?

The only element missing is you – the people

All adults, your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews… The message here is clear – get involved. Get our youth involved… Let us stop complaining and become an effective and active part of City is) the embodiment of people of all races, from a wealth of different countries who offer a broaden joy our differences. In a thriving community, the key

Thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be reached at mmarbury@riverbayboard.com. Let’s all do our part!

“All of us” divided by “each one of us” equals a force for good.

Please be considerate and respectful of all members of our diverse community.

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

Resolutions ––––––– (Continued from page 6)

First Reading - Resolution #22-07

SUBMITTED BY: Leslie Peterson

SECONDED BY: Sonia Feliciano

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 23, 2022

WHEREAS, The turnkey contractors have successfully renovated 462 affordable housing available to families long on the waiting list and at the same time creating a positive carrying charge income stream for Riverbay; and

WHEREAS, Management recommends to maintain funding for the turnkey contractors going forward that the Board authorize allocating $700,000 from the approved 2021/2022 $5,700,000 turnkey budgeted monies as follows:

Cove Improvements LLC – Contract #3425(A), add $233,000;

Durablis Solutions, Inc. – Contract #3425(B), add $233,000;

Rainier Restoration LLC – Contract #3425(E), add $233,000; and;

WHEREAS: Management further recommends that to maintain funding for the turnkey contractors going forward that the Board authorize allocating $1,500,000 from the approved 2022/2023 $4,600,000 turnkey budgeted monies as follows:

Cove Improvements LLC – Contract #3425(A), add $475,000;

Durablis Solutions, Inc. – Contract #3425(B), add $475,000;

Perennial Construction Solutions – Contract #3425(D), add $150,000;

Rainier Restoration LLC – Contract #3425(E), add $400,000; and;

WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That notwithstanding Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 as amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44, that the Board authorizes the release of $700,000 from the approved 2021/2022 turnkey budget as follows:

Cove Improvements LLC – Contract #3425(A), add $233,000;

Durablis Solutions, Inc. – Contract #3425(B), add $233,000;

Rainier Restoration LLC – Contract #3425(E), add $233,000; and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board authorizes the release of $1,500,000 from the approved 2022/2023 turnkey budget as follows:

Cove Improvements LLC – Contract #3425(A), add $475,000;

Durablis Solutions, Inc. – Contract #3425(B), add $475,000;

Perennial Construction Solutions – Contract #3425(D), add $150,000;

Rainier Restoration LLC – Contract #3425(E), add $400,000; and;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that President is hereby authorized to execute change orders to the above contracts consistent with this Resolution and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

Second Reading – Resolution # 21-40

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING, DATED: February 23, 2022

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited forty-seven (47) companies for pricing for a two-year contract for Installation of Wood Floors and

WHEREAS, Riverbay received six (6) proposals that were reviewed by the Project Manager; and

WHEREAS, the Project Manager, recommends that this contract be awarded to three (3) vendors i) Cove Improvements Inc., ii) Durablis Solutions Inc., as the lowest responsible bidders with Management assigning work based on the needs of Riverbay and the total work assigned not to exceed $3,000,000.00 (Recommendation Memo and Spreadsheet attached); and

WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the Board approves a two-year contract with Cove Improvements Inc. (Contract #3656A), with (Contract #3656C) for a total not to exceed costs of $3,000,000.00 as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Director’s Resolution #85-16 as amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

BE IT FURTHER IT RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

Second Reading – Resolution # 21-39

SUBMITTED BY: Leah Richardson

SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 23, 2022

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department solicited forty (40) companies for pricing for Bid 3394 (REBID), Asbestos Abatement - Flooring; and

WHEREAS, Riverbay received seven (7) proposals which were reviewed by the Project Manager; and

WHEREAS, Project Manager recommends Abatement Unlimited Inc. as the lowest responsible union bidder (recommendation attached); and

WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to Law Section 713.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract 3634 (REBID) with Abatement Unlimited Inc., not to exceed $8,000,000 based on union unit pricing for a 2-year period with a 1-year renewal option, be approved as recommended by Management in accordance with the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Watson

ABSTAIN: Feliciano

ABSENT FOR VOTE: Jones, Sampson

ABSENT: Rosario

PASSED

Lease Resolution #22-02

SUBMITTED BY: Leslie Peterson

SECONDED BY: Rod Saunders & Sonia Feliciano

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING DATED: February 23, 2022

WHEREAS Riverbay Corporation for the premises at 177 Dreiser Loop, Room #12, Bronx,

WHEREAS, the term of the lease is two years and annual rental rates are within the provisions of Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the lease agreement for containing the terms as negotiated by Riverbay Corporation’s management is hereby approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 as amended by Resolution #95-44; and be it

FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President of the Corporation is authorized to sign the lease agreement and related documents on behalf of Riverbay Corporation.

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Jones, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Sampson, Saunders, Watson

ABSENT: Rosario

PASSED

Emergency Resolution #22-04

SUBMITTED BY: Michelle Marbury

SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: February 23, 2022

WHEREAS, the Collective Bargaining Agreement by and between Riverbay Corporation and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (“Local 282”) expired on January 31, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the representatives of Riverbay Corporation and of Local 282 did undertake collective bargaining negotiations; and

WHEREAS, as a result of these negotiations the parties have agreed, subject 2027; and

WHEREAS, Riverbay Management recommends that the Riverbay Board of Directors ratify this Collective Bargaining Agreement.

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED, that the Riverbay Board erbay and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 282, commencing on February 1, 2022 and ending February 28, 2027 and authorizes Riverbay’s President to sign the agreement on behalf of the Corporation.

YES: Coleman, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Saunders, Watson

NO: Cylich, Leslie

ABSENT FOR VOTE: Jones, Sampson

ABSENT: Rosario

YES: Coleman, Cylich, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Pearson, Peterson, Richardson, Sampson, Watson

ABSTAIN: Saunders

ABSENT FOR VOTE: Jones

ABSENT: Rosario

Director’s Viewpoint –Director’s Viewpoint Kevin Lambright, Assistant Treasurer

Action Needed!

“Everybody throw your hands up!” in recent times is enjoyed as a party gesture. But in the past, for the most part, has always meant, in some form or fashion, to relinquish something. Our community, like most across the country, gravitates to cultural, political and economic popularity. That mindset may or may not serve us well if we continue to follow trends and us, not all of us have that mindset. Some of us look ahead and understand that we are in the position to lead by example – To create situations that alleviate our pains and struggles; to bring positive like-minds together to form a cohesive “Think Tank” that not only illuminates the beauty of our efforts, but effectively produce structure and direct positive impact.

One such example is Blue Horseshoe Foundation’s application for a federal grant for funds to provide Ready to Work training that would include Co-op City residents. Jamaal Bowman, Co-op City’s congressman, supports this grant application. I hope the Feds approve the grant application. If you agree, let Congressman Bowman know by contacting his of rican-American Association article in the Co-op Times.

Diligently Working

We recognize the fact that supplies/food has doubled and, in some cases, tripled in cost over the past several weeks. For that reason, we must extra-carefully watch how we budget our personal and business spending. Prioritizing is a no-brainer. The same goes for Riverbay Corporation. We also recognize that there are mandatory services that must be provided in order to maintain quality of life and governmental compliances. As shareholders, we must recognize that the responsibility falls on us. We must take care of ourselves, mainly because we are responsible for the upkeep and stability of our homes. Under the circumstances thus far, we have been able to do that. With the economy and it’s faltering drawbacks, it may get worse before it gets better. Yet we still must live and maintain our quality of life and adhere to governmental compliances. Unfortunately, this comes with a cost. If anyone tells you differently, they are not being honest with you. As much as I would love to tell you that we can work around it, that would not be truthful. Rest assured that those of us who are actually working to create solutions that are innovative and concrete, will continue to work to keep our community affordable and safe.

Power

up!” in recent times is enjoyed as It is important that we keep our eyes on the prize. a party gesture. But in the past, Let’s continue to work together. Let’s continue to stay safe together. Most of all, let’s continue to respect our differences as well as our similarities. As we venture into this new year, let’s take ownership of our thoughts as well as our actions. Let’s mentor those who seek guidance. Let’s seek guidance from those with the wisdom to share. Let’s continue to rebuild our community with hearts of progressive endowment. Let us not forget that if we pass the knowledge of our experiences to our youth, they will harness the power to lead our generations to come.

Keep in Touch

These are times when we need to keep an eye on our family, friends and neighbors. There are people who want what we have and look for opportunities to take it. We must protect and defend one another and our property. Remember, this all belongs to us. If you see something that seems suspicious, do not hesitate to call Public Safety. I look forward to your correspondence and feedback. I can be reached at: klambright@riverbayboard.com or by phone at 646-721-8185. Thank you and continue to stay blessed.

African-American Association

AAACC/Blue Horseshoe Foundation Jobs Training

The African-American Association is working with Blue Horseshoe Foundation to bring a “Ready to Work” jobs training program to Co-op City. Our Congressman Jamaal Bowman has already issued a letter of support to the Foundation’s application for federal funding for the program which incorporates four industries – Finance, Infrastructure, Information Technology, and Transportation – to provide training and physical jobs. The programs, based in Co-op City, will serve the entire 16th Congressional District (through initial throughout our community. However, we need your help to guarantee funding success. We ask you to sign the change.org online petition at https://chng.it/ WthSZ6G694. Our goal is 250,000 signatures. Tell your family and friends to sign to ensure the program’s success.

AAACC 1st VENDOR DAY Event! A Big Success and Rebroadcast!

The African-American Association’s Vendor Recognition Zoom Presentation last Sunday was spectacular! The theme: 4th principle of Kwanzaa, (i.e., “Ujamaa” meaning, “Cooperative Economics”) making it a way of life. The goal: to create a cohesive relationship between vendors, entrepreneurs and the

The Vendors – We thank all of the vendors who participated in our Zoom presentation. For a complete list and contact information on any of our esteemed proprietors, email the AAACC at aaaccpower@gmail.com.

The AAACC will rebroadcast the 1st Vendor Day Event on March 4 at 7:30 p.m. Invitational link available to all members and special invitation when you email us at the address below.

Be a card-carrying member of the AAACC… Membership is $15.00/year for a single membership and $25.00/year per household. Email: aaaccpower@ gmail.com, or call: 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Kindly send a check or money order only.

MetroCard Mobile Van

The MetroCard Mobile Van will visit Co-op City’s Bartow Mall every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Metro-Card Mobile Sales Van offers: • Reduced-fare application assistance. • Exchange your damaged Reduced-Fare MetroCard for a temporary replacement. • Report of a Lost/Stolen Reduced-Fare MetroCard. • Transfer MetroCard balances.

You can also ask about other MetroCard-related issues.

Until further notice, the Mobile Sales van accepts cash, credit and debit card transactions.

Upcoming Events and Gathering Dates!

Sunday, March 20 – General Meeting

Saturday, April 09 – Holistic Health and Wellness Fair

Saturday, May 14 – Annual Spelling Bee

Saturday, June 18 – General Meeting – Juneteenth Recognition

Sunday, September 18 – General Meeting

Sunday, November 20 – General Meeting

Saturday, December 10 – Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Event

The African American Association sponsors the following programs for

your participation (Contact respective instructor indicated below for updates):

Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438

Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917903-7073.

Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact: Keith, 917-561-6211.

Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917-863-1507.

Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” with Joyce Smith –

Contact: Joyce, 718-320-0714.

We hope you are enjoying a prosperous Black History Month!

“We’ve got many rivers to cross.”

––Michelle Marbury

Free Income Tax Prep Assistance for Seniors

Assemblyman Michael R. Benedetto, in conjunction with the Iona College Accounting Department, is once again offering free income tax preparation for Co-op City seniors 62 years of age or older who reside within the boundaries of his district (Co-op City, Throggs Neck, Morris Park, Pelham Bay, and City Island). Tax documents can be dropped off at the assembly Monday, Feb. 7.

This service islimited to seniors who meet the following criteria: • Simple tax returns only! • Complete copies of 2018 federal and state returns must be included • Name, Social Security number, and date of birth of all people claimed on the return as taxpayers and dependents

Please disclose if there have been any changes in taxpayers or dependents from your 2020 return, such as birth or death of a taxpayer or dependent.

Seniors are encouraged to bring all their tax documents to Assemblyman Rm. 12, between 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Service is limited

Tax returns are prepared by student volunteers from Iona College as a service to the community. All returns will indicate that they were prepared by a non-preparer. For more information, please contact Assemblyman

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. We hope all is well. To alleviate confusion, Riverbay Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer advised the community of the mandate per the Board Resolution # 21-04, which requires all shareholders, visitors, staffing and vendors to wear masks in all Riverbay buildings. Failure to comply with the mask mandate could result in a community complaint fine of $50.00. Also, take the vaccines and booster shots to stay safe and healthy. Our government and public officials are providing free test kits, and N95 masks to the communities.

Serenity and Peace

Mayor Eric Adams announced some good news. The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) will be a step in the right direction by providing 90,000 job opportunities. The goal is to provide NYC residents between the ages of 14 and 24 with paid working opportunities and career and professional skills. By offering help, one may put down the gun and pick up the job and opportunities towards a better future and save lives.

Black History Month

We have many talented African-American adults right in our midst and we are very proud of them as long as they keep this community alive for future generations. Many seniors moved here and loved it so much, they grew old with grace right here in Co-op City passing the torch on to those who recognize the contributions of those before them in this wonderful community. So, let us keep hope alive by encouraging and inspiring our African-American community members to pass on insight and motivation to keep this community clean, beautiful and always thinking about how to help neighbors.

BxM7 Express Bus Location

We hope all Section 5 cooperators are pleased with the new BxM7 express bus stop located at the northwest corner of Einstein Loop East in Section 5. The express bus is picking up and dropping off southbound and northbound passengers. There should be “no parking” signs in that area. Summonses will be issued if parked illegally at the bus stop. Many thanks to Matthew Cruz, District Mgr. of Community Board 10, as well as many supporters in our community who advocated for the cause to restore the BxM7 express bus at the Einstein location. Thank you all.

Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. We also offer our condolences to our Co-op City families who lost a loved one. Let us continue to pray for one another. Please contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 to share information of illness, someone deceased or in a nursing home. Let us continue to stay prayerful. A smile is always welcomed and being kind, thoughtful and thankful makes life just a little easier.

“There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.” –Woodrow T. Wilson.

––H. Overman

AVOID ACCIDENTS!

When driving in the Parking Garages, please follow all posted directional signs and speed limits, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Building 25 Association

As frontline healthcare workers continue to battle the variant strains of Covid-19, it seems fitting to honor members of our healthcare community during Black History Month.

We celebrate and shine a light on Dr. Ruth Temple, the first African American woman to graduate from Loma Linda University in California. Dr. Ruth used her education and platform to focus on public health; she founded the first medical clinic in southeast Los Angeles in the early nineteenth century. The clinic provided treatment for substance abuse, offered immunizations and taught health literacy. Dr. Ruth was appointed director of the Division of Public Health for the city of Los Angeles, and later, a clinic in Los Angeles was named after her honoring her legacy.

We also would like to remind neighbors to attend their building meetings to get to know your neighbors and get information.

We wish all neighbors born in February a happy birthday, and for those of you who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon. With the death toll rising due to the pandemic that we just cannot seem to shake and other illnesses, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to families who have lost loved ones.

Due to over scheduling, our next virtual building association meeting will be held Tuesday, March 15, at 7:30 p.m. Look out for detailed log-in or call-in information notices posted near elevators as we get closer to the meeting date. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by logging onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know.

We will close with the following: “Slow progress is better than no progress.” –Josh Loe

––Wanda Bailey

Masks are required while in the common areas of Co-op City, including hallways, stairways, elevators, laundry rooms and lobbies.

Boosters ––––––– (Continued from page 1)

“Boosters are safe and effective, and CDC continues to recommend everyone 5 and older remain up-to-date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations, to ensure optimal protection against hospitalizations and severe outcomes. For most people, that means getting a booster dose 5 months after receiving an mRNA vaccine or 2 months after receiving Johnson and Johnson’s Janssen vaccine. CDC is continuing to closely monitor the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines to help inform public health efforts,” the CDC said.

The second study detailed the effectiveness of Covid-19 boosters over time with special attention to the Delta and Omicron surges.

Data from the study found that Covid-19 boosters work and provide strong protection against severe disease caused by Covid-19. From the 334,000 combined Covid-19 related hospitalizations and emergency department or urgent care visits looked at in the study, the CDC found that roughly 90% of those hospitalizations or visits during the Delta and Omicron were people who were not boosted. Seniors 65 and older accounted for over 50% of the hospitalization and emergency department or urgent care visits, also according to the study. During the Omicron surge, the study discovered that boosters were 91% effective received their booster dose; and that boosters were still 78% effective at preventing hospitalizations after four or more months following a booster shot.

Given the CDC’s new data, one might wonder if a fourth Covid-19 shot will a fourth vaccine dose would be necessary last fall and still maintain that same view currently for the most part.

The FDA is “continually looking at the emerging data on the pandemic and variants in the United States and overseas in order to evaluate the potential utility and composition of booster doses,” Alison Hunt, an FDA spokesperson, told CNN this week.

“As more data becomes available about the safety and effectiveness of Covid-19 vaccines, including the use of a booster dose, we will continue to evaluate the rapidly changing science and keep the public informed. Any determination that additional booster doses are needed will be based on data available to the agency,” Hunt went on to state.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to President Biden, echoed a similar sentiment during a White House Covid-19 Task Force press conference this week.

“Vaccination and boosting will be critical in maintaining that downward trajectory, particularly when you’re talking about the red curve of severe disease leading to hospitalization,” Dr. Fauci said during the press conference. “The potential future requirement for an additional boost or a fourth shot for mRNA or a third shot for J&J is being very carefully monitored in real time. And recommendations, if needed, will be updated according to the data as it evolves.”

Overseas, England, Sweden and Israel have already implemented or announced a plan to roll out a fourth Covid-19 shot for the elderly and certain immunocompromised individuals.