Co-op City Times 6/24/23

Early Voting in NYC Primary ends Sunday, June 25

Riverbay Porter Intercedes in Crime-inProgress and Rescues 17-Year-Old Victim

On Monday, June 19, at approximately 2 p.m., Public Safety Officers arrested Robert Coleman, a 60-year-old Black male inside of 100 DeKruif Place for unlawfully entering the building with the intent of engaging in disturbing and criminal conduct with a 17-year-old victim.

Investigation supports that the male, who has a criminal history, followed the teenaged shareholder from Bay Plaza Mall. He piggybacked into Building 8 and accosted the victim in the elevator and basement. Riverbay Porter Radames Ramos was performing his daily assignment when he witnessed the 17-yearold in distress and interceded.

Next Riverbay Board Meeting to Be Recorded for Broadcast on Crawler

The Riverbay Board of Directors business meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 28, 2023 will be recorded and broadcast to Co-op City households on the Riverbay Crawler. Broadcast dates will be posted on the Crawler and robocalls will be sent out to remind shareholders to tune in.

The Riverbay Crawler is available on channel 12 for master antenna subscribers (MATV) and on channel 591 for Altice subscribers.

The following is the meeting’s agenda:

DATE: Wednesday, June 28th, 2023

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Mr. Ramos had the victim removed from the basement and followed the suspect to the first floor. He called CCPD and held the suspect in the building until Officers arrived and arrested the suspect. Charges

NYC Rent Guidelines Board Votes on Increase For Rent Stabilized Rates

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

New York City’s Rent Guidelines Board voted in favor of increasing rent stabilized rates on Wednesday night, June 21, 2023.

In a close 5-4 final vote, the Rent Guidelines Board approved a 3% increase for one-year leases and two incremental increases for two-year leases. Twoyear leases will first increase by 2.75% for the first year and then another 3.2% for the second year of the lease.

The latest increases for rent stabilized apartments and lofts will affect leases commencing on October 1, 2023 or on or before September 30, 2024, according to an adopted summary posted on the Rent Guidelines Board website.

Mayor Eric Adams expressed his support for the decision and discussed his vision for addressing New York City’s affordable housing situation in a statement released on Wednesday night.

“Finding the right balance is never easy, but I believe the board has done so this year — as evidenced by affirmative votes from both tenant and public representatives. We also know that the real solution to the affordable housing crisis requires building more housing — that means getting New York City the tools we need to build the housing New Yorkers deserve. That is why we continue to fight for state action on affordable housing incentives, office conversions, and other key priorities,” Mayor Adams said.

NYC City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams offered a differing opinion than the Mayor’s in a statement released Thursday morning.

“The Rent Guidelines Board’s vote to authorize rent increases, while on the lower end of the proposed ranges, will only further exacerbate the homelessness

(Continued on page 3)

City Announces Partnership with Google

(See page 3)

Co-op City Creatives: Brad James

(See page 5)

TIME: 7:00 p.m.

PLACE: Room 31

1. Roll Call

PROPOSED AGENDA

2. Approval of the Agenda

3. Approval of the Board Business Meeting Minutes of March 29th, 2023

4. President’s Report

5. Management Report

6. INSURANCE RESOLUTION: #23-34 Executive Blended Liability Policy Renewal

7. EMERGENCY RESOLUTION: #23-35 Emergency Repairs to Garage 5

8. SECOND READINGS: #23-27 Lazarus Karp Retainer Agreement for L & T Legal Services #23-31 Modernization/Upgrades of Sixteen (16) Garage Elevators #23-32 Full Service Elevator Preventative Maintenance

9. FIRST READING: #23-29 Gas Turbine Control System Upgrade

10. Adjournment

JASA’s Juneteenth Celebration

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

(Continued on page 15)

JASA held its 2023 Juneteenth Celebration and Parade, organized by Cynthia Dixon of the JASA Bartow Older Adult Center (OAC), on Friday, June 16, to reflect, appreciate, and learn about the significance of the day. Seniors assembled holding signs and banners, and marched the perimeter of the Bartow Mall led by drummer Howie Codling. They progressed into Room 31 in the center where they met up with fellow

Photo by P.M. Campbell

Porter –––––

(Continued from page 1)

against the suspect, who is not a Co-op City resident, include Burglary and sexual abuse. CCPD supervisors worked for hours to conduct an extensive investigation and gather evidence in this case and communicated all relevant facts di-tion on which to proceed with a strong prosecution of the suspect.

CCPD Chief Riley states: “I am thankful that Team Riverbay worked in coordination to arrest a predator with a criminal history. Riverbay porter Radames Ramos became aware of the situation and took decisive and prudent action. I have no doubt he saved this victim from further criminal action, which could have resulted in extremely serious harm. He is a hero. Without his precise and decisive action, this situation could have escalated.”

“Mr. Ramos’ vigilance and swift intervention are commendable. Because he saw something and did something, the behavior of this criminal was disrupted, saving a young lady from further harm,” said Marvin L. Walton, Riverbay Executive General Manager. “CCPD personnel handling the case also performed admirably to gather the necessary evidence to what we hope will be a successful prosecution of the perpetrator. All involved worked together to ensure the safety and security of the cooperators we serve. Job well done!”

New Law Protects Consumers Against Gift Card Scams

Businesses Required to Post Warning

New York Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez informed New Yorker this week about a new law that became effective on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 that protects consumers from potential gift card scams and requires all businesses selling gift cards to display a notice at or near where any gift card or gift

Requesting gift cards as payment has become increasingly popular with scammers as funds are nearly impossible to trace. According to the Federal Trade Commission, in 2022, nearly 65,000 consumers filed a complaint related to gift card scams, equating to a total loss of $228.3 million.

“Over the past several weeks, the Department of State has been working to get the message out to both businesses and consumers about this important new law that educates and protects consumers against gift card fraud,” said Secretary of State Rodriguez. “We want businesses to comply with the law, and we want to help increase the public’s awareness of these increasingly popular scams, so we encourage any business that has not already done so to post a warning notice where gift cards or displayed or sold.”

Notice of non-delivery of the Co-op City Times

The Co-op City Times City. It is delivered to the lobby of every residential building and to each townhouse door on Saturdays. If you do not receive the paper, it is imperative that you call the distributor between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at 407-6668317 on Saturdays. You should also contact the Co-op City Times at (718) 320-3300, Ext. 3375, or email us at cctimes@riverbaycorp.com, to notify us so that we can follow-up with the distributor to ensure that the situation is addressed an corrected, especially if it is an ongoing problem.

Please note that neither the Co-op City Times nor its distributor is responsible for delivery of the bag of circulars.

Thank you for your cooperation.

not self-close, contact Maintenance immediately at 718-320-3300, select option 2, for an appointment to address this condition.

The NYS Division of Consumer Protection has created and published model notices that gift card sellers can download and post to comply with this new law. Businesses are encouraged to access these downloadable signs and post them where they sell gift cards.

Co-op City Times

COMBING

Find out what’s going on in Co-op City here...

Blood Drive Today

Riverbay Corporation and New York Blood Center are holding a Blood Drive today, Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in Room 31, Bartow Center. Donors are urgently needed. To schedule an appointment, please go to nybc. org, call 800-933-Blood, or scan the QR code here. Walk-ins welcome, if space permits. Please eat and drink before your donation and bring ID with you.

Farmer’s Market

Harvest Home Farmer’s Market has returned to Co-op City at Asch Loop and Aldrich Street, next to the firehouse, every Wednesday thru Nov. 22, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, visit www.HarvestHomefm.org.

Accessing the Co-op City Times Online

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

Be An Engaged Shareholder

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

If you have a suggestion you’d like to share with the Riverbay Board and/or Management, visit City website, coopcity.com, scroll down to the bottom and click on the “Comments & Suggestions” link or scan the QR Code here to be connected.

City Announced Partnership With Google to Expand

FutureReadyNYC

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

and CUNY Tech Equity Initiative

would combine public and private money in a more

Rent ––––– (Continued from page 1)

wage and employment disparity across various city

Fire Safety

Summarized and Updated for Clarity

Riverbay Corporation has summarized the Division of Housing and Community Renewal’s (DHCR) rules and regulations on succession rights for shareholders’ information.

apartments within Mitchell-Lama developments, which are spelled out in 9NYCRR Part 1727-8.1.

The Succession Rights Policy is intended to help a cooperator be aware of the protection provided to a family member or a ‘life companion’ in the event a cooperator moves or dies. DHCR regulations provide that eligible persons may continue to live in an apartment after the death or move-out of the cooperator. Riverbay’s policy follows DHCR rules and explains succession rights to Co-op City residents.

It should be pointed out that while new ownership can only be assumed in cases of moveout or death, only persons who meet all of the regulatory requirements may obtain leases

According to the rules and regulations, succession of an apartment can only take place if the primary owner of the apartment moves out or passes away. As a general rule, whenever there is a change in the number of persons living in the apartment, Riverbay should be

If the shareholder moves out permanently, any member of the primary cooperator’s family or life companion may request, in writing, to be named as a tenant on the lease and on the

They must have resided with the cooperator in the apartment as their primary residence for a period of not less than two years, or for one year if the succeeding cooperator is a senior citizen or disabled person, immediately prior to permanent vacating of the apartment by the cooperator. In cases where the occupancy or relationship is less than two years, the succeeding cooperator must have lived in the apartment from the inception of the tenancy or commencement of the relationship. The succeeding cooperator must have been listed on

Per DHCR rules, the “relevant period of time” must be documented by no less than

stepdaughter, father, mother, stepfather, stepmother, brother, sister, nephew, niece, uncle, aunt, grandfather, grandmother, grandson, granddaughter, fatherin-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law of the primary cooperator.

Riverbay Website

By BRANDON ORTIZ

A live Chat feature is now available on the official Co-op City website to connect shareholders directly with a Riverbay representative.

To use the feature, shareholders can go online to coopcity.com chat feature.

Associate Director of the Riverbay Call Center Lutitia Matthias explained the importance of the new feature in improving shareholders’ communication with Riverbay Corporation.

a pop-up chat window within the Riverbay website. By offering an instant way of asking questions, we are meeting the shareholders’

After scrolling down on coopcity.com’s main page, shareholders will see an English and Spanish queue that they can click on and begin typing in their questions into a small pop-up window.

The pop-up window is where shareholders can communicate directly with a Riverbay representative about concerns or questions they might need answered.

Shareholders are able to access the live chat feature on any desktop, laptop, smart phone or tablet device.

can assist with issuing work orders for apartments. with work orders related to Maintenance, plastering, painting, page information tab.

person actually resides and maintains a permanent and continuous physical of tax returns, voting records, motor vehicle registration and driver’s license, school registration, bank accounts, employment records, insurance policies and other pertinent documentation.

commitment and interdependence between such person and the cooperator. by the primary cooperator, as well as evidence of longevity of the relationship; sharing of or relying upon each other for payment of household or family expenses; joint ownership of bank accounts, personal and real property, credit cards, loan obligations, sharing a household budget for purposes of receiving family functions; and formalizing of legal obligations by such means as executing power of attorney, etc.

The other avenue through which a successor can be named to the apartment is through death of the primary shareholder. If this is the case, the lease and shares of stock for the decedent’s apartment shall be surrendered to the Riverbay Sales

If there are no legal disputes, Riverbay will sell or transfer the shares to any member of the decedent’s family or life companion, as long as they meet all of the requirements as stipulated by DHCR’s rules and regulations.

Any family member or life companion of a cooperator who would like permission to remain in occupancy after the cooperator moves or dies should

It is imperative that shareholders understand that no other types of stock transfers or lease amendments are allowed except those directed by statute or an appropriate tribunal or court of law.

Shareholders may log on to Riverbay’s website at www.coopcity.com to read or download a copy of these succession rights.

Co-op Creatives: Brad James

BY P.M CAMPBELL

A Co-op City shareholder has released a book on a popularly speculated relationship between a celebrated rapper and actress.

Brad James, a 41-year-old living in Section 5, started writing Tupac and Jada Presumed of events spans 1986 through 1988 and asks if Tupac Shakur and Jada Pinkett had a true love affair. The author included the pair’s focus on Black issues as well as their love of rock and demonstrated the shifting balance between Shakur’s intellectual side and his temper.

“I really wanted to catch something that wasn’t fully documented with him— the time before he blew up,” James said.

James’ interest in story telling roots back to copying comic books and winning poetry contests as a youth in Virginia and DC. Today, he writes drama, horror, theater, as well as children’s literature and is intent on inspiring neighbors. He sourced information for Tupac and Jada from an abundance of books, interviews, and articles from outlets like Vibe Magazine

“We can hear what they say about this time, but we don’t know unless they wrote it,” said James.

Brad James grew up listening to R&B and pop, and his late mother became a fan of Shakur shortly after the rapper’s death in the late 90s. His audience ranges from young adults to adults; those recently introduced to the titular pair will enjoy the book as much as those who grew up with of all ages to pursue writing.

Tupac and Jada Presumed, a humorous though poignant telling of the duo’s unexplored high school years, is available on Amazon

Happy 100th Birthday, Mom!

Wishing my mother, py 100th birthday. She has lived in Co-op since the beginning. Her love and generosity for her family is tinue to watch over her.

Love,

––Daughter, Rosie Lewis

Congratulations, Ciara!

to the Mississippi State University spring 2023 Dean’s List. Ciara is pursuing a degree in Nursing.

To be named to the Dean’s List, a student must have achieved a grade-point average between 3.5 and 3.79, based on a 4.0 scale, while completing at least 12 semester hours of course work with no incomplete grades or grades lower than a C.

So proud of you!

––Sherrilyn Guillot

– • Letters to the Editor • –

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

Greenway Signage

crossing our greenways. Some vehicles enter our greenways because they are lost, others use our greenways as short

onto our greenways in our community will know that they are doing anything wrong or that persons using our greenways as short cuts are knowingly doing something illegal.

It is time we take steps to address and correct this behavior before it becomes a tragic and fatal issue.

Open Letter To Those Who Did Not Vote

First of all, I would like to thank you for the chaos and negativity your non-action has caused. of confusion and power play. If only you had taken an extra two minutes in your life and cast your ballot, this situation would not exist.

We live in a great community and part of that perk is erning body.

Don’t dare tell me that voting or not voting has no value, the actions of the past weeks have more than proven that statement false.

Don’t dare complain about a thing in Co-op now, you lost that right when you threw away your ballot. In essence, you threw away that right, a right that had been fought for since this community was built.

If you live in our community illegally, be afraid, you will be found out, for you are part of the problem, benefor your tenancy.

Non-voters, please try and get your mind right, for there is a United States Presidential election coming up next year and if you continue in your non-action, this country will be plunged into perdition.

So now, it’s up to the rest of us, the ones who vote and care about our community, to clean up the mess you created.

To those who care, stay woke.

If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other susaged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by the following methods:

Unacceptable Behavior

cial slurs towards another director. I believe this behavior is unacceptable, the name of the offending director should be made public, and the offending director should be re-

It is obvious that our community already has a low opinion of our directors as evidenced by the low voter turnout for several years now. Failure to act on this deplorable situation will only further erode our opinion and trust.

My Vote, My Voice

I am disappointed that a majority of eight people were the votes of those who did participate in the election will not be counted.

I feel the numbers should be posted that each candidate the votes, post the numbers and let the chips fall where they may. Please do not disrespect the voters.

This action of extending the voting period until a quorum is reached has always been a concern of mine. The cooperators who care and vote within the voting period should be respected. Their vote should matter. Perhaps then, others will take note and vote.

Why do so many people feel, respond and react to the idea that their votes do not really matter? vote to hold a new election.

A Dangerous Plan

Killer Curve at

jured and the area totally impassable for hours. If Project X had already been completed, the only way into Section 5, for the duration of the tie-up, would have been via I-95 – from any direction

what’s with all that construction over there at I-95 and Pelham Parkway project, is the removal driving on I-95N.

Turnaround express bus drivers detour to the Pelham Parkway Turngets intolerably crowded. cident – or Christmas – or just any normal day when a back home? adding travel time to or from anywhere outside of Section and death.

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LETTERS TO

We welcome letters to the editor, only from Co-op City shareholders, at Letters should address issues of interest to the Co-op City community. Comments should be fact-based and responsible. Letters should not personally attack others and must be written in a respectful manner.

Co-op City Times

Submissions must include the writer’s address and phone number so authenticity and residency of the Thank you for your cooperation.

Public Safety Report

Shielding Your Safety and Safeguarding Your Property

Empowering Individuals with Effective Strategies to Protect Themselves and Their Belongings

In an era where security concerns have become a top priority, safeguarding oneself and personal property has become essential. With ever-evolving threats and an increase in criminal activities, it is crucial for individuals to equip themselves with practical strategies and measures to ensure personal safety and protect their belongings. This comprehensive guide aims to provide valuable insights and actionable steps to help individuals fortify their defenses and create a secure environment for themselves and their property.

One of the primary steps in protecting your property is installing a robust home security system. These systems act as a first line of defense, deterring potential intruders and providing a sense of security. Modern security systems are equipped with advanced features such as motion sensors, video surveillance, and alarm systems, which alert homeowners and local authorities in case of any unauthorized access. Additionally, consider placing visible signage indicating the presence of a security system, as it can serve as a deterrent in itself.

Solidifying physical barriers around your property can significantly enhance its protection. Start by ensuring that all doors are self-closing and that they operate properly. If not, contact CSO. Please be aware that deadbolts, double cylinder locks and smart locks are not permitted in Co-op City.

Preparing for emergencies is crucial to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Develop an emergency plan that includes procedures for various scenarios such as fires, natural disasters, or home invasions. Discuss and rehearse the plan with your family members, assigning roles and responsibilities to each individual. Ensure that everyone knows how to reach emergency services and have a designated meeting point outside the property.

Building a strong community network can be an effective tool in protecting your property. Get to know your neighbors and establish a sense of trust and cooperation. Inform each other about any suspicious activities or unusual incidents, and consider forming a building watch program. This collaborative approach can create a safer environment and increase shareholder vigilance in Co-op City buildings.

Protecting valuable possessions requires additional precautions. Invest in a fireproof safe to secure important documents, jewelry, and other valuable items. Take inventory of your belongings, including photographs and serial numbers, and keep a record in a secure location or online. This documentation will prove invaluable in case of theft or damage, assisting law enforcement and insurance

Public Safety Blotter

June 11 – June 17, 2023

June 11, 2023

111 Dreiser Loop

A Food Universe employee reported that a 50-60 year old male suspect placed various amounts of meat in his pants without paying and fled the store in an unknown direction.

June 13, 2023

120 Einstein Loop

A cooperator reported that a confirmed delivered package was removed from his residence by an unknown individual without his permission.

2400 Hunter Avenue

A cooperator reported an unknown individual placed a sticky substance in her apartment door locks making the locks hard to operate.

900 Baychester Avenue

A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from his residence by an unknown individual without his permission.

100 Casals Place

A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from his residence by an unknown individual without his permission.

June 14, 2023

100 Erdman Place

A cooperator reported a confirmed

delivered package was removed from his residence by an unknown individual without his permission.

900 Co-op City Blvd.

A Riverbay employee from the Restorations department reported an unidentified individual removing various paint cans and other items from his work cart without his permission while he was working inside of the building.

June 15, 2023

99 Asch Loop

A cooperator reported that a juvenile suspect punched him about the face causing injuries. The juvenile suspect was arrested by CCPD, processed, and released to the custody of his parents.

June 17, 2023

Bartow Avenue/Co-op City Blvd.

A non-resident reported that while waiting for the bus off-campus but adjacent to Co-op City, a suspect hit him with a cord and punched him about the face without reason or warning. The two then exchanged punches. The non-resident chased the suspect without success. EMS was notified but the non-resident refused medical aid. The victim was referred to NYPD for further necessary attention.

claims.

In the digital age, safeguarding yourself extends beyond physical boundaries. Protect your personal information by using strong, unique passwords for online accounts and regularly updating them. Be cautious while sharing personal information on social media platforms and adjust privacy settings to limit access. Beware of phishing emails and scams, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments.

Taking proactive measures to protect yourself and your property is essential in today’s world. By investing in home security systems, formulating emergency plans, fostering community connections, securing valuables, and maintaining online vigilance, individuals can significantly reduce the risks associated with criminal activities and enjoy peace of mind. Remember, protection starts with personal responsibility and a commitment to prioritize safety in all aspects of life.

10 Simple and Safe Tips for Everyday Life

In our fast-paced world, it’s important to prioritize safety and well-being in our daily lives. By implementing simple and practical tips, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and promote a safer environment for ourselves and those around us. The following are 10 easy-to-follow tips from health and safety experts that can make a big difference in enhancing safety in various aspects of our lives.

1. Practice Good Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene is vital for preventing the spread of germs and diseases. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or touching your face. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.

2. Wear Seatbelts and Use Child Restraints: Whether you’re driving or riding as a passenger, always buckle up your seatbelt. Seatbelts save lives and significantly reduce the risk of severe injuries in car accidents. For children, ensure they are properly secured in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats according to their height and weight.

3. Be Mindful of Fire Safety: Prevent fire hazards by practicing responsible behavior. Do not remove, disable or tamper with smoke/carbon monoxide detectors installed in your apartment. Be sure to regularly test their functionality, or for assistance, contact Maintenance. Keep flammable objects away from heat sources, such as stoves and heaters. Never leave candles or cooking appliances unattended. Have a fire extinguisher readily available and know how to use it correctly.

4. Use Protective Gear: Whether you’re engaged in sports activities, DIY projects, or outdoor adventures, always wear appropriate protective gear. Helmets, knee pads, safety goggles, and gloves can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries, fractures, eye injuries, and cuts. Prioritize your safety by wearing the right gear for the task at hand.

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OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

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

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

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

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

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

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

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

Our Community Deserves the Facts

Dear Concerned Neighbors and Shareholders,

At a Board meeting on Wednesday, June 7, an Emergency Resolution 23-30 (CCTimes, June 10, 2023), calling for the Extension of 2023 Board Election was submitted by Directors Lynette Wright and seconded by Jacqueline Smith. After the vote failed to pass by a majority of 8 to 6, Board as we are bound by our oath to abide by the rule of the majority, several Board members began shouting, cursing and attacking the motive and character of the members who voted down the resolution.

made by directors who were clearly unhappy with the vote to defeat the resolution. It was not only behavior unbecoming of professionals entrusted to oversee a quarter-of-a-billion-dollar corporation, but also a clear rending of the social fabric designed to keep democratically established institutions from descending into chaos and dysfunction. In fact, aside from one director laughably suggesting that we pay people to vote, others cursed and disrupted the meeting over the decision not to extend the voting a second time for 14 days. This was clearly not a good night for the community because this unhinged display of anger was clearly aimed at the wrong people.

Why do shareholders avoid voting despite repeatthem to vote by mail or online? Why should anyone be dragged kicking and screaming to exercise their responsibility as a shareholder? No matter your preference for Team A vs. Team B, casting your vote for or against a candidate should be seen as a duty rather than a burden. Yet, the 2023 Board Election Committee recommended another 14-day extension after a 6-week long voting period which was already far too long. No other election runs for this length of time. Everyone’s patience is worn thin, and we’re all thoroughly exhausted by the drawn-out process that has further divided an already fractured community.

As elected Board members, we simply did what we were asked to do: vote on a resolution that considered only one of three options, none of them ideal. We all voted according to our conscience. However, no candidate, especially those not currently seated on the Board, should be making wild accusations for which they have no facts.

It’s wrong to spread disinformation and inject doubt about an unanimously voted on Election Rules Resolution #23-04, submitted by Director Lynette Wright and seconded by Directors Rod Saunders and Jacqueline Smith, passed by the Board on March 8, 2023 (CCTimes, March 11, 2023). Incidentally, the resolution passed with 12 Directors voting Yes, 1 voting No, and 2 Absent. With elimination of the second election extension, removal of the “no candidate selected” box on the ballot, and the cash incentive awarded to the uals randomly selected, the Board approved the revised Election Rules. Sending out an email petitioning for overturning the Board’s decision not to extend the is reckless, ill-informed, and serves no good purpose. Attacking Board colleagues’ characters and labeling them as behaving immorally, unethically, as partisans, is pandering to those who are politically motivated to win at any cost. The community elected us to act ethically and conduct the business of the Corporation in a

When a Director named the “Coalition to Save Affordable Housing” in a 6/18/23 viewpoint, the Director forgot to mention that he initially ran as a CTSAH candidate, and won his seat. Not only did the Coalition help him get elected that year, but it has done the same for several other current Board members now pledged to unseat fellow Coalition candidates similarly elected to the Board, which begs the question: what good does this serve the community they claim to love?

Let me take this opportunity to remind the community of the many Coalition-led Board accomplishments for which we are proud: (1) ensuring one of the

lowest crime rates in NYC, (2) modernizing 160 residential elevators; (3) installing ADA complaint lobby doors; (4) maintaining the best affordable housing in the Bronx; and (5) increasing the number of SCRIE applications. We have pledged to seek additional government funding for a Youth Center and EV chargers, improve service delivery, explore alternative energy these other Directors offered as a solution to address our community’s challenges? What about those who are quick to judge and criticize us? We’ve been met with obstruction.

On June 7, the Board failed to pass a draconian Resolution #23-25 (CCTimes, June 10, 2023) submitted by Directors Rod Saunders, Jacqueline Smith and Lynette Wright to “immediately restrict disbursement of further funds to the Riverbay Fund, Inc.” The resolution failed since the vote was 6-1. According to NYS Business Corporation Law Section 713 (a) (1), an unanimous vote of all disinterested directors for the measure was needed to pass. The one disinterested No vote was cast by Monique Coleman, whereas the six (6) disinterested Yes votes were cast by Rod Saunders, Lynette Wright, Jacqueline Smith, Daryl Johnson, Kevin Lambright, and Michelle Marbury. The last two are members of the Coalition. To me, this demonstrates Coalition members don’t always vote, or act, in a bloc. Of the interested parties who are also Fund members, two (2) voted Yes to defund the Fund, Anika Green Watson and Leslie Peterson, whereas NO were: Sonia Feliciano, Bishop Angelo Rosario, Bernie Cylich, Andrea Leslie and me, Claudia Sampson.

Ironically, the two interested Fund members who voted to defund the Fund recently received funding from the Fund for a community event, although they voted to support Resolution #23-25. It strains credulity to understand in whose interests these Board members and Fund members are serving.

Feel free to contact me by email at csampson@riverbayboard.com.

Being a shareholder is more of a partnership than just being a neighbor. Being a good neighbor is more about courtesy. While being a shareholder is based on responsibility, this partnership that we signed up for carries a load. However, it is true not everyone can handle responsibility and not everyone is willing to do their part in a partnership. When this occurs, it places a burden on the other shareholders. If you compile this burden over a period of years, the weight of the burden becomes taxing. The human and not so human sides of personalities begin to surface. Some people label it as “politics;” others just decide to ignore and not participate at all. Does any of this sound familiar? I recognize it. Where do you fall in this equation? I used to be a blamer and a complainer. I used to wonder when somebody was going to come in and straighten this all out. Then it hit me and a sadness overcame me. I realized that the conversation that I was having with myself forced me to seek the answer within myself. I needed to participate in order to exercise change. No one was going to save me. I had

Shareholder Partnership

to save myself. But wait, I belong to a partnership. Maybe others are already getting involved. That’s when I decided to make a difference and all I had to do was to make sure that I was complying with my responsibility. As a shareholder, my responsibility was to do my part and not create a burden for the other shareholders. That was easy!!!

As most of you know by now, my somewhat addictive personality ignited a craving to do more than just vote. I joined committees, organizations and focus groups to make positive change. Unfortunately, from creating destruction and apathy in our community. They spewed lies and tried to turn every positive move I attempted into dirty propaganda. Some of you believed it. I don’t blame you because some of it was well written and entertaining gossip for most. Yet, I kept moving forward without waver. Eventually, their lies and hypocrisy were revealed and they destroyed themselves. That doesn’t mean that they are completely gone and that they don’t strategize to give birth to new breeds of replicas of their former selves.

I, like most, want to be liked and loved by everyone I touch but the reality is that everyone is not going to love or even like you. The bottom line is we must respect one another and honor our responsibilities. As in any partnership, we must maintain the business and do everything in our power to allow it to thrive.

For us, the minimum is voting. Every election I am familiar with concludes within a week. It seems the more we extend our elections, the less people set new standards and direct our commitment to our simple responsibilities. We cannot continue to bicker and distract ourselves with things that separate us. We will no longer look at ourselves as competitors, but as partners sharing in our responsible commitments.

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

Highlights from Assemblyman

Benedetto’s Juneteenth Luncheon

“SAFE RIVERBAY” JUNE Report

Take Steps to Avoid Injury or Death While Walking

We rarely are more vulnerable than when walking in urban areas, crossing

Injury Facts

OURPROGRAMS

NYCVISTA

All Ages Are Vulnerable

According to Injury Facts

Follow these tips to stay safe as a pedestrian:

• Cross streets at crosswalks

tact with drivers of oncoming vehicles to make sure they see you Head Up, Phone Down

Stay Vigilant

Be mindful of your surroundings at all times.

NYCServiceadministers4

AmeriCorpsprogramswithmembers servingfulltimefor10-12monthswith community-basedorganizationsor Cityagencies.InanNYCService program,expecttomakeanimpacton yourcommunitythroughmeaningful projectsandgrowasacivicleader!

MemberBenefits

$21,000-$24,669livingstipend

Educationawardvaluedupto

$6,895

Studentloanforbearance

Non-profitandcitygovernment exposure

MonthlyunlimitedMetroCards, healthcare,andchildcare

Settlinginallowanceifrelocating morethan50miles

ServeatNewYorkCitygovernment agenciesfromJuly31,2023to August2,2024toaddresscritical cityissuesrelatedtopovertyby engagingincapacity-buildingwork

CITYSERVICECORPS

Serveonhigh-impactservice projectsledbycityagenciesin impactareasaddressingcritical capacityandcommunity-related issuesfromSept.1,2023toJune 2024atCityagencies

NYCCIVICCORPS

Build,develop,andgrowvolunteer programsbyrecruiting,managing, andengagingvolunteerstoaddress impactareasthatareNYCpriorities atlocalnon-profitsfromSept.1, 2023toJune2024

NYCHAHEALTHCORPS

Applicationsnowopen!

ApplybyJune30th,2023!

Professionaldevelopmenttrainings QUESTIONS? CONTACTUS

Serveatcommunity-basednonprofits andCityagenciestoadvance equitablehealthoutcomesacross publichousingdevelopmentsfrom Sept.1,2023toJune2024

On June 15, State Assemblyman Mike Benedetto held a Juneteenth Luncheon in the Dreiser Auditorium. Montefiore provided lunch and there were speeches by the Assembly Member, Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, Councilman Kevin C. Riley, Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark, and Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. The audience enjoyed entertainment by Okra Dance Company.

Photos by P.M. Campbell

Why Do Cooperators Boycott Board Elections?

On Wednesday, June 14, 2023, YesElection, the vendor engaged by the Riverbay Board, provided us with information on voting in the recent election: out of 15,007 cooperators eligible to cast a ballot for the 2023 Board of Directors election – after the 42-day election period, between May 1 and 11:59 p.m. on Friday, June 9 – only 4,703 cooperators cast their votes, 299 short of the required number to meet the quorum count of 5,002.

Note that during the election period, the Riverbay Board of Directors Election Committee had made robocalls daily for 42 days – twice daily leading up reminding cooperators of the upcoming election and encouraging them to participate in the election. Notices were placed throughout the community, in every lobby and community center, with a similar message. The Co-op Times ran six election issues

appealing to shareholders to vote, and our own Co-op City in-house tv channels did the same, airing videos of the three Candidates’ Forums. The Coalition to Save Affordable Housing drafted, printed, and delivered three campaign literature pieces – over 45,000 in all – to every shareholder’s door.

In spite of these cumulative efforts, during the 42-day election period to get out the vote, 10,304 cooperators did not exercise their right to do so. To suggest that there was voter suppression or disenfranchisement, or that shareholders were not propin our Board of Directors’ election process, is not only laughable but disingenuous.

The larger question we must ask is why, for decades, almost two-thirds of our cooperators refuse to participate in the Board of Directors annual elections. As an aside: this phenomenon is true throughout the cooperative movement. Several

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry (Free)

920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance faces basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests are eligible to pick up food once a month. Look at the last date on your pantry card. The next pick up would be one month from the last pick up or after. It is a 30/31-day rotation on average. Black Forum will text registered guests if items outside of regular distribution become available. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring at least black shopping bags because black ink can transfer to the food, posing a health hazard. We require masks and physical distancing.

Section 5 guests should visit the Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1

see when we will resume accepting new guests and recertifying former guests.

Terms of Service

Serving the public as swiftly and effectively as we can is our aim. This is not always practicable, particularly if a delivery arrives in the middle of a service.

years ago, Rochdale Village, our sister MitchellLama cooperative in Queens, with over 10,000 families, failed to obtain a quorum for two consecutive years. Another cooperative had only four (4) candidates for nine (9) open seats.

Shareholders are forever reminded that, as coowners, they should exercise their democratic rights and participate in the Board of Directors election process. Is it possible, however, that our cooperators feel alienated from the democratic process? Or perhaps they feel insulted that the only time they are given an opportunity to take part in the governance of their co-op is once a year, during directors’ elections?

It is my opinion that our Board consider initiating a community-wide open and frank discussion concerning cooperator democratic participation in the governance of Co-op City. In fact, we might even engage in a citywide discussion with other co-ops. There must be a better way.

arrival time of the trucks. When guests ask the workers to move faster, it is not helpful. Additionally, it is risky for everyone when visitors obstruct workers

The Board of Directors of Black Forum has advised the staff that they have the right to deny service to anyone who is rude, upsetting, confrontational or threatening to other guests or staff. This includes not staying on the line and instead leaning on the pillars. Standing against the pillars also blocks residents trying to walk along the path. While we respect your time, we must also unload the trucks so that the neighborhood can be fed. Please be kind and patient so that we can feed the neighborhood.

Pantry Closure Dates

On June 27, the pantry will be closed. On June 29, we will reopen. Guests scheduled to pick up their monthly package between June 16 and 24 may come between June 13 and 15. If not, they may come on or after June 29. Please check your pantry card. You can show up on June 29, or June 30 if your pantry card’s last date pick-up is May 25, 26, 27, or 28.

Defensive Driving Class

Black Forum is not sponsoring in-person defensive driving classes at this time. We hope to resume classes in the future.

Email: Reach out to us at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

––D. Illis

American Legion Post 1871

In 2021, Congress passed “Juneteenth National Independence Day Act” on June 19 as a federal holiday. The passage marks the anniversary of the executive order issued by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger proclaiming freedom for Blacks in Texas on June 19, 1865. The irony is that even though the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Lincoln in 1863, Blacks remained enslaved 6, 1865. From Co-op City to Washington, D.C., our Legionnaires were active participants in events commemorating Juneteenth (aka Emancipation Day).

In Co-op City, Legionnaires Codrington, Werner and Wilson attended a Juneteenth Luncheon hosted by Assemblyman Michael Benedetto; other elected District Attorney Clark and Council Member Riley, were also present.

In Washington, D.C., past Commander Toba, Service Officers Davis and Young represented the Post as part of a group visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture to commemorate Juneteenth. The event was organized by the Coalition of African-American Churches and Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc., led by its President Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba. Our Post is a member organization.

Last General Membership Meeting Before Summer Recess

Bronx County Commander and incoming First Vice District Commander (membership) Gene DeFrancis was our guest speaker. Room 41 and virtual attendees were treated with a well-received reminder of who we are, what we represent and why membership in the American Legion requires us to live by the real meaning of our preamble. As pictured at right, his presentation and crisp Q&A answers will motivate us to continue to carry out our four pillars of services on behalf of the community in which we serve.

A report was provided on the success of the 2023 Pledge Drive. While not exhaustive, the following donors are acknowledged: Marie M. Beaudouin, Janice Brown, Elizabeth Brown, Sonia Feliciano, Kenneth K. Graham, Louise Hernandez, K. Lewis, Alfred Lynch Jr., Gladys Polite, Eddie Rios, Barnita Reed, L. Rodriguez, Catherine Ryans, Eleonor Trujillo, Daisy Windley and Loretta Woodard. Thank you, Memorial Day donors.

Upcoming Events

Today, as we commence our summer break, come see your Color Guard participate in Co-op City’s Annual Summer Day Events in the Section 2 Greenway at 12:00 p.m. The location is opposite the Co-op City Little League Field. Our annual Department Convention is on schedule to be held in Westchester County from July 17-23. Contact us for further information.

Contact Us

American Legion Post 1871, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 41, Bronx, NY 10475; 718-320-8165; email: post1871@oponline.net; website: https: www.legion.org. ––Antonio Codrington

Assemblyman Benedetto (L) and Antonio Codrington at Juneteenth luncheon

(L-R) Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba and Service Officer Davis in D.C.

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. We hope all is well. Good news, the emergency alert of the pandemic has been lifted. However, stay alert and careful. Many people are still wearing their masks. We have to take one day at a time and stay prayerful, for we do not know what the next moment holds.

Building 27 Association is on summer break as of June 2023. We will see you in September. Please enjoy, stay healthy, safe and always help to keep our building, laundry room and grounds clean. If you contact the (CSO) and received no results as to your needs, please contact the Association via phone numbers listed on each bulletin board in our three buildings.

Father’s Day was a beautiful day and we hope all fathers enjoyed themselves. We thank our cooperators from Building A, Ardell; Building B, Lydia; and Building C, Margie and Evelyn, for placing the same Happy Father’s Day banner in each building. We hope it put a smile on each father’s face.

Congratulations to our Graduates -– Enjoy your summer; it is well deserved. Please stay alert and be safe.

Juneteenth Holiday – In 2021, President Biden signed the bill in Congress to set aside June 19 as a federal holiday. There were celebrations each day of last week somewhere in the US.

Primary Election – The primary election is June 27. It will be Ranked Choice Voting, so please pay attention and keep your voter pamphlet because the

General Election dates for November are available as well. Keep your Fast Pass tag with you; this is a plus with the bar code, which helps one to vote faster.

Co-op City Farmer’s Market – Will be on board every Wednesday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at Asch Loop and Happy birthday to those celebrating this month. We continue to offer our sincere sympathy and condolences to the families who lost loved ones. We wish all the best

of health and safety. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-5833040 and she will gladly acknowledge your birthday by sending you a card, as she is excellent in sharing good will. Also notify her of any illness, or a neighbor has deceased or transferred to a nursing home.

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

––H. Overman

Photo

National Council of Negro Women

Paint & Sip – Our last fundraising event of the month will be a Paint & Sip at Confetti Paints, located at 3190 Westchester Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461 on June 25 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event cost is $50 per person, which includes all painting supplies, beverages and light refreshments. Tickets can be purchased on PayPal via the following link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_ button_id=322WFQVECZUML. You may also pay for tickets at our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com and then clicking on the PayPal link. For further questions, email us at: NCNWcoopcityFR@ gmail.com.

Washington, D.C. Bus Trip – On the weekend of August 19-20, Co-op City Section NCNW will be sponsoring a bus trip to Washington, D.C. featuring: a personalized tour of NCNW National Headquarters at 633 Pennsylvania Avenue; visiting the statue of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in Statuary Hall, US Capitol; visiting the statue of Dr. Bethune in Lincoln Park; visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture; four meals including voucher for Sweet Home Café at NMAAHC; hotel accommodations at Holiday Inn of Greenbelt, MD and round-trip transportation. Pick-up point will be in Dreiser Loop.

Price per person: quad occupancy, $340; triple occupancy, $360; double occupancy, $390; single occupancy, $460. Flexible payment options: $125

payment due August 1. PayPal payment via https:// www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=UZEK724XQ2EEW. Checks or money orders may be mailed to NCNW Co-op City Section, P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475. For questions, call 646-305-8013 or email ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

NCNW Co-op City Section supported the Retirees of Dreiser Loop in attending their annual spring luncheon on June 14 at the Marina del Rey. In 1972, the Retirees of Co-op City formed under the auspices of NCNW Co-op City Section, which was just

formed in 1971. This group of retired people has met the needs of senior citizens in our community. They ultimately became a separate and distinct organization but we always remember that we “gave birth” to them and support them however we can.

June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month (con’t) – All guns in your home should be locked up and unloaded, with ammunition locked separately. Make sure children and teens cannot access the keys or combinations to lock boxes or gun safes. Remember not to keep loaded or unlocked guns in the car, or anywhere else on your property. Studies show children are naturally curious, even

More than a third of all unintentional shootings of children take place in the homes of their friends, neighbors, or relatives. Even if you do not have guns in your own home, ask about guns and safe storage at the other homes your children visit, just as you

would ask about pets, allergies, supervision and other safety issues. Before your child visits another home, add one more important question: “Is there an unlocked gun in your house?” If there is, reconsider allowing your child to play there.

––Joyce Howard

IMPORTANT!

For up-to-date communication from Riverbay Corporation, read the Co-op City Times, delivered to your building lobby and the community centers on Saturdays, tune in to the Crawler on your home TVs and lobby monitors, and register for Phone Tree

NCNW at Retirees Luncheon

Juneteenth ––––– (Continued from page 1) older adults in the Agatha House orchestra playing steel drums, along with their teacher, Uhral Swanston. The audience enjoyed a performance by the JASA Older Adult Line Dancers, led by instructor Cynthia Dixon; and a production on “Emancipation,” organized by Daisy Windley and Margaret Chinnery.

Ann Moncrief, director of the JASA Bartow OAC, expressed appreciation to Ms. Windley and Ms. Dixon for their contributions, saying: “[t]here is so much talent involved. It makes me love my job.”

Photos by P.M. Campbell

Building 1AB Association

Good day, shareholders.

The next Building 1AB Association meeting will take place on September 3. Please save the date.

As we prepare for summer 2023, the Building 1AB Association is asking you to please stay safe.

Once again, congrats to all 2023 graduates, and much success on your journey.

During the summer months, Building 1 will be conducting bake sales once a month. The proceeds of the funds will go towards decorating both lobbies for the holidays.

Tip of the Week: Be conscious of your surroundings at all times.

Safety Tips of the Week: If your intercom bell rings, and you know that you are not expecting guests or a delivery, please do not ring the intercom buzzer to allow an unknown person access into the building.

Also, if you are in the lobby, do not open the door to allow unknown persons or strangers access into the building.

Etiquette Tips of the Week: Please discard your garbage down the trash chute and break down large boxes and take them to the basement.

––Desiree Scurry

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Dear, neighbors. We had a fun, traditional Father’s Day outdoor BBQ at nearby family. Birthday greetings to Ilene Giacoia and Cheryl Ratner. We hope they will have a beautiful celebration. By the way, go to the NYBG and see what is happening there. We are so lucky to be close by.

About the cancellation of the Board of Directors Election, our Association would have liked to know if we had the highest number of voters per apartments. We hope all of our Broun Place families voted in the 2023 Board of Directors Election. Understand, voting in each election is your responsibility as a MitchellLama family. If you do not vote, you lose. You cannot blame anyone else for the election cancellation. Now, vote in the coming primary election.

Juneteenth was celebrated by our community, sponsored by local

The speeches were inspiring as was the entertainment, Okra Dancers. Thank you for continuing this celebration tradition.

Graduates, congratulations. You have made everyone proud and may you have success in achieving your goals as you go forward.

We are planning our next Association meeting. Who should be the guest? I was thinking our Board President to explain or answer questions about the election. General Manager Mr. Marvin L. Walton attended our last meeting.

23 president and Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton, for facilitating this meeting. An informal show of hands election was held and our executive committee goes forward as such: Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar, president; Vivian Burrus, vice president, and Lillian Richardson, vice president. Broun Place Town House Association committee is seeking Broun Place residents wanting to serve on our executive board. The secretary’s position and member-at-large are open.

I learned at the Building and Grounds Meeting that all commercial business is now in the hands of the Parking and Leasing department. That was a surprise! Read the Co-op City Times for community information.

Please do not leave bags of clothes on dumpster pads or next to recycling bins. Please look and know what to do with your garbage. Regarding recycling gently used articles, place in the front or rear of Garage 6 in the blue and pink bins. The dumpster pad bins are used as follows: the white bin is for paper, while green and blue are for all other house garbage. Mattresses are required to be covered. Use pedestrian sidewalk bins for masks. Do not litter!

Seniors, register with the Riverbay “RUOK” emergency contact program. This is critical for those living alone or with chronic illness. Seniors, get involved with JASA. Check on your neighbors! Communicate your issues to us. Wakanda Forever!

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

The African-American Association of Co-op City

History: The African-American Association of Co-op City’s name emerged in 1989 from former incarnations, called the AfroAmerican Club of Co-op City, the African-American Caucus and Mission Statement: The intention of the African-American Association of Co-op City is to elevate the inhabitants of the community to their greatest potential. To serve and offer cooperative economics standards by meetcultural awareness, training classes, programs, educational scholarships, and social activities for the young and seasoned. To take these ideals to the next level by creating a smart community, taking advantage of technological advances that will allow the next generations to compete in an ever-changing society. Join the African-American Association of Co-op City

Remember, membership is only $15/year for a single membership and only $25/year for your household. You can Zelle us your payment to become a member using our email address. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com. Call us at: 929430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

Upcoming AAACC Meeting & Events

September 15 – General Meeting, 3 p.m.

September 17 – Field Trip, African-American Day Parade

October 15 – Swearing-In of New Board, 3 p.m.

November 19 – General Meeting, 3 p.m.

December 9 – Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration (with the Coalition of AfricanAmerican Churches & Community Organizations)

The AAACC sponsors the following programs for your participation: Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438

Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917-903-7073

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

Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” w/ Joyce Smith –Contact: Joyce, 718-320-0714

“Each one of us multiplied by all of us equals a force for good.”

––Michelle Marbury

Section Five Association

The Section 5 Association hopes all in Section 5 are doing well and enjoyof your building association will represent your building. If you have any isshould contact your Association, whose phone numbers should be listed on your building bulletin boards.

Father’s Day – We hope all enjoyed their beautiful day, as the weather was perfect for the things fathers like to do, such as grilling and enjoying the family.

Juneteenth – A week of celebrations combined with Father’s Day was a blessing and great weekend. Though President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation freed the slaves in 1863, it was not shared with the slaves until 1865.

Primary Election – Primary election day is June 27, so check your voter information for your poll site. Keep your pamphlet for the General Election in November. Bring your barcode tag, which helps you vote faster. The City Council election uses Ranked Choice Voting, so take your time.

Executive General Manager Marvin Walton gave a report on all aspects of the Riverbay Corporation operation. Mr. Walton informed the community that this should encourage the shareholders and they now will feel there is help for their situations. This will cause them to vote in the next election. Why? Because Management is listening. The Riverbay Board of Directors and the concept of shareholders, issues, rights and interest are being addressed. Hopefully, policies will be in place real soon advising and notifying shareholders of their own responsibility and duty to protect the interest of their investment in this corporation.

Section 5 Association – Please be informed we will not have the SFA Fun Day this year, due to reorganization and setting up goals to carry on. However, we look to be back in 2024.

To better understand the construction affecting our area, please go to YouTube and put “Project X Bruckner-Hutch” in the search line, text 718-219-2211, or email mpjazz@optonline.net for a link.

The objective of the SFA shall be: To obtain the maximum quality of life for all shareholders residing in Section 5. To act as a liaison between management and the building associations and townhouse associations in all problem areas. Remember, this is our home, apartment, building and community. Let us all participate to keep it safe, clean and healthy. We will strive to keep this organization running in lieu of all those who started this organization for the betterment of our community. One may reach Nelson Sweeting, President of SFA, at 646-644-4055.

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

––H. Overman

Do you honestly believe that the election was stopped because our community didn’t achieve a quorum, 5,002 votes, or because some directors didn’t want to lose their seat on the board?

We Had 4,703 Votes

We needed a third of our shareholders, 5,002, to reach a quorum. However, some articles in last week’s edition of the Co-op City Times stated that we had 4,703 votes. Therefore, can you believe that we were only short by 299 votes. That’s it! We only needed 299 votes to establish which shareholders would be seated on our board of directors. So, yes or no, do you think that we could have received 299 votes if this election had been extended? My answer is yes.

It costs $2,700 to extend an election? Big deal! We’re going to make over $250 million in this one $2,700 to extend this election? Absolutely!

However, can you believe that objections were raised in last week’s paper about spending this $2,700? Why? Why would anyone object to spending $2,700 on a tremendous election for our board of directors then happily vote yes to pay some contractors $18,000 just to restore a 1-bedroom apartment? So, in my opinion, there is a huge problem with this argument.

On the other hand, let’s look at some facts that are on our board. So, the majority—eight directors—can control the operations of the Riverbay Corporation. Therefore, eight directors that are members of the ‘Coalition To Save Affordable Housing’ can still control the operations of the Riverbay Corporation.

Sonia Feliciano, Andrea Leslie, Bishop Angelo Rosario, and Claudia Sampson—were candidates during this election. Now, did they know that they could keep their seats for another year if they voted to not extend this election? Yes! So, despite the excuses, the facts show that they made a choice to not extend this election.

The Worst Election Ever

Therefore, they will keep their seats for another year. And, with gleeful attitudes, these eight directors took out a full-page ad in last week’s edition of the Co-op City Times to justify their choice to not extend the election. Therefore, the other two opposing candidates—Leah Graham and Shana Montgomery—will have to wait until next year to run for our board.

Bottom line: What do you think actually happened with this election? Do you think that this election was not extended because a quorum was not met? Or, do you think that this election was not extended so that some directors can stay on the board for another year?

The Quorum

Lots of shareholders have expressed outright hatred towards several board directors. Hatred! Then, lots of shareholders are completely fed up with the shenanigans, annual increases, and other foolishness that goes on here. So, do you think that they will ever vote for some of these directors? No! That will never happen. Therefore, will it be a stretch to even dream that we can get a third of our shareholders to vote for some of these directors? Absolutely!!!

Therefore, we need to reconsider our position on getting a quorum of our shareholders to vote in our election. In other words, we need to speak to our politicians and ask them to propose legislation to change the Business Corporation Law regarding the termination of quorums for board elections. Thereafter, without receive the most votes will simply win the election.

Apartment Downsizing Program

Some cooperators are now struggling to pay their monthly carrying charges on their huge apartment because some of their family members moved on. So, they should consider downsizing their apartment to save a lot of money. Currently, we have a downsizing program. However, this program is going to expire in the next few days, June 30, 2023. So, the board is going to consider a resolution to continue this program from July 1, 2023.

Here is the resolution: Resolved that the existing

NAACP

Mission Statement: Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons. Known as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), it profoundly affected the struggle for civil rights and the course of 20th Century American History.

Happy Anniversary: The NAACP Co-op City Branch was established in 1973.Save the date and join us as we celebrate this occasion on October 15at Scavello’s On the Island. More details will follow. In recognition of the years in this community, we have a 50th Anniversary commemorative pin. You can purchase yours now for $20 each.

Juneteenth event at Gracie Mansion: Several members of our Co-op City Branch attended the Mayor’s Juneteenth event held at Gracie Mansion.At the event, our Branch President had the opportunity to speak with the NAACP New York State Conference President Hazel Dukes. Also present at the event among other guests, was former NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell who thanked and appreciates them. The event featured delicious vegan food, good music and a brief history of Juneteenth and its symbolic meaning in current times.

Reparations Update – Assembly Bill A7691: The People of the State of New York, represented in Senate and Assembly, do enact as follows: Section 1-The New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies. Legislative intent. Contrary to what many believe, slavery was not just a southern institution. Prior to the American Revolution, there were more enslaved Africans in New York City than in any other city except Charleston, South Carolina. During this period, enslaved Africans accounted for 20% of the population of New York and approximately 40% of colonial New York’s households owned enslaved Africans.

“This commission mission is to acknowledge the fundamental injustice, cruelty, brutality and inhumanity of slavery in the City of New York and the State of New York; to establish the New York State community commission on reparations remedies, to examine the institution of slavery, subsequently de jure and de facto racial and economic discrimination against people of African descent, and the impact of these forces on living people of African descent and to make determinations regarding compensation.”

waiver of HCR’s occupancy regulations allowing income eligible shareholders who are either 62 years recognized disability, to transfer to a smaller apartment (downsizing) without paying the current equity price for the new apartment, without paying three (3) months maintenance for their old apartment; and with the existing equity transferred to the new apartment, be continued. …

Bottom line: This downsizing program is great. So, please share this information with your family, your this program. Thank you.

Close

A lot of cooperators are furious because this election was not extended and for lots of other reasons. So, this entire community needs to consider calling a shareholder meeting. This way, our shareholders can discuss our current board. Then, they can vote to remove and replace this entire board or some members on our board. This is the way that strong communities handle these outrageous situations. 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.

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.

NAACP “Thriving Together” 114th National Convention

The NAACP National Convention is an empowering and immersive experience held each year to celebrate our community’s collective power. Registration for the National Convention is open online and will continue through July 27. ACT-SO Competition is July 26-29, and the Convention will take place in Boston from July 28-31. For more information, visit: www.naacp. org/convention.

Follow us on Facebook : Co-op City NAACP. Become a member, gift a membership or upgrade your membership. Join the NAACP to help us do the work. Annual: Adult: $30. Youth: $10. Silver Life: $750. Make checks/money orders payable to: NAACP Co-op City, and mail to: NAACP Co-op City Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

––Brenda Brown

Building 25 Association

Neighbors, it is coming down to the wire. Our last Association meeting will be this month for summer break and will resume September 19. We would like to thank those who faithfully attended and participated in the meetings. We look forward to seeing you in the fall and hope that attendance increases.

Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton has agreed to attend our last meeting, which prompted us to change our normal meeting date to accommodate his schedule. Please bring your questions and concerns in order to make this a productive meeting.

To be clear, graduates in Building 25 of all ages are welcome to submit their information, so please send us an email at our email address below and let us know who is graduating so that we may feature you in our article.

Wishing all neighbors born in June a happy birthday. For those of you who are under the weather, we hope you get better soon. For our neighbors who continue to lose loved ones, our heartfelt prayers go out to you.

Update: Our next and last Building 25 Association meeting will be held June get closer to the meeting date. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by emailing our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know.

We will close with the following: “Summer is a promissory note signed in June, its long days spent and gone before you know it, and due to be repaid next January.” –Hal

Borland

––Wanda Bailey

Building 13 Association

Come One Come All:

We are gearing up for our Annual Summer Fun Day!

Section 2 Townhouses (Cooper Place and Debs Place) and Buildings (9-14) us all united as a community is the goal. It will be a pop-up picnic with loads of (Rain date: June 25).

event. Sorry, parents, you cannot stand in line for them.

We are expecting the NYPD Mobile Game Truck, so do not miss out on the fun. Do not miss our “one-man band” Juan Ortega and the Steel Drum Band. The to give you some lessons. We will provide CPR Training, courtesy of the FDNY EMT. Want to learn to shoot a bow and arrow? Hidden Gems will be back to show you how. Cousins Maine Lobster will be paying us a visit also. More to come, so do not miss out on the fun. Music by DJ Sid Nice.

These activities are made possible by our Councilman Kevin Riley, Department of Youth and Community Development, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Bob’s Discount Furniture, McCall’s Funeral Home, Attorney Stephen Kaufman, Riverbay Corporation Community Relations, Riverbay Fund, CCPD and NYPD Community Affairs, and the FDNY.

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

Our website is http://www.bldg13assoc.com, or e-mail us at building13as-

––Leslie Peterson

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

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

Section 2 Summer Fun Day – Co-op City’s Section 2 Summer Fun Day pop-up picnic will be held today,June 24, from 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Rain date is June will receive a free t-shirt, beginning at 12 p.m. Sorry, parents, you cannot stand in line for them. Music will be provided by DJ Sid Nice. The NYPD Mobile Game Truck is expected. We will also have the “one-man band” Juan Ortega as well Dutch Jumpers will be there. Hidden Gems Archery will also be at the event. The FDNY will be providing CPR training. We will also have a salsa dancing contest and Name That Tune. Feel free to bring your own food and beverages or purchase meals from Cousin’s Maine Lobster Truck. For information and tain the lobby for more information. Special thanks to our sponsors: Councilman Kevin Riley, Department of Youth and Community Development, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Bob’s Discount Furniture, McCall’s Bronxwood Funeral Home, Atty. Stephen Kaufman, Riverbay Corporation Community Relations, CCPD and NYPD Community Affairs and the FDNY.

NYS Primary Election – The NYS Primary Election will be held on June 27. The early voting period has begun and will continue until June 25. Our future is on the ballot. Additional information regarding the primary election can be found online at www.nycvotes.org.

Suicide Prevention – If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or in emotional distress, the number to call for help in NYC is 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355) or text “WELL” to 65173. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number is 988, you can call or text. Someone is available 24 hours a day.

Questions, Comments and Suggestions – You can contact the Building Facebook

Deepest condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Undine Foster, who was

We would like to wish all who are born in June or July 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

Coalition of African American Churches and Community Organizations

General Meeting – Our regularly scheduled General Meeting for June took place on June 13. The meeting was well attended and was the last meeting of the Coalition before the summer. Our next meeting will be in September, and the president encouraged every member organization to reach out to their members during the break.

Matters Arising: – So many issues were deliberated at the June meeting such as the idea of requesting Truman High School pool availability to the community during the period of summer. President Toba promised to attend the Community Education Council the following day to table the matter before the Council. The Coalition felt that there is not enough space and location in the neighborhood for the youth to participate in outdoor events, especially as it relates to swimming. Other matters that were deliberated upon revolved around the Bartow Swingers’ request of a larger room; NYC Council Candidates’ Forum; Juneteenth bus trip and other programs. The Coalition also deliberated on topics like the image and award recognition that has been on the table since the last four months.

Bartow Swingers became the newest member of the Coalition in May. I want to say thank you to the other organizations that have paid their dues, including St. Joseph’s Church, Co-op City Baptist Church, American Legion, Retirees of Dreiser Loop and the African-American Association. If there is any organization left out of this list that had paid, kindly reach out to the treasurer, Ms. Daisy Young. More so, we use the opportunity to reach out to the organizations that have not paid to please do ASAP. Kindly mail your dues check or money order to: Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations

A.L. Oloruntoba or Daisy Young.

Celebrating Juneteenth/Washington Bus trip –trip accordingly. Most cooperators were on hand to travel to Washington, D.C. and others came outside Co-op City to complement the vacancy we had on the bus. It was a sold-out bus trip and some people were on the waiting list until it was time to leave. Travelers converged in front of the bank on Bartow Avenue where the bus took off. It was such a memorable and fanciful trip. Everyone pretty much enjoyed it and the traveling was smooth with a well-reserved accommodation in Washington, DC. The all-you-can-eat was good and the people were friendly. In order to accommodate several individuals, especially the eleventh-hour decision makers, there will be another trip organized for October 28 and 29. Endeavor to reach out to President Toba for details.

Adeyemi LaCrown Oloruntoba

A Savings of $2,700 or a Waste of $30,000?

During the June 7th Board Business Meeting, the Chair of the 2023 Riverbay Board of Directors Election Committee introduced Emergency Resolution 23-30 for the purpose of extending the election period a second time. I believed (as did others present) that the passage of the Resolution was a foregone conclusion, in that Emergency Resolution 23-30 would be voted on and passed as previous Resolutions had been during past Board Election cycles since 2017. Voting on extensions to reach quorum was simply a formality. When the Resolution was defeated, the room became heated, and stayed so for the remainder of the evening.

was – why did the majority of the Board cast the unprecedented “no” vote – not to extend the voting process to conclusion?

Precedent & Unprecedented

Back on June 7, 2022 the 2022 Riverbay Board Elections showed that shareholders were 1,000 ballots short of quorum. The Board voted to extend the process a second time, then a third, which ultimately allowed shareholders the opportunity to reach quorum, and bring the 2022 Riverbay Board Elections to a conclusion.

This year, on June 7, 2023, after just one extension, the 2023 Riverbay Board Elections Committee indicated that shareholders were 500 ballots short of quorum, an improvement over last year’s voting pace.

Only one year, 1979, since there has been a resident Board, has quorum not been attained. I relearned that fact in reviewing the June 22, 2019 edition of the Co-op City Times, as our editor, Rozaan Boone, covered that election. Additionally, the article also detailed the patterns of extending the voting period to

Special Event: Greetings and thanks go out to all those who came on June 10 to the Toastmasters Dist. 46 (D46) Open House/Member Appreciation Day held in the Bartow Community Center. Needless to say, after the dreadful hiatus brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, it was a super time and everyone had fun being able to reunite and meet one another in real time. Members, former members and guests joyously greeted and hugged one another as they made their way around Room 31 in Bartow. A variety of Toastmaster Club representatives made club and were available to answer questions and sign up new members. In addition, with everyone’s approval, there was a light breakfast and lunch loaded with options.

reach quorum, during the 2015, 2017, & 2018 Board Elections. Since 2019 (2020 Riverbay Board Elections suspended) the Board extended the voting period in 2021 once, and last year, 2022, the voting period was extended “three times” in order to make quorum.

The 1979 decision set the precedent allowing (D) HCR to make a ruling. According to the article, the (after a hearing) that without reaching quorum, the election process would be considered valid for a oneyear term. Those seated would have to run again the following year.

The precedent has always been to conclude our Riverbay Board of Directors elections. Board Directors voting not to, is unprecedented. Board Directors have obligations to the shareholders and Voiding this election would unintentionally, or by design, nullify 4703 votes, needing only 299 mores to reach quorum.

The Election Committee’s budget was not to exceed $30,000, including the extensions, making the argument for saving $2,700 for a second extension is moot. Not voting to extend the elections didn’t serve to save the shareholders the cost of the extension, however, if the election is voided, then, in my opinion, all the majority vote of the Board did was to waste $27,000 to $30,000 of the shareholders’ money for zero results. The 4,703 shareholders who voted should not be disrespected, nor should any shareholder who fully intended to vote, be disenfranchised.

Interested vs Disinterested Voting

So many shareholders are asking the question, why were incumbent Board members allowed to vote on Resolution 23-30? I believe that there will the immediate future.

Co-op City Toastmasters

the beautiful Bahamas. The speech was entitled, “Your Words Have Power.” An impassioned personal story about his grandfather who was not expected to survive when born but had a mother who was just as determined that her baby son would live, so she constantly spoke life over him from his birth. Ultimately, Pemberton said that his grandfather lived past 100 years of age. We heard a very passionate and motivational speech and when he concluded, it was very clear why Pemberton was true: words really do have power. Go to www:Toastmasters.org for more information on the Toastmaster International Annual Convention.

One thing is clear, at some point, the Riverbay Board of Directors has to amend the Election Rules and our By-Laws to ensure that once the voting process begins, shareholders who took the opportunity to vote, attained no matter the extension period, because it gives too much power to a sitting Board to determine an election by voting in their own self interests.

Resolution 23-25

From September of 1980, to May of 2021, the notfunding and grant opportunities for its shareholders Riverbay Corp. could not, or cannot.

Inc. did just that, by providing all cooperators with entertainment, along with programs that were designed to enhance and reward our educational and cultural quality of life. For nearly 41 years, the Riverbay Fund, Inc. served its purpose, and our community well, some stretch of years better than others.

I submitted Resolution 23-25 during the April 25, 2023 Board Business Meeting, with the Second Reading taking place at the June 7th, 2023 Board Business Meeting. The intent of Resolution 23-25 was to ensure that going forward, the new Riverbay Fund, Inc., established back in May of 2021, and no longer tied to Riverbay Corp., be treated like the independent entity that they are; That the newly established Riverbay Fund be prohibited from taking funds from Riverbay Corp. That Resolution was also defeated, so for now, the independent Riverbay Fund, Inc. will continue this summer, to draw more funds directly from shareholders.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my viewpoint. I can be reached at rsaunders@ riverbayboard.com.

third Thursday meetings are in-person and hybrid, July 6 and July 20.

Bronx Advanced Club meets once a month on the second Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. They are hybrid meetings, July 11 and August 8.

Mark your calendar for these meetings. All are welcome.

For more information, contact 347-419-0570.

––Lauretta Jaysura

Return to collection sites.

The past year’s awards were given to Toastmasters from all over D46 and included, to name a few, gift certificates, memberships, cash, electronics, mentorships and one gift especially that received the biggest applause: a spa trip. But a special highlight winner Toastmaster Melvin Pemberton, DTM, who will represent the district in the upcoming Regional Speech Contest that is scheduled for next month in

The Mission of Toastmasters International is to help members enhance leadership and public speaking skills, as well as provide encouragement and supD46,” said Chair George Rivera, DTM. He thanked Evelyn Marrero, DTM, Kathy Blount, DTM; Rosalie Reyes-Co, MS5; and the entire Event Planning Team.

Meetings: Following are the upcoming meetings to be held in Dreiser Community Center at 177 Dreiser Loop, Rm. 5.

7:30 p.m. First Thursday meetings are online only;

or Mail back using a pre-addressed envelope from your pharmacist.

or

Toss in the garbage after mixing with something undesirable such as co ee grounds or dirt.

Traditional Synagogue

General Information:

Church of the New Vision

Our scripture verse for 2023 is: And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.”

June 18 Worship Service “The Father’s Love”

Sabbath ends

Candle lighting

Good and Welfare:

Facebook

To all Members:

Fun and Games:

––Bruce Gitelson

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo de Cristo

Reversal through Rebirth Facebook (Genesis 11:1)

Scripture:

Save the Dates:

Church Picnic – TBA

August 10 –––Brenda Brown

Church of God’s Children

Schedule of services: Zoom at Zoom

Visit the Ministry shop

1. They were united against God.

2. They sought man-made religion wanting access to the heavens without

3. They received divided spirits, confused speech and thwarted ambition.

(Acts 2:1)

1. They were together seeking God’s wisdom, guidance, and power. to wait for God’s gift

3. They came out of religiosity and encountered God the Holy Spirit. Schedule

Sunday: Tuesday: YouTube

Thursday:

Friday:

Saturday: ––Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

––Bishop Nancy Rosario

MetroCard Bus

The bus only makes one stop in Co-op City: Some services offered by the bus are:

For more MetroCard information, please visit new.mta.info/fares.

Summer has arrived, our trip to Niagara Falls has taken off and the relaxing activities are here. July is right around the corner and the camps and playgrounds will be full. Always be aware of the youth who are playing in and around your areas.

AARP Chapter #4997 is now planning for the

We will be utilizing the SYEP (Summer Youth Employment Program) students to assist in educating the seniors and community in the use of technology. The students will be conducting one-to-one teach-

The students are available 9 a.m.-3 p.m. from Monday-Thursday. Appointments are necessary for all sessions. The program begins on July 5 and sessions start on July 6. This is a six-week program and has been well received by the community in the past years. You can schedule an appointment by calling -

and the hours are 11 a.m.-3 p.m. We look forward

AARP Chapter #4997

to having you participate in the program.

Since the inception of AARP on the city, state and federal levels, voting has always been a main issue. This year, we have seen major changes occur due to the voting, or lack of, by the people who are in charge. Our rights have been reduced and our ability to live peacefully has also been reduced. Now, we, as shareholders of the Co-op City community, have failed to secure a quorum of votes for the Executive Board of Elections to choose a new and working board to assist have a primary being held with early voting in place. The election date is June 27, but early voting started on June 17. This election is important to the growth and well-being of our city, and we would be doing a greater disservice to our friends, family and ourselves if we do not vote in the primary. Voting is not a right that we as citizens come by easily and should not be discarded as if one vote does not matter. All votes matter.

The Tour Committee enjoyed the Niagara Falls trip as well as the participants. The Christmas trip to

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, Retirees and friends.

We hope that all the men had a very happy Father’s Day. There were several beautiful Juneteenth celebrations in our community. Hopefully, everyone had an opportunity to attend one of them.

Trip Committee – The bus for the Resorts World Casino trip on June 28 will pick up at 8:30 a.m. at Dreiser Loop in front of H&R Block. Please plan to arrive there promptly by 8:15 a.m. There will be three drop offs on the return trip to Co-op City at Einstein Loop, Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop.

A trip to Wind Creek Casino in Bethlehem, PA has been scheduled for August 16. Tickets are $50 with a free slot play of $25. The bus for this trip will pick up at 8:30 a.m. in front of H&R Block in Dreiser Loop (the bus will leave promptly at 9:00 a.m.). On the return to Co-op City, the bus will drop off at Einstein Loop, Asch Loop and Dreiser Loop.

The Hunterdon Hills Playhouse trip on July 26 has been canceled. Deposits will be refunded. Questions may be addressed to Serita at 347-564-5722.

Membership – New members and renewing members can remit a check for the $25 annual dues

for 2023. Checks should be made payable to the “Retirees of Dreiser Loop” and mailed to: Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 19, Bronx, NY 10475. Please note “new member” or “renewing member” in the memo line on your check. Questions may be addressed to Mary at 718-6559170.

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

Condolences – Our heartfelt condolences are extended to Mary Johnson on the loss of her son. Please keep Mary and the Johnson family in your thoughts and prayers and please continue to pray for all others who have recently lost loved ones. Good and Welfare – We extend our well wishes and prayers to all who are sick and shut-in. We pray that they will all soon see brighter days ahead. General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held in September following our summer break. We wish everyone a wonderful and safe summer.

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Sight and Sound is still collecting reservations as is the Hawaiian Cruise in 2024. Contact Ms. Wright, 718-379-3370, or Ms. Brown, 718-320-7962, for details. Ms. Baker is continuing to update our membership roster and can be reached at 781-379-2088. Word from Mrs. Wilson, Good and Welfare contact, is that we are moving ahead with the ailments that have held us down and moving on to the path of good health. To share information for this article, reach out to Mrs. Wilson at 781-671-5493.

Stay vigilant to your surroundings and circumstances as you make your way day-by- day and always consider your personal health.

We are here to serve – not to be served.

––Ann Purnell

Goose Island Seniors

With sorrow we announce the passing of our member Louise McLaughlin. Our condolences to her family. Service: June 26, 2023, at 6 p.m., McCall’s Funeral Home.

Harrah’s Casino – Atlantic City, Saturday, July 15. Price: $55, bonus: $10 slot play. Bus leaving Einstein Loop at pizza shop at 8 a.m.; Asch Loop at library at 8:15; and Dreiser Loop at hardware store at 8:30. For more information, call or text: 646-579-1701.

Resorts Casino – Atlantic City, Thursday, July 20. Sold out. Bus picking up at Einstein Loop at 7:45 a.m.; Asch Loop at 8:15 a.m.; and Dreiser Loop at 8:30 a.m. Final payment due by Monday, July 3. Mask required on bus and in casino.

Maryland-Washington Crabfeast Trip – July 28-31, 2023; 4 days. Also making stop at African American Museum in D.C. $699, quad.; $979, single. Pick up at Einstein Loop, 7 a.m.; Asch Loop, 7:15 a.m.; and Dreiser Loop, 7:30 a.m. Few seats left. To make reservation, call or text: 646-579-1701

Nordic Lodge, Foxwoods Casino and Tanger Outlets – August 12. Sold out. Pick up Manhattan 125th St., 8:30 a.m.; Einstein Loop, 9 a.m.; Asch Loop, 9:15 a.m.; and Dreiser Loop, 9:30 a.m.

Nordic Lodge – Friday, August 19. Few seats available. Pick up Manhattan, 7 a.m.; Einstein Loop, 7:30 a.m.; Asch Loop, 7:45 a.m.; and Dreiser Loop, 8 a.m. For more information, call: 646-579-1701.

Caesar’s Casino – Atlantic City, Tuesday, August 22. Sold out.

The Spinners – Thursday, September 28, at the Board Walk Hall in Atlantic City. Tropicana Cato concert at 3:30 p.m. If you need more time, leave the casino earlier.

Notary – with Yvonne Menefee, Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 34 or 39.

•

•

Bingo – Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1:15 p.m. Members only. Admission: $5 for 3 cards, 12 games and Jackpot. Extra cards are $0.25 each. Refreshments. Proof of vaccination. Temperature taken at entrance.

Game Day – Every Tuesday and Thursday at 1 p.m. Members only. Come play Dominoes, Bid Whist, watch movies, read books and socialize with other members. Call (718) 379-9613; $1 donation. Refreshments available.

Amid ongoing concerns about the Coronavirus COVID-19, McCall’s Bronxwood

is closely monitoring the latest reports from the CDC and is fully committed to providing the funeral and memorial services you expect without interruption, in a clean and hygenic environment.

Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate in June: Sandra Harville, Rosaura Cruz, Linda Bannerman-Martin, Gloria Fields, Evelyn Jefferson, Valerie Santos, Cecil Kornreich, Ray Betancourt, Oliver Reed, Joan (Jackie) Ross, Margaret Irving, Charles H. Oruam, Graciela Abadia, Eleanor Gibson, Sheila Mathis, and Julia Rivera.

Sick and Shut-in: Ella Thorne is in Workmen’s Circle. Mary Pilla (former Goose Island president), sends her love to all. You can call her at (718) 7531816.

Our club is located at 135 Einstein Loop, Rm. 39, Bronx, NY 10475 at Section 5 Center, phone number (718) 379-9613. You may call (mornings) Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (Evenings) Mon., Wed. and Fri., 6 p.m.-9 p.m., Tue. & Thu., 1 p.m.-9 p.m., or call/text or Zelle Stephen, (347) 847-1941. $app to $StephenCarlSr. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net.

––Stephen Roberts, Sr.

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

Common Pantry distribution is scheduled for Tues., June 27, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. in Bartow Center, Room 31.

JASA Bartow OAC SUCASA

with Arts and Craft Exhibition in the Garden

Wed., June 28, from 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Arts and Crafts Exhibition from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Poetry reading and Jazz music with Americo Casiano. This event will be held in the Bartow courtyard. Admission is free. Light refreshments will be served.

Please call Einstein OAC at 718-671-5161 for the following trip on June 29 to Orchard Beach.

Holiday Hill (Prospect, CT) Senior Day – Tues., August 22; $135. Payment due July 7. No refunds. Credit issued. Deluxe Motor Coach transportation. Enjoy food throughout the day, Bingo, dancing, DJ, swimming and much more. T-shirts for the event. Give your size when you register. Pick-ups: Bartow, 8 a.m.; Dreiser, 8:15 a.m.; and Einstein, 8:30 a.m.

to register.

Salsa Dance Class – 177 Dreiser Loop, Room 2; Tues., June 27, from 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Spanish Workshops – Talleres de Alimentacion. Make Healthy Eating Part of your Lifestyle/Convier-

Weight Management Support Group w/Gigi –

Steel Drum Classes – Wednesdays from 1 p.m.

Medicare Information – Thursdays, 9 a.m.-12

Notary – Tues., 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.; Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Einstein Center, Room 34: Thurs., 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Call 718-320-2066. Appoint-

Technology Class – Thurs., 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

5043 9695, Passcode: 896989.

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

Bartow Older Adult Center Shopping Trips:tow, 10 a.m.; Einstein, 10:15 a.m.; and Dreiser, 10:30 a.m. Please pay for all trips at the Bartow Center, Room 31.

Please call Einstein OAC at 718 671-5161 for an appointment for: Hair styling – First and third Wed., 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Braids, haircuts, shape-ups, twists, ponytails, curls and more. Facials and manicure –Mon., 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

JASA Einstein Public Notary – Tues., 10 a.m.12 p.m. and Thurs., 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Please call 718671-5161.

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066. Schedule subject to change without notice. Payments for trips at the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9 a.m.-12 p.m., & 2 p.m.-4 p.m. only Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

27

MENU Fee for lunch is $2 & $5 for guest. ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk. Menu subject to change without notice.

KOSHER: Stuffed Pepper w/Turkey, Couscous, Yellow Squash, Whole Wheat Bread

Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Baked Breaded Fish

NON-KOSHER: BBQ Pork Chops, Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Normandy Blend

KOSHER: Chicken Marsala, Rice Pilaf, Toasted String

Beans, Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Egg Frittata

NON-KOSHER: Brown Stew Chicken, Yellow Rice, Sauteed Spinach

KOSHER: Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage, Mashed Potato, Steamed Carrots, Whole Wheat Bread, Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Vegetable Cutlet

NON-KOSHER: Baked Fish w/Sweet and Sour Sauce, Pasta, Steamed Carrots

KOSHER: Yankee Pot Roast, Bulgar, Winter Blend Vegetables, Whole Wheat Bread

Fresh Fruit and Juice

ALT: Tuna Noodle Casserole

NON-KOSHER: Vegetable Baked Ziti w/Whole Wheat Pasta, Sauteed String Beans

KOSHER: Apricot Glazed Chicken, Sweet Noodle Kugel Roasted Butternut Squash Challah Bread, Fresh Fruit

NON-KOSHER: Spanish Style Baked Chicken, Yellow Rice, Cabbage w/Green Peas

Bartow Center (929) 399-1394. Events held in Room 31, unless otherwise noted. Dinner: 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. (Bartow Only)

Einstein Center (718) 671-5161. Events held in Room 49, unless otherwise noted. Lunch: 12 p.m.-1 p.m. (Einstein Only)

Su Casa Art Class 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

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

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

Rm. 45

Prize Bingo & Board Games 1-2 p.m.

Smart Phones & Tablets 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345. Events held in Room 7, unless otherwise noted.

Chair Yoga w/ Charles Tyler

Time: 10-11 a.m. Zoom only for now; 1-646-876-9923;

Passcode: 855423

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

Piano Sing Along Class

Smartphone and tablet literacy w/Julesa 1:15 p.m.-2:15 p.m.

Zumba w/Ola, 1-2 p.m., Rm. 2.

Computer Learning w/Ralph Zoom only: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dial-in #: 347-893-2966,

Passcode: 259554. Blood

Artopia w/Ivan 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Right after lunch.

Manicure

Chess Club 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 49

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

Alert and Alive 10-11 a.m., Rm. 4

Knitting & Crochet 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Art Class w/Dmitry Virtual, 1-3 p.m.

Massage Therapy

Every 1st & 3rd Friday, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Bingo with Gay Brown, 1:15-2:30 p.m., Rm. 4

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475. E-mail: stjosephsepc@aol.com. Church phone number: 718-320-0844. Priest-inCharge: Fr. Simeon O. Johnson, cell: 917227-4303.

Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic and related repairs to our space, St. Joseph’s Church has made some adjustment to our schedule of services until further notice. We are gradually getting back to normal.

Father Johnson will conduct worship service in-person at the church on Sunday, June 25, at 9 a.m. as well as via teleconference. The usual teleconference weekday prayers at noon will also continue.

To participate by teleconference, please dial 1-425-436-6344, Access Code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women - Fundraising Event

• Reminder! Winery bus trip to North Fork, Long Island: Pindar Vineyards and Tanger Outlets, today, June 24. Trip includes wine tasting, sit-down luncheon at the Cooperage Inn and shopping at the Tanger Outlets with discount coupon booklets.

If you have any problems, please contact Valrie Payne at 347-200-5850. The bus departs from Dreiser Loop promptly at 8:45 a.m. Please be on time.

Grace and Peace!

Merville Chambers

The Church of St. Thomas The Apostle, Liberal Catholic Church International

177 Dreiser Loop, Room 2. Greetings, in the name of God our father. Our Father’s Day celebration this past Sunday was a blessing for all in attendance. We are forever grateful for our earthly fathers and our heavenly father. The intent for this Sunday is “God as the ruler of angels.” Please join us as we receive God’s blessings and love shining down upon us.

All are welcome to join us on Sunday, June 25:

• 10:00 a.m., Praise and worship service

• 11:00 a.m., Celebration of The Holy Eucharist

• Light refreshments and fellowship will follow

Prayer: “O God the king of angels, ruler of all the hosts of heaven, we praise and thank thee for the help which these thy radiant servants so joyously do render unto us, and pray that we may pattern after them in purity and zeal; through Christ our Lord.” Amen. ––Rev. Dorian Miceli

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family, invite you to join us for Worship Service tomorrow in-person at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Masks are required. The 11:00 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web. zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: 646-568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password 788175#.

The Church Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number is 857-357-0254, Access Code is 660065#.

Beginning July 2, we will have one service at 9 a.m. Our regular 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. service will resume September 17. The attire during the summer will be casual dress.

Rev. Williams asks everyone to call into the Sunday Worship service or Wednesday Bible class using Zoom through your computer or dialing in using the Zoom information shown above.

On June 25, we will celebrate Children’s Day during our 11:00 a.m. service. All are welcome to join us.

Sunday School is on hiatus during the summer and will resume on September 17 at 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study classes is on hiatus for

the summer. Both the 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Bible Study classes will resume on September 13.

Prayer Warriors Prayer service is held on Thursdays at 12 p.m. Prayer Service is also held on Fridays at 10 a.m.

Friday Evening Prayer service is on hiatus and will resume September 8 at 7:30 p.m.

All Prayer services are available on the Free Call Conference.com Line dial-in number shown above.

The church has a free app available on your app store by searching for “Co Op CBC.” This app is open to all. Please keep each other in prayer and be wise in your decisions. Please continue to mask-up, practice social distancing and stay safe!

“God will strengthen us as we continue to travel through this storm. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1)

The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

––Hattie L. Lucas

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Pentecostal Tabernacle is located at 100 Co-op City Blvd., Building 22A. Mailing address: P.O. Box 204, Bronx, NY 10475

Contact number: 718-324-0334, 718-320-4218 or 646-345-6707.

You are invited to join in worship on the following days:

Sundays: Sunday School begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship Service begins at 11:45 a.m. in the sanctuary and every Wednesday morning prayer and fasting service will be held from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. However, Bible study and prayer meeting will be held every Wednesday and Friday online at 7:30 p.m. Online call-in number: 720-740-9746, Access Code 8876631.

Focus

to be with the Lord forever. The bride of Christ will be privileged to rule and reign with Jesus Christ during one thousand years of peace.

“And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should , and after that he must be loosed a little season.” (Revelation 20:1-3 & 6) second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ and shall reign with him a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:6)

Satan will be bound and cast into the bottomless pit for one thousand years while Jesus Christ rules the world in righteousness. He will not be simply earth. People who sin against God in that day will do so out of the wickedness of their heart. In addition, the knowledge of the Lord will be increased in all the earth. What glorious day that will be for generations who are counted worthy to live in the millennial kingdom of Jesus Christ the son of David!

(Matthew 25:31-33) states: “When the son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.” All the redeemed, including the tribulation martyrs, shall reign with Christ as kings and priests. Since we are heirs and joint heirs with Christ, the role of the church in the millennial reign will be to serve as king’s and priests in His kingdom.

––Rev. R. Sibblies

CLASSIFIEDS

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25)

LOCKSMITH

FAMILY LOCKSMITH AND BLINDS

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

5. Practice Internet Safety: With increasing reliance on digital platforms, it’s crucial to protect your online presence. Create strong, unique passwords for each online account. Be cautious when sharing personal information online and be mindful of phishing attempts. Regularly update your devices’ security software and avoid

6. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, particularly in unfamiliar or potentially unsafe environments. Trust your instincts and avoid poorly lit areas or deserted locations, especially at night. Stay in well-populated areas and let someone know your whereabouts if you’re going out alone.

7. Practice Safe Food Handling: To prevent foodborne illnesses, practice safe food handling. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption. Keep raw and cooked food separate to avoid cross-contamination. Cook food thoroughly, especially meat, to kill harmful bacteria. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume them within the recommended time frame.

8. Avoid Distracted Driving: while driving and refrain from other distracting activities such as eating, grooming, or reading. Focus on the road and keep your attention solely on driving to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

9. Maintain Regular Exercise and Healthy Habits: Regular exercise and healthy habits contribute to overlevel and consult a healthcare professional before starting any exercise regimen. Maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and manage stress effectively to promote a healthier lifestyle.

10. Educate Yourself on First Aid:

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toms of common medical emergencies. By equipping yourself with this knowledge, you can provide immediate assistance until professional help arrives.

Safety is a responsibility that we owe to ourselves and those around us. By incorporating these 10 simple and safe tips into our everyday lives, we can create a safer environment and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Remember, small actions can make a big difference when it comes to safety, so let’s priorisafety a habit.

Hutchinson River Parkway Bridge Closure

occur overnight between 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for two weeknights each week between June 5 and June 30.

Temporary Closure of Entrance Ramp to Northbound I-95bound I-95 Bruckner Expressway will be closed through June 29. Drivers looking for access to northbound I-95 Bruckner Expressway from eastbound

Permanent Closure of Exit 8C

Since October of 2022, Exit 8C, which connected northbound I-95 Bruckner

If You See Something, Say Something!

Working Together To Keep Co-op City Safe!

• Do not allow strangers access to your building by holding the door.

• Be aware of work being done in your building and when contractors are allowed to be on the premises.

• Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked.

• Do not leave packages or electronics in your car where they are visible.

• Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD. Emergency: 718-671-3050 or 9-1-1 • Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc

Rivers Run Community Garden Father’s Day Paint Event

Thank you, DJ, the forager, for a great day touring the edible wilds. It was delicious and informative. Thank you, Valerie Gunn, for the great Paint and Chat event on Father’s Day. Fun was had by all.

Rivers Run Community Garden is a place where we grow fruits, vegetables, knowledge and friendships. The garden is a movement towards improved mental and physical health for all who come. We provide workshops including nuand crafting, so please use this column to check on upcoming events. The garden is an outdoor classroom for the local schools, daycares and residents of different abilities. We are a place of beauty and peace. Visit. Stay. Experience us.

Rivers Run is open:

• Tuesdays & Thursdays – 4 p.m.-dusk

• Wednesdays & Fridays – 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Saturdays & Sundays – 12 p.m.-5 p.m.

Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome. Please mail your dues to Gail Sharbaan, 100 Casals Pl #32K, Bronx, NY 10475

If you would like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@ yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or me at 718-671-3801.

Please continue to stay safe.

––Gail Sharbaan