Co-op City Times 07/01/2023

58 No. 26

Saturday, July 1, 2023

Board & Mgmt. Discuss

Convectors, In-kind

Room Rentals and More at June 28th Board Meeting

Meeting to be Broadcast on Crawler

BY ROZAAN BOONE

At the June 28th meeting of the Riverbay Board of Directors, Board directors and Management discussed a number of important topics including, among others, testing of new convector units and components to mitigate convectornity organizations.

This meeting was recorded and will be broadcast to the community on the Riverbay in-house channel, also known as the Crawler, starting on Tuesday, July 4, at noon, 6 p.m., 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. daily. The broadcast will be available until Friday, July 7, 2023.

The Riverbay Crawler can be accessed on channel 12 for Master Antenna subscribers (MATV) and channel 591 for shareholders with cable service provided by Altice.

$1.25

Turning Point for Riverbay Corporation

Management Report

Marvin L. Walton Riverbay Executive General Manager

During the last few weeks, “Shared Vision” has been the primary topic of discussion when visiting building and townhouse association meetings. To date, I attended eight (8) building association meetings (1, 8, 15B, 18, 20, 25, 27, 33) and two (2) townhouse association meetings (Broun Place and Alder Place) and several upcoming meetings are scheduled throughout the year. This vision is the framework Management uses to communicate with the stakeholders of Riverbay Corporation.

The three (3) key stakeholders of the Riverbay Corporation and their roles are as follows;

• Shareholders – Owners of the corporation who live, work, and play on the campus of Co-op City.

• Board of Directors – Provide guidance and oversight and establish policies for which the corporation conducts business.

• Management – Provide day-to-day quality service delivery to the shareholders and Board Directors, respectively.

(Continued on page 4)

Following the Roll Call, approval of the agenda and the Board Business Meeting minutes of March 29, 2023, Riverbay Board President Sonia Feliciano gave the President’s Report in which she recommitted to Resolution 23-11, passed unanimously by the Board on March 8, 2023, to hold open Board meetings with Gallery Sessions at least six times annually in order to be transparent with shareholders about the business of the Board.

CSO Property Managers are conducting inspections to identify infractions of the Occupancy Agreement relative to balconies and terraces throughout the development.

Rules 3 & 4 of the Occupancy Agreement states:

3. “No alterations, additions or improvements shall be made to the balconies or terraces of the leased premises, including but not limited to the installation of screens or other enclosures thereon.

4. The leased premises and the balconies or terraces thereof may be painted only in accordance with the rules therefore established by the Cooperative.”

Since the beginning of the year, more than 400 letters have been sent to high-rise and B-townhouse shareholders advising them to cure infractions observed on their balcony or terrace.

“Defacing Riverbay Property,” in the amount of $300.

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Balcony & Terrace Inspections

race railing or walls. Over time, these material can act as “sails” in inclement weather and weaken the infrastructure of the railing causing it to become loose thereby creating a safety hazard to occupants and their visitors.

Mobile privacy barriers can be used as long as they are not attached to the railing and are easily removable from the balcony/terrace for safe storage after use to prevent it from becoming air-borne in windy conditions.

Shareholders with concerns about information stated in their letter, including the deadline to address the condition/s identi-

Thank you for your cooperation.

—Riverbay Management

Preliminary Primary Election Results

Primary election day was on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 and Co-op City shareholders voted to decide the Democratic representative for City Council District 12 as well as the Bronx District Attorney.

Incumbent Councilmember Kevin Riley held on to his seat against challenges from Aisha Hernandez Ahmed and Pamela A. Hamilton-Johnson in the Democratic primary for City Council District 12. Preliminary results had Kevin Riley with 82.33% of the vote, followed by Pamela A. Hamilton-Johnson with 12.06% and Aisha Hernandez Ahmed with 5.38%, according to the NYC Board of Elections. Riley will now face off against Dewayne Lee in the General Election on November 7. Early voting for the General Election will take place between October 28 and November 5.

Riverbay Holiday Closing

It is imperative that the shareholders, Board Directors, and Management listen and respect each other, and work together.

(Continued on page 2)

Congestion Pricing

See page 2

Resolutions

See page 9

Riley has represented City Council District 12 since December of 2020, when a King, who was expelled by the City Council.

(Continued on page 8)

Riverbay Administrative Offices will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. For emergencies, contact:

Councilmember Kevin Riley

Birthday Blessings, Ms. Helen!

th Birthday greetings, Ms. Helen -

friends and neighbors would like you to know that you are loved, respected and valued for your dedication to family and community, your love of people and your commitment to service in the Lord and to your fellow man. We treasure you and wish you many more happy and healthy returns. God bless you!

FHA Approves Congestion Pricing Plan

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Tuesday this week that the city’s con-

ing federal approval.

sessment on the plan.

The congestion pricing plan, called the Manhattan Central Business District Tolling Program, is designed to reduce the city’s overall congestion problem by establishing a toll for individuals driving below 60th Street in Manhattan, and

ing a bill for the toll via mail to the driver’s place of residence.

Central Business District Tolling Program and adhere to the following parame-

• Passenger vehicles will only be charged once per day for driving or remaining below 60th street.

• Implement variable tolling, which means toll rates would change based on the time or exact day.

nually.

abilities.

• Taxis and for-hire-vehicles will not be tolled more than once per day. on-peak rate.

ness District.

includes a public hearing.

al in a press statement.

sands of comments from community members from across the region. With the green light from the federal government, we look forward to moving ahead with the implementation of this program,” Governor Hochul said. prefaced the agency’s next steps, in a statement released tot he press. Board, must adopt a tolling structure, and contractors need to set up tolling equip-

bring the network to a State of Good Repair, enhance accessibility, accelerate climate resiliency and eliminate transit deserts,” Mr. Lieber said.

Working in tandem will continue to elevate the services provided by Riverbay Corporation, enhance the quality of life of shareholders and maintain the viability of this important stock of affordable housing for the next generation. We are “One-Riverbay Corporation” and on this journey together.

Management comprises 948 headcount (Budgeted) and clearly understands the importance of our shareholders. Simply put, if the shareholders were not here, Riverbay Corporation would not exist, and we would not be employed. We will strive to enhance the relationship between shareholders, Board Directors, and Management. We strongly believe “Respect begets Respect” and this mes“Shared Vision” framework.

The initial “Share Vision” framework (shown below on the left), was communicated with shareholders during visits to association meetings. It was recof a true partnership (shown below on the right). The updated presentation illustrates that the key stakeholders of Riverbay Corporation have a sleeve of the triangle that comprises the corporation. This demonstrates that collaboration is the essence of positive outcomes and listening and adopting changes nurtures partnerships. We are excited about the new day that is dawning at Riverbay Corporation and look forward to this important turning point for Co-op City.

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

Co-op City Times

COMBING

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

Pop-Up Food GiveAway in Bartow Mall

A Pop-Up Food Distribution will be held on Monday, July 3, noon-2 p.m. in the Bartow Mall outside of Dollar Tree. Fruits and vegetables will be available. This program is co-sponsored by Agatha House and Riverbay Corporation.

Assemblyman Benedetto 2023 Lobby Visits

Assemblyman Michael Benedetto will be hosting his next three lobby visits in Co-op City as follows:

• Wed., July 12, 600 Baychester Ave.

• Wed., July 19, 120 Donizetti Pl.

• Wed., July 26, 120 Casals Pl.

All visits are from 5:15-7 p.m. Lobby visits provide Co-op City homeowners an opportunity to discuss a broad range of topics cial one-on-one setting just steps from their front door.

Assemblyman Benedetto invites shareholders to meet with him in their respective lobby to hear key highlights of the Legislative Session and to discuss their own concerns on local and personal matters.

For more info., contact Assemblyman Benedetto’s Co-op City

Read & Follow the Co-op 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.

Farmer’s Market

Harvest Home Farmer’s Market has returned to Co-op City at Asch Loop & Aldrich Street, next

For more information, visit www.HarvestHomefm.org.

2nd Front Page

JASA’s Juneteenth Celebration

BY P.M. CAMPBELL

JASA held its 2023 Juneteenth Celebration and Parade, organized by Cynthia Dixon of the JASA Bartow Older

Seniors assembled holding signs and banners, and

Photos by P.M. Campbell

Board ––– (Continued from page 1)

“The primary purpose has always been to give our shareholders [the opportunity for] attendance at meetings and to observe the decision-making process, except for executive session meetings,” Board President Feliciano said, adding that due to technical challenges, Wednesday night’s meeting could not be live streamed as originally planned. “We hope to have our next meeting ready for shareholders.”

The Board President called everyone’s attention to information that was recently slipped under shareholders’ doors explaining proper maintenance of con-

“Since Memorial Day, Riverbay received 1,800 calls for leaks through June 25,” said Board President Feliciano. “To ensure that we cover all concerns, our making it easier for the new shift coming in to take on new work and to not have for our community.”

She informed the community there is a video being worked on by the Management team on water sensors and, in the meantime, encouraged shareholders to read the literature put under their door. She also took the opportunity to thank shareholders who have submitted suggestions and comments through the Riverbay website, coopcity.com. She observed that whether positive or negative, shareholders’ feedback helps the corporation to identify strengths and weaknesses as work continues towards improvements in service delivery and shareholders’ quality of life.

“We are working on ways to get better and if we do it well, it will help build a feeling of community,” Board President Feliciano said.

Next, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton presented a supplemental management report highlighting changes that have taken place since the June 7, 2023 Board meeting. Addressing the Board, he said that he has been expanding his understanding of Riverbay operations and the methods in which Management provides day-to-day services to Co-op City shareholders.

Mr. Walton reported: “To date, I have attended eight building association meetings and two townhouse association meetings having opportunity to dialogue directly with our shareholders. I met with the leadership of four of the six unions which Riverbay Corporation has collective bargaining agreements with, met with two of the four insurance brokers that broker on behalf of us to get the best rates that we can in the marketplace. Also met with PFK O’Connor Davies,

statements. So, I am continuing to make my rounds to get an introductory meeting in with all of our key stakeholders that we work closely with to help make Riverbay Corporation the best corporation.”

Mr. Walton proceeded to give an update on Riverbay’s convectors since the last Board meeting when he described four initiatives currently in progress. Reporting on two updates since then, Mr. Walton told the Board that a new vendor would soon be meeting with the Management team for a presentation on what their company can offer to address Co-op City’s aging convectors. Management will then report back to the Board on the outcome and steps forward. Secondly, he updated the Board on testing of a fan coil unit received from a vendor. This said, “The unit is operating in our current environment without any issues observed thus far.”

He also said that there have been no leaks and the unit is pumping “good cool air.” Riverbay Maintenance department will continue to monitor the operation of the unit in the model apartment where it is being tested. This unit is a free, base sample that was only 8,000 btu, consistent with a regular air conditioner, provided by the vendor. In phase two of this test, Mr. Walton said a larger, 12,000 btu unit, will be ordered which also includes a dual shut-off valve, water leak sensors and a larger, deeper condensation tray. The unit will also be installed in the model apartment and tested by the Maintenance department to determine if it

“So, we’re taking it step-by-step and please be advised as we stated last time, the ultimate goal is to do a pilot and we will be selecting those apartments that have had the most frequent leaks from the convector system,” Mr. Walton said. “Not there yet, but we can continue to say things are working according to plan, it works within our system, no glitches thus far, so it’s been installed for over two weeks.”

Finally, Mr. Walton expanded on the “Shared Vision” framework he has been discussing with shareholders at building and townhouse association meetings. He said that shareholders have suggested that all three entities included in the vision framework, the Riverbay Board of Directors, Management and Shareholders, be holders, they have really good suggestions and we are taking heed to it with the Management team and making sure those things that really make sense and we all agree upon, we institute those changes,” he said.

Following the reports, questions and/or comments were taken from Board Directors.

Board Director Lynette Wright, who was the maker of Resolution 23-11,

Board ––– (Continued from page 4)

pointed out that the resolution resolved that the Riverbay Board would meet in open session at least six times per calendar year and for each meeting to be preceded by a one-hour Gallery Session for shareholders to publicly express concerns and address questions to the Board. Resolution 23-11 received overwhelmingly support from 12 directors who were present for the meeting, with one director absent for the vote and two directors absent for the meeting.

Director Wright pointed out: “The six times that we are supposed to meet or allowed to speak at those meetings, but in accordance with Senate law that was in 2021 and 2022, all board meetings moving forward from that date – and what we should have been doing – are supposed to be in some manner, observational,

Director Wright asked Executive General Manager Walton about his update mandates on the state level regarding energy consumption. “Even though we haven’t continued to have that conversation and we should because we are running out of time with it, are these models that you are picking or choosing any

Mr. Walton responded: “The ultrathin hydraulic fan coil unit, one of the key Riverbay Director of Construction Rikardo Jakaj added: “One of the things which allows the motor to ramp up based on the need. And it has additional temperature sensors where if it reaches a certain temperature, it will shut off as opposed to staying on consistently. Right now, what you currently have is a

Director Wright then asked about the appearance of the convector’s interior which Mr. Walton said he will look into and have an answer at the Board’s July 12th meeting.

Director Anika Green-Watson asked Executive General Manager Walton about

in kitchens and dining rooms, and the larger unit in living rooms.

“The plan would be, and this is hypothetical, but what we are doing in the test in the model unit, was to put the larger unit in the living room. Right now, we turned off the units in the bedroom and in the kitchen just to see how that one thin, smaller 8,000 btu unit is doing in the living room and if it would service the entire apartment which we kind of feel that it will not but the thought would be the larger unit in the living room. The condensation comes when there is humidity in the air, so the cooler the apartment, the less the condensation forms. So if we have a larger unit in the living room, you may not have to use the one in the kitchen and bedroom at full speed, you can reduce it down because you’re getting adequate amount of cool air coming out of the living room so it’s great that we

have the 8,000 btu. Remember, that was a free unit, it was base, it doesn’t have the bells and whistles that we desire that will shut it off if there is a leak sensed in the convector. Now, we will move to the larger unit which will be 12,000 btu’s and it will have those bells and whistles in it; test it out and we are hoping that we get the same results because it’s been in for 2-plus weeks and we haven’t seen any issues. Everything is still working according to plan so it’s very positive but is that it actually extracts more of the condensation out of the air. If this hapremember is that these original fan coil units were sized 50 years ago when you had single paned glass windows and so we may be able to remove one of the contributing factors by oversizing the one in the living room areas and it will take off the heat load from the other rooms within the apartment itself so that’s Director Green-Watson said that going forward, it would be illuminating for the Board and shareholders to get an understanding of how installment would interact with the current convector units in apartments. “By that I mean, is this an overlay, is it something that’s just meant to go on top of the existing infrastructure or hardware or is this going to take a little bit more time and effort because my

of man hours that it would take to install something like that, it’s less attractive so part of the calculus as we’re thinking about which of these units move on to stage 2 should be how does it interact with the existing infrastructure and what are the man hours going to be to get everyone up. It’s a great unit but if only 100 apartments can have it, then I don’t think it’s that great. If it’s maybe the second unit, it wasn’t our favorite, but everyone can get one, I think I’m more in favor

the unit that you have and putting in an entirely new unit, and the great thing is putting it in the actual convector that’s in your apartment now. So again, I’m not going to say we’re putting the cart before the horse, but we’re feeling really good about the results thus far. And then when we get to that juncture, then we

Director Daryl Johnson asked if having a mix of 12,000 and 8,000 btu units on simultaneously in an apartment would affect the electrical load in the apartment?

Mr. Jakaj replied: “You will not have an additional load on your existing panels. These units pull their electricity from your existing 110 volts. You see the side on the convectors, that’s where we would be tying off into. You will not have additional load. You will not have a problem. What we are trying to do is put in a direct replacement within the area where you have all your water supply,

Board Director Bishop Angelo Rosario asked if the drainage on the unit is the

(Continued on page 11)

– • 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

Annual Board Election Sustained by Politics

I have never been so bored by a shareholders’ election not a single one with a hint of taint to their recent reputation. itics since before I came to possess my own apartment. I believe Co-op City’s “annual shareholders meeting” is sustained not by civics, but by politics. And all of our divisions and disputes have been settled. Almost everyone with a hint

every time one hears of a problem impacting Co-op City, the powers that be seem extraordinarily quick to put their

vered machines in the buildings, the in-person voice in the lobby that it’s time to “vote,” traditions that sustained the act of civic participation. We have made it easier to vote, but with none of the social connection attached, we have made it easier to pass.

Now we have yet another “problem,” one of such disinterest that we cannot even meet a quorum of interested shareholders. I’m sure that this, too, will be met with a competent and honorable response, free of drama, rancor, or controversy.

More Education Needed About Annual Board Elections

There is a great deal of comments about the conclusion a quorum of one-third, even though the election was extended for two weeks. I am extremely disappointed, just as many of you are.

I believe that more should be done to educate people tors. There should be cooperation among the Shareholdshareholder, I have several ideas.

First, for potential shareholders or those moving in, information about voting should be inserted into the introductory letter that precedes the apartment application form. If information about criminal conduct and reasonable accommodations are discussed, then so should voting. Secterview with potential shareholders and in the New Coopeducation about voting, and voting should be included in tion sessions and current shareholders. This video should Furthermore, non-voters should be educated about the process; they should be directed to attend the New Cooperator ing Community Complaint should be added with a warnvit are assessed 50% of their carrying charge fee; and successive non-voters ought to be investigated to determine if they are subletting.

meeting to discuss shareholders’ recommendations on

An Unabashed Power Grab

more than simply just unprecedented. It is just not the choice for the shareholders to make!

Indeed, participation by shareholders is disappointing.

made on behalf of shareholders despite prevailing shareholder sentiments.

The decision to extend the election and incur the cost of the extension should be for shareholder to make. Why? The reason is shareholders must ultimately shoulder the costs.

If you want more shareholder participation, we need more shareholder inclusiveness in decisions made on our

Shareholders’ Votes Must Be Counted

of the Co-op City Times budget to extend the election to reach a quorum. Why were those efforts aborted prior to reaching our election budget and the required quorum?

infuriating we now reside in a community where voting is not an essential necessity for our voices to be heard.

Too many shareholders chose to remain silent and hope for the best versus casting a ballot. This negative attitude impacts our quality of life on every level.

count, if any candidate that would numerically be eliminated should not be afforded an extended term of service. The vote to abort the election process should not have been taken; in my opinion, that option should not be available for quired quorum is all we have and we either vet sharehold-

I’m very thankful there are members of our community member position. Those efforts should not be cast away. All the work that was done by the election process organizers, shareholders who reviewed the information, attended candidates’ forums, emailed questions, the candidates who were out meeting shareholders in the community, we can-

We must do better and consider all aspects of the process and the impact this dysfunction will have on our community.

Where is it Written?

quorum is needed to validate our elections?

“translated” and italicized.

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.

tions are executed.

I believe this would be a start to turning shareholder responsibility to vote around. If not, what would be the alternative? Allowing our community to decline, comparable to public housing? I feel certain that this would be unacceptable to our shareholders.

“The annual meeting of shareholders of the Corporation, for the election of directors … 1 an election. It does not require physically gathering. Attendance by one-third of the shareholders entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum, … 2 director election, we have a quorum. [Voting Attendance … and if a quorum shall not attend … 3

(Continued on page 10)

Co-op

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

Public Safety Report

Department of Public Safety Urges Residents to Enjoy Fourth of July Free of Illegal Fireworks

The Fourth of July is a great time of the year to enjoy the summer and reflect on America’s Independence. Professional fireworks are back in 2023 with public viewing areas. CCPD wants our readers to steer clear of illegal fireworks. The use of illegal fireworks has, unfortunately, become associated with this holiday. Illegal fireworks present serious risks of injuries resulting in trips to the Emergency Room. Children are especially at risk for injuries from illegal fireworks.

New York City has seen a recent surge of complaints of il-

Public Safety Blotter

June 18 – June 24, 2023

June 18, 2023

140 Darrow Place

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

99 Einstein Loop

A garage department supervisor reported an unknown male, possibly a cooperator, forcibly lifted the exit gate arm and exited Garage 7 without paying. As a result, the exit arm was damaged. CCPD Detective Squad is investigating.

700 Baychester Avenue

CCPD responded to a male shot at rear of Building 16 on the Department of Education property. The victim, who possessed an out-of-state identification, was transported to the hospital for treatment. A crime scene was established. CCPD will assist NYPD with the investigation.

June 19, 2023

100 Donizetti Place

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

Rear of 120 Benchley Place

CCPD reported that while on routine patrol, a male Hispanic was observed standing by a vehicle and upon being approached, the male fled in a black vehicle northbound on Co-op City Blvd. The CCPD officer inspected the vehicle and observed that the catalytic converter had been removed. The owner was notified and responded. NYPD was also notified by the owner of the vehicle.

June 21, 2023

120 Debs Place

CCPD responded to a report of a disorderly group. Upon arrival, a physical altercation was observed with two cooperators reporting being assaulted by a third suspect. Two males were injured in the assault and the male suspect, who is undomiciled, was placed under arrest by Public Safety officers and charged with assault.

620 Baychester Avenue

A cooperator reported returning to her vehicle parked off property in the Department of Education school parking lot and observing the rear passenger side window shattered and the steering wheel electronics damaged by an unknown individual. NYPD was notified and responded.

120 Aldrich Street

While on routine patrol, CCPD

observed a vehicle with its rear passenger side window broken. Multiple attempts were made to contact the owner with negative results. A note was left on the vehicle for the owner to contact CCPD.

120 DeKruif Place

A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from his residence by an unknown individual without his permission. The theft was reported to Amazon by the cooperator.

June 23, 2023

100 Casals Place

A Riverbay employee reported being harassed by a cooperator known to CCPD who resides in the building. The cooperator was escorted out of the building by CCPD without incident and a report prepared for further investigation.

900 Baychester Avenue

A cooperator reported a confirmed delivered package was removed from his residence without his permission.

100 Alcott Place

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

920 Co-op City Blvd.

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

920 Co-op City Blvd.

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

140 Elgar Place

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

99 Einstein Loop

A cooperator reported returning to her parked vehicle in Garage 7 and observing an unknown individual had removed the catalytic converter without her permission.

June 24, 2023

120 Benchley Place

CCPD responded to a call of individuals on the roof. Upon arrival, four persons were observed on the roof who were guests of a shareholder in the building. Four Community Complaints were issued to the shareholder hosting the guests as shareholders are responsible for the actions of persons they invite into buildings.

legal fireworks throughout the five boroughs. It is illegal to use or purchase fireworks within the five boroughs of New York City even though it is legal in other counties in upstate New York. From a safety point of view, this is a wise choice by New York City with the intent of keeping residents safe. Even though you may see fireworks for sale in New York State’s upstate counties, do not be tempted to buy them and bring them into New York City.

Every year, the Macy’s fireworks show draws an estimated 3 million spectators annually, from rooftops and the river shorelines, and other nearby viewing points, and is the largest in the nation. Every year, these displays get larger and larger. Some of the new technologies include “neon pinwheels,” “pulsing hearts,” “swirling water fountains,” and “brocade horse tails.” This year, we can again experience Macy’s “pyrotechnic spectacle” with 60,000 shells launched off five barges on the East River.

While it is nice to see the fireworks live, in front your television provides the optimum viewing location with none of the hassle. The Macy’s 4th of July fireworks show will be broadcast on NBC, Channel 4 in the New York area. This might be the best option if you are not ready for large crowds. Utilize public transportation if traveling into NYC on this or any other high-profile day.

New York State is one of five states in which aerial and explosive fireworks are illegal for use by the public. The other four states are Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island. The number of states completely banning illegal fireworks increases every year as injuries increase. Rhode Island was the last state, which added itself to this list because of an indoor fireworks display, which resulted in the death of 100 people.

New York City put in effect a Zero Tolerance policy regarding the sale or use of illegal fireworks within the limits of New York City. Here in Co-op City, the Zero Tolerance laws are enforced by both the New York City Police Department as well as the Co-op City Department of Public Safety. Co-op City residents are also subject to receiving a Community Complaint if they are arrested by any police agency within the geographical confines of Co-op City.

Emergency rooms in the United States see an average of over 9,000 persons per year injured by illegal fireworks. A majority of fireworks-related injuries occur in the time just before and just after July 4. Injuries to children under the age of 15 represent more than one third of the injuries. Males sustain 75% of fireworks-related injuries. The most common body part injured by fireworks is the hands, followed by the eyes. Injuries include burns, contusions, lacerations, amputations and blindness.

The type of fireworks often thought to be safe is one of the leading causes of injuries. Seemingly harmless metal sparklers, with their over 1,000-degree white-hot burning wire, are the leading cause of injuries to children under five years of age. Injuries to hands, eyes or feet are the most common. Sparklers can ignite children’s clothing. Bottle rockets and firecrackers are responsible for a majority of fireworks injuries because they are commonly used. Every type of consumer firework has been associated with serious injury or death. Quality standards are non-existent on most consumer fireworks, which are generally mass-produced and imported from outside the United States.

(Continued on page 27)

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.

On June 7, 2023, eight board directors voted to not extend our current election. Thereafter, they boldly took out a full-page ad on page 12 in the June 17, 2023 edition of the Co-op City Times about this matter. Then, on June 24, 2023, some of these directors published viewpoints in the Co-op City Times to try to justify their actions. And, now, over 4,700 votes will not be counted for this election.

Wrong is Wrong

When we were growing up, we may have been placed in a variety of situations. And, within those situations, we may have encountered a variety of people. For instance, some of those people may have been teachers, leaders, neighbors, friends, etc. Therefore, a possible goal of being around those people was to teach us a variety of things—life. Then, hopefully, we could learn from them and make good decisions in our own lives.

Thereafter, we could easily determine when someone did something right. However, are we now willwhen people that we know have done something that we view is wrong?Now, the former determination might be easy. But, what do we say when some people have exhibited questionable conduct? Do we make a choice to ignore their actions? Or, can we stand up and say that their actions were wrong?

As reported in the Co-op City Times, there were

Lord, Please Help This Board

happen if those eight directors lost just one seat.

One opposing candidate that ran during this election was named Leah Graham. Previously, Leah was a big vote-getter when she was on the board before. could have won a seat on the board during this recent election? Absolutely!

Therefore, the majority of the directors knew that they would have to give up control of the board if they lost that one seat. And, they knew what would happen after they lost that one seat.

To start, they knew that we would stop a lot of nonsense and senseless spending that goes on here. For instance, what do you think about all of the annual carrying charge increases that we have received? Well, from my perspective, all of those increases

Example: Why do we have 900 employees plus outside contractors working here? Do you actually think that we can continue to afford this nonsense here? No! Therefore, we need to create a voluntary early retirement program so that we can reduce our payroll. Now, what about paying some contractors $18,000 just to restore a 1-bedroom apartment?

There was a broker that made over $230,000 just

ministering our claims. However, there were just a can go on and on about a lot of nonsense that goes on here. But, can you see why this election was so we could have stopped all of this nonsense if we had the majority vote?

easy. Therefore, based on all of the facts, can you see why those eight directors voted to not extend this election?

The Quorum

We need to get our politicians to change the Busiers will not be needed in a co-op board election.

The Riverbay Fund

Did you know that a resolution was previously created so that the Riverbay Fund could get $150,000 a year from your pockets? Do you have a group here? If yes, have you ever applied for or received any money from this Riverbay Fund? No? Why not? Wait until you read my next viewpoint.

Close

Did you know that only 21 percent of all regismayor? Now, did you hear any complaints about the other registered voters that did not vote? No! Why not? Look, you get the most votes, you win. No nonsense! We need this type of election here. Thank you.

Contact Information

Please send a letter to: Board Director Daryl 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.

Then, there were three other directors on our board that belonged to that group. Together, those eight di-

However, what about the other seven directors on the board? Well, we knew that we did not have the tion. Regardless, everyone knew exactly what would

their slate.

Bottom line: We could have paid $2,700 to extend this election. Thereafter, we could have received 299 that part was

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 son or is associated with me and asks you for money or anything else.

ful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Primary ––– (Continued from page 1)

Preliminary BOE data showed that District 12 had the highest voter turnout in the Bronx with

As for the Bronx District Attorney race, Darcel voters should be aware of the following registration

• Mail registration: application on or before October 28.

• In-person registration: Individuals must reg-

• Absentee Ballot: October 23 is the last day the BOE will accept any absentee ballot applications via mail, telefax or the absentee request portal.

• Absentee Ballot in-person: November 6 is the last day to apply for an absentee ballot in-person.

• Mailing an absentee ballot in: Absentee ballots must be postmarked by November 7 and arrive

The BOE has to receive any Military Voter Ballots on or before November 20.

• Delivering an absentee ballot in-person: November 7 is the last day an individual can deliver their absentee ballot in-person to their local BOE

REMEMBER:

Consumer reworks are ILLEGAL in NYC. Leave it to the professionals! Stay Safe!

Board of Directors’ Meeting - June 28, 2023

First Reading - Resolution #23-29

SUBMITTED BY: Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 28th, 2023

WHEREAS, the Power Plant is requesting approval for the installation of hardware and materials for the upgrade of the Gas Turbine Control Systems; and

WHEREAS, Siemens Energy will provide the system upgrades and installation work as they are the equipment manufacturer; and

WHEREAS, the installation upgrades will be completed in October 2023 during the Major Maintenance Outage; and

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract #3882 with Siemens Energy for $435,345.60 plus tax and a 10% contingency ($43,534.56) be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

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

Second Reading - Resolution #23-31

SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman

SECONDED BY: Andrea Leslie

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 28th, 2023

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department sent requests for proposals for Bid teen (16) garage elevators; and

WHEREAS,

WHEREAS, the bids were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager and Riverbay’s Elevator Consultant; and

WHEREAS, the Project Manager and Elevator Consultant have concluded that Champion Elevator is the lowest responsible bidder (see attached Management May 3, 2023); and

WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed to the full

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed Contract a cost of $7,100,827.50 and a 10% contingency $710,082.75 be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

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

YES: Coleman, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright

ABSENT: Cylich

PASSED

Emergency Resolution #23-35

SUBMITTED BY: Leslie Peterson

SECONDED BY: Leah Richardson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 28th, 2023

WHEREAS, companies for the emergency repairs of garage #5; and

WHEREAS, Riverbay initially received seven (7) proposals and then best and Project Engineer and Project Manager; and

WHEREAS, the Project Engineer and Project Manager recommends Starcel

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

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contal of $380,990.00 be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

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

YES: Coleman, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright

ABSENT: Cylich PASSED

Second Reading - Resolution #23-27

SUBMITTED BY: Jacqueline Smith

SECONDED BY: Bishop Angelo Rosario

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING: June 28th, 2023

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Riverbay Corporation (“the Corporation”) has a duty to ensure that monthly maintenance is paid on time by its shareholders, and that shareholders comply with the terms of their occupancy agreements; and

WHEREAS

Housing Court matters and such other proceedings as may be assigned by appearance and an hourly rate of $250 per hour for matters not covered by

WHEREAS

WHEREAS WHEREAS, there have been numerous changes in Housing Court procedures and fees since Riverbay entered into the 2004 Contract; and

WHEREAS Services retainer that, among other things, includes provisions consistent ance from $80 to $95, and increases the hourly rate from $250 to $275 an hour; and

WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves the Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 as amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution shall take effect as authorized to execute the contracts and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

VOTE TO TABLE

YES: Coleman, Feliciano, Johnson, Marbury, Peterson, Richardson, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright

NO: Lambright, Leslie, Rosario

ABSENT: Cylich

TABLED

Second Reading - Resolution #23-32

SUBMITTED BY: Andrea Leslie

SECONDED BY: Monique Coleman & Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: June 28th, 2023

WHEREAS, the Procurement Department sent requests for proposals

WHEREAS,

WHEREAS, the bids were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager and Riverbay’s Elevator Consultant; and

WHEREAS, the Project Manager and Elevator Consultant have concluded that Champion Elevator is the lowest responsible bidder (see attached Consultant memo dated May 3, 2023; and

WHEREAS, prior to voting on this Resolution, no Director has disclosed

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed $229,970.08 per month, with a maximum annual contract escalation of three percent (3%) be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Resolution #85-16 and as amended by Resolution #95-44 and #20-19;

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

YES: Coleman, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson

NO: Saunders, Smith, Watson

ABSTAIN: Peterson, Wright

ABSENT: Cylich PASSED

See page 10 for more Resolutions

Remaining Vigilant to Keep What is Ours

Everyone stumbles and falls, and what happens next determines recovery. Failing to reach a quorum after a 42-day voting period was not a new occurrence for us, but it hurts, nonetheless. Hosting annual elections and extending voting periods is expensive and discarding votes without counting them is wasteful.

As a point of comparison, the NYC 2023 Primary Election period was only ten days, including nine days of early voting and election day. NYC residents must travel to their polling place, while Co-op City shareholders have the choice to vote online or by mail.

Board directors who agree to create and vote on the policies that govern our community. The Board makes policy and protects the affordability of our community by minding our business and our budget. Voting in our annual election is the voice of the shareholder. Voting is how shareholders get their opinions heard. Choosing not to vote abdicates your voice and power.

This year’s voting period was May 1-May 26th, a week longer than last year’s voting period, which was May 1-May 20th. Despite adding a week to

Letters ––––– (Continued from page 6)

If one-third of eligible voters don’t vote... an adjourned meeting which shall be held within 20 days from the date of the meeting at which a quorum did not attend… 4

...an extension or a new election is held.

Section 4 (b) Voting on business transacted as part of a shareholders’ meeting ... Shall constitute attendance at such meeting. 5

Attendancemeans “voting” and vice versa.

Section 5. Voting (a) At all meetings of shareholders, all questions ... shall be determined by a vote of a majority of shareholders present ... except that voting for directors shall be plurality of those

Resolutions ––– (Continued from page 9)

Insurance Resolution #23-34

the voting period and then extending voting by 14 days until June 9th, a quorum was not achieved. Approximately 11,000 shareholders chose not to vote!

thing over and over and expecting a different result. To encourage election engagement, candidates have campaigned in writing, in person and distribachieving a quorum.

Failure to achieve a quorum means that the election is not valid and the votes cast are not counted. The current Board remains in place and continues for one more year. Based upon Riverbay Election Rules, the Board chose not to extend the voting period for a second time. This means that next year our elecFamilies fight and do not always agree with each other, but ultimately stick together. Our failed election was a stumble, but what we do next will determine our future. As a community, we have many priorities, but our ultimate goal is to maintain affordable housing for current and future shareholders. Shareholders have many opportunities to show-up: they may participate in open Board meetings, committees, and elections.

Let’s remember Co-op City is a private, desirable

voting… 6

At all shareholder meetings, 50% plus one, of those present, wins, except for Board elections which require a plurality. Plurality means that the most votes wins, but only within the rules of the election. The rules regardingBoard elections state that one-third of eligible voters must vote to reach an election-validating quorum.

Which we did not accomplish.

So, unless 25% of eligible shareholders wish to force the issue, this election is over.

Where is it written? It’s in there.

––Mary Pearson

SUBMITTED BY: Monique Coleman & Kevin Lambright

SECONDED BY: Lynette Wright & Michelle Marbury

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING: June 28, 2023

WHEREAS

Side “A” Excess Difference in Conditions (DIC) Policy both expire June 30, 2023; and

WHEREAS, the expiring Executive Blended Liability Policy ($5 Million Aggregate Limit for each policy) was with Federal Insurance Company (Chubb) for a premium of $346,755.00 and the expiring D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy (Single $5 Million Aggregate Limit) was with Argonaut Insurance Company for a premium of $66,484.00 for a total combined premium of $413,239.00; and

WHEREAS, the Director of Riverbay’s Risk Management, after instructing York International, Riverbay’s

ommends placing the Executive Blended Liability Policy with Federal Insurance Company (Chubb) for a renewal premium of $290,295.00 and placing the D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy with Argonaut Insurance Company for a renewal premium of $55,600.00 for a combined total premium of $345,895.00, a premium decrease of $67,344.00 (16.30%) for the renewal policy period 6/30/23 to 6/30/24.

WHEREAS of interest as required by NY Business Corporation Law Section 713.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board approves placing the Executive Blended Liability Policy with Federal Insurance Company (Chubb) for a renewal premium of $290,295.00 and placing the D&O Side “A” Excess DIC Policy with Argonaut Insurance Company for a renewal premium of

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately.

YES: Coleman, Feliciano, Johnson, Lambright, Leslie, Marbury, Peterson, Richardson, Rosario, Sampson, Saunders, Smith, Watson, Wright

ABSENT: Cylich

PASSED

community. Our most important asset is our property. Other communities like Starrett City and have led to their purchase by investors, endangering their future as affordable housing communilonger affordable and the NYC Rent Guidelines Board has mandated an increase for one- and twoyear rental leases making affordable housing less affordable. It is clear that the affordable housing stock is shrinking every day. Developers and other real estate professionals view our disengagement as an opportunity and we must remain vigilant to keep what is ours.

Like many, I am excited to be working with our new Executive General Manager, Marvin L. Walton, who comes to us with broad, deep property management experiences that will contribute to our success.

Our Co-op City family must remain strong, remember our higher purpose and do the work. We stumbled, but we can get up. Let’s remember Maya Angelou’s inspiring poem, “Still I Rise.” Get involved.

Have a Happy 4th of July and thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be reached at mcoleman@ riverbayboard.com

B-Townhouse Terrace Covering

To the Editor:

June 20, 2023, CSO sent a letter to Broun Pl. B Townhouse residents regarding removal of “terrace covers.” At the June 13th Buildings and Grounds meeting, the CSO director promised to make contact if any inspection of Broun Place was scheduled. But this letter came as a surprise. Why this action was initiated is unknown. This distribution was the a problem. No complaint about our terrace had been received prior. The apartment was accepted with it in 1996. It insulates, provides privacy, reduces animals and insects and stuff blown, but was never considered decoration or an enhancement or covering. Mine is not the only unit with the webbing. If they were against regulations, why weren’t we reminded before our move-in in 1996?

Additionally, CSO never alerted us, long-time shareholders, of a problem or about enforcement of the terrace webbing that has been our protection for decades. Then these very strongly worded and threatening letters were generated.

So far, only Broun Place and Adler Place have gotten letters. Why haven’t the other clusters and high-rise apartments, where many shareholders letters? Why haven’t all B-townhouse residents gotten a letter? They too have added stuff to their terraces. Shouldn’t this be a community issue with the opportunity to offer amendments to the Occupancy Agreement? Why all of a sudden?

Years ago, terraces were renovated by Riverbay, no one said to remove the insulating webbing. Why weren’t we brought up to speed, reminding us this regulation is to be upheld? How can we be held responsible for something we didn’t install? Our “webbed tape” was there before 1996. No one advised us that the webbed tape around the terrace Agreement, Rules and Regulations.

Why weren’t we given the opportunity to discuss known, e.g., pigeon guards, making the space more livable for shareholders paying ½ more a room. This can’t be a done deal.

—Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

Board ––– (Continued from page 5)

tips, he could look into it but expressed some doubt that the size of the opening that goes into the riser can be increased, to which Director Rosario indicated that it can be done with a reducer, which Mr. Jakaj acknowledged, pointing out, however, that the goal is to make the condensate drain pan itself larger in volume so shareholders will have more buffer time to address the situation when the sensor goes off.

“That would make sense because you have about an inch right now and you’re probably going to get about 3 inches or more so that would help the situation,” Director Rosario observed. He also asked if the new units would result in any cost savings for the corporation and shareholders in that there would be no need current units?

Mr. Jakaj explained that the pressure capacity of the new coils exceed 200 psi which is well within the pressure range that Riverbay sends water out to the buildings.

Director Rosario also asked if the coil needs changing, if it can be isolated or if the entire unit has to be replaced? Management informed the Board that the answers to these questions would be forthcoming at the next meeting.

Mr. Walton reiterated that the 8,000 btu unit provided by the vendor for testing was a free, base model. The larger unit, 12,000 btu, will be where Management

dressed. He also pointed out that the 8,000 btu base model being used in the current test would cost approximately $800-$900. Coils for the current convectors cost around $600 to replace. Mr. Walton cautioned that the $800-$900 for the 8,000 btu unit is the base cost, without any additions, and the cost would increase once want to continue to test it out,” he said. “When we receive the 12,000 btu unit, it’s going to have what we desire in it and then we’ll see what the cost is, and the cost could go up to $1,000, it could go up to $1,200. We’re not sure yet, but when we get to that point, … it would be nice if several of the Board members could visit with us and we’ll be happy to open up the model unit so you could see it. We’re not there yet, but we’re on our way.”

Director Rosario also asked about the weight of the new unit compared to the weight of the convectors currently in place.

size of the model apartment is a one-bedroom before asking how Management will compare a one bedroom with a three bedroom when installing a unit that draws

Mr. Walton reminded the Board that the units are still in the testing phase. “Phase 1, we get thumbs up. Once we get to phase 2, then we get the 12,000, it works, then we’ll move to a larger apartment and do some of the same testing before we come back and say, hey, here’s a recommendation,” said Executive make the recommendation that we are only proposing at this point to just replace the unit in the living room in apartments. We are going to pilot this project with the units where the most frequent leaks have happened. They could be one-bedroom, two-bedrooms, three-bedrooms, and we’ll use those to test. We still don’t know whether we are going to make the suggestion to replace them all because the cost will drive up to replace all the convectors in apartments, or just concentrate on the living room and put it there because … we did do a study to see that most of the leaks are occurring in the living room so that was our rationale behind it to really focus on the living room if the cost goes too high. At least we’ll still have something but we’ll come back here. This is why we are keeping the dialogue open so we can talk and discuss and we’re going to make a combined decision based on all the data.”

Director Kevin Lambright expressed that in the past, there were problems getting certain parts to complete repairs on the current convectors installed in Co-op City homes. “The unit that we are getting now, are some of the parts going to be interchangeable in the future? Are they exclusive only to one particular company? Of, if there are repairs in the future or parts needed down the road, will our corporation be able to purchase from other companies or make some of the parts that will be needed like we have in the past?”

Mr. Walton said he will have an answer to this question at the Board’s July 12th meeting.

Board Director Leslie Peterson said that she asked a similar question at the Construction Committee meeting held the previous night. Nevertheless, directing her question to Assistant General Manager Warren Mitchell, she queried, “When they were talking about the sensors and changing of the valves, that we would prototype and put all the bells and whistles in the convector in the model apartment, is that accurate?”

Mr. Mitchell responded: “What we’re looking to do when it comes to that, … we were thinking about reverse engineering also because we don’t want to get bit different because Bernie [Board Director Cylich] had a valve on our existing as Marvin said, out to engineer this unit, it’s going to have that built in already.tion we’re going to give this manufacturing company. We need it to do this, we’re us to change the coil in that outlet, that’s what he was showing.”

Director Wright asked if at the next meeting, Management could provide a long-term view of what this project is looking like including phases, contingencies, metrics used to be able to determine when and how to move forward. Mr. Walton agreed that Directors will receive a blown out scope of the project with

item #4 which, at this point, appears to be the most promising prospect among the systems being tested, he said. Director Wright said she was also interested in be added in the later phases.

Director Monique Coleman questioned how shareholders are going to pay for the convector project. “A lot of our discussion in the past have said that to replace our convector system would cost us $250M. How much are we projecting that this could cost our community and where are we going to get the money?” she inquired.

Mr. Walton offered: “It is a little premature for the question but I’ll tell you

Fargo and HUD will hold us to that money being spent on convectors unless we going to take to replace everyone’s convectors. Remember what I said, we’re in a test mode. The recommendation may come back that hey, we can’t do every single convector, but if our rationale works where we are able to reduce down the amount of humidity in the air by putting a better unit in the living room, then maybe we do one per apartment. Too early to call it because we don’t know how many convectors $42M will get us… But we have some time because again, this is not something Management is going to do in the dark. This is going to be something Management and the Board are partnering with along with the shareholders cause we’re going to keep them in the loop … especially if we get to that phase that it’s a go; everything has been a go thus far, we’ve got green lights…”

Director Michelle Marbury asked if additional hires are going to be made since Riverbay’s manpower is currently at a low level, and if they will be trained exclusively for this project?

“Not there yet; I can tell you this, the installation, … is about one and half days to install and we used that with the existing staff with no training,” stated Executive General Manager Walton. “However, to your point, if we get to that point where we make the decision here that we are going to replace 15,000 convectors, onements as well, then we would have enough data to make that determination but right now, we want to get the green light that this is going to work completely in our environment and once we get there, as she [Director Wright] stated she hasucation piece to the shareholders and on the inside, what are we going to do from a manpower perspective because if we get all green lights and it’s time to install, we have to develop a plan because that’s not something we can do overnight so I understand your point, … we’ll have it all itemized out the next time we meet.”

Moving on to the next item on the agenda, Board President Feliciano introduced Director Green-Watson who spearheaded the Ad Hoc In-Kind Committee of the Board also composed of Directors Cylich and Marbury, to look into In-tion and Board discussion can be viewed on the broadcast of the June 28th Board meeting on the Crawler beginning on Tuesday, July 4, along with the Board mem-

Congratulations to the Graduates – “Your whole life’s an education that has only just begun.” (Joanna Fuchs) Graduation is such a beautiful time for students and parents. One chapter of life ends and a new one begins. Now, it’s time to move forward. “You are the master of your fate, You are the captain of your soul.” (Amended from Invictus) Elections: Recently, I wrote the following expressing how dismayed I was with the recent Board vote that took place not to extend the Riverbay Board election. I do want to thank all those who did take the time to participate in the democratic process, I want to thank those who heeded our request urging you to vote and for friends and neighbors you may have contacted to vote. Please do not let this discourage you from exercising your civic duty going forward, but instead, use it as a catalyst to do better. Your vote does matter!

For the past couple of weeks, I have been reading various stories consisting of explanations, narratives, suppositions and numerous spins on the situation surrounding the recent Board Director Election. I believe the explanations are not resonating with the shareholders, consequently, going in another direction in an attempt to malign various policy decisions made by Directors while also making it appear that policies presented by Management that initiated improvements in the complex were decided by a certain group, and not collectively as a Board.

You will read variations and statements that ultimately incriminate the shareholders for not voting but what you haven’t heard is why, with fewer votes needed to reach quorum than in past extensions, the vote was stopped by eight Directors before a second extension. Where was the Directors’ as opposed to discarding money already spent on the election? By the way, this new process we are using to vote that appears to be burdensome to them now, was introduced by many of the eight Directors who voted to halt it now.

cumbents were well aware that if one of them lost, it could possibly change the balance of power on the Board.

Public Retirees’ Medicare: The Retirees Organization is suggesting you contact your Council person to support the Retirees’ position and sign onto the Bill recently introduced by Councilman Charles Barron. There are currently 12 Council people who have signed on in support of the retirees. The Bill is a Local Law to amend the Administrative Code of the city of New York, in relation to protecting the health care choice of retired employees of the city of New York. If you agree, let your Council person know.

At the recent rally, the NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees with members of all different unions from all different agencies from all over the city of New York, called a press conference to announce they stand behind the Council people who support and are co-sponsors of the Bill –1099 Charles Barron introduced. The Bill introduced has two sentences. This bill would require the City to offer Medicare-eligible city retirees and their Medicare-eligible dependents at least one Medigap

Your Vote Matters

available to city retirees and their dependents as of December 31, 2021. The bill would not impair employee organizations from negotiating terms and conditions of employment for their employee members. It was reported that the DC 37 Union Leader has threatened to withhold donations to any elected Council work for us!

The Public Retirees Organization advised the the matter now is in the hands of the judge. The judge is going to review everything and hopefully, right after July 4th but before July 10th, they expect

to hear from the judge advising them of the date he will have the hearing. It will be an in-person hearing and the third determination that will advise us what to do with this opt-out/waiver of your beneshould be sending a thank you note, in your own words, for what he (Councilman Barron) did introducing the Bill.

When you have decided what you believe, what you feel must be done, have the courage to stand alone and be counted.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

I am pleased to be of service to the community. I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com.

Last Saturday, June 24, the weather held up, the sun came out for the Annual Section 2 Summer Fun Day where Co-op City families enjoyed a day outdoors and good wholesome fun. This year’s Fun Day featured exciting new events which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. In addition to the NYPD Mobile Game Truck, Hidden Gems Archery, and 40Plus Double Dutch Group, NYC EMT Fire Department personnel were on hand for CPR training.

The always-entertaining Juan Ortega, the one-man Salsa orchestra, and the City South Steel Drum Orchestra entertained the crowd as did DJ Sid Nice. Special thanks to the American Legion Post 1871 Color Guard and Commander Antonio Codrington and Lloyd Edmundson; and to City Councilman Kevin Riley, Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark and State Assemblyman Michael Benedetto for taking time to attend and address the audience.

Section 2 Fun Day organizers thank the sponsors of this event: Councilman Riley, NYC Department of Youth and Community Development, Assemblyman Benedetto, Bob’s Discount Furniture, McCall’s Funeral Home, Attorney Stephen Kaufman, Riverbay Corporation Community Relations, Riverbay Fund, CCPD and NYPD Community Affairs and FDNY. A special shout-out to the building presidents of Section 2 who worked tirelessly to make this event a success.

Photos by Leslie Peterson, Sid Watson, Jewel Crawford-Duncan and Leah Richardson

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, U.S. 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 in Greenbelt, MD; and of course, 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

National Council of Negro Women

payment due August 1. PayPal payment via 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.

Paint & Sip – Our last fundraising event of the month was a Paint & Sip at Confetti Paints, located at 3190 Westchester Avenue, Bronx, 10461 on June 25. The guests had a fabulous time exploring artistic talents they did not know they had and enjoying an afternoon of fun, snacks and camaraderie.

Independence Day 2023 – Independence Day, also known as Fourth of July, is a federal holiday observed yearly on July 4 (not the closest MonDeclaration of Independence of the United States

of America from Great Britain in 1776. On July 2, the legal separation of the Thirteen Colonies from Great Britain occurred, when the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence that had been proposed by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia. Two days later, its delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, an historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin. Coincidentally, both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, the only signers of the Declaration of Independence later to serve as presidents of the United States, died on the same day: July 4, 1826, which was the 50th anniversary of the Declaration.

Social Media –our website: www.ncnwcoopcitysection.com: on Facebook : NCNWCoopcityBethune; Twitter :@ NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

––Joyce Howard

Co-op City Times Photo Submission Process

When submitting club articles with pictures to the Co-op City Times, please DO NOT EMBED the picture/s in the Word document. Rather, send the actual picture/s as an attachment along with the Word document for proper print reproduction.

Images should be 300 DPI.

All submissions must be emailed to: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

Thank you.

WHISTLEBLOWER ANONYMOUS HOTLINE

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

Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Send an e-mail to: reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

NCNW display their art from their Paint & Sip event

American Legion Post 1871

Pursuant to the last General Membership meeting before our summer recess, Post 1871 was an active participant in the commencement of Co-op City Section 2 Summer Fun Day 2023 Pop-Up Picnic community-united event. Subsequently, as a continuation of our 2023 Pledge Drive, for the sustenance of our Post, we traveled to Manhattan to accept a generous contribution from Past Commander Jerome L. Rice.

On June 24 in Co-op City, we provided Color Guard representation during the playing of our “National Anthem” at the commencement of the event. Pictured left, Tiny Wood, the event manager, flanked by Legionnaires Edmonson (left) and Codrington (right).

In upper Manhattan later that same day, Commander Codrington and Service Officer Davis accepted a generous donation from M.W. Grand Lodge of New York F.A.A.Y.M.P.H.O., led by Hon. Grand Master Jerome L. Rice. Our Post was honored to attend the charity donation portion of their 67th June session entitled, “Restoring Integrity, Respect, Faith & Charity to the Craft,” commemoration (photo below). Pictured above left are Legionnaires Codrington and Davis, flanked at right by Grand Master Rice, and to the left, Mary A. Brown, Past Grand Worthy Matron accepting the Charity Donation, and US Armed Forces Veterans who are members of this fellowship, and also in attendance.

Upcoming Events

Today, as you continue your summer break, mark your calendar to attend one of the days of the 105th Departmental Convention to be held in Westchester County from July 17-23. Contact us for further information. Your Post-designated delegates Feliciano and Davis are available for any further information you may require participating in this annual convention.

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

Building 19 Association

Hello, Building 19 family. Happy first full week of summer. Like school students, Building 19 Association will be on summer break now until September. So, there will be no committee or general meetings during the July-August period.

I want to thank those who attended our June 16 general meeting. I also want to thank our Guest Speaker, Lynda E. Morfe of Neighborhood SHOPP, for her presentation about her organization and the services that it provides to Bronxites. She described some of the free resources that Neighborhood SHOPP offers its clients, especially senior citizens, such as its Caregivers Program and Violence Intervention & Prevention (VIP) Elder Justice Program. For those who are interested in learning more about the various services of Neighborhood SHOPP, you can call 718-542-0006. On a separate note, I want to congratulate our member, Carmen Ramos, for winning the 50/50 raffle that was held during the General Meeting.

As I mentioned at the General Meeting, the Association plans to address the ongoing problem of undelivered packages with recipients’ apartment numbers left in the lobby by a particular delivery company by sending a complaint email. If anyone sees an undelivered package by the company of concern in the lobby, please take a picture of it and the label clearly showing the recipient’s name, address, and apartment number and email it to me at leontulton@yahoo.com. The Association will include photos with the complaint email to the company to emphasize the undelivered package problem.

Finally, the Association will be holding a fundraiser Bake Sale on October 7 from 12 p.m.-3 p.m. in the lobby. Please save the date. If you are interested in helping by either volunteering or donating a baked item, please contact me. Have an enjoyable summer and stay safe.

Safe Bicycling in New York City

The NYC Department of Transportation advises that bicyclists have all the rights and are subject to all the duties applicable to drivers of motor vehicles. This includes obeying all traffic signals, regulating signs and pavement markings. Bicycle riding is permitted on arterial and local streets throughout the city even though no designated route exists. Bicycle riding is prohibited on the roadways of certain bridges, expressways and highways. Often a separate path exists on these facilities for bicycles.

Shareholders of Co-op City are reminded that there are restrictions on crossing sidewalks. Bicycles should not be ridden on sidewalks unless signs allow or wheels are less than 26 inches in diameter and the rider is twelve or younger. Bicycles ridden on sidewalks may be confiscated and riders may be subject to legal sanctions.

IMPORTANT NOTICE To Clubs, and Religious and Community Organizations

The deadline for submission of articles from clubs, religious institutions and community organizations is 5 p.m. each MONDAY. Articles received after this deadline will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis, and as space allows. The deadline for Directors’ viewpoints is 5 p.m. on MONDAYS Submissions can be emailed to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com, or dropped off to Room 21, Bartow Center.

Mattress Disposal

The City of New York requires all residents to fully cover all mattresses or box springs in a sealed plastic bag for garbage disposal and collection. This rule was intended to prevent the spread of any bed bug activity.

Please note that mattresses that are infested by bed bugs must first be exterminated prior to covering for disposal. Please contact your respective CSO for an appointment with the exterminator. This is a free service provided by Riverbay Corporation.

Under the rule, failure to place a mattress or box spring in a proper bag will result in a $100 fine imposed by the City. In addition, Co-op City residents who violate this rule may be subject to a Community Complaint with related fines and legal fees. (The City of New York and Riverbay do not provide mattress or box spring bags or covers.)

Plastic bags to cover mattresses and box springs are available at department stores, home improvement centers and large moving companies. They can also be purchased online.

Please follow this rule when disposing of mattresses and/or box springs.

These covered items are then to be brought to the basement Ash Cart room where they will be picked up for proper trash collection.

Thank you for your attention and cooperation in this matter.

––Leon Tulton

Building 19 Association President Leon Tulton (L) presenting guest speaker Lynda E. Morfe, Outreach & Digital Coordinator of Neighborhood SHOPP, with a certification of appreciation for speaking about her organization and services it provides.

Good Day, Co-op City, During the past several months, I have been chairing the Election Committee with fellow shareholders Kenneth Graham and Blossom John. Both are passionate about the community participation we have from residents and shareholders, and recognize that this participation is what keeps us functioning and thriving. They are also dedicated to increasing the local votership, and understand that voting is the foundation of having a presence. I am thankful to with me and undertaking a huge task.

However, the Committee’s work was prematurely stopped when, in an unprecedented occurrence, shareholders were denied a second extension. Never in Co-op City history has quorum not been completely, if not surpassed. Based on the trends that we were seeing, we felt positive that quorum could have been achieved within two (2) weeks considering that we had 91% of the shareholders needed to meet the minimum requirement, consistent with prior years. My feeling is voting “No” was a misinformed decision. No discussion was allowed during the Board meeting when Emergency Resolution 2330 was presented. The only question that a director attempted to ask was denied by Board leadership. The swiftness of the vote and the lack of opportunity for discussion made the vote seem premediated. Regardless, my opinion is that not extending the election is a massive disrespect for every shareholder who made an attempt to vote, or even considered it. It diminishes the faith that shareholders have in the Board to reinforce that their voice matters. How can we represent shareholders’ interest if Board members have made it clear that shareholders’ voice play no role in how we live?

From my perspective, there are many reasons achieving quorum is a challenge: unaddressed subletting, lack of faith in the Board for not focusing on shareholders’ complaints, antiquated communication methods, etc. However, I assure you that

was not impossible to reach quorum, and at the last moments, these weren’t barriers that would have impacted 299 shareholders from voting. Our most pressing issue to immediately meet quorum was money, accountability and coordination. We are consistently tasked with selecting the lowest bid of for an election service bidding process to see if there were more vendors interested than a pre-made list we previously used. Although about nine vendors expressed interest, we received a response from only two. Please note that there are not many election vendors that service New York and we, as an establishment, have many requirements: large scale paper ballot printing and mailing/distribution which many servicers no longer do as electronic voting manpower requirements for receiving ballot, tally-vice demands, etc. Our size and needs may be intimidating to some bidders, overall.

the lowest bidder offered a contract not to exceed $30,000, while the second bidder offered a $48,000

poration, a budget that the former Executive General Manager described as having “no fat,” and an extremely tight timeline, I did not ask the Board for more money where I knew there was none. Therefore,

since 2017 and that I personally had some concerns with based on my experience as a candidate last year and as chair of the Election Committee this year.

I received the excuse that “shareholders are tired” from some directors as their reason for stopping the election. Up until the day we voted on the extension, some shareholders continued contacting our Legal department by phone and in person to assist with getting misplaced or unreceived ballots. Interest was still decent, but the multi-step task of receiving a

paper ballot, or electronic ballot information, remained, in my opinion, to be as much of an issue as it had been in past elections when shareholders would request either electronic or paper ballots and would not receive them in time. Shareholders were of the election. This resulted in a surge of 133 electronic votes in one night, the third highest number of electronic votes for this season. We were 94% towards accomplishing quorum. I do not believe that this is an indication of shareholders being “tired.”

Honestly, I agree that shareholders are tired, but my colleagues need to complete the sentence. They’re tired of broken campaign promises of things being different every term. They’re tired of having unmet needs of cooperative living. They’re tired of the lack of accountability that the Board holds Management to when service departments’ quality expectations aren’t met and continue to deteriorate. They’re tired of the Board’s lack of transparency, for which a few of us have advocated for but have been met with resistance. When I hear that some shareholders are boycotting the elections, we need to look in the mirror of how the Board, past and present, has continued to erode the trust that shareholders have in this leadership entity. Stopping this election within any trust that people had left in why they should continue to engage. I’m sure holding the June 28th Board meeting at which shareholders were not allowed to voice their anger that their vote didn’t matter and we wasted $30,000 on an election contract that would have been the same if we did nothing at all, only causes more damage. This isn’t an issue of integrity to the people who put us in this position.

As always, please feel free to contact me via email at lwright@riverbayboard.com or at 2049 Bartow Avenue, Attention: Board Liaisons, Bronx, NY 10475. My apologies to those to whom I still owe a response. I’ll be working on addressing you expeditiously.

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry (Free) – 920 Baychester Ave., Bldg. 1A (entrance

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.ping cart. Please do not bring black shopping bags because black ink can transfer to the food, posing a health hazard. We require masks and physical distancing. Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-1 guests has ended. Please check back to 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

Broun Place Townhouse Association

Dear neighbors, a letter was received from “Home Protection Direct, Home Warranty Division.” This is a bait, a way to get you to call Home Protection Direct. Do not do it. It says it is warning you that your property’s home warranty is expiring. There is no such thing for us. It is a gimmick trying to get you to make a purchase and sign up for a policy that supposedly covers you for home repairs. Do not fall for this hoax.

Next advice, neighbors, keep up on checking your credit card activity. Every few days, review your accounts and follow-up if you think there is suspicious activity. I missed a couple of days. When I checked, my balance had tripled to look like an alternate delivery address. At this time, a police report has been

Broun Place and Adler Place B Townhouses have received a letter from and railings on our balconies “upgrades, coverings, installations without per-

stalling, these installations are for insulation and protection. Prior, we have never been asked or told to remove the webbing. A meeting to discuss has been called.

We recommend that you read your Directors’ viewpoints and attempt to un-

This behavior of apathy is going to destroy what should be a democracy. We should be able to debate, discuss and compromise in order to live in our unique middle-income community.

Association committee is seeking Broun Place residents to serve on our executive board. The secretary’s position and member-at-large are open. Please do not leave bags of clothes on dumpster pads or next to recycling bins. Items for recycling belong in the blue or pink bins in the front and rear of and blue are for all other house garbage. Mattresses are required to be covered. Communicate your issues to us.

––Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

our aim. This is not always practicable, particularly if a delivery arrives in the middle of a service. The staff is in charge of unloading those things; they have to move faster, it is not helpful. Additionally, it is risky for everyone when visitors obstruct workers emptying pallets. Three thousand pounds of food to un-

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.

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:

––D. Illis

Building 21 Association

Great News!

The next Building 21 Association meeting will be held in our gathering room in Building 21B in the back of the lobby. Yes, we will be returning to live in-person meetings in September! We want to thank all of you for continuing your

September will be our Executive General Manager, Marvin Walton. But wait, there is more! Some wonderful new innovative things are coming. That is right, we will be revisiting our rewards program with members winning cash prizes of $300/$200 and $100. Yes, it is going to be super exciting! Stay tuned for details. Advanced hint: You should wear your Section 4 Partnership shirt along with having your Building 21 Association dues paid when you attend Tunes on Tuesdays this summer.

Always stay plugged in

Find a group or organization that suits you. Join the African-American Association of Co-op City, or the Spanish American Club, or one of the numerous clubs and organizations of this community and always stay plugged in to your Building Association. Information on these groups can be found in this newspaper each week.

Floor Captains on Each Floor – In Every Building

All we ask of anyone kind enough to be a Floor Captain is as follows:

1. Contact Numbersbers and distribute to each neighbor

2. Co-op City Times

3. Elevator Notices

4. Promote

5. Encourage Your Neighbors to •

That’s all we ask! That is it!

If you have questions regarding the Building 21 Association, you have three ways of gaining information: email: 21association@gmail.com, month. We will resume our meetings in September.

Thank you for your participation.

––Kevin Lambright

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

The Summer Youth Intergenerational Tech Program begins July 5 until

Save the date: COME’s 17th Annual Family Caregiver Gala will take family caregiver to be recognized for their dedication in caring for a loved one. Zoom lenge” will resume in September.

––Diane Cooper

BY FRANK MAYES

I Believe in America

He holds us in his hands, he blesses all our lands, We must have been a special part of all his plans, We pray he’s always there for you and me. I believe in America, I believe in all the stars and stripes, I believe in all the songs we sing about how freedom rings for all our different types.

I believe in all the rivalry, it’s a part of all our history I believe that every boy and girl could make a different world cause it’s their destiny.

I believe for every one that hates there’s always two that makes the love that’s felt by one and all.

I believe for all the empty hearts that make another start

I believe in the highest mountain, all the land from sea to sea, every road it takes from the Golden Gate to the Statue of Liberty.

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

Open Doors, Open Hearts, and Open Minds. Come and Visit Us – We are a multi-ethnic and bilingual, spiritual growth, fellowship, and service to God and our community Services

Zoom Facebook Live

We know for a fact that God is a God of changes. As a result, change will hap because the uncertainty that comes with change leads us to feel that we do not that God is in control and has individual purposes for all of us in His eternal plan. His love for us, and His promises. He promised that all things will work together for good for those who love Him and keep His commandments. As we go through changes, we must remember that just as He did for the Israelites, God wants to is up to us to make a choice and follow His lead, to believe in His Word, and to trust in His plan for us as individuals, as a church, and as a world. So, let’s wel come the changes as we stand on His promises, and acknowledge that He will Come and Receive a Blessing

New Worship Schedule starting July 2, 2023: invited to have Communion.

Zoom

Upcoming Events – Save the dates. All are welcome! Sunday, July 2 – Join us for lunch after service to welcome our new Pastor, Dave Jolly,

––G. Abadia

If you believe in America, you believe in you and me.

Building 22A&B Association

Dog Owners:

Do Not throw food off your terraces for the birds, or you will receive a Compactor Rooms: If you know who is not following the instructions for Laundry Room Etiquette: Fabric softener sheets should be picked up and Please remove your clothes from the washers and driers promptly as others are

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 the Black Mission Statement – The intention of the African-American Association of Co-op City is to elevate the inhabitants of the community to their greatest po-awareness, training classes, programs, educational scholarships, and social ac-ating a smart community, taking advantage of technological advances that will

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 You can Zelle us your payment to become a member using our The

Upcoming AAACC Meeting & Events

September 15 –

September 17 – Field Trip, African-American Day Parade

October 15 –

November 19 –

December 9 – Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration (with the Coalition of African-

The AAACC sponsors the following programs for your participation: Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena, Co-op City Baptist Church “Gospel Line Dancers” w/ Joyce Smith –

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

––Michelle Marbury

Let us know…

Building 13 Association

Congratulations, Graduates: Your community of family and friends wish

Congratulations to you and your parents on your outstanding achievement! First and foremost, I must take this moment to thank the director of Parking -

Thank you to all who sent prayers to the rain gods and attended the awegloomy outside but we pushed forward and the weather was on our side with

Codrington and Lloyd Edmundson for serving our country and opening up our -

This fun-filled day is made possible by our Councilman Kevin Riley, Department of Youth and Community Development, Assemblyman Michael Kaufman, Riverbay Corporation Community Relations, Riverbay Fund, CCPD Reminder:

FYI:

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

––Leslie Peterson

––Betty Leak

If you have news you’d like to share with your neighbors, please email us: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Building 25 Association

To all, have a safe and Happy 4th of July!

To be clear, graduates in Building 25 of all ages are welcome to submit their information. 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 July a happy birthday, and 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.

Due to our summer break, our next Building Association meeting will be held September 19 at 7:30 p.m. Look out for detailed information posted near elevators as we 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 contacting the building email address, please let us know.

We will close with the following: the sunshine.” –Mario Fernández

––Wanda Bailey

Building 10 Association

Greetings, fellow cooperators.

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

General Membership Meeting – The Building 10 Association would like to thank our Guest Speaker, Vanessa Aldea, director of CSO, for answering our questions.

Section 2 Summer Fun Day – A great time was had by all at the Section 2 Summer Fun Day. Looking forward to next year. Hope to see you there.

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 10 Association via email at Building10Assoc@gmail.com. We are also on Facebook happenings in and around Building 10.

We would like to wish all who are born in 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

Building 1 Association

Good day, shareholders.

The next Building 1 Association meeting will take place on September 20.

The Building 1 Association and all shareholders who were in attendance on May 21 during the General Meeting would like to extend a wonderful thank you to Executive General Manager Marvin Walton for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with shareholders and answer all questions.

Summer 2023 has arrived. Enjoy the weather and be safe.

Once again, congratulations to all students who have graduated from pre-K through college.

Also, congratulations and much success to all students who were promoted to the next grade level. A special congratulations to all young people who will be working with the Summer Youth Employment program starting in July. My words of encouragement to you are:

1. Be sure to arrive to work on time every day.

2. Remember that your attitude will determine your altitude.

3. Please, at all times, conduct yourself in a professional manner.

Once a month in July and in August, Building 1 will be conducting a Bake Sale. The monetary proceeds will go towards holiday decorations for Building 1AB. ––Desiree Scurry

Building 20 Association

Dear Building 20 friends and neighbors,

Thanks to everyone who attended the Building 20 Association meeting on June 15. Our Executive General Manager, Mr. Marvin Walton, spoke to us about how he plans to move forward in the leadership of this cooperative, working in partnership with the Riverbay Board of Directors, the shareholders and Management. Attorney Jeffrey Buss, Esq. was also present to update us on the Riverbay Board of Directors elections and the importance of voting. They responded to all of our questions.

My special thanks is extended to the members of our executive board, including Laverne Hamilton, vice president and chairperson of the special projects committee; Sylvia Lewis, recording secretary and chairperson of the recreation committee; and Yvonne Mitchell, sergeant-at-arms and chairperson of the Clean-up Committee. It is because of them that we were able to accomplish as much as we did. We are proud of our accomplishments and will list them on the Building 20 bulletin boards.

our elections and assisting us in times of need.

We will break for the summer and look forward to seeing you at our next meeting on September 20 at 7:00 p.m.

Have a great summer!

––Francine Jones

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, so 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 contacted the CSO and received no results as to your needs, please contact the Association via phone numbers listed in each bulletin board in our three buildings. Also, it is important to always get the name, date and time you contacted someone.

Congratulations to Our Graduates – Enjoy your summer. It is well deserved and please stay alert and be safe.

Summer Programs – At Section 5 Teen Center, register now for ages 13-ness, Double Dutch, game night, Karaoke and Pinterest projects. Very interesting and exciting programs are right here in our own community. Location is 141 Einstein Loop. For more information, contact 718-671-2655.

Co-op City Farmers Market – The Farmers Market will be at Asch Loop through November 22.

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

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

––H. Overman

Coalition of African American Churches and Community Organizations

General Meeting

Our regularly scheduled General Meeting 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 that will span through the months of July and August.

Matters Arising:

So many issues were deliberated upon 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; the Juneteenth bus trip and other programs.

President Toba announced that Bartow Swingers became the newest member organization of the Coalition. The president of the Coalition, Dr. Oloruntoba, had paid a courtesy call to the group in one of their sessions in April at Bartow. To this, member organizations voted the group to join the Coalition. Thus, I say a big and hearty congratulations to Sharon, the leader of the group, for stepping up to be part of this group.

I want to say thank you to the other organizations that 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 has 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 of Co-op City, Inc. 135 Einstein Loop, Room 41, Bronx, NY 10475. Attention: A.L. Oloruntoba or Daisy Young.

Celebrating Juneteenth/Washington Bus trip

to travel to Washington, D.C. and others came from outside Co-op City to complement the vacancy 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. Potential 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, D.C. 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

Building 33 Association

Good morning, cooperators.

The Building 33 Association would like to thank all cooperators who attended the building meeting on June 22 with our invited guest, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton. As per Mr. Walton, “This is a new day at Riverbay and things are about to change!” We believe he is what we need to get Co-op City back to its original grandeur. What is most important is we all must be on the same page and do our part. You are owners here, not renters! Every inch of Co-op City belongs to us and we have to treat it as such! So please, stop thinking like this place does not belong to you because it does! And please, pick up the Co-op City Times every Saturday and read Mr. Walton’s message, and other articles to keep up with what is happening in your community.

Do you realize our electric bill is the highest bill we have? Those lights some of you are running on your terrace all year, we all are paying for that! Is it fair? No! Would you be running those lights if you owned a house and paid a bill every month? Probably not. Take your laundry down to the laundry room like everyone else. And what is it with the compactor rooms? There are notices on the wall explaining how the garbage is to be handled, and you still leave raw the worst! And we will not even talk about the voting debacle. All of you who did not vote should be ashamed. We really do not know what some of you are thinking, but you are not being a good neighbor.

I know you are thinking, all she does is complain. Well, when the complaints come to me, I have to relay them to you. Let us all do the right thing where no one has anything to complain about! How about that? Let us try it.

The Association would like to wish all of our shareholders who have birthdays in July a very happy birthday. With everything happening in the world today, yours. Also, enjoy your July 4th holiday. Hopefully, you will be able to picnic we are all praying for you. If there is something you need and the Association can help, contact us at amayo14033@gmail.com.

Take care everyone and walk good!

––Andrea D. Mayo

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 15 at 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.

“NAACP New York State Conference President Hazel N. Dukes is being awarded the NAACP Spingarn Medal in recognition of her years of transformative advocacy and brave leadership. The medal will be presented at the Spingarn Freedom Fund Awards Dinner during the 114th National Convention in Boston.

“The NAACP Spingarn Medal acknowledges the highest or noblest achieveyear or years. Dukes will be recognized for the immense impact she has had on the Association through her various leadership roles including serving as the current President of the NY State Conference.” –Amsterdam News

“Dr. Dukes is a woman of profound strength and courage, who has served

and New Yorkers while bringing about lasting change that will be felt in the Black community for generations to come. Our network of 2 million activists continues to be inspired by, and learn from Dr. Dukes’ tireless pursuit of justice. We are incredibly proud of the work she has done for us and are honored to present Dr. Dukes with our highest distinction.” –NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson

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, mail to: NAACP Co-op City Einstein Station, P.O. Box 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475

––Brenda Brown

L-R: Destynie Sheffield, Reneé Lawson, Building 33 Association president Andrea Mayo, Riverbay Executive General Manager Marvin L. Walton, Shonte Armstrong, and Chinyere Okafor at the June monthly meeting.

AARP Chapter #4997

appointment only with the

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Greetings, Retirees and friends.

Welcome to July! We wish you and your family a happy 4th of July. May

Trip Committee

16. Tickets are $50 with a free slot play of $25. The bus for this trip will pick up

Membership – New members and renewing members can remit a check for

Happy Birthday credibly happy birthday and continued peace and happiness throughout the year. Condolences

Good and Welfare – We extend our well wishes and prayers to all who are General Meeting – Our next meeting will be held in September following our summer break.

We wish everyone a wonderful and safe summer.

depresses those who remember how hard it was to secure the right for it not to be utilized. We, the older members, fought extremely hard to get the right to

the membership can be sent to Mrs. Wilson for publication.

We are here to serve – not to be served.

––Ann Purnell

––Georgianna Rodriguez

Goose Island Seniors

Harrah’s Casino

Resorts Casino

Maryland-Washington Crabfeast Trip

Nordic Lodge, Foxwoods Casino and Tanger Outlets – August 12. Sold

Nordic Lodge

Caesar’s Casino The Spinners

Notary Bingo Game Day

To all members:

You MUST be 60+ years of age to pick up your box the day of distribution. Boxes will not be held after this day!

Sick and Shut-in: Zelle goose.island@optonline.net.

––Stephen Roberts Sr.

We are Shareholders, not Tenants! Show Pride in Your Home and Community! Be a Responsible Cooperator!

ALL JASA OFFICES CLOSED – Tues., July 4th, in celebration of Independence Day.

Computer Learning Class with Steve will return to Bartow Center, Room 31, Thurs., 1:00 p.m. -2:00 p.m. starting Thurs, July 13th

various sizes. If you or someone you know can use 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Fri., FREE.

–

Tues., August 22, $135, payment due July 7th – 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. Call 718-320-2066 or JASA

Spanish Workshops – Talleres de Alimentacion - Make Healthy Eating Part of your Lifestyle/ Convierta la Alimentation Saludable en parte Integrante de su Vida, Wed., July 5, JASA NORC of-

– 2nd Wed. of every month in rear of JASA NORC

Steel Drum Classes on Wednesdays,1 p.m. to 3

Thursdays 9 a.m.-12

Tues., 9 a.m.10:30 a.m.; Weds. and Thurs., 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Ein

Thurs., 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; 718-320-2066, appointment only.

Thurs 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Dial-in number: 929-205-6099; Meeting ID: 862 5043 9695; Passcode: 896989.

Mon., 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Bartow Center, Room 31. Wed. and Fri., 12 p.m.-1 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 2. Einstein OAC at 718-671-5161 for appointment for 1 st & 3 rd Wed., 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Braids, haircuts, shape-up, twist, ponytails, curls and more.

Mon., 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

– 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., &

only

by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Einstein Center

Dreiser Center

Time: 10-11 a.m. Zoom only for now, 1-646-876-9923; Meeting ID: 995 6534 1173; Passcode: 855423

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.”

Co-op City Times / July 1, 2023

Church of the New Vision

it Save the Dates Church Picnic –“Moses” at the Sight and Sound Theatre

ship Service on the following days.

-

lost loved ones and good health and wellness for all.

––Brenda Brown

June 25 Worship Service: Scripture:

Section Five Association

The Section 5 Association hopes all in Section 5 are doing well and enjoying the weather that is hot one day and cool the next. The respective of-

ther notice.

Focus:

According as his divine life and Becoming A Matured Christian

tional signs that are desperately needed for the tri-

•

•

•

YouTube

The Objective of the SFA shall be: shareholders residing in Section 5. To act as a liai---

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

––H. Overman

•

•

•

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

––Rev. R. Sibblies

Pentecostal Tabernacle

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: 718-3200844. Priest-in-Charge: Fr. Simeon O. Johnson, cell: 917-227-4303.

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 July 2 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 winery bus trip last Saturday went very well. Many thanks to the church members, relatives, friends, volunteers and of course, a very big thank you to our very special donor who donated bags with essentials. We had a good time.

Please stay tuned for upcoming events.

Grace and Peace!

Merville Chambers

Circle of Christ Church Iglesia Circulo De Cristo

147 Dreiser Loop , Bronx, NY 10475.

Don’t Waste Your Youth

Complete sermon on Facebook (circleofchristchurch)

Being a youth in today’s society can be confusing, scary and exhilarating. There are so many challenges and opportunities that the choices can be overwhelming. Where can a young person look when help is needed? First, they must look to those who love them for counsel, but if they are not available, God’s word has proven true throughout the ages.

(1 Timothy 4:12) “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.”

Be an example: (Ecclesiastes 12:1) “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you

Enjoy your strength and ability but remember that it will diminish, so develop spiritual muscles.

Speech – (Colossians 4:6) “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

Conduct – (Philippians 4:5) “Let your gentle spirit [your graciousness, unis near.”

Love – (1 Corinthians 13:4) “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.”

Faith – (Hebrews 11:1) assurance about what we do not see.”

Purity – (Psalm 119:9) “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.”

Intentionally look for mentors. Men and women who have traveled the path you are on and have the scars and bruises to prove it. Do not fall in love with and peace of God settle deep in your soul.

Schedule

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

Tuesday: Bible Study on YouTube from 7-8:30 p.m.

Thursday: Nonperishable food distribution from 12 p.m.-2 p.m.; Prayer, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and Prayer Group/Bible Study, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.

Friday: In-person Spanish Bible Study from 12 p.m.-2 p.m.; Youth Service (Operation Grace), 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday

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

Men’s Fellowship, fourth Sat. of the month

Couples Fellowship, dates will be announced during services

Blessings in Christ.

––Pastor Luis F. Ramos Jr.

MetroCard Bus

month. The bus only makes one stop in Co-op City: between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. by the Bartow Mall on Co-op City Boulevard.

Some services offered by the bus are:

• Help with reduced-fare applications

• Transfer MetroCard balances (both full fare and reduced-fare)

• Exchange a damaged reduced-fare MetroCard for a temporary replacement

• Report a lost/stolen reduced-fare MetroCard

• Help with any MetroCard-related issues

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

Traditional Synagogue

The synagogue would appreciate donations to keep our shul open. If you would like to help, go to www.Gofundme.com/Traditional-Synagogue-of-Coop-City to donate.

The synagogue will be serving a hot Kiddush meal after Sabbath morning services. Entrance to our synagogue for Saturday services is on the side door of Building 27B. Saturday morning services will start at 10 a.m.

General Information

The Traditional Synagogue is located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the -

The synagogue has services on Saturday morning starting at 10 a.m. After services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page: Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who do not come to services. Please come by 10 a.m., so we can take out the Torah.

The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City.

Sabbath ends on Saturday, July 1, at 9:23 p.m.

Candle lighting for Friday, July 7, at 8:09 p.m.

Good and Welfare –one. The cost is only $15 per tree. If you want to buy a tree, call 347-449-5005. Mazel Tov, to all having simchas. If you are ill, we wish you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To All Members – Happy birthday to all of our members who will be celebrating their birthday or anniversary in July. Please send me your name and I will add it to the list.

Fun and Games – After services and Kiddush, members play games. Your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

––Bruce Gitelson

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 a.m. and 11 a.m. We are located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Masks are required. The 11 a.m. service is also available on Zoom at https://us04web. zoom.us/j/9623430102 or Zoom Telephone Conference Line: 646-568-7788; 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 tomorrow, 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.

On July 9 at 9:00 a.m., we will celebrate Christian Education Recognition Day. The Guest Speaker will be Rev. Beverly A. Spruill, Associate Minister at Cosmopolitan Church of the Lord Jesus, Bronx, NY. The theme is “Teaching God’s People to Walk in the Lord” (Psalm 86:11). All are welcome to attend.

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.

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 p.m. and 5 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.

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

Public Safety

(Continued from page 7) Please

ALL CONSUMER FIREWORKS ARE ILLEGAL IN NEW YORK CITY.

INDIVIDUALS BUYING, SELLING OR USING FIREWORKS WILL BE SUBJECT TO ARREST. THE CO-OP CITY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY WILL STRICTLY ENFORCE LAWS RELATIVE TO THE USE OF ILLEGAL FIREWORKS.