Co-op City Times 03/09/2024

Spring your clocks forward Sunday, March 10, at 2 a.m. or before going to bed

Management’s Response to Shareholder Request for Dept. Information

Management Report

Riverbay Executive General Manager

On behalf of Douglas Elliman Property Management, I am pleased to present a special edition of the Management Report for Riverbay Corporation.

This Management Report provides an overview of the Corporation’s Fiscal Year 23/24 Comprehensive Budget for period ending January 31, 2024, as well as an overview of the 25 functional departments which comprise Riverbay Corporation. An analysis of the budget vs. actual comparison will be provided to keep the community informed on how Riverbay is performing fnancially for the current reporting period. The 25 departmental budgets are included in this presentation. (See chart on page 4)

Fiscal Year 23/24 Comprehensive Budget Overview

The budget summary on page 4 gives a snapshot of Riverbay Corporation’s Budget vs. Actual performance for Fiscal Year 23/24 for period April 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024.

Income

Most of the Corporation’s income is derived from carrying charges. For the period ending January 31, 2024, actual carrying charges were greater than anticipated by $232,000. Other income was less than anticipated by 7% or $3.17M due mostly to less than anticipated electric power income receipts.

(Continued on page 4)

Legislators Call on HCR to Reconsider Carrying Charge Increase to Maintain Affordability for Co-op’s Families

BY ROZAAN BOONE

State Senator Jamaal Bailey, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and City Council Member Kevin C. Riley sent a joint letter this week to Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskaus of the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR) protesting the recently ordered 8.1% carrying charge increase for Co-op City shareholders.

The increase becomes effective on April 1, 2024. (The Commissioner’s Order was printed in the Saturday, March 2, 2024 Co-op City Times.)

The Northeast Bronx legislators penned their correspondence to Commissioner Visnauskaus in response to concerns expressed by their Co-op City constituents about the 8.1% increase. In the March 7, 2024 letter to the HCR Commissioner, the three legislators maintain that such a steep increase would create “an immediate and insurmountable burden (Continued on page 9)

Phone Service Interruption - Riverbay Corporation Sunday, March 10, 2024; 8 a.m.-10 a.m.

Riverbay will be performing routine server maintenance which will impact incoming and outgoing phone service across the corporation. This work is expected to take approximately two hours.

The Riverbay website will be down between 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

For emergencies, please call 9-1-1.

Shareholders will be notifed when the process has been completed and phone service restored.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience.

—Riverbay Management

Townhall Meeting to Discuss April 1, 2024 Carrying Charge Increase

Riverbay Board President Sonia Feliciano has announced that a townhall meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 20, at 7 p.m., to discuss the HCR-ordered 8.1% carrying charge increase which becomes effective April 1, 2024.

The meeting will be held in the Dreiser Auditorium and all shareholders are urged to attend. The townhall will also be live streamed on the Riverbay Crawler, channel 12 (MATV) and channel 591 (Altice/Optimum).

Following the townhall, the Board will convene its regular Board Business meeting.

Management Holds Follow-up Discussion with Building Leadership on Apartment Repairs

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

Riverbay’s executive management team led by Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton held a follow-up discussion this week with building association leaders on feedback received from their Feb. 6 and Feb. 8 meetings on the apartment repair process.

Mr. Walton was joined by Assistant Executive General Manager Cary Smith III and Deputy General Manager Warren Mitchell on Thursday evening, March 7, in the Dreiser Auditorium where shareholders from buildings and townhouse associations received summary sheets from the previous meetings on the apartment repair process as they entered the room.

“It’s a new day at Riverbay…” said Walton at the beginning of the meeting. “When you reform a process, you gotta know what you’re working with.”

He proposed an agenda which allotted 15 minutes to introductions, ground rules, and revisiting “the shared vision,” an hour to “data review,” and 45 minutes to additional items of discussion and next steps. After receiving a general consensus on that program, he discussed the relationship between the Riverbay Board of Directors, Shareholders, and Management, as the three pillars of

(Continued on page 2)

BSA to Deliver Decision on 500 Baychester Ave.

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The New York City Board of Standards (BSA) will render their fnal decision this week on an appeal fled by Baychester Retail LLC.

Offcially, the public hearing is scheduled for Monday, March 11, and will start at 10 a.m. Shareholders who are interested in participating during the public commentary period can do so via Zoom by registering online at tinyurl.com/ yryvd25j. Shareholders who do not wish to speak and prefer only to watch the proceedings can do so on the BSA’s offcial YouTube page: youtube.com/ user/NYCBSA. Alternatively, shareholders have the option to view the hearing in-person by going to 22 Reade Street, New York, NY 10007.

Baychester Retail LLC’s appeal decision will be the eleventh item on the agenda, according to the BSA.

The BSA’s fnal decision on the appeal

Marvin L. Walton

Executive GM Marvin Walton reiterates the principle of the “shared vision” with building association leaders at the follow-up discussion held this week on the apartment repairs process.

Photo by P.M. Campbell

Building Leadership –––––

(Continued from page 1)

Riverbay Corporation. Mr. Walton emphasized that these sessions are opportunities to communicate “across the paradigm” because no single category can address major concerns without the other two.

Management divided the “data review” session into three topics: “Appointments/Inspections/Work Orders,” “Customer Service/Quality Assurance,” and “Communication/Clarifcations/Information.” They dedicated the frst half hour to “Issues/concerns identifed,” and gave priority to those which were “repeated multiple times across associations.” These included time management, employee readiness and professionalism, ineffective and unreturned phone calls.

Executive General Manager Walton maintained that many of these diffculties were fxable, and that others would require a “culture change” at Riverbay where positive performance is no longer a practice, but a policy. While Association leaders had more than half of February’s issues in common (23 out of 42), they offered diverse solutions to those concerns, with less than a ffth of them being the same (12 out of 63). These ranged from coordinating departments

and digital advancements, to training, oversight, and Riverbay ID procedures.

Novella Thomas, president of Building 29 Association, said that she had not experienced an event like this in her 53 years in Co-op City and commended Management for the meeting. She then commented on what she called a “despicable mess” just on the outskirts of Section 5. Mr. Walton said that Management is working closely with Councilmember Kevin Riley to address the issue of debris.

Andrea Mayo, president of Building 33 Association, suggested that workers must have work orders on which shareholders input the timeframe of the work done, and any comments upon completion.

Leslie Peterson, president of the Building 13 Association and a member of the Board of Directors, maintained that every issue could not be addressed

at once and asked if Management had “priorities,” to which Mr. Walton responded that while there are concerning “hot button issues,” it is too soon to develop such priorities and that “if the process is going to be reformed a lot of that stuff is going to go away, so they won’t become issues.”

Closing the event, Management discussed “next steps,” including sessions with departments to discuss implementation of changes, a “revised model/ process” which will be presented to the association board members in 3-6 months, after which they will “engage the Board of Directors for concurrence.” Finally, the plan is to collaborate with the association board members to plan implementation of the reforms.

“It’s not appropriate for us to have consultants to tell us what our shareholders can tell us about what’s wrong with the process,” said Mr. Walton after the meeting wrapped up at approximately 7:44 p.m.

Photos by P.M. Campbell

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Co-op City Times

CB #10 Meeting

The next General Board meeting and public hearing of CB #10 will take place on Thursday, March 21, at 7 p.m. at Villa Barone Manor, 737 Throgs Neck Expressway, Bronx, NY 10465. For additional information, you may contact CB#10 at (718) 892-1161 or by email: bx10@cb.nyc.gov.

Senior Food Box Distribution

Senior food boxes will be distributed at the Dreiser Center on Thursday, March 14, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. next to the hardware store. Current enrollees must bring photo ID. Proxies must bring their own photo ID, photo ID of the person you are picking up for and signed Food Bank Proxy form. No new enrollees accepted at this time.

This program is open to seniors 60 years and older. It is a collaboration among the Food Bank of New York, USDA and Riverbay Corporation.

Bartow Mall

Parking Alert

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

Vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Read & Follow the Co-op Times Online

NYC City Council Passes New e-Bike Legislation

By BRANDON ORTIZ

The New York City Council passed two pieces of legislation last week aimed at tightening e-bike safety and regulations.

Here is a rundown on how each piece of legislation will work, according to the NYC City Council:

• Introduction 19-A: This legislation would require any businesses that sell e-bikes, scooters and other personal mobility devices that are battery powered “to post lithium-ion or other storage battery safety informational materials and guides.” The battery safety information must be available at both physical retail locations and online vendors. Violators of this legislation would incur civil penalties in a range from $150 to $350 per each documented violation.

• Introduction 21-A: This legislation aims to strengthen enforcement efforts by authorizing the NYC Fire Department to crack down on illegal sales and rentals of “uncertified powered mobility devices.” Intro 21-A would raise the penalties for businesses caught selling illegal devices. Additionally, this piece of legislation would give “sealing authority” to both the NYC Fire Department and the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection when dealing with repeat violators.

Speaker of the NYC City Council Adrienne Adams discussed the need for more safety regulations surrounding

battery powered personal mobility devices in a statement.

“Deadly fires caused by lithium-ion batteries that power electric mobility devices are having an increasingly devastating toll on New Yorkers and communities across the city. These preventable tragedies must be curbed to save lives, and the Council continues to take action to advance critical solutions,” Speaker Adams said.

Both Introduction 19-A and Introduction 21-A now await Mayor Eric Adams’ signature to enact the legislation into law.

Locally, the Riverbay Board of Directors approved a resolution in July of 2023 regarding battery powered mobility devices designed to keep shareholders safe and avoid fires.

Resolution 22-58 explicitly prohibits charging or storing battery-operated mobility devices. “Shareholders may not store or charge battery-operated electric bikes, electric scooters or their batteries in apartments, garages, community rooms, or other indoor common areas within any building at Co-op City,” the resolution states. Shareholders who violate this rule are subject to a Community Complaint fee of $1,000 and possible termination of their respective occupancy agreement.

Notably, Resolution 22-58 does not apply to mobility devices used by individuals who are disabled.

Summer Rising Applications Close March 25

By BRANDON ORTIZ

Summer Rising applications opened on Monday and parents have until March 25 to complete an application for their child.

Parents can visit their NYC MySchools account to fill out and submit their child’s application. For parents who are unfamiliar with the process, NYC Public Schools (NYCPS) will host two online Parent Webinar Training sessions on the application process this coming week.

The first session will be on Tuesday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m., and parents can register for the Zoom session online at tinyurl.com/mrynruep. The second session takes place on Thursday, March 14, at 6:30 p.m., and parents can register for that session online at tinyurl.com/59k9pv2b.

Summer Rising is a free program spearheaded by a partnership between NYCPS and the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) that aims to provide roughly 110,000 children with educational enrichment activities in the summer.

Summer Rising offers bus transportation for eligible students. All eligibility guidelines can be found on the program’s website: schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/summer/ grades-k-8.

Logistically, Summer Rising is broken up into a few sections: K-5 Summer Rising, Grades 6-8 Summer Rising, Summer Rising for Students in District 75 with IEPs, Summer Rising for Students in Districts 1-32 with IEPs and Summer Rising for Students in K-8 who are in an ASD Program.

Below is a list of each section’s timeline, daily schedule and objectives, according to NYCPS:

• Summer Rising for Students in District 75 with IEPs – Runs from July 3 until August 13 weekdays from 8 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. This section will provide students with “specialized instruction, related services, and social-emotional learning.” Notably, parents of students with 12-month IEP’s will also have the option for their child to participate in extended day enrichment activities led by DYCD that run until 6 p.m. Extended day enrichment will be offered until August 16 for K-5 families and until August 8 for students in grades 6-8. Parents interested in this extended day enrichment should use the Summer Rising application portal to apply.

• Summer Rising for Students in Districts 1-32

– Runs from July 2 until August 12, weekdays from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. This section also focuses on offering students “specialized instruction, related services, and social-emotional learning.” Students in this section can also participate in extended day enrichment activities led by DYCD that run until 6 p.m. Extended day enrichment is also offered until August 18 for K-5 families and until August 11 for students in grades 6-8. Parents can apply for extended day enrichment on the Summer Rising application portal.

•Summer Rising for Students in K-8 who are in an ASD Program – Runs from July 2 until August 8 from Monday to Thursday between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. This section is specialized for “K–8 students in current ASD Nest and Horizon programs who have IEPs that recommend 12-month related services. This section will provide learning activities on “specifically speech, by a trained provider, with support from trained educators focusing on social and pragmatic communication skills.” This section also offers extended day enrichment until August 16 for K-5 families and until August 8 for students in grades 6-8. Parents can apply for extended day enrichment on the Summer Rising application portal.

To read and follow the Co-op City Times electronically, log in to the Issuu platform by typing in “issuu.com/ cctimes,” or scan the QR code here to be connected.

• K-5 Summer Rising – Runs from July 2 until August 16 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. This section focuses on “academics, social-emotional learning, and enrichment activities for six weeks,” as explained by NYCPS. The final week will include field trips led by DYCD Community Based Organizations (CBO). A typical day in the first six weeks begins with NYCPS leading learning activities in the morning, followed by enrichment activities in the afternoon handled by DYCD CBOs.

• Grades 6-8 Summer Rising – Runs from July 2 until August 8 from Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This section also focuses on “academics, social-emotional learning, and enrichment activities,” with field trips planned to parks and other venues. A typical day for students in this section is similar to the K-5 section as the day begins with NYCPS educational activities in the morning and concludes with DYCD CBO-led activities in the afternoon hours.

As for the application and enrollment process for Summer Rising, families will rank programs based on their preference.

When selecting children for spots, additional priority will be given to “students mandated for summer school for academic reasons, Students in Temporary Housing and Students in Foster Care, students in 12-month IEP programs, and students with a local connection to the school-year CBO program or school community,” according to NYCPS.

For general information about Summer Rising, parents can visit schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/summer/summer-rising to learn more.

4 Co-op City Times / March 9, 2024

Summary of Expenses

Departmental Expenses

Total departmental expenditures, which includes salaries, fringe benefts and other expenses associated with the day-to-day departmental activities involved with providing direct and indirect services to the shareholders are down 6% or $7.8M. This was due mostly to unused payroll and burden, asbestos, and fooring materials costs. Individually, departments were within the projected budget through January 31, 2024 with the following exceptions:

• The Power Plant Department was over budget by 9% due mostly to greater than expected overtime costs.

• The Restoration Department was under budget by 19% due mostly to reduced asbestos and fooring costs.

• The Public Safety Department was under budget by 8% due mostly to compensation savings because of vacancies.

Corporate Expenses

Corporate expenses are less than anticipated by 10% or $7.5M due mostly to reduced utility costs.

Debt Service & Fee Expenses

Overall Performance

Overall, the grand total actual expenses of $213,077,000, which include departmental, corporate and debt service was less than anticipated against the grand total actual income of $225,550,000 which yielded a surplus of $12,474. Similarly, year-to-date budget for the grand total expenses was $228,151,000, which was less than anticipated when compared to the year-to-date budget grand total revenue of $228,424,000 which yielded a positive variance of $272,000. Both measures were favorable results for the reporting period.

Overview of Departments

(See Org. Chart on pg. 9)

To increase accountability on all levels of the corporation, effective Monday, September 25, 2023 the current state of the organizational structure of Riverbay Corporation was modifed to incorporate Cary Smith III, Assistant Executive General Manager, into the day-to-day operations. Cary has direct oversight of the following process departments:

• Automotive Services • Call Center • Community Relations • Corporate Administrative Services Elevator Services • Parking & Leasing • Residential Sales • Technical Services

• Building Janitorial • Cooperator Services Offce • Construction • Extermination • Grounds/Landscaping • Maintenance • Procurement • Restorations

Marvin L. Walton, Executive General Manager, has indirect oversight of all departments as well as direct oversight of the following internal support departments:

• Finance • Human Resources • Information Technology • Power Plant • Public Safety • Safety • Risk Management

The Board Directors have direct oversight of the following departments:

• Offce of Board Liaison • Offce of the General Counsel • Internal Audit • Communications (Co-op City Times)

Below are descriptions of the 25 Riverbay functional departments with the budget headcounts, the number of positions budgeted for the department.

Department Descriptions

1. The Automotive Services Department is responsible for Fleet Management corporate wide and administers approximately 120 vehicles and equipment. This department interacts with 17 internal departments with assigned vehicles. The duties include overseeing vehicle acquisition and maintenance, driver management, monthly processing of gas receipts, maintaining vehicle mileage logs, vehicle registration as well as handling emergency service calls. Purchasing of garbage trucks and accessories for the PearTree Facility is also handled by this department. They also collaborate with the Enterprise Fleet Program, T-Mobile GEO Tab, and Shell gas station. [Budget Headcount – 2]

2. The Board of Directors of Co-op City is represented by ffteen volunteer shareholders. The Board provides guidance and oversight to Management and ensures Co-op City is operated in a manner consistent with professional management practices. The Board encourages shareholder involvement in governance of the community by joining Board committees chaired by Board directors, which allows for exchange of ideas and input among shareholders, directors and Management personnel who attend committee meetings. [Budget Headcount – 3]

3. The Finance Department is responsible for all the fnancial activities of the Corporation. This includes Accounts Receivable which collects all monies due the Corporation; Accounts Payable which pays all the bills; Payroll which pays over 1,000 employees each week along with paying the benefts to the various unions; Collections which address shareholders and commercial tenants who are not paying timely; Accounting which ensures all transactions are recorded properly and supports the annual audit by the outside accounting frm; Budget which monitors all revenue and expenses verses Budget amounts, and numerous other responsibilities such as Union contract negotiations, Annual Income Affdavit processing, etc. [Budget Headcount – 20]

The Corporation experienced an unfavorable variance of $173,000K between the YTD budget and actual because of slight increases in the mortgage premium and reserves payments.

Warren Mitchell, Deputy General Manager, has direct oversight of the following operations departments:

4. The Buildings/Janitorial Department provides janitorial services to the entire Co-op City community. The Department cleans and maintains all sixty-fve (65) separate high-rise buildings, seven (7) townhouse clusters and provides 365-day trash pick-up throughout the entire community. Buildings/Janitorial is responsible for the cleaning/maintenance of the common public hall areas on 1,790 foors, including basements (1,690 apartment foors). Buildings/Janitorial maintains/cleans over 3,500 fights of public stairs in the high-rise buildings consisting of approximately 1,460,740 sq. ft. of fooring. The PearTree facility is responsible for removal of all trash within Co-op City. The department also plasters and paints all walls, ceilings, repairs/replaces tile foors and cobase in public areas. The department cleans 160 elevators in 65 lobbies, 70,000 sq. ft. of basement cleaning, cleans 2,235 compactor rooms and 35 laundry rooms amounting to approximately 35,660 sq. ft. of space. Buildings/Janitorial is responsible for the cleaning of some 11,000 sq. ft. and over 1,900 pieces of windows in the high-rise buildings. Other tasks include the replacement of bulbs (approximately 21,750) in high-rise buildings. [Budget Headcount – 249]

5. The Call Center opened in September 2019 to centrally manage calls for the corporation. Shareholders

Management Report ––––– (Continued from page 1) (Continued on page 5)

6

The Co-op City Times welcomes

Co-op City Times / March 9,

Assistance with High Maintenance Increases Needed from NYS

To the Editor:

After looking over the notice from the NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR), I find three things troublesome about the 8.1% maintenance increase.

(1) Riverbay Corporation’s management, Douglas Elliman, one of the top real estate management companies, and our Board of Directors, only requested a 2.1% maintenance increase for the coming year after going over the financial records and the presumed increases in running Co-op City.

(2) NYC’s rent stabilization only requested a 3% increase for one-year leases and for 2 year leases, a 2.75%

Immigrant Crisis

To the Editor:

“We should never overlook that socialism is always and everywhere a phenomenon of impoverishment, which failed in every country where it has been tried. It was an economic failure. It was a social failure. It was a cultural failure. And moreover, it murdered more than 100,000,000 human beings.” ––Current Argentine President Javier Milei.

The current immigrant crisis shows the failure of socialism, in my opinion. Immigrants are flooding into our country not because the U.S.A. is some type of an evil, racist nation, but because they recognize that our nation is a beacon of freedom in an unfree world. We are supposed to be a government of laws, a constitutional republic, and not a government of radical individuals.

What have been the results of illegal immigration?

Huge increases in deaths from Fentanyl. Numerous crimes committed by illegals. Human trafficking at an unprecedented level (both sex trafficking, and exploited workers tasking in subhuman conditions.)

Deaths of persons, particularly children, trying to enter the U.S. illegally.

Hospitals in the U.S. overrun by illegals. Illegals are not vetted for the numerous diseases they may be carrying.

Terrorism – Known or suspected terrorists entering our nation.

Gangs from Third World countries wreaking havoc in America.

By the way, we should not be calling them ‘undocumented’ unless they left their passports, birth certificates and other documents behind at the border when they illegally entered our great nation.

––David Hammer

for the first year and a 3% increase on top of that for the second year. We, cooperators, had a 7+% increase last year and an 8+% increase this year making our maintenance over 15% for 2 years.

(3) The CPI (Consumer Price Index) was 3.2% as we who receive Social Security can attest. The federal government does not expect that it will go much higher this year.

It would not be wise for us, cooperators, to hold back maintenance due to the problems that we have here, but I would appreciate the state government giving a rollback on some of the increase.

––Stephen

Werner

It Takes Rejection and Redirection

To the Editor:

Since HCR staff, even though the city budget was recently determined to be just fine fiscally, has rejected Riverbay’s budget, what’s next? Since very few cooperators are earning $450,000.00 yearly and can afford what realtors in New York City are asking, what’s next for middle income cooperators?

According to leadership, “Riverbay remains affordable and significantly below the median rental cost for an apartment in New York City.” That said, an argument could be that middle income salaries are significantly below what insurance companies and other corporate salaries in NYC are.

Leadership may have a lot to do with why turnout and participation is so dismal. What happened to Board Committees that allowed shareholders to participate? What happened to ongoing committee reports? It appears that moving forward, HCR staff can project and reduce at will, while New York keeps SCRIE and DRIE at the same level regardless.

In my opinion, when we don’t vote, we have no voice. It was a sad day in Co-op City in 2023 when votes were, for the first time in history, not counted because not enough Co-op City shareholders voted to make a quorum in the Board of Directors election. Let’s see what happens in 2024. Let’s see if Building Association leaders will do more to inspire more.

In my last letter, I wrote about what our youth are going through in the home and the need for a comprehensive Youth Center. On March 4, I personally experienced in the garage elevator, a mother slap a young girl with her school backpack on so hard that I yelled out! She turned and reminded me she was “the mother.” Once the elevator door closed, I prayed out loud and asked God (I am a Christian) why was I to witness this incident? The answer became clear later – redirection of a service need for youth.

—Evelyn M. Turner

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

Ralph Henriquez

Production Manager

Jennifer Piovanetti

Operations Manager

John Crow

New Media Producer

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Multi-Media Advertising Manager

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Media Assistant

P.M. Campbell

Media Assistant

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.

Preventing Package Theft in High-Rise Buildings: Strategies and Best Practices

Public Safety Report

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Package theft, also known as porch piracy, has become a significant concern for residents of highrise buildings in urban areas. With the rise of online shopping, the frequency of package deliveries has increased, making high-rise buildings prime targets for thieves. Package theft in high-rise buildings presents unique challenges due to the large number of residents. Thieves may exploit vulnerabilities such as “piggy-backing” off a cooperator entering the building and the transient nature of urban living in some communities can make it difficult to identify and apprehend perpetrators.

Utilize package tracking services provided by delivery carriers to monitor the status and estimated delivery time of your packages. This allows you to plan accordingly and retrieve packages promptly upon arrival. Opt for signature confirmation upon delivery whenever possible, especially for high-value items. This ensures that packages are received by authorized individuals and reduces the risk of theft. Consider installing security cameras. Visible surveillance cameras act as a deterrent to would-be thieves and provide valuable evidence in the event of a theft. Here in Co-op City, shareholders’ camera video provided to CCPD has assisted in apprehension and additional charges to suspects.

Many high-rise buildings offer secure package lockers for residents to receive packages. Take advantage of these amenities to ensure the safe delivery and storage of your packages until you can retrieve them.

Establish a neighborhood watch system or communicate with neighbors to keep an eye out for suspicious activity and share information about package deliveries. Collaborating with fellow residents can enhance security and deter theft.

Preventing package theft in high-rise buildings requires a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration between residents, Management and Public Safety. By implementing proactive security measures, utilizing technology, and fostering a sense of community vigilance, high-rise buildings can effectively deter package theft and create a safer living environment for all residents. By remaining vigilant and proactive, we can work together to combat package theft and safeguard our communities; if you see something, say something. CCPD responds to every call for service, 24/7/365.

In the ever-evolving landscape of e-commerce, convenience reigns supreme.

Public Safety Blotter

February 25 – March 2, 2024

February 25, 2024

99 Carver Loop

A cooperator reported returning to his parked vehicle in Garage 3 and observing damage to his vehicle that was done by an unknown individual, possibly struck by another vehicle.

February 26, 2024

140 Einstein 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 and was recorded on her doorbell camera.

100 Casals Place

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

100 Alcott 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.

February 27, 2024

140 Elgar Place

A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package from the United States Postal Service was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individual without her permission.

600 Baychester Avenue

A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from in front of her apartment door by an unknown individ-

ual without her permission and was recorded on her doorbell camera.

February 29, 2024

2033 Bartow Avenue

A cooperator reported leaving his vehicle unattended with the motor running in front of a local bagel store and upon his return discovered that his vehicle had been stolen.

600 Baychester Avenue

A cooperator alerted CCPD of a suspicious male who stole packages in the past from her building. CCPD arrived and conducted a vertical sweep of the building and observed the suspect, a non-resident, on the second floor with stolen items. The perpetrator was arrested. A follow-up investigation by Public Safety Officers revealed three additional victims who were identified within the building. All were contacted by Public Safety. As a result of this arrest, the suspect has been charged with multiple thefts.

March 01, 2024

2049 Bartow Avenue

CCPD responded to a Riverbay administrative office for a report of a disorderly person who was demanding he be considered for employment by Riverbay. Public Safety Officers responded and engaged the individual. He was ordered to refrain from violent conduct and leave the premises. He refused, and continued to exhibit aggressive and confrontational behavior. He was placed under arrest. The cooperator was also issued a Community Complaint for his actions.

As delivery giants vie for dominance, they continuously innovate to offer customers a plethora of options for receiving their packages. From doorstep delivery to instore pick-up, the array of choices can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse pickup and receiving options provided by some of the industry leaders, examining their features, benefits, and how they’re reshaping the delivery experience.

Amazon: Empowering Choices with Flexibility

Amazon, the titan of online retail, has redefined convenience in the world of package delivery. Central to its strategy is the flexibility it offers customers in receiving their orders. While doorstep delivery remains the default option, Amazon has expanded its arsenal to include several alternatives tailored to meet diverse preferences. A standout feature in Amazon’s delivery ecosystem, Amazon Locker, provides a secure and convenient way for customers to receive their packages. These self-service kiosks are located in various public places, including grocery stores, convenience stores, and retail outlets. Customers simply select an Amazon Locker location during checkout and receive a unique pick-up code when their package is ready. This option is particularly popular among urban dwellers and those concerned about package theft. Alternatively, Amazon Hub Counter allows customers to pick up their packages from select partner locations, such as pharmacies and convenience stores. This option offers added flexibility for those who prefer in-store pick-up over home delivery. By leveraging existing retail networks, Amazon extends its reach while enhancing convenience for customers.

UPS: Redefining Convenience with Access Points

United Parcel Service (UPS), a global leader in logistics, has long been synonymous with reliable package delivery. Recognizing the importance of convenience, UPS has introduced innovative solutions to simplify the receiving process for customers. UPS Access Point Network offers customers a convenient alternative to home delivery. These access points include UPS stores, neighborhood retailers, and partner locations, providing a secure location for package pick-up at the customer’s convenience. With extended hours and easy accessibility, UPS Access Points cater to busy lifestyles and ensure recipients never miss a delivery.

UPS My Choice empowers customers with greater control over their deliveries, UPS My Choice allows recipients to customize their delivery preferences, reroute packages to a UPS Access Point, or schedule deliveries for a time that suits them best. This level of flexibility

(Continued on page 26)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

For informaton 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 partes.

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementoned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for specific directons.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

For employment opportunites, please visit these following sites:

www.Indeed.com

https://indeedhi.re/ 3SgTKEr

www.Glassdoor.com

https://bit.ly/3SgI9Go

www.ZipRecruiter.com

https://bit.ly/3Se8bdw

Candidates may review full positon descriptons 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 Corporaton.

Director’s Viewpoint Kevin Lambright, Treasurer A Simple Question – What If?

I often imagine what I live, and strive to live what I imagine. At least that’s my way of maintaining my sanity in a world with so much happening and so much going on around us. I believe most of us want the best for this community that we share together. We all have ideas and frustrations alike. Fortunately, the creator made us all champions at birth. Amongst millions of cells, we were the ones who made it to the egg to be fertilized. That speaks volumes in any setting.

Because we are natural beings, we are susceptible to the opinions of those who mean us well and those who seek our demise. For that reason, our natural internal defense mechanisms are often at Ready Stance. Well for most, but there are those of us who revel at the mere possibility of chaos (Those people, we will pray for).

There is no doubt that we have hundreds and maybe even thousands of people who can point out the problems we have and will face in months and years ahead. How many of those people are willing

Women’s History Month Spotlight

Mahalia Jackson –Gospel Great

BY JOYCE L. DUNCAN

Mahalia Jackson was an American gospel singer, a brilliant vocalist who was widely considered one of the greatest and most influential vocalists of the 20th century. Mahalia was often referred to as the “Queen of Gospel Song.”

Mahalia Jackson

Photo courtesy biography.com

She was born on October 26, 1911 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mahalia became one of our all-time gospel greats. She began singing as a child at Mount Moriah Baptist Church. She was influenced by the secular sounds of Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey.

After moving to Chicago, Mahalia joined the Greater Salem Baptist Church and began working with Thomas Dorsey, a gospel composer. Jackson’s major success came with the record, “Move on UP A Little Higher.” It sold over 1 million copies in 1947 and propelled Mahalia to international stardom. She performed concerts in Denmark, France and England. She was invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

In 1956, she made her debut on the Ed Sullivan Show and in 1958 appeared at the Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island performing with Duke Ellington and his band.

Mahalia was active in the civil rights movement. She sang at the March on Washington at the request of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In 1966, she published her autobiography, Movin On Up, and after King’s death in 1968, Jackson sang at his funeral and then withdrew from public political appearances.

Mahalia Jackson, gospel great, died of health issues related to her heart on January 27, 1972.

We salute Mahalia Jackson this Women’s History Month 2024.

to look beyond themselves and think of everyone as a whole? How many are willing to take positive action to make a difference? What if we truly put down our swords, opened our minds and actually worked together? Would we be able to knock out at least 75% of our problems both financial and administrative?

What if this were a co-op that owned and managed our own supermarkets and local stores (supermarkets in our community generate more than $125,000 per week). What if the majority of our workforce were skilled shareholders? What if we controlled all incoming marketing to our population by creating administrative fees for outsiders to officially reach our population? What if we had a forum to allow shareholders to come up with their own what ifs? What if we created an internal task force to study and implement those what ifs?

Power

It is important that we keep our eyes on the prize. Let’s continue to work together. Let’s continue to stay safe together. Most of all, let’s continue to re-

spect our differences as well as our similarities.

As we venture further into this 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.

NY Presidential Primary is April 2, 2024 Vote Early from March 23-March 30

BY ROZAAN BOONE

Early voting in the New York Presidential Primary begins on Saturday, March 23, 2024 and ends on Saturday, March 30, 2024, and Primary Day is Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

Saturday, March 23, 2024 is the last day to register to vote in the April 2nd Presidential Primary. March 23 is also the deadline for New York registered voters to request an Early Mail ballot, Absentee ballot or Accessible ballot. Ballot requests can be made online at https://requestballot.vote.nyc; in-person by going to the Bronx Board of Elections, located at 1780 Grand Concourse, #101, Bronx, NY 10457; or by designating someone else to deliver your ballot request application to the Bronx Board of Elections and pick up your ballot. Only the person named in the application will be able to pick up your ballot.

Those who request an early mail or absentee ballot cannot vote at a voting machine although they may vote in-person using an affidavit ballot. Affidavit ballots are kept separate until the election is completed. Election officials then verify whether the voter’s early mail or absentee ballot was received. Only if the voter’s early mail or absentee ballot was not received is the affidavit ballot counted.

To use an accessible ballot, you must have a print disability such as blindness, low vision, dyslexia, dysgraphia, learning and physical disabilities that limit your writing abilities. Alternatively, voters with disabilities can vote in-person using an accessible Ballot Marking Device (BMD) during early voting or on Election Day, April 2, 2024. Voters who are unable to affirm they are visually impaired or otherwise disabled must request a regular absentee ballot.

Early Mail, Absentee and Accessible ballots being returned by US mail must be postmarked by April 2, 2024. They can also be dropped off at the Bronx Board of Elections on or before April 2, 2024. Voters returning ballots by US Mail are advised to mail their ballot in time for it to be received and counted by the Board of Elections.

The poll site for Co-op City shareholders who wish to vote early is Dreiser Auditorium, 177 Dreiser Loop, Bronx, NY 10475.

Early Voting schedule for the Presidential Primary is as follows:

Saturday, March 23: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, March 24: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Monday, March 25: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 26: 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wednesday, March 27: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Thursday, March 28: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Friday, March 29: 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday, March 30: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Polls are closed on Sunday, March 30, and Monday, April 1, 2024.

On Election Day, Tuesday, April 2, polls will open 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

To check your voter status, call 1-866-868-3692, or online, visit nycvotersearch.com.

Registered voters will be voting for their choice between the Democratic and Republican candidates to compete in the November 2024 General Election for the office of President of the United States.

Among the Democratic candidates listed on the NY ballot are Joseph R. Biden Jr., Marianne Williamson and Dean Phillips.

Co-op City voters will also be voting to elect six delegates to the Democratic National Convention in the 14th Congressional District. The candidates on the ballot, who have all pledged to support Joe Biden, are Amanda C. Farias, Michael R. Benedetto, Anne Marie Anzalone, Antonio Alfonso, Jr., Leah Richardson and Andres Y. Vargas.

Among the Republican candidates listed on the NY ballot are Vivek Ramaswamy, Chris Christie and Nikki R. Haley and Donald J. Trump.

The winners of the Democratic and Republican Presidential Primary will advance to the General Election on Tuesday, November 4, 2024.

Management Report –– (Continued from page 5)

operations that keeps Co-op City’s Communication, Security Systems and of are the MATV System, which brings the community around 60 HD channels, as well as the cameras for Channels 6 (Building Lobby), 8 (Laundry

and telephone system, plus helps maintain Co-op City’s Computer Network

[Budget Headcount – 7]

Legislators ––––– (Continued from page 1)

that working families will not be able to recover from,” especially the many seniors “Co-op City has always been known to be affordable to the middle class, and a safe space for our seniors, making it the largest Naturally Occurring Retirementships and undermine the affordability of Co-op City at a time when families can Senator Bailey, Assemblyman Benedetto and Council Member Riley point out economic fallout brought on by the Covid pandemic and other related setbacks such

“Furthermore, the affordability of Co-op City is paramount for its residents, who have chosen this community for its relatively affordable housing options,” the letter

“The vibrant, one-of-a-kind community in Co-op City, comprised of seniors and working people alike, would be irreparably harmed by such a drastic and step in-

increase and to engage in further dialogue with Riverbay Corporation and electedof Co-op City, and we are committed to working collaboratively with HCR and -

Senator Bailey noted: “Co-op City is a beacon of affordable housing and a model thrivenity and jeopardizes the affordability that has made it home for tens of thousands of

Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) in the nation, we must work collabo-

Riverbay Board President Sonia Feliciano said: “We appreciate the assistance of State Senator Jamaal Bailey, State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and Council Member Kevin Riley as we continue to work towards alleviating the impact of thismunity of working families and a significant NORC population and such a high Co-op City Times on March 2, 2024, we met with a representative of HCR on February 23rd to discuss our concerns with the agency’s projections showing the need for a greater increase than thecome from energy sales, and anticipated gains from the sale of new apartments at a -

“We welcome the intervention of our elected officials to reopen discussions with HCR to reach a more acceptable middle ground that would demonstrate commit-

Director’s’ Viewpoint – Daryl Johnson

Big Changes Are Needed Here

Unfortunately, the 8.1 percent carrying charge increase is now a done deal. So, our monthly carrying charge accounts are currently being updated to show this increase on our April 1, 2024 statements.

Community Outrage

A lot of cooperators have expressed a lot of negative statements about this 8.1 percent carrying charge increase. For instance, there’s a lot of hate being directed at our board and management. And, the chief feeling is that this board and this management needs to be removed and replaced. But, some cooperators feel that we don’t need a board or managers.

Now, from my perspective, I can understand the way that they feel because we’re simply not going in the right direction. Furthermore, I think that we’re going to get hit with tremendous increases down the road if we don’t take action now. For instance, we have received heavy increases almost on an annual basis. Thereafter, our cooperators had to make some adjustments to their spending habits.

However, can you think of one time in recent history that Riverbay was forced to make some adjustments to their spending habits? No! Look, it’s very easy for Riverbay to say that inflation, increased insurance costs, exorbitant water and fuel bills, and other matters negatively impacted their budget.

But, everyone needs to understand that Riverbay makes at least $250 million every single year. So, that’s at least a quarter of a billion dollars that’s flowing into Riverbay’s bank account every single year. Regardless, the NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) agency pointed out that Riverbay has spent every penny of that $250 million, plus millions of extra dollars for the past two years. Therefore, we need an 8.1 percent increase just to account for this outrageous amount of spending.

So, I believe Riverbay needs to make some big changes to their budget and the way that they spend money here. Why would a housing corporation that makes about $250 million a year complain about a $20 million water bill for over 15,000 large apartments, 320 acres of land, three shopping centers, a tremendous power plant, underground water leaks,

BSA ––––– (Continued from page 1)

and other items? Think, is that a valid complaint? What about complaints for insurance, fuel, and other items that’s needed for our community?

Look, apart from the outrageous insurance commissions, Riverbay has to pay these major bills. Then, Riverbay has to reduce their spending on everything else. Also, from my perspective, Riverbay has to learn how to manage their construction and restoration projects in a far better manner.

Example: Riverbay knew that only $35 million was approved and budgeted for the repair of the exterior areas of our buildings. But, a lot of cooperators complained that an outrageous amount of fencing was erected throughout our entire community. Then, even with professional assistance, extra work was needed, so this exterior building repair project skyrocketed up to over $77 million.

The initial price to renovate some of the interior areas of the Dreiser mall was $5.6 million. Then, the final price for this renovation was over $10 million. However, our own workers could have done most of this work. In reference to our apartments, Riverbay has made a choice to pay contractors about $12,000 for labor and to issue $5,000 worth of materials to them just to restore a 1-bedroom apartment.

What about our $100 million payroll. Despite repeated published warnings, Riverbay and some of our cooperators thought that our community could handle this tremendous payroll. But, now, this 8.1 percent increase is going to negatively affect the finances of every cooperator in our community. And, now, we have no choice but to strategically reduce this payroll.

Bottom line: Yes or no, do you see some major problems here? If no, then please don’t complain about this huge increase and other possible increases down the road. But, let me tell you something. The majority of the cooperators and I are completely fed up with this nonsense. Therefore, we need to make some big changes here to take back our community.

So, I want to encourage some of our strong, no-nonsense shareholders to run

comes after the Board reopened the case in November of last year to review new evidence submitted by the appellants. On February 26, the BSA discussed that new evidence during a public hearing. Baychester Retail LLC’s new evidence revolved around a condemnation map that the appellants alleged confirmed the true boundaries of the New England Thruway.

Chair of the BSA, Champa Shanda, discussed the new evidence and detailed her opposition to the appellant’s claims.

“A condemnation map can only be used to assess sites identified for condemnation and acquisition. The metes and bounds identified with it are only relevant to purchasing those specific properties. It is irrelevant and cannot be used to determine metes and bounds of a finely built roadway… I also want to point out that condemnations are done on private properties, not on publicly held land. So, it is moot to show that document and say see Baychester was not affected,” Chanda said during the February 26 public hearing.

Chair Shanda also highlighted a January 2024 letter from the Department of City Planning (DCP) that discussed the new evidence submitted by the appellants. DCP’S letter provided evidence that confirmed the actual boundaries of the New England Thruway and the classification of Baychester Ave. as a service road for the thruway.

BSA Vice Chair Salvatore Scibetta seconded Chair Chanda’s thoughts and said he did not find the appellants new evidence or arguments “compelling,” and that he did not believe the application should be approved.

The other members of the Board concurred with the chair and vice chair and expressed their opposition to the approval of the application.

As for where the board might be leaning, Bronx Community Board #10 District Manager Matt Cruz told the Co-op City Times after the February 26th public hearing that “the NYCBSA is signaling they will issue a denial to the construction permit.”

in this upcoming election for six board seats. No games! No nonsense! If you think that this community should owe something to you, then don’t run. If you think that you should get to go away for a weekend just to discuss board business, then don’t run. If you are going to follow anyone that believes in approving repeated increases, then don’t run. On the other hand, you should only run if you’re going to be committed to doing the right things for our community.

Close

Did you know that Riverbay can apply for a carrying charge decrease? Therefore, everyone’s carrying charge can be decreased. Yes, it’s true! But, we must responsibly reduce our expenses. This can only be done if we make some changes to our board. Then, we must direct management to conduct business in a better way.

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.

African-American Association of Co-op City

In Celebration of Women’s History Month

Ever wonder who invented the GPS System? Gladys Mae Brown was born in rural Virginia on October 27, 1930. Her parents owned a small farm in an area populated mostly by sharecroppers. In her community, the only clear options for a young Black girl’s future were continuing to farm or working at a tobacco-processing plant.

Valedictorian of her high school graduating class, Gladys received a full scholarship to Virginia State College (now Virginia State University), the historically Black college where she earned a degree in mathematics in 1952, and a master’s degree in 1955. She taught math in racially segregated Virginia after applying for several jobs in Virginia’s segregated state government that were instead awarded to white men.

In 1956, Gladys was hired as a mathematician by the U.S. Naval Proving Ground. She met Ira V. West, another Black mathematician on the base; the couple married in 1957 and had 3 children. One of her frst major projects was work on the Naval Ordinance Research Calculator (NORC), an award-winning program designed to determine the movements of Pluto in relation to Neptune

West earned another master’s degree in 1973, this time in public administration from the University of Oklahoma. Though she retired from the base in 1998 at age 68, she continued her education. After recovering from a stroke, she received a Ph.D. in public administration and policy affairs from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 2000 at age 70.

In 1978, West was named project manager of Seasat, an experimental U.S. ocean surveillance

satellite designed to provide data on a wide array of oceanographic conditions – the frst project to demonstrate that satellites could be used to observe oceanographic data.

Out of West’s work on Seasat came GEOSAT, a satellite programmed to create computer models of Earth’s surface. By teaching a computer to account for gravity, West and her team created a program that could precisely calculate the orbits of satellites. These calculations made it possible to determine a model for the exact shape of Earth, called a geoid. It is this model, and later update, that allows the (Global Positioning System) aka GPS system to make accurate calculations of any place on Earth. *Credits: X.com

Join the AAACC: $25.00/year single membership and $35.00/year 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

Yoga & Pilates Classes, contact: Meena Sharpe-Hicks at 917-863-1507

Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers,” contact: Joyce Smith at 718-320-0714

AAACC Meetings & Events

General Meeting – Sunday, March 17, 3 p.m. on Zoom

OPEN MIC, Fundraiser – April 6, 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Dreiser, Room 15

Wholistic Health and Wellness Fair – April 20, noon-6 p.m., via Zoom. Meeting ID: 895 7434 7940, Passcode: 951615.

What’s your dream? We’d like to know…

—Michelle Marbury

Section 5’s Community Fridge Continues to Provide Food Security to Shareholders

Do you know...that in addition to the Saturday Produce Distribution Parties in Section 5 next to the Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, the fridge/pantry also receives donations from other organizations throughout the week?

Special shoutout and gratitude to Sunday’s delivery (March 3rd, 2024) from the Westchester Jewish Center in Mamaroneck. They dropped off “Lunch Packs” that contained tuna sandwiches, clementines, juice, granola bars and “soup in a jar.” Yummy! So come join us as we fight to drive out hunger! Register/volunteer @grassrootsgroceryny or drop us a note via email: coopcitycommunityfridge@gmail.com

–Yolanda Ramirez

Photos by Linda Brown

Building 6 Association

Happy Saturday, neighbors. I hope when you read this it fnds you in great standing. We are marching into spring with magnifcent things. This past Saturday, the Social Committee went door-to-door serving 16 of our neighbors fresh lettuce, bananas, string beans, Brussel sprouts and salad mix. Many things can be a waste of your effort, but a helping hand is not.

The Building 6 Association president Lauren K. Lassiter was the honoree on February 22 of the Black History Month Service Award from NYS Assemblyman Michael Benedetto (pictured at right) for her dedication and service to the people of Co-op City and the community at-large, as she vowed to continuously work vigorously for Building 6 and the Co-op City community in its entirety.

This month’s foor captain spotlight is brightly shined on Mr. and Mrs. Harry Fletcher for fostering community pride by decorating their 6th foor immaculately. Every season or special occasion brings warmth to the building.

Save the Dates

3/14 – Floor Captain/Committee Meeting, 5-6 p.m.

3/14 – Empower Yourself self-defense class demonstrated by Lieutenant Gregory, 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

3/21 – The E-hoc meetings, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.

3/23 – Easter Party/Family Game Night, 1-8 p.m.

3/28 – The Association General Meeting with special guest speaker Matthew Cruz, District Manager Bronx Community Board 10, alongside CCPD Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto. Meeting is in Dreiser Community Center, Room 1, 7 p.m.-9 p.m.

All other meetings/events will be held in the Association Room unless otherwise stated. Always refer to the bulletin board for special updates. Until the next time, I pray safety over all. Godspeed.

“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” ––Lauren Lassiter

Dr. Gladys West

There is not one shareholder who has, or shares the responsibility of paying the carrying charges for their apartment, and is comfortable with having the Commissioner of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR) post the notice to increase our carrying charges to 8.1%, nullifying the Riverbay Board of Director’s March 29, 2023 Resolution (23-19) asking for a 2.1% carrying charge increase.

There’s a disconnect amongst shareholders with the manner in which the 8.1% increase is being described in HCR’s posted letter. The HCR letter states the increase as 8.1% per room/per month.

This wording is totally consistent in the manner in which the Board submits our Resolution requests for carrying charge increases.

The Board’s Resolution 23-19 states: WHEREAS, the 2.1% carrying charge increase effective April 1, 2024 will raise the current average carrying charges from $255.87 per room per month to $261.24 per room per month; This increase will enable Riverbay Corporation to meet its obligations; and…”

The HCR letter posted in our building lobbies reflect that same language. To estimate HCR’s posted increase of 8.1% per room per month (including utilities) we can use the same “on average” example that appeared within Resolution 23-19. The current average carrying charge amount of $255.87 per room per month when increased 8.1% should increase to $276.60 per room per month. That roughly translates to a $20.73 increase per room.

Using the exact same formula, a one-bedroom apartment’s monthly carrying charge should increase from approximately $768.00 per month to approximately $830.00, while a 3-bedroom apartment with a terrace will increase from approximately $1,663.00 per month, to about $1,800.00 per month.

The reason behind the per room wording, allows for establishing the difference in paying for your apartment separate from any other lease agreement(s) shareholders have with the Corporation (Garage Spaces or Storage Closets).

Greetings, neighbors and friends from Building 19.

On Thursday, Feb. 29, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto was invited by the Building 19 Association to speak to shareholders about topics of concern. Some of these concerns were:

Legitimate Reasons for The 8.1% Increase Arguably, three of the biggest contributors for the current increases began pre-pandemic. In 2018, we undertook three major capital construction projects. Each one was scheduled to be completed three to four years after they began. The elevator contract – replacing some 130 elevator motors and cabs, and related elevator and hoist operations equipment throughout our 35 buildings. Next, the mandated (and just completed Local Law 11 building façade brick & terrace repairs work). The next largest capital construction project was the result of a cooperator driven lawsuit, which required the replacement of our existing lobby entrance doors to ADA compliant entrances. These projects ended up costing shareholders approximately $130 million dollars, when they were budgeted for millions less.

The property and personal insurance policies that the Corporation “must” be covered by, have increased exponentially. Many specific coverages are more than 300%. As we (and the rest of the world) were emerging from the global pandemic, the Russians invaded Ukraine, further affecting the price of goods, further inflating the prices of fuel oil and natural gas, both of which are essential to the operation of our Power Plant, without which, Co-op City shareholders would pay hundreds more in their carrying charges each month.

The water bill, which I addressed with Mayor Adams during his January 22nd Community Conversation here in Co-op City, is in excess of $18 million, about $3 million more than our previous high price. The follow-up of my questions to the Mayor are currently being addressed. A credit in the neighborhood of $18 million would go a long way in stabilizing future increases at this time.

The cost of our goods and services have increased markedly, as have most things in the post pandemic era. While the Board has consistently asked that Management find ways to reduce spending, Management cannot control the costs in the outside market.

Our Awesome Operating Expenses

While we can go back and forth over monies spent on the dozens of projects that go on here in Co-op City, the operating expenses are beyond anything any other

• Increasing SCRIE from its current $50,000 a year to something higher. With increased inflation, cost of goods and housing prices, it is increasingly difficult to live on $50,000. Mr. Benedetto will look into the possibility of increasing SCRIE.

Mitchell-Lama Cooperative Board has to deal with.

Before the Board (the majority of us) considers making cuts to personnel or services, protecting the overall expectancy of every cooperator’s quality of life is the number one consideration. Co-op City’s operational expenses eclipse, by far, that of any other Mitchell-Lama or privately owned cooperative in the Western Hemisphere. At the risk of being redundant, were Co-op City to separate from the 5-boroughs of New York City and become an independent City, we would become the 12th largest in New York State.

When Management asked the Board to make the controversial decisions to remove Garage Attendants, then the Lobby Attendants, our agreement in doing so was based upon fiscal considerations. Being carrying charge payers ourselves, the Board has always looked to be conservative with increases. Having said that, Riverbay Corp. is unlike any other Corporation. Taking on the Corporation’s fiduciary responsibility for a limited profit Mitchell-Lama Corp. requires that the Board must consider both the financial health of our Corporate business, and the ability of the Corporation’s shareholders who every single month, are the primary contributors to the Corporation’s finances – shoulder the burden.

Although I understand HCR’s fiscal reasoning in overriding the Riverbay Board’s proposed 2.1% increase, by ordering shareholders pay an 8.1% carrying charge increase instead, I do feel that an 8.1% increase will be too much of a financial burden for too many shareholders.

I do not believe that the resident shareholders of Co-op City are out of options. From the time that you will be reading this viewpoint, there will be 15-working days to see if there are another options available to lower HCR’s ordered increase.

A lower percentage increase proposal, along with savings such as I have recommended to Mayor Adams, twould permit Co-op City to operate in a fiscally responsible manner without burdening so many borderline shareholders in the process.

In closing, I hope that my viewpoint has been informative, and thank you for taking the time to read it.

I can be reached at: rsaunders@riverbayboard.com.

• A shareholder asked about the subpar level of care given in nursing facilities. He indicated that his office can assist with reporting a lack of efficiencies with the state as many of these facilities are operated for profit and cut corners.

• There is a concern with pooling after heavy rains about 30ft. from Building 19 causing flooding due to draining issues. He will look into the matter with the Department of Transportation.

• A discussion on Local Law 97 opens the door to grants from NYSERDA.

• We asked about zero-emission on school buses. Mr. Benedetto stated that a NYC mandate was set requiring new buses by 2027 to have zero-emissions and all buses on the road by 2037. This is a concern due to cost.

• We asked about the S5050 law concerning fees/fines that cannot be collected from tenants/shareholders by the housing company. Mr. Benedetto has tried to repeal this part of the law with Senator Jamaal Bailey, and Assemblyman Edward Braunstein but have been stopped by the powerful tenant lobby group not in agreement with charging tenants/shareholders these fees/fines. They will continue to try.

• We talked about the election and why we are responsible for not electing a board. There is disengagement of the people and our younger generation seems to be a bit disinterested.

• A discussion on having Mitchell-Lama State subsidies for the middle class. Unfortunately, this is something that is not happening anymore and we need to keep fighting for this.

• Having a Youth Center is of utmost importance to the community. Mr. Benedetto says we have a coalition of elected officials and had a basic agreement as the commitment is still there.

• Mr. Benedetto announced that Jamaal Bowman will be our new congressional representative. There is no date as to when Mr. Bowman will arrive.

• We talked about trucks parking all over the place and not having rest areas. Mr. Benedetto provided funding to the NYPD to purchase a large tow truck to move trucks that should not be parked in certain areas; he also indicated that the City Council has to identify three different places to have a rest area for these trucks.

We had a nice group of residents from Building 19, 17 and 18. There were so many other questions and Mr. Benedetto was graceful enough to answer every one. We thank you, Mr. Benedetto, for spending time with us. Mr. Benedetto indicated the he and his team are always available to us.

“Come in a neighbors – Leave as friends.”

—Sonia Feliciano

Guy’s heart stopped twice. Back coaching days later.

“I technically died, and here I am. I’m incredibly lucky. I could not have been in better hands.”

—Guy Monseair, City Island Rowing Coach

“We had an immediate critical decision to make in the race to save Guy’s life. We decided to proceed with emergent quadruple coronary artery bypass surgery despite Guy’s swollen and weak heart resulting from his acute heart attack and cardiac arrest. There are very few health systems in the country with the knowledge base and the skill that we have at Monte fore Einstein for managing these kinds of complex life-threatening conditions.”

—Robert Michler, MD Surgeon-in-Chief and Chair, Surgery and Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery

Montefore Einstein

See Guy’s story at monte fore.org/guy

NO TIME? LET US SHOP FOR YOU!

718-892-7798

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Building 26 Association

“Embracing Change and Innovation for a Brighter Future”

There is a lot happening lately, and change is on the horizon. The maintenance increase has sparked debates among shareholders, igniting conversations across social media, particularly on Facebook. Regardless of whether you are happy, unhappy, or indifferent, there is a noticeable shift toward collaboration, attending meetings, and voting when the time comes. Einstein’s wisdom rings true: “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” If we do not act, we cannot be surprised by unwelcome changes or being caught off guard.

Building 26 has been proactive in engaging shareholders by arranging guest speakers, including Executive GM Marvin Walton and Asst. Executive GM Cary Smith, who during our last meeting shared his thoughts and plans for bigger and better things. Among these initiatives are the introductiones for shareholders and an upgrade program aimed to allowing shareholders to potentially upgrade their apartments at a fraction of the cost.

ruary 26, we saw 13 enthusiastic shareholders eager to make a positive impact. It was a fantastic start, and we hope it encourages more participation. Remember, anyone from the household can join. When we know our neighbors, we naturally hold each other accountable, fostering a clean and peaceful home environment. We are excited to announce that we will be hosting a secondary orienta-terested, please send us an email to Coopcityta26@ gmail.com.

Today, let us recognize our secretary, Jasmine Jones-Taby, as our highlighted board member of the week (pictured left) Jasmine, a 24-year-old college student in New York, boasts a unique heritage as the daughter of Moroccan immigrants born in Italy, proudly identifying as Italo-Moroccan. Having earned an associate degree from Bronx Community College, she now pursues bilingual childhood education at the City College of New York.

Aside from academics, Jasmine is a passionate means of expressing her inner thoughts and emotions. Community engagement and volunteerism are integral to her life, with involvement in associations aimed at enhancing local communities.

Currently serving as the secretary of her building association, she strives to provide entertainment and educational opportunities for residents, fostering connections and advocacy. Jasmine’s

perfect, her enthusiasm for languages underscores her desire to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Jasmine looks forward to continuing to bond with her community through art, advocacy, and multilingual communication.

I appreciate the opportunity to keep you informed and always welcome your valuable feedback. Let’s continue working together to enhance our community. Until next time, stay connected, stay engaged and keep the conversation going.

––Tanya Cruz-Cooke

Reminder, please send all email correspondence to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

Thank you for your cooperation.

NAACP

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), has profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and equality for all during the course of 20th Century American History. Join the NAACP to help us do the work. We march to defend democracy. Membership is the lifeblood of the organization. We meet the fourth Sunday of the month at 3:00 p.m. (currentMondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m.-12 p.m.

Bloody Sunday – On March 3, leaders and activists rallied in Selma, Alabama to march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in honor of John Lewis on the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday. In March 1965, John Lewis led 600 peaceful marchers across the Edmund Pettus Bridge to register Black voters. They were met by state troopers and men on horseback. Unprovoked, troopers attacked the marchers, gassing and brutally assaulting them with clubs and bullwhips. The legacy of John Lewis and the marchers’ courageous acts andders. We celebrate their commitment to peace and nonviolence. We lean on their strength, on their belief in society’s ability to change, and the power each one of us has to affect that change.

NAACP Youth Committee – On Saturday, March 16, from 4-6 p.m., a class on Civic Engagement and Etiquette will be presented. This event is free and opencity2210@gmail.com or leave your name and phone number at 718-320-3210.

March is Women’s History Month.

Voting: This election season, we hold the most powerful tool to make democracy work for Black Americans: our vote. The issues that affect our community will make or break how we continue to thrive in this country. We can to mobilize Black voters, visit naacp.org/vote.

You can follow us on Facebook: Co-op City NAACP. Become a member, gift a membership or upgrade your membership. Take your advocacy further $30. Youth: $10. Silver Life: $750. Make check/money order payable to: NAACP Co-op City. Mail to: NAACP Co-op City, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 36, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 To leave a message call the 3210 or email: naacpccity2210@gmail.com.

––Brenda Brown

We Honor George C. Crouch – Mr. Crouch reached the age of 100 on March 1 and was celebrated at Maestro’s. Many attended to celebrate his 100th Gibson, DA Darcel Clark, Speaker Carl Heasties, Assemblyman Benedetto and State Senator Bailey attended. Larry Seabrook and so many friends and admirers attested to how Mr. Crouch has mentored and encouraged them along the way. Mr. Crouch was delightful and acknowledged Larry Seabrook as the one who inspired him to become involved in the political arena. It was a beautiful occasion and Mr. Crouch was never left alone for just about the whole time. Thank you, George C. Crouch, for your advice and guidance when we needed it. Mr. George Crouch hails from Building 26 in Section 5 and was quite involved in the matters of our community.

Congratulations – Congratulations to Nelson Sweeting on his dedication and the Community Service Award he received from Assemblyman Michael Benedetto. Keep up the good work. Also, this Black History Month program was sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Benedetto and the speaker of the hour was Dr. Lester W. Young Jr., who served as Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents. Under his guidance, the Board passed a diversity, equity and inclusion policy and legislative priorities to create more opportunities for all New York State students.

Speaker of NYS Assembly Carl E. Heastie hosted the Northeast Bronx Community Democratic Club Meeting at the Eastwood Manor. The Keynote Speaker was our own Councilman Kevin C. Riley who said he does not considpublic servants called to serve others. He mentioned the daily news and media rarely offer anything positive. Councilman Riley then spoke about how he exposed young men to investing and other opportunities to build themselves up to be productive citizens of their communities. We need to support one another and work together. There were many who spoke, including Bronx DA Clark and Bronx Borough President Gibson.

Councilmember Riley is partnering with the Bronx Neighborhood Housing Services and Urban Upbound to host free tax preparation services for eligible residents of District 12. Individuals without dependents and who have an income maximum of $59,000 and those with dependents who have an income maximum of $85,000. Location: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 44, Phone: 347-326-8652; or 940 East Gun Hill Road, 718-684-5509. Other Council Districts are searchable at www.mygovnyc.org.

Saturday Volunteers –a.m. at the Co-op City Fridge. Interested in volunteering? Contact Coopcitycommunityfridge@gmail.com.

We offer condolences to all who lost a loved one. We wish all the best of good health. Happy birthday wishes.

One may reach Nelson Sweeting, president, at Section5association10@ gmail.com or 914-709-5395.

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

National Council of Negro Women

Women Represent! – Come get your glow on! Join us for our Women Represent program on Saturday, April 13, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. via Zoom The program’s theme, “Be the Light; Let’s Get Glowing,” is based on our own Camille Worrell’s book, “Get Up & Glow with Me.” The program will feature select pieces from each section of her book weaved into a story of dramatic presentation. So, come join us on Saturday, April 13, at Zoom Meeting ID: 890 0721 3945, Passcode: 000706. For further information, contact Camille Worrell at worrellswords@aol.com

NCNW Co-op City Section – Tomorrow, Sunday, March 10, is our membership meeting day. We meet the second Sunday of each month from September through June except for May, when in deference to Mothers’ Day, we meet on the third Sunday. Our Co-op City Section, chartered in 1971, is one of 300 local sections of NCNW in the United States. We are part of a coalition of 38 national organizations and thousands of concerned individuals of both sexes and many races. We in the Co-op City Section of NCNW are committed to service for the betterment of our immediate community and the society in which we live. The mission is to lead, develop and advocate for women of African descent as they support their families and communities. Does that sound like a commitment that you might be interested in? Check out our website: www. ncnwcoopcitysection.com. Maybe you would like to visit our next meeting!

NCNW Youth Section – Our newly chartered Youth Section is meeting this afternoon, March 9, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. They will be celebrating March by dressing up as famous women and discussing them as “Women’s Herstory.” If you know a young lady between the ages of 9 and 18 years who might be interested and it is not too late in the day yet, have her contact us at email: ncnwcoopcityyouth@gmail.com or visit our website: www.coopcitysection.com, and come check out the group.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) takes the opportunity each March to bring attention to preventing concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBI). This year, CDC is focusing on supporting young families. As a child grows and develops, there are many things parents and others can do to keep them safe from a concussion. For over 20 years, CDC’s Heads Up program has offered concussion prevention and safety materials for parents about how to identify concussion symptoms and what to do if a child has a concussion. Parents can also learn

Social Media – www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com; on Instagram: NCNW Co-op City, and email: ncnwco. opcity@gmail.com.

––Joyce Howard

ADVERTISE!

Director’s Viewpoint Mary Pearson

Kvetch, Moan, Complain

MetroCard Mobile Sales Vehicles. The OMNY van and/ or MetroCard bus used to come to Co-op City on first and third Thursdays, stopping at all three of our locations: Dreiser, Bartow, and Einstein. That was before COVID hit.

The excuse? There was no room on the street because of the COVID testing setups, plus, in Einstein’s case: You moved the bus stop! Either way, they were excuses, not actual reasons

The actual reason? The time was cut to four and a half hours from six making it impossible to hit all three stops in the same day.

After several months of complaining, an attempt to accommodate Dreiser and Einstein was made. Unfortunately, the visits were mostly kept secret from the community and from the MTA’s own staff as well. The 5-1-1 call-takers knew only what can be found online: The bus and van only stop at Bartow. (https://new.mta.info/fares/mobile-sales)

That, of course, is not true. The mobile sales vehicles visited all three spots a few fifth Fridays last year. I used the service at Einstein on December 29th. When I asked: When are you coming back? I got a shrug and a: “We just go where they send us.”

Then this month, the mobile sales pair showed up at Einstein on February’s fifth Thursday. Did any of you Einstein or Dreiser residents know they were coming to your section that day? I just happened to look out the window that morning...and there they were.

But now, thanks to Co-op City’s Tremaine O’Garro of AM Benedetto’s office, and the Assemblyman, we have a schedule “...for this year ... due to current available resources.”

The MetroCard Mobile Sales Vehicles will serve Einstein (in the morning) and Dreiser (in the afternoon) on Tuesday, April 30; Friday, May 31; Wednesday, July 31; Monday, September 30; Wednesday, October 30; and Tuesday, December 30. So now we know.

Metro-North Station Access. I know, I know, it won’t be here for years. But you know what won’t be here in years? Money. Federal bucks to provide for a needed second entrance and a Park ‘n Ride on the south side of the tracks will surely run out before the wait and see results are in.

Is any Section 5 resident unable to predict what the parking situation will be like if the station is accessible only fromthe Erskine side of the tracks? The station may not be open for business for years but that doesn’t mean we can put off getting busy. Now is the time to demand that the MTA and Metro-North provide what the community needs –sooner, not later.

Good things might come to those who wait, not to those who wait too late.

Proper access to the station for our commuting neighbors is what is needed to save Section 5 from bonkers traffic and parking problems. And it will take more than just a dozen or so crusaders to fight for the funding to get them busy building castles in the sky, I mean, busy building an extra elevator and staircase array in the sky at a second, south-of-the-tracks, station entrance. And while that’s pending, before the bucks come in to tweak the plans, let’s all drop the MTA a line or a dime to ask, “How’s that 3D model of the Co-op City Station coming along?” Email PSAOutreach@mtacd.orgor call the 24/7 Construction Hotline: 347-263-7837. Nudge ‘em enough and they will have to deliver.

At its planned location, the station is so difficult to imagine that we truly need to be shown either a model railroad set-up or an animation. A simple drawing just won’t do. But meanwhile, to get a better understanding of what’s coming, and where... here’s that All Aboard! video again: https://youtu. be/iwRk0GqY7bA(Contact me to emailortext you the link.)

Mandela. You loved it. Right? You missed it? Poor you! Go to the MandelaNYC.com website to see what you missed.

Broun Place

Mandela was great. But we wuz robbed!

I’ll explain. I went to the site to check the date for the company’s Motown review coming to Dreiser sometime in June. No mention of the Motown show, but on the page it says: When you arrive at the theatre you will be processed for detainment. After you are led through prison gates you will be handed handcuffs . So sit back and relax because you’re about to do time with Mandela!

No handcuffs!

Also, no Richard Greene (the recognizably well-known starring-role actor), but his replacement did a fine job, so no complaints there. There were, however, some sound issue complaints. (I’m told they’re working on it.)

Hopefully, more culture will be heading our way – soon and often.

Mendacity! You might have read a viewpoint last week advising shareholders, in not-too-subtle terms, that when the next Riverbay Board Director election comes around they should vote the bums out! (I paraphrase.)

I agree that shareholders who wish to serve the community should step up and run for the Board. But do it soon! March is the month candidates need to declare their intentions

As a Board director, I do all I can to keep the community clean, green, lean, and afloat. But there’s only so much any individual director – or any Board, or any Management crew – can do to maintain a rational money in/money out balance in out-of-control times, under out-of-control circumstances.

HCR, using a strict formula, didn’t believe Riverbay’s usual masterful juggling act could pull us through with a 2.1% carrying charge increase. HCR, in its oversight role, is imposing the painful 8.1% increase instead, writing TWICE in the bad news letter that the increase is needed “... owing to causes beyond the control of the [Riverbay Corporation].” And that, dear neighbors, is no lie.

Have a good week, everybody. MPearson@ RiverbayBoard.com/718-219-2211.

Townhouse Association

Welcome to Women’s History Month as that is what March’s theme is. Unfortunately, I could not find any event specifically touting women’s history in any articles in last week’s issue. I hope that is my error.

Thank you very much to Mr. Michael Ambo and his crew for repairing the broken brickwork around the tree near 32A. The brickwork was pulled up by a snow removal vehicle and left in an ugly state which we photographed and brought to the attention of Director Michael Ambo and CSO member Victor Dickson. I thought it would be spring till we had the repairs. However, thanks and appreciation go out to our Grounds staff.

Speaking of staff, we could not help but notice the increase in staffing in our Co-op City Times reflected in its masthead. Congratulations, especially to Brandon Ortiz, who has been a member of the staff for some time and doing magnificent work covering topical subjects and important meetings.

Due to the all-day rain, Saturday, March 2, I was unable to do my walk around. I plan to resume this in better weather. Please retrieve your Co-op City Times each week and read it. Please be an informed cooperator and read your Co-op City Times

I visited Dreiser Mall recently and want to bring your attention to the opening of three new stores in Dreiser Loop Mall. Please go there and look around. We need to support local businesses.

One thing you can help with is the abidance of dog owners to Riverbay rules for dog owners. If you can report seeing someone not picking up their dog’s business, give a location and description of it. We are having to allow support dogs. The support dogs must be registered with Public Safety. If you see a crime or something that you know is against our rules and regulations, call CCPD; phone number: 718 671-3050.

Cooperators, participate in our opportunities to voice opinions and ask questions. It is only effective if you participate. Thank you, Sonia Feliciano, President of the Riverbay Board of Directors, for expressing disappointment when just 33 people attended a meeting discussing a future carrying charge increase. Are we an apathetic group?

Your tidings are welcomed for publication, the good and bad. On Sunday, March 3, we first heard of long-time cooperator Alice Bautista, 92, passing. We send sincere condolences to her family. Her son is a long-time cooperator and Riverbay Corporation employee.

We send best wishes and hopes for complete healing to all those who are recovering from suffering and illness.

A couple of meaningful statements: “Life has no remote, get up and change it yourself;” and “We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone,” by Ronald Reagan.

We hope you read the Co-op City Times ––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Building 22A&B Association

African American History Month was very busy for our community, and activities were enjoyed by all. March is going to be as busy with International Women’s Day, Saint Patrick’s and birthday parties for this month, so please come and have fun with us.

Our next Building Association meeting is March 25 at 7 p.m. in the Associ-

Ms. Gladys Polites’ door in Building 22B. Must be a member. Voting will take place at the next meeting. Please read the Co-op City Times for more activities this month.

If you are signed up for the STAR program, it is in with your maintenance statement this month.

Compactor Room: Please follow the instructions on the door and walls inside. Please keep your environment clean.

Laundry Room Etiquette: Continue to respect your neighbors. Remove your clothes from the washer and dryer in a timely manner. If you use fabric softener sheets, please put them in the garbage can, and clean out the dryer tray.

Happy birthday to all. Our prayers to all who lost loved ones. If you see something, say something.

––Betty Leak

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

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

Daylight Savings Time – Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 10. Move your clocks forward one hour. Remember to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Building 10 Association Dues – The collection of Building Association dues for 2024 began on March 1. Building Association dues are $10 per apartment. We will be available in the Association Room (located in the rear of Building 10B) to collect dues today, March 9, from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. and March 28 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m. You can also bring your dues to the Building Association meeting or give to any executive board member. Please meeting and party supplies and refreshments, etc.

General Membership Meeting – Our next General Membership meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, at 6:45 p.m. in the Association Room located in the rear of Building 10B. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Our guest speaker will be Mr. Anthony Barzelatto, Safety Director of the Riverbay Corporation. Mr. Barzelatto will present, “How to Survive an Active Shooting.”

Vote – The Presidential primary election is scheduled for April 2. You can register to vote online, by mail and in-person. If you have recently moved, you should notify the Board of Elections in the City of New York as soon as possible by re-registering. For more information, go to www.vote.nyc.

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: 718-8796311.

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. We are also on Facebook 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.

Have a wonderful week.

––Jewel Crawford-Duncan

Building 20 Association

Greetings, to our neighbors and friends.

Thank you to all the Building 20 residents that attended the February 15, Building 20 Association meeting. Our invited guest was Ms. Danielle O’Connor, director of the Parking and Leasing Department at Riverbay Corporation. She was accompanied by the Senior Operations Manager. Ms. O’Connor’s department oversees the eight parking facilities, the commuity centers, which includes all the commercial spaces, the stores as well as the community center rental rooms. In addition, the department handles the rentals of all the basement storage spaces and hall closets throughout the buildings as well as Key Fobs.

The following is a continuation of last week’s report with Ms. O’Connor:

Recently, the Board of Directors passed a resolution giving shareholders a 25% decrease in the price to rent a Co-op City community center room. An organization giving an event can receive a parking discount for their guests. You can get a list of rooms and prices as well as rules and regulations, storage, fobs, etc., by sending an email to parkingdepartment@riverbaycorp.com.

In the Bartow Mall, Buffalo Wild Wings will be located in the former Arby’s location. Cold Stone Creamery and Sweet Frog will move into the former nail salon. In Dreiser Center, Ranch Restaurant (Caribbean-American cuisine), will replace the former Townhouse Diner, with outdoor seating available. A new hair salon will be moving in. And the beauty supply store recently opened. In the Einstein Center, they plan to bring in a juice bar.

The Parking & Leasing department will restore the storage room for new renters and also improve the manner in which storage room keys are dispersed.

I hope to see all Building 20 residents at our next meeting on Thursday, March 21.

––Francine Jones

Building 13 Association

Make sure you attend our next scheduled meeting on March 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the Association Room. Building 13 will have as a guest Riverbay Deputy General Manager, Mr. Warren Mitchell, who is assigned to our building to discuss some items that remain a concern. Additionally, if time permits, we will also discuss and become more informed about participatory budgeting. It utilize the approximately $1 million available to constituents. We need to be involved in the decision-making process.

last week in buildings. What did transpire was the revelation that people speak without having accurate information and that can be detrimental. Please take the time to read the Co-op City Times and notices placed in the bulletin board in the lobby. Attend community meetings and stay involved.

As of this writing, the second meeting with the Executive General Manager and their boards will have taken place. These articles go in on Monday and article.

As always, we try to bring new and exciting events and activities to the community and this year will be no different. Some of the performers and inhave contributed to the event. This will be our 13th year and it is scheduled for Saturday, June 22 (rain date: June 23). The festivities are open to the entire community.

“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 http://www.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

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. We trust all is well. Stay vigilant, cautious and wear your masks in crowds. The weather has been a little favorable. Be careful, as

Congratulations to Nelson Sweeting on his Community Service Award from Assemblyman Michael Benedetto.

Women History Month – It appears every on. In 1987, Congress passed legislation which proclaimed March as “Women’s History Month.” The resolutions and proclamations annually celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and recognize the achievements women thankful for the women of Co-op City, and so many -

keep Co-op City an affordable, clean and safe home and community for future generations.

Public Safety Blotter – Has anyone noticed the

Good day, shareholders.

complaints of criminal activities has increased? Please stay vigilant, alert and report if you see something.

– Free services for individuals without dependents with maximum income of $59,000 and with dependents with income max-

at 718-684-5509 or visit Section 5, 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 44, phone (347) 326-8652; or 940 East Gun Hill Rd., (718) 684-5509.

Happy birthday to all celebrating this month. 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 goodwill. Also, notify her of any illness, or if a neighbor has deceased or transferred to a nursing home.

“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.” –Margaret J. Wheatley

Building 33 Association

The Building Association has received multiple telephone calls regarding the 8.1% maintenance increase effective April 1. The percentage rate is high, and shareholders are concerned. We already received two increases in the not-so-distant past. Co-op City is supposed to be affordable. If this trend continues,tually be priced out of here. There are many shareholders not eligible for SCRIE because the income limit is too low and needs to change with the times. The salaries of Riverbay employees and our utilities are rising but our incomes are not increasing with Maybe we need to see some changes to understand where the money is going. The community needs the lobbies updated. We need the walls and doors painted in the hallways. This has not been done in years! The upkeep of the community would make us feel better and maybe then we will see a change in how shareholders keep the place together!

A Building 33 Association meeting is scheduled for March 14 at 6 p.m. The topic will be safety. We have invited Chief Riley, CCPD; and Vanessa Aldea, director, CSO. If you have questions you would like to ask them, contact me in advance. I will forward the questions to be sure you get answers.

How many conversations do we have to have about cleanliness? Dog poop, com-

pactor room etiquette, elevator cleanliness! What is the problem? Just because we live in a building with 384 apartments does not mean we cannot keep a dirty plastic birthday cake container in the comis the most ridiculous thing we have to keep talking about. If you are an adult doing this, shame on you! If you have a child doing this, shame on you! We do not all want to live like animals!

March is Women’s History Month. This is the time to honor women from all back-ments and contributions they have made throughout the history of the United States. It is remembering those who paved the way for gender equality, especially equal pay, recognizing today’s history makers and barrier breakers, even in your household, your family, amongst your friends, and co-workers. Have a conversation with someone you have looked up to. Thank them for anything they did that had a positive impact on you. Let this be kind to women month.

I hear there is a building around here doing an Easter egg hunt; read your Co-op City Times out where it is taking place!

To all shareholders having a birthday in March, enjoy a happy birthday. If anyone is grieving, we are grieving with you and our prayers go out to you.

Take care now, walk good!

Building 25 Association

Greetings, neighbors! Best wishes for a happy month.

March is National Women’s Month. Following is a quote from Gift Gugu Mona, which seemsments of women in the United States and around the world. “Dear Superwomen, let no one demean your intelligence. Let no one dribble you from your happiness. Let no one derail you from success. Be a smart, courageous, and determined woman.” Stay focused, united and keep moving forward.

On February 27, at 7:00 p.m., our Building 25 Association held a gathering in our meeting room to promote heart health awareness. We watched a highly informative video presentation, “Are you at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease? Heart 411 – Learn the Facts to Live a Long, Heart-Healthy Life.” hosted by Cleveland Clinic Doctors. Tips highlighted in the video for managing heart health are: “know your body mass index, your cholesterol level, your blood pressure, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise.” The feedback from the attendees was positive.

Thanks to the shareholders who attended the gathering, and a special thank you to Ms. Denise Gerrald, our Building Association president, for securing the video, and for the tasty healthy snack she made and served to the attendees.

Our General meeting is on the third Tuesday of each month. Building 25 Association endeavors to serve and act on your behalf. Please attend our meetings and share your ideas and concerns. You may also contact us at bldg25association@gmail. com. The Association’s suggestion box is in our laundry room. Let us hear from you.

We hope our neighbors who are sick will feel better soon. To families who have lost a loved one recently, we extend condolences.

• April 2, is Presidential Primary Election Day. If anyone needs to register to vote, your application “must be received by the Board of Elections no later than March 23, 2024, to be eligible to vote in the Presidential Primary.”

• Our Building Association is planning an evening of fun. More details about the activity will be coming soon…really.

Our next Building 25 Association meeting will be on Tuesday, March 19, at 7:30 p.m., in the meeting room under the portico. See you there.

Have a spectacular week!

AARP Chapter #4997

We go from celebrating Black History Month in February right into the month of March to celebrating Women’s History Month. We now can learn about the past, present and future of the wonderful women in history. Our Tour Our new pick-up location is Dreiser Loop near H&R Block. The time will be announced later and there will be three drop-off locations as always. The Apriltion and all payments are due now. On June 18, we have a trip to the Vynecrest Winery with a stop at the Wind Creek Casino and all-you-can-eat dinner buffet for the reasonable price of $139. Contact Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-379-7962, for information and reservations.

Our General Membership meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 11, at 1 p.m. in the auditorium of Dreiser Loop. We will have important information to number: 718-320-1946 and the e-mail is aarp4997@gmail.com. We will re-

Good health is a priority for us. Our CPR Class is scheduled for March 14 in the Dreiser Community Center at noon in Room “6.” You can check in at the

Greetings, retirees and friends.

available at the general meeting.

The issues that are of a major concern to us at this point are the carrying election year is starting to show itself as a major concern for everyone and why it is so important. We all need to step up and be involved with sharing the news of the issues and the candidates. Many of our rights have already been taken from for our own security. There is no way to express the importance of voting except to remind everyone of the past struggles we endured. Everyone needs to vote!

Ms. Baker, 718-379-2088, is our membership contact and is receiving new/ renewal applications and dues. The annual dues are $20, and you must be a member of the National Organization to join our chapter. Mrs. Wilson, 718671-5493, is advising that our family and friends are improving with their own personal issues, and we continue to send prayers for healing and comfort.

Do you know these women: Barbara Jordan—Ada Lovelace—Elizabeth these outstanding women.

We are here to serve – not to be served.

––Ann Purnell

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

We hope that you and your loved ones are doing well. It is Daylight Saving Time, so be sure to spring forward one hour your non-automatic clocks and appliances before you turn in tonight.

Wind Creek Casino – Bethlehem, PA; Wednesday, March 13; $60 with $25 bonus slot play. Bus pick-up at 8:30 a.m. on Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block. Return trip drop-offs at Einstein, Asch and Dreiser Loops.

Atlantic City Overnight Trip –Tropicana Casino/Hotel, Wednesday, May 29-30. One-night hotel stay and tribute to the “Jersey Boys and Girls” show. $295pp/double, $345pp/single; $15 bonus slot play and $25 food voucher. A few seats are still available, $100 deposit due now to reserve a seat. The remaining balance is due March 19. Bus pick-up at 9 a.m. on Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block. Return trip drop-offs at Einstein, Asch and Dreiser Loops.

Carnival Cruise 2024 – Eastern Caribbean nine-day/eight-night cruise, traveling to Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; Grand Turks, and Half Moon Cay, Bahamas; on the beautiful new ship Venezia leaving from NYC on July 16 (cruising through July 24). Please contact Serita at 347-564-5722 for information regarding these trips. Serita will be in Room 19 on Thursday, March 14, and Tuesday, March 19, from 1-3 p.m. to accept payments.

Entertainment Committee – Our annual June luncheon will be held on Wednesday, June 12, from 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at the beautiful Marina del Daisy will be in Room 19 on Tuesday, March 12, and Thursday, March 14, from 1-3 p.m. Questions can be addressed to Daisy at 718-671-6122 or 917-

292-7010 and Jay at 201-310-2972.

Scholarship Committee – Scholarship applications are available in Room 19. The deadline for the submission of completed scholarship applications to the Scholarship Committee is May 24. Applicants must be high school seniors scheduled to graduate in June 2024. The applicant’s parent/grandparent must be a RODL member in good standing (dues paid for the past two years). Contact JoAnn at 718-710-9082 with questions.

Membership Committee – Annual membership dues for 2024 can be remitted by personal check payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” in the amount of $25 and mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-655-9170.

Happy Birthday – Cheers to all our March birthday celebrants. We wish you an incredibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year.

Condolences – We continue to pray for those who have experienced a recent loss.

Good and Welfare – Please keep all of those who are sick and/or shut-in in your thoughts and healing prayers. We hope they will soon see brighter days ahead. Please notify Lorraine Parker at 718-671-6403 of any member illnesses or deaths.

General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 3, at 1 p.m. in the Dreiser Center Auditorium C. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Goose Island Seniors

Don’t forget to turn your clocks forward one hour tonight, Sunday, March 10, at 2 a.m.

Resorts Atlantic City – Tue., March 19. Wait list only. Price, $65. Bonus, $20 slot play. Bus arriving Einstein Loop, 7:45 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:15 a.m., and Dreiser Loop, 8:30 a.m.

Mt. Airy Lodge Casino – in Mt. Pocono, PA; Thu., April 18. Price, $65. No bonus. Bus arriving Einstein Loop, 7:45 a.m.; Asch Loop, 8:15 a.m., and Dreiser Loop, 8:30 a.m. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 39, Bx., NY 10475 or Zelle to 347-847-1941; $StephenCarlSr. Vaccination required.

Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA; Thu., April 25. Price, $215. Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant. Call/text: 646-579-1701.

Sight and Sound (Daniel) – Bethlehem, PA; Tue., May 7. Balcony seats (2 or 3 steps down). Price, $195. Make checks to Goose Island Seniors. Deposit $50 to reserve seat on bus. Balance due, April 17, 2024. Golden Corral Restau-

rant before show.

Villa Roma – Tribute to Diana Ross and Gladys Knight, Catskills, NY, Tue., June 11. Wait list only. Price, $125. Down payment, $50 to reserve seat. Balance due by May 20, 2024.

Tribute to Whitney Houston – at Tropicana Casino, June 27. Wait list only. Price, $150. Bonus, $25 slot play and $20 food voucher. Wait list only. Deposit $50 to reserve seat on bus. Balance due June 5.

Nordic Lodge Seafood Feast, Foxwood Casino and Tanger Outlet –Aug. 3. Price, $220. First payment, $55, to reserve seat on bus. Call/text: 646847-1701.

Holiday Hills – Prospect, CT; Tues., Aug. 20. Price, $130; $50 deposit to reserve seat on bus. Balance due by Wed., July 17.

2024 Norwegian Cruise – Hawaii, Aug. 31 – Sept. 7. Call: 646-579-1701.

Latin Day at Brownstone – Thu., Sept. 26. Price, $145; $50 deposit. Balance due, Aug.28.

2024 Las Vegas Trip – Oct. 11-15, 2024. Call/text: 646-579-1701.

Motown Holiday Party – Windows on the Lake in Long Island, Thu., Dec. 12. Price, $145; $50 deposit. Final payment due Nov. 13.

Notary – with Yvonne Menefee, Thursdays, 10:00 a.m.-5 p.m., 135 Einstein Loop, Room 34 or 39.

Bingo – Mon., Wed. and Fri., 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 Thu., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dominoes, movies, socializing and more.

To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of March: Stephen C. Roberts Sr., Lourdes Lopez, Michelle Rosenthal, Liz Pelaez, Pearl Applewhite and Kerrie A. Perry. Birthday cake celebration Wed., March 13, 2 p.m.-2:45, halftime at Bingo.

Sick and Shut-in – Loretta Woodard, Sandy Roque. Our former president,

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

Good health to all.

—Stephen Roberts, Sr.

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

JASA FREE Tax Preparation 2024 – Income

Limits: Single, $32,000; w/dependents, $60,000; Mondays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Must bring Social Security Card. Call 718-320-2066 for appointments.

Agatha House Foundation - National Diabetes Prevention Program – 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Join our 6–9 month program. For more information or to register, call Coach Brittany, 917-943-3503.

Bartow OAC Trips – Walmart, Wed., Mar. 13, $12. BJ’s/Shoprite, Fri., Mar. 15, & Costco, Fri., 29, for these two trips, it’s $6. Only 12 seats. Payments must be made in Bartow OAC only

Bartow OAC: Motown Show, “Windows on the Lake,” Lake Ronkonkoma, NY – June 26, $150.

Mello Tymes Acupunture w/Dr. Flora Luyando –a.m.-12 p.m. Call 718-320-2066 for appointment.

Dreiser OAC: Spirit of NY “White Party”

Bartow

Mon., March 11

Tues., March 12

Wed., March 13

Thurs., March 14

Fri., March 15

Sat., March 16

BARTOW CENTER CLOSED

(NORC) Line Dancing with Bartow Swingers (ONLY) 12-1 p.m., Every Mon.

Walk w/Odessa, on break until Spring 2024

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

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

Adult coloring, 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

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

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

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

Bereavement Hour w/Dorine (1st Wednesday only per month) 12-1 p.m.

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

Dominoes w/Jose 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

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

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

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

Knitting/Crocheting with Lynne and Betty, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Card Games with Frankie, 1 p.m.-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.

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

Drama Club w/Dazee Windley 3 p.m.-4 p.m., in the back of the JASA NORC Office

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

Salsa with Rasheed 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

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

Cruise – July 17. Tickets are $126. Payments can be made in three installments in Rm. 7.

Einstein OAC: Essex Steam Train & River Boat Cruise – June 28. Tickets, $144, and can bements only Mondays & Fridays, 9-11 a.m.

Common Pantry is scheduled for Tues., Mar. 26. For new applicants, contact JGrimes@JASA.org, or call 929-399-1371 on Tues. & Thurs.

Memory Matters: Coping w/Memory & Cognitive Changes – presented by Alzheimer’s Assoc. in partnership w/JASA meeting weekly on Fridays for 9 wks. Feb. 9 – Education & Orientation; Feb. 16–April 5, Weekly Group Discussions, 1-2:30 p.m., required. Contact 646-651-4717 or rrkersey@alz.org.

Caringkind: The Heart of Alzheimer’s Caregiving representative will be in the Bartow Main

Einstein

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.

Ageless Facials & Self Care, 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Rm. 35 Appointments only.

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

Bridge to Care Arthritis Exercise, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 45

Creative Arts & Painting, 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 35

Go Easy on us Computers 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m., Rm. 40

Hair Care 4U, 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Appointments only

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

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

Prize Bingo & Board Games 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Rm. 49A

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

Salsa Dancing, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Walk With Ease, 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

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.

Let’s Get It on Zumba 1 p.m.-2 p.m.

for Alzheimer and Dementia Consultation/Health Care Proxy & Power of Attorney Consultation & other services.

Steel Drum Classes

Wed., 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Notary Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. by appointment.

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

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

Notary – Einstein OAC, Notary appointments,

Please call Einstein OAC – 718-671-5161, 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 for appointment.

Dreiser

Walmart Supercenter, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler 10-11 a.m. (Virtual), 863-4924183, Passcode: Dreiser23

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

Lunch Time Concert w/Concert in Motions, 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4

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

Game Time, 10 a.m.

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Art w/Lovie, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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

Computer & Tablet Class w/Ralph 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Dial-in #: 347-893-2966. Meeting ID: 854 2963 5300. Passcode: Dreiser23

Game Time, 9-10 a.m.

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Arthritis Exercise w/Damion 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Auditorium A

Afternoon Crafts w/Ines & Julesa, 1:15-3 p.m.

Drama Club, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Rm. 4

Self Defense w/Jimmy, 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2 (Twice a month)

Game Time, 9-10 a.m.

Current Events, 10-11 a.m.

Wellness Mornings 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Spanish Class w/Angelica 1-2 p.m. Twice a month.

Louis Armstrong House Museum Trip, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sewing Class w/Joy, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2

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

Alert & Alive w/Cathy and Essie 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Rm. 4

Line Dance w/Sassy 1 p.m.-2 p.m., Aud. A

Bingo w/Gay, 1:20-2:50 p.m., Rm. 4

Menu Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served with 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

LUNCH: KOSHER: Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper, Steamed Yellow Squash

NON KOSHER: Curry Chicken, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Corn & Peas

NO DINNER SERVED

LUNCH: KOSHER: Chicken Shawarma, Yellow Rice, Israeli Salad

NON KOSHER: Baked Fish Marsala w/ Mushrooms, White Rice, Vegetable Mix

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Chicken Shawarma w/Whole Wheat Pita, Yellow Rice w/Israeli Salad, Pear

NON-KOSHER: Caesar Salad w/ Grilled Chicken & Whole Wheat Pasta Salad, Apple

LUNCH : KOSHER: Baked Flounder, Pearled Barley, Moroccan Vegetables

NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish Marsala w/ Mushrooms, White Rice, Vegetable Mix

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Baked Flounder w/Pearled Barley & Moroccan Vegetables, Banana

NON-KOSHER: Curried Chicken w/Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Corn & Peas, Apple

LUNCH: KOSHER: Pepper Flank Steak, Vegetable Lo Mein, Oriental Blend Vegetables

NON-KOSHER: Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken, Whole Wheat Pasta Salad

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Pepper Flank Steak w/ Vegetables, Lo Mein & Oriental Blend Vegetables, Orange. NON-KOSHER: Beef Meatballs w/ Sofrito, Yuca with Onions & Oriental Blend Vegetables, Banana

LUNCH: KOSHER: Italian Roast Chicken, Spinach Noodle Kugel, Roasted Zucchini

NON-KOSHER: Beef Meatballs with Sofrito, Yuca w/Onions, Oriental Blend Vegs.

DINNER: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Italian Roasted Chicken w/ Spinach Kugel & Roasted Zucchini, Apple, GRAB & GO. NON-KOSHER: Special St. Patrick’s Day Dinner

Saturday: Lunch served at 12:30 p.m.

Lunch: Bartow Only

BARTOW OAC LUNCH

: BARTOW ONLY

KOSHER: Vegetable Stuffed Cabbage w/Instant Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Carrots, Kiwi

KOSHER: Moroccan Style Roasted Chicken Legs, Brown Rice, Steamed Green Beans, Plum

KOSHER: Baked Chicken Cutlet, in Mushroom Gravy, Egg Barley, Banana NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish in Black Bean Sauce, Penne Pasta, Corn w/Peas & Sliced Carrots, Orange

NON-KOSHER: Soft Taco w/Vegetables., Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrots w/Parsley, Banana

NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish Marsala w/ Mushrooms, Perfect White Rice, Mixed Vegetables, Apple

(Matthew 18:20)

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle

The Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 10

Bible Lessons:

Prayer:

Philipians 4:11,13)

––Rev. Dorian Miceli

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

Upcoming Events:

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

Purim Celebration

Condolences

Sick and Shut-in:

Birthday Greetings:

Grace and peace! Merville Chambers

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

Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds

Come and Visit us

27:1-11

General Information

Facebook

Sabbath ends

Candle Lighting

Good and Welfare

To All members

Fun and Games

––Bruce Gitelson

Zoom Facebook Live (United –Pastor David Jolly

Hebrews 11:1 Numbers

Galatians 3:28

Come and Receive a Blessing

Tuesday: Zoom

Thursday:

Upcoming Events – Save the dates.

Sunday, March 10:

Wednesday, March 6:

Thursday, March 14: “Making Healthier Choices when Eating Out.”

Miércoles:

Zoom

––Graciela Abadia

Community Protestant Church

Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family welcome you to worship with us. We are located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469. You may contact us by phone: 718-862-9172, fax: 718-671-4416, or email: Administration@thecpcchurch.org

Worship Schedule

In person Sunday Morning Worship – 11:00 a.m.; Sunday School, 9:15 a.m.

Every Wednesday – “Hour of Power Noon Day Prayer,” 12:00 p.m. on the Conference Call Line, (712) 432-3900; Access Code: 343284#.

Every Wednesday – 7:00 p.m., Bible Study via Zoom. Meeting ID: 837 7258 6522, or dial in using One Tap Mobile, (646) 931-3860 or (929) 205-6099.

Special Services

Join us tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. as we celebrate the Usher Board on their Anniversary. Friday, March 29, 12:00 p.m., Good Friday Service. Witness seven dynamic men and women of God: Rev. Dr. Edgar Howard, Rev. Dr. Gail Badger, Rev. C.L. Washington III, Rev. Quinton E. Ervin, Rev. Audrey Jones, Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and Rev. Dr. Thomas Johnson deliver the Seven Last Words from the Cross, Sunday, April 14th, 11:00 a.m., 55th Church Anniversary Service.

Save the Date

Friday, May 24, the Trustee Ministry, along with Mae Travels, present DANIEL at Sight & Sound Theaters in Ronks, Pennsylvania. Experience one of the Bible’s most epic stories as it comes to life on a panoramic stage. Ticket price, $225.00 per person, includes roundtrip Motor Coach transportation, orchestra seating, Amish country buffet lunch at Miller’s Smorgasbord Restaurant, taxes and meal gratuities. A non-refundable deposit of $50 is due now. Contact Evangeline Brown at (646) 221-1582 or ebronbrown@aol.com for reservations and additional information.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to all who are mourning the loss of a loved one. To our sick and shut-in members, please know that we are praying mightily for you and for your speedy recovery. If you are celebrating a birthday this month, we wish you a very Happy Birthday!

His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ –Matthew 25:21

—Lexa M. Mingo

Church of the New Vision

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

Happy and healthy New Year to all.

Our scripture verse for 2024 is: (Hebrews 12:2 NIV) “ he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the Sunday service at 11:00 a.m.. All are welcomed.

Masks are required and temperature will be taken.

Noon Day Prayer Line now open 12-12:30 p.m., Monday-Friday Wednesday Night Prayer Service and Bible Study is from 7:00-8:00 p.m. The Conference Line Number: 646-769-9900; Access Code: 3099388#. Please mute your phone.

March 3, 2024 Worship Service Theme: “The Suffering Servant.”

Scriptures: (Isaiah 53:1-10 KJV) “Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely, he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:7-10)

Announcements & Save the Dates

Sunday, March 17 – Join us for the 8th Anniversary Celebration of Pastors Kenneth and Deborah Hodge at the 3:00 p.m. service. Guest speaker Pastor Johnny Simmons from Life Line Ministries.

Wednesday, August 14 – $50 deposits due now to see “Daniel” at the Sight & Sound Theatre. Adults, $215/Youth, $175. Final payment due May 26, 2024. Contact: Sis. Sadie James, 718-652-8943; or Sis. Loretta Scott, 718–671–2623. Bus departs from the church at 6:15 a.m.

We continue to pray for speedy recovery for the sick and shut-in, and offer condolences to families who lost loved ones and good health and wellness for all.

Your contributions, tithes and offerings can be mailed to Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, New York 10475.

––Brenda Brown

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

Focused Surrender

(Luke 9:51) (NIV) “As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem (ESV: he set his face).”

(Isaiah 50:6) I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard; I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting. Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore, I set

1. I offered my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard.

2. I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting.

3. Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced.

Schedule – 147 Dreiser Loop

1st Sunday of the month Bilingual Communion Service, 10:30 a.m.

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

Tuesday: Prayer, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Wed./Thurs.: Non-perishable food distribution, 12 p.m.-2 p.m.

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

Friday: Youth Service (Operation Grace), 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday: Women’s Fellowship, second Saturday of the month, 12 p.m.-3 p.m. Young Adults, third Saturday of the month, 12 p.m.-3 p.m.

Men’s Fellowship, fourth Saturday of the month, 12 p.m.-3 p.m.

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

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, Room 50 (lower level), Bronx, NY 10475. Telephone, 718-320-3774. Masks are required.

The 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#.

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 your computer or dial-in using the Zoom information shown above.

This week’s events: Wednesday Bible Study Class at 1 p.m. by Zoom Prayer Warriors Prayer Service on Thursday at noon; Friday Mid-Morning Prayer Service at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Friday Evening Prayer Service – all are on the Church conference call line.

Tomorrow, Sunday, March 10, at the 11 a.m. service, the Diaconate and Trustee Ministries will celebrate their anniversary. The guest preacher will be Rev. Kenneth Hodge, Pastor, Church of the New Vision, Bronx, NY. All are invited to this celebratory service.

The next CCBC Food Giveaway will be on Friday, March 22, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at 135 Einstein Loop. Please remember to bring your own bag, and perhaps a cart. Some products can be heavy.

The Scholarship Ministry invites you to cruise with them aboard the beautiful Celebrity Equinox Ship from Tuesday, July 30, to Thursday, August 8. Ports of call are Spain, Portugal and Morocco. All staterooms at the prices previously listed are no longer available. If anyone is interested in receiving a current quote, please contact Ms. Hermena Smith, travel agent, at 646-7809813. Please be mindful of the date April 1, 2024. This is the deadline for check with Sis. Claudette Cutlar-Day at 718-379-0541 for the amount of your balance. For your convenience, payments and balances will be accepted prior to April 1, 2024.

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

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

––Marilyn C. Williams

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Co-op City Pentecostal Tabernacle, located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Bldg. 22A. Mailing address: P.O. Box 204, Bronx, NY,10475. You are invited to join with us in worship on the following days:

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

Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held from 11 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Bible Study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Friday evening worship Service starts at 7:30 p.m. All night services will be held on Zoom. Call 646-931-3860, ID: 7215591000, 505050#.

Focus: There is only one gospel that can save from sin – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ

(Galatians 1:8-11) “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preaches any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I yet please men, I should not be the servant of Christ, But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.”

Paul’s reprimand of the Galatians was strong and clear: “but though we or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that we have preach unto you let him be accursed.” In this statement, Paul even admitted that even he could possibly slip from this wonderful gospel: but regardless, the Galatians should hold to the truth of the gospel. Not even an angel from heaven is excused to preach any other gospel

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

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

Paul states in Galatians chapter 1 verse 11 and 12: “I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.” The surety of the next words, let him be accursed’ seals the certainty that God has given this gospel. To leave Anathema is the Greek word translated accursed. Anyone who Preaches any other message is anathema which means they are excommunicated or cut off from God.

Paul reiterated the word anathema in verse 9 to add emphasis to the seriousness of the matter.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Newsong Church

The Lord’s Prayer-7

“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” –Matthew 6:13 (NKJV)

We have been walking step-by-step through the Lord’s prayer, and as we come to the end, Jesus teaches us to put our faith in God’s power. Ending our prayer time by claiming God’s authority and power helps focus our minds on the truth and hope of who He is and what He can do. It reminds us that nothing is impossible with God!

“Yours is the Kingdom” – all authority belongs to You.

“Yours is the Glory” – Your victory will be complete.

Take a moment and pray: “Father God, nothing is too hard for You! Through your great power, all things are possible. All authority is yours, all might is yours, and I know that your victory will be complete. You are amazing, and I worship You. I praise You for your power and presence in my life You are my God, and You are worthy of all praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

About us: Newsong Church is a life-giving church right here in Co-op purpose, and make a difference in this world! No matter what you have been through or where you come from, you are welcome here. Join us for Sunday worship and see why God’s family is no ordinary family. Check us out, we here located at 135 Einstein Loop!

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

Newsong Deaf Church (Room 35): Our deaf worship experience is in ASL so that our deaf and hearing impaired can worship and fellowship in their own language!

Kidsong (Room 49): We have created a place where children can have fun and learn about Jesus on their own level!

Newsong Church Youth: NSCY is Newsong’s student ministry. Today’s middle and high school students will lead the next generation of the church and change the world. At NSCY, our goal is to graduate students into a lifetime of following Jesus. NSCY meets every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. in Room 42.

So, what are you waiting for? There is a God in heaven who loves you and has a purpose and plan for your life! Do you live outside of Section 5? Re-

Contact Us: Mailing Address: 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 42; Email: CentralTeam@newsongchurchnyc.org; Website: www.newsongchurchnyc.org; Phone: 917-342-2559

Social Media: Instagram: @newsongchurchbx, Facebook: @newsongchurchbx, X: @newsongchurchbx, YouTube: Newsong Church NYC.

—Pastor Mike Tolone

Public Safety –––– (Continued from page 7)

enhances the overall delivery experience and minimizes the inconvenience of missed deliveries.

FedEx: Enhancing Convenience with Retail Partnerships

Federal Express, commonly known as FedEx, is renowned for its express delivery services and global reach. To complement its delivery offerings, FedEx has collaborated with retail partners to expand its reach and enhance convenience for customers.

FedEx offers the Hold at Location option, allowing recipients to pick uptainty of in-store pick-up or have hectic schedules that make home delivery impractical. FedEx OnSite extends the convenience of package pick-up to additional retail locations, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores. By partnering with established retailers, FedEx enhances accessibility

In the face of rising criminal activities, it is imperative for the public and law enforcement to join forces in a united front against crime. Collaboration between the public and police is not only essential but also pivotal in outnumbering and apprehending criminals. By fostering mutual trust, communication and cooperation, we can create safer communities and effectively combat criminal behavior.

You play a critical role in identifying and reporting suspicious activity to CCPD and NYPD. Encouraging individuals to remain vigilant and report any unusual behavior or incidents in our community can provide Public Safety Detectives with valuable intelligence to investigate and prevent crime.

Rapid reporting is essential; it cannot be repeated enough, IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.

Effective collaboration between the public and police extends beyond crime prevention to include investigations and apprehension of suspects. Law enforcement agencies can leverage community partnerships to gather information, identify suspects, and gather evidence to support criminal prosecutions.crease the likelihood of apprehending offenders, creating a safer Co-op City community. It is imperative that we continue to strengthen partnerships, build trust, and empower cooperators to actively participate in crime prevention efforts. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a brighter, safer future for generations to come.